Elephant Island Winery – Best of Penticton

Named after what was originally believed to be a ‘white elephant’ venture, this long-standing winery is a Naramata Bench icon.

Family-owned Elephant Island Winery is also one of the most unique local wineries, producing both premium fruit and grape-based wine. The same hardworking team also runs Naramata Cider Co.

The Naramata-based farm was founded in the early 1970s by trailblazer Catherine Chard Wisnicki, one of Canada’s first female architects. Two generations on and a winery was added, with more acreage and additional types of fruit.

Elephant Island's outside tasting area, with large, shady trees and bar tables/chairs in foreground and lower tables and chairs in background, next to hedge — Elephant Island’s outside tasting area

Sustainability is a key focus for Elephant Island as well as family and community. The team aim to leave the land and farm better than they found it, for both future generations and wildlife.

Tastings usually take place in the shady courtyard behind the wine shop. Expect a playful and down-to-earth vibe and a surprisingly wide diversity of tastes and flavours. The seated tasting experience (three variations) is not designed to be rushed, with guests encouraged to relax and ‘stay awhile.’

The outside area is licensed for picnics, with wine by the glass available to purchase. The winery sells picnic supplies (and offers plates/cutlery). We were advised that guests can bring their own picnic supplies during off peak times.