Volcanic Hills Estate Winery
Highlights:
Founded in 2010 by the Gidda family, rooted in over 60 years of Okanagan farming heritage
Located on the southeastern slope of Mount Boucherie — a 60-million-year-old dormant stratovolcano
One of the largest and most spacious tasting rooms on the entire Westside Wine Trail
80 acres of estate vineyards producing 100% Okanagan Valley BC VQA wines
Award-winning portfolio including Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, Rosé, Icewine, and volcanic-themed blends
Traditional Method Sparkling Wine program launched in 2020 — one of the valley's most exciting new projects
Blu Saffron Bistro on site — locally inspired seasonal dishes paired with estate wines
Children's play area in the tasting room — one of the most family-friendly stops on the trail
Knowledgeable, warmly reviewed tasting staff — guided experiences open year-round
Gift shop with unique wine country souvenirs and local products
The Vibe
Volcanic Hills is proof that family passion, volcanic soil, and the right amount of ambition make for an extraordinary combination. The story begins in 1958 when Mehtab Gidda arrived in the Okanagan from India, eventually transitioning from apple farming to grape growing in the 1970s and fulfilling a multi-generational dream when the winery opened its doors in 2010. Named for the ancient volcanic terroir of Mount Boucherie that defines the estate, Volcanic Hills carries its geological heritage proudly — from the volcanic-themed wine names to the expansive 15,000 sq. ft. tasting room that feels as open and welcoming as the family that built it. This is a winery that genuinely loves having guests, and it shows in every visit.
The Experience
Walk through the doors at Volcanic Hills and the first thing you notice is the scale — one of the largest tasting rooms on the Westside Wine Trail, with a sweeping tasting bar, comfortable seating, a well-stocked gift shop, and even a children's play area that makes it one of the most family-friendly stops on the trail. Guided tastings are led by some of the most consistently praised staff in the valley, with reviewers regularly singling out individual team members by name for their warmth, knowledge, and ability to make every guest feel like their only customer. The Blu Saffron Bistro rounds out the visit with a locally inspired seasonal menu — highlights include the Salmon Risotto, Truffle Gouda, and Baked Brie — all pairing beautifully with a glass from the estate.
The Wine
Rooted in 80 acres of volcanic soils that have been mellowing and mineralising for 60 million years, the Volcanic Hills portfolio is bold, fruit-forward, and unmistakably Okanagan. The estate produces 100% BC VQA wines across a broad range of styles — from the crisp, aromatic Bubbly Gewürztraminer and elegant Pinot Noir to the crowd-favourite volcanic-themed blends: Eruption, Magma, and Lava. The Lava Red, blended with Zweigelt, has developed a loyal following for its rich complexity and approachable character. Most recently, the winery launched an ambitious Traditional Method Sparkling Wine program in 2020, adding another exciting dimension to an already impressive lineup.
Good to Know
Best for: Families, groups, first-time wine country visitors, those who enjoy a relaxed and spacious tasting environment
Don't miss: The volcanic-themed blend tasting — Eruption, Magma, and Lava are a fun and delicious flight in themselves
Signature wines: Lava Red, Eruption Blend, Bubbly Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, Icewine
Dining: Blu Saffron Bistro — open seasonally, locally inspired menu with strong wine pairing options
Reservations: Walk-ins welcome — one of the more accommodating wineries on the trail for spontaneous visits
Family friendly: Yes — children's play area in the tasting room makes this a standout choice for families
