From Grill to Glass: How Our Sunday BBQ Became a South Okanagan Favorite
We understand that Sunday afternoons in the South Okanagan are sacred. The sun is high, the breeze off the lake is just right, and there is a collective desire to slow down before the work week begins. At Ve Oh Lay Acres, we took that feeling and bottled it: or rather, we grilled it.
Our Sunday BBQs have grown from a small staff idea into one of the most beloved things to do in South Okanagan. It isn’t just about the food or the wine; it’s about creating a space where the "stuffy" rules of traditional wine tasting are tossed out the window in favor of smoky flavors, live music, and cold drinks.
Whether you are a local regular or a tourist planning your wine tasting South Okanagan itinerary, here is the story of how our Sunday BBQ became the heart of our winery.
The Vision: Keeping it Casual in Summerland
When we first opened our doors at Ve Oh Lay Acres, we knew we wanted to do things differently. The South Okanagan is famous for its world-class wines, but sometimes the experience can feel a bit formal. We wanted to build something that felt like your best friend's backyard: if your best friend happened to have a vineyard and an award-winning kitchen.
The Sunday BBQ was born out of a simple goal: to combine the best winery South Okanagan hospitality with the relaxed joy of a summer cookout. We started with a small grill and a few local musicians, and the response was immediate. People didn’t just want to sip and leave; they wanted to stay, eat, and soak in the atmosphere.
The Menu: Where Smoke Meets the Vine
The star of the show is, of course, the food. While our kitchen is famous for our fresh tacos and small bites, Sunday is when we fire up the big guns.
We take pride in sourcing local ingredients to create a menu that complements our wines perfectly. Think slow-smoked meats, perfectly charred vegetables, and seasonal sides that highlight the bounty of the Okanagan.
Why Tacos and BBQ Work with Wine
You might think of beer when you think of BBQ, but we’re here to change your mind. The bold, smoky flavors of a grilled brisket or the zingy spice of our signature tacos pair beautifully with the complex profiles of our wines.
- For the Smokey Meats: Try a bold red that can stand up to the char.
- For the Spicy Tacos: A crisp Rosé or one of our famous wine slushies provides the perfect cooling contrast.
- For the Veggie Options: A bright, acidic white wine cuts through the richness of grilled halloumi or corn.
Live Music: The Rhythm of the South Okanagan
A BBQ isn’t a BBQ without the right soundtrack. Every Sunday from 12pm to 3pm, we host local musicians who bring the patio to life. From acoustic folk to upbeat blues, the music sets a tone that is energetic yet relaxed.
We’ve seen it happen every week: a group arrives for a quick wine tasting South Okanagan session, hears the first few chords of a guitar, smells the grill, and decides to stay for the entire afternoon. It’s that "Okanagan time" magic where an hour turns into four, and strangers become friends over shared tables.
More Than Just a Drink: The Wine Flight Experience
If you can’t decide which wine to pair with your BBQ plate, we recommend our wine flights. It’s the ultimate way to explore our portfolio without the pressure of committing to a single glass.
Our flights are served on wooden paddles and allow you to compare and contrast how different varietals react to the food on your plate. It’s a fun, educational, and: most importantly: casual way to learn about what you like.
For those looking for a non-alcoholic option, we also serve Muse, which we proudly call Canada’s best-tasting non-alcoholic wine. You get all the flavor and the social experience without the alcohol, making it a favorite for designated drivers and families.
A Destination for Everyone
One of the reasons our Sunday BBQ is cited as one of the best things to do in South Okanagan is our inclusivity. We are a family-friendly and dog-friendly venue.
- Families: Kids love the open space and our fun, non-alcoholic slushy options.
- Travelers: We even participate in the Harvest Hosts program, allowing RV travelers to stay overnight and enjoy the winery experience fully.
- Locals: Penticton and Summerland residents have made us their "Sunday local," often bringing visiting friends to show off the best of the region.
Why Ve Oh Lay Acres Stands Out
In a region filled with incredible wineries, why choose us for your Sunday afternoon?
- The Vibe: We are "the best casual winery experience" for a reason. No dress codes, no pretension: just good times.
- The Location: Located in the heart of Summerland, we are a short, scenic drive from Penticton and a central hub for anyone exploring the South Okanagan.
- The Innovation: From wine on tap to cotton-candy-topped slushies, we’re always looking for ways to make wine tasting more fun.
Plan Your Sunday With Us
We invite you to join us this weekend. Grab a seat on one of our wooden swing benches, order a flight, and let the aroma of the BBQ and the sound of the music take over.
Pro Tip: Sundays can get busy! While we love walk-ins, we recommend checking our reservation page if you have a large group to ensure we have the perfect spot saved for you.
We take pride in being a part of your summer memories. There is nothing we love more than seeing our patio full of laughing people, messy taco fingers, and clinking wine glasses.
Good luck choosing your favorite pairing, and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions about our upcoming music lineup!
We look forward to seeing you at the grill.