Nestled in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Martin’s Lane Winery is a seamless fusion of innovative architecture and precision winemaking. Designed by award-winning Olson Kundig, the six-level, gravity-fed winery blends effortlessly with its rugged surroundings, using the steep, striking terrain to carve the extraordinary estate where the forces of nature, human vision, and winemaking conspire to create something radical.
Dedicated to producing limited quantities of single-vineyard Pinot Noir and Riesling, Winemaker Shane Munn guides the grapes through five precise movements without a single pump, preserving their purity. The gravity-driven process enhances efficiency while maintaining the integrity of the wine.
Reflecting the dramatic landscape, the winery’s design, clad in weathered steel, wood, and concrete, mirrors the surrounding cliffs. More than a production facility, Martin’s Lane is a testament to the harmonious blend of nature, architecture, and winemaking excellence.
Raw. Rugged. Radical: Winemaking on the Edge
Stepping into the winery, the depth of design and craftsmanship immediately stands out. From a striking staircase that winds above the technical winemaking facilities to an array of vessels and artistic elements, every detail invites discovery.
The journey begins with the grand staircase, designed to mirror the spiral of a corkscrew and the graceful curve of a grapevine tendril. Crafted in multiple sections and meticulously assembled on location, it is one of the most intricate architectural features of the winery. A closer look reveals a remarkable detail: a hand-stitched handrail with over 7,000 individual baseball stitches—an exquisite touch, best appreciated in person.
The open winemaking facility offers visual insight into the estate’s unique gravity-driven techniques and the influence of different vessels on the final wines. Throughout the space, artistic details enhance the experience – red and gold tiles symbolize the production of Pinot Noir and Riesling, while sculptural lighting reflects the twisting forms of vines.
Intimate. Meticulous. Curated: An Extraordinary Tasting
The visit culminates in the tasting room, where floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake set the stage as guests are seated at the tasting table designed to resemble the shimmering surface of Okanagan Lake and surrounding vineyards. Here, with a glass in hand, the experience of craftsmanship, artistry, and exceptional winemaking comes full circle.
The exclusive Martin’s Lane experience begins with an intimate tour of the winery, exploring every area of our six-level, gravity-flow winemaking process. The tour concludes with a flight of limited-release Pinot Noirs and Riesling served alongside breathtaking lake and vineyard views.
Limited tasting experiences are available daily, advance reservations are required and be made online.
All photography courtesy of Martin’s Lane Winery.
Author Profile
- Helen Siwak is the founder of EcoLuxLuv Communications & Marketing Inc and publisher of Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine and PORTFOLIOY.YVR Business & Entrepreneurs Magazine. She is a prolific content creator, consultant, and marketing and media strategist within the ecoluxury lifestyle niche. Helen is the west coast correspondent to Canada’s top-read industry magazine Retail-Insider, holds a vast freelance portfolio, and consults with many of the world’s luxury heritage brands. Always seeking new opportunities and challenges, you can email her at [email protected].
Latest entries
Folio.YVR FriendsOctober 6, 2025CollabWest ’25: Creative Energy for a Cause with Keith Stride, Chairman Ting & Reduxwood West
FoF ☆ PersonalitiesOctober 4, 2025Stepping Into the Spotlight: Jade Massie on Elevating Folio.YVR’s Luxury Legacy
FoF ☆ CelebrateSeptember 26, 2025Golden Leaves, Perfect Vows: Fall Weddings in Canada
FoF ☆ Global LuxurySeptember 24, 2025From Okanagan to Old World: Three Destinations Every Wine Enthusiast Must Visit
