USA Today loves it here

Photo: Contributed - Photo courtesy of Destination BC/JF Bergeron

More accolades for the Okanagan Valley.

A week ago, Big White was named the best international family ski resort by readers of an Australian magazine - now, the Okanagan Valley has been voted the second best wine region to visit by USA Today.

The widest newspaper in circulation in the United States, USA Today describes the Okanagan as, "Drop. Dead. Gorgeous". The publication states, "British Columbia's Okanagan Valley came in at a strong #2, its loyal fans reminding voters of the area's lush landscape of mountains and rivers.  The Okanagan offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation in between tastings."

“To not only have the Okanagan Valley recognized among the finest wine regions globally but to finish in second spot by readers of a major international newspaper is a tremendous honour. This will continue to build the incredible momentum we have seen in our wine region over the past several years," says Ellen Walker-Matthews, Marketing Chair for the Okanagan Wine Festivals.

"Our thanks to all of those that took the time to recognize the Okanagan Valley and invite those that have not yet experienced this area to come and be our guests. This type of recognition inspires travel to the Okanagan Valley as a premier wine tourism destination.”

Voting was conducted in an online poll for approximately one month with the winners announced this morning (Wednesday).  The full list of winners in the USA TODAY 10 Best Readers' Choice contest for 'Best Wine Region to Visit' is as follows:

• Alentejo, Portugal
• Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
• Maipo, Chile
• Marlborough, New Zealand
• Croatia
• Napa Valley, Calif.
• Tuscany, Italy
• Oregon
• Hunter Valley, Australia
• Virginia

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