Everyone knows the Okanagan as the wine region of British Columbia but did you know that Vancouver Island has its very own wine country? For years, the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island has been producing award-winning wines because of the unique maritime Mediterranean climate and rich soil and in 2020 it was officially recognized as a wine region of Canada. This small, charming wine region is home to family-run and estate wineries where you can find unique varietals, incredible bistros and remarkable views. If you’re looking for a relaxing west coast getaway, why not book one of the stunning EMR Cowichan Valley properties where you can easily visit Vancouver Island wineries and unwind in the natural beauty of the Valley!
Wine Regions and Varietals of Vancouver Island
While the Cowichan Valley is undoubtedly the hub of all winemaking on Vancouver Island being the official wine region, the Saanich Peninsula is also known as a rich agricultural region and is home to successful family-owned and operated wineries.
Because Vancouver Island is a northern climate on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, the weather is warm in the summer and mild in the winter – similar to the climate of most German and some French wine regions. Generally, the predominant varietals on Vancouver Island are: Pinot Noir, Marechal foch, Gamay, Ortega, Muller-Thurgau, Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer. While there are many other varietals to discover, these are best supported by the climate of the area and each vineyard produces their own unique wine based on the terroir and unique location throughout the Valley and south Island.
Wineries to Visit
The Cowichan Valley is known for breathtaking views, incredible hospitality, craft breweries, distilleries, Canada’s only tea farm and of course incredible wineries. While you’re in the area, be sure to make a plan to visit fascinating cultural centers, explore the towns and villages and be sure to pop into one of the many Farmers Markets for local produce, meats, handmade goods and so much more!
Blue Grouse Estate Winery
2182 Lakeside Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 6M3 | (250) 743-3834
Unsworth Vineyards
2915 Cameron Taggart Rd #1, Mill Bay, BC V0R 2P2 | (250) 929-2292
Averill Creek Vineyard
6552 N Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 6K9 | (250) 709-9986
Enrico Winery
3280 Telegraph Rd, Mill Bay, BC V0R 2P3 | (250) 733-2356
Alderlea Vineyards
1751 Stamps Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 5W2 | (250) 746-7122
Symphony Vineyard
6409 Oldfield Rd, Saanichton, BC V8M 1X8 | (250) 208-8784
Church & State Wines
1445 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J5 | (250) 652-2671
Venturi-Schulze Vineyards
4235 Vineyard Rd, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L5 | (250) 743-5630
Rocky Creek Winery
1854 Myhrest Rd, Cowichan Bay, BC V0R 1N1 | (250) 748-5622
Chateau Wolff Estate
Subd. A, 2534 Maxey Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9S 5V6 | (778) 441-2625
Cherry Point Estate Wines
840 Cherry Point Rd, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L3 | (250) 743-1272
Wine Tours
Leave the driving to someone else and enjoy a full or half-day or touring and tasting–it’s easy if you’re staying in the Cowichan Valley, Victoria or Nanaimo! Departing from Victoria, you can experience amazing views of the Salish Sea and Saanich Inlet on the Malahat. From Nanaimo to the north, you can enjoy the stunning agricultural landscapes and small towns you’ll pass through and if you’re in the Cowichan Valley, you’ll be right around the corner from most wineries!
My Cowichan Wine Tour
512 Jim Cram Dr #32A, Ladysmith, BC V9L 1P5 | info@mygo.ca | (250) 732-1120
Vancouver Island Wine Tours – Cowichan Valley Wine Tours
vancouverislandwinetours@shaw.ca | (250) 661-8844
Vancouver Island Expeditions – Cowichan Valley Wine Tour
Hello@VancouverIslandExpeditions.com | (250) 739-9659
A Vancouver Island wine retreat is an excellent getaway or weeklong vacation and when you’re ready to make your plan a reality, don’t forget to book directly with EMR to save!
