When people think of wine in British Columbia, Mission Hill Family Estate is often the first name that comes to mind. Located in the heart of West Kelowna, this award-winning winery has earned global attention for its wines, architecture, and impact on the Okanagan Valley’s wine culture.
At Vines & Views Wine Tours, we’ve been guiding guests to this iconic estate for years through our Mission Hill wine tours. Here’s why Mission Hill continues to stand out as one of BC’s most recognized wineries.
Award-Winning Wines with Global Recognition
Mission Hill’s reputation was cemented internationally in 1994, when its Chardonnay won “Best Chardonnay in the World” at the International Wine & Spirit Competition in London. That milestone helped establish British Columbia, and specifically the Okanagan Valley, as a serious wine-producing region.
Since then, the estate has expanded its portfolio to include expertly crafted red blends like Oculus, along with elegant Pinot Noir, Merlot, Riesling, and more. Their focus on estate-grown grapes and sustainable viticulture has kept them at the forefront of Canadian winemaking.
On our Mission Hill wine tours, guests can enjoy guided tastings that showcase the winery’s signature styles and seasonal offerings.
Architecture and Setting Unlike Any Other
Mission Hill is not just known for its wines; it’s also celebrated for its architecture. The estate combines natural materials, clean lines, and open-air spaces with views of Okanagan Lake and the surrounding valley. At the center of the winery stands an 85-foot bell tower that has become one of the most photographed features in the region.
The estate grounds include an underground barrel cellar, tranquil courtyards, and a dramatic tasting room that elevates the entire experience. Visitors often say the winery feels more like a cultural destination than a typical tasting stop.
We include Mission Hill as a featured destination on our wine tours for this very reason: it offers a blend of visual beauty, quiet luxury, and memorable wine moments.
A Pioneer in the Okanagan Wine Industry
Beyond its aesthetic and accolades, Mission Hill has played a pivotal role in shaping wine tourism in the Okanagan. Owner Anthony von Mandl invested heavily in the region when its wine industry was still in its early stages. His long-term vision transformed not only the winery but also helped elevate the entire valley’s global reputation.
The winery’s presence has encouraged growth in neighboring vineyards, restaurants, and tour companies. Today, West Kelowna is considered one of BC’s most important wine destinations, and Mission Hill continues to draw visitors from across Canada and abroad.
Why We Include Mission Hill in Our Wine Tours
As a local wine tour company, we’ve seen how much our guests value the experience of visiting Mission Hill. Whether it’s their first time exploring the Okanagan or they’re returning for another trip, this winery always leaves a lasting impression.
Our tours are designed to give you a relaxed, enjoyable experience without the hassle of navigating routes or booking individual tastings. We take care of the details, from winery reservations to transportation, so you can focus on the wine, the views, and the moments that matter.
Plan Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to the Okanagan Valley and want to see what makes BC wine so special, Mission Hill is an essential stop. From its world-class wines to its sweeping lake views, everything about this estate reflects the best of what the region has to offer.
At Vines & Views Wine Tours, we make it easy to enjoy this experience with curated Mission Hill wine tours that include transportation, winery reservations, and a relaxing atmosphere from start to finish. Join us and discover why Mission Hill remains one of British Columbia’s most iconic wineries.
