Nichol Vineyard

Nichol’s great reputation for winemaking is purely based on quality, and being one of the oldest wineries on the Naramata Bench means they have plenty of experience to draw from.

If you want to try some true Naramata reds, this is the place. The Pinot Noir and Syrah are usually the star wines, though the Cabernet Franc is certainly worth a taste as well.

Keeping things super local, all of the grapes for wine production at Nichol Vineyard are grown within 900 metres of the winery. To add to that, wines at Nichol are technically vegan with no filtering, enhancers or fining during production.

Patio views at Nichol Vineyard with picnic tables and umbrellas in front of sloping vineyard, deep blue Okanagan Lake in background and forested mountains as backdrop
Nichol tastings are held on the sunny patio with views of Okanagan Lake

Though Nichol’s tasting fees are not cheap and are also non-refundable, I believe that this winery offers one of the best tasting experiences on the Naramata Bench.

Tastings are held outside on the sunny patio which offers beautiful views of surrounding vineyards and Okanagan Lake. The staff are enthusiastic and offer two wines at a time.

Allow 45 minutes for a tasting and be sure to reserve. With Nichol being one of the ‘last’ wineries on the Bench, I would recommend starting your wine-tasting tour here and then working back to Penticton.

Close up of three glasses of red wine at Nichol Vineyard on table in front of vineyard and lake view
Wine tasting at Nichol Vineyard

At a Glance

Tasting info: Reservations are recommended
Tasting style
: Table-tasting experience (45 minutes)
Tasting cost
: $15 Non-refundable
Wine club: Yes

Food/restaurant: Picnics allowed
Accommodation
: No
Child-friendly
: Yes
Pet friendly
: Yes (winery dog on site)
Weddings and private events
: No

Contact Information

Phone: 1-250-496-5962
Address: 285 Smethurst Rd, Naramata
Website: nicholvineyard.com

Close up of Cabernet Franc grapes at Nichol, with grape name written on wooden fencing
A row of Cabernet Franc grapes at Nichol

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