Amelie CameronThe wine industry in British Columbia (BC) is so huge that it contributes $3.75 billion annually to its economy, and Vancouver Island is no exception. In our guide, we will take you through the thriving wine scene in Vancouver Island.
If you’re up for a wine tasting adventure, keep reading. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wines, here’s some of Vancouver Island’s top wineries and vineyards.
- Does Vancouver Island have vineyards?
- Savor the Flavors at 40 Knots Winery
- Explore the Lush Vineyards at Beaufort Vineyard & Estate Winery
- Discover the Scenic Beauty at Blue Moon Estate Winery
- Immerse Yourself in Nature in Coastal Black Estate Winery
- Delight in the Serene Atmosphere of Millstone Estate Winery
- Take a Leisurely Walk through Averill Creek Vineyard
- Wander through the Vineyards at Blue Grouse Estate Winery
- Soak in the Breathtaking Views at Cherry Point Estate Wines
- Lose Yourself in the Charm of Emandare Vineyard
- Experience the Beauty of the Vineyards at Venturi Schulze
Does Vancouver Island have vineyards?
Vineyards and wineries on Vancouver Island contribute to the region’s burgeoning wine industry, producing unique wines reflective of the island’s terroir.
Important for economic growth and culinary tourism, they offer tastings and tours, providing locals and tourists alike with a delightful experience while showcasing the island’s agricultural diversity.
There are about 30 wineries scattered across Vancouver Island, from the Comox Valley up north to Sooke down south. What’s cool is that most of these places actually grow their own grapes and produce their wine right there on the premises.
Savor the Flavors at 40 Knots Winery
Website: https://www.40knotswinery.com/
Address: 2400 Anderton Rd, Comox, BC V9M 4E5, Canada
Contact details: +1 855-941-8810
Operating hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday: 11am to 5pm
- Thursday: 11am to 9pm
- Friday to Sunday: 11am to 5pm
Tucked in the Comox Valley near the Salish Sea, 40 Knots Winery is enveloped by verdant vines and remains open throughout the year. The tasting room boasts panoramic views with glass all around, rustic beams, and heaters.
Inside, there’s a lounge area with seating for up to 58 people, and it connects to a balcony overlooking the picturesque vineyard. On some lucky days, you might even catch the distant bark of a seal lion.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to sample six of their wines paired with locally made crackers, cheeses, pickled grapes, and chocolate.
| Pro tip: Request the mango chutney— it’s delicious! |
Explore the Lush Vineyards at Beaufort Vineyard & Estate Winery
Website: http://www.beaufortwines.ca/
Address: 5854 Pickering Rd, Courtenay, BC V9J 1T4, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-338-1357
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 1pm to 5pm
Located in the stunning Comox Valley, Beaufort Vineyard & Estate Winery stands as Vancouver Island’s inaugural certified organic winery, owned by the acclaimed filmmaker James Cameron.
This quaint boutique winery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. As you relax on their outdoor patio, gazing over the vineyard, you’ll have the chance to sample a selection of their wines.
Typically, they offer five out of their approximately twelve wines for tasting at any given time, with a focus on reds and whites. Occasionally, they also feature grape wines specially bred for Vancouver Island.
| Pro tip: You can bring your own food to enjoy with the wines here! |
Discover the Scenic Beauty at Blue Moon Estate Winery
Website: https://www.bcwine.com/wineries/blue-moon-estate-winery/
Address: 4905 Darcy Rd, Courtenay, BC V9J 1R5, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-338-9765
Operating hours: Friday to Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
Situated at Natures Way Farm in Courtenay, this estate winery is renowned for its artisanal ciders and wines. They skillfully blend in a variety of Vancouver Island and BC fruits, along with infusions and botanicals.
Under the name Ravens Moon Craft Cidery, this establishment offers tasting flights paired with fresh blueberries and pretzels.
With both outdoor and indoor seating, a well-stocked shop, and a friendly pack of K9s eager for belly rubs, the cidery provides a delightful atmosphere.
Their ciders are exceptional, and they also offer a selection of fortified fruit wines that are equally impressive.
| Pro tip: The “Blue Moon Lunacy” dessert wine is one of the most delicious drinks you’ll ever have in your life so make sure to try that out! |
Immerse Yourself in Nature in Coastal Black Estate Winery
Website: http://www.coastalblack.ca/
Address: 2186 Endall Rd, Black Creek, BC V9J 1G8, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-337-8325
Operating hours: Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday: 1pm to 4pm
Situated in the scenic outskirts of the Comox Valley in Black Creek, BC, Coastal Black stands out as an acclaimed fruit winery and cidery.
Their array of second-page ciders features flavors such as apple, hopped, blackberry, strawberry, raspberry, and hibiscus. Additionally, visitors can choose from a selection of sparkling wines, meads, and dessert wines.
It’s quite delightful here as the drinks and a picnic plate are right beside a
a giant birdcage. Close your eyes, and you’ll feel transported to a vacation spot rather than just down the street from home.
| Pro tip: Take the time to explore this place. The property is huge – corn maze labyrinth, farm animals, country music, and a fire pit. |
Delight in the Serene Atmosphere of Millstone Estate Winery
Website: http://millstonewinery.ca/
Address: 2300 E Wellington Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9R 6V7, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-755-9825
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
Nestled in the valley of the Millstone River, the Millstone Estate Winery is a charming, family-run vineyard that focuses on Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Ortega, and Gwertz.
They currently have 6+ acres planted and supplemented with growers for Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. During your tasting, you’ll sip on their wine and enjoy a cheese and apple platter.
There’s also live jazz music that adds to the relaxing and sophisticated atmosphere of the winery.
| Pro tip: Take note, there’s no indoor seating here, so be prepared to enjoy your wine outdoors or take it to go. |
Take a Leisurely Walk through Averill Creek Vineyard
Website: http://www.averillcreek.ca/
Address: 6552 N Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 6K9, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-709-9986
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 12pm to 4pm
Nestled in Duncan, Averill Creek Vineyard is a spot known for its range of organic wines sourced from the Cowichan Valley. You can indulge in a tasting experience featuring five wines, accompanied by a generous cheese board.
The vineyard boasts lovely outdoor seating with stunning vistas of the Cowichan Valley. You have the option to grab some bites for a picnic, and if you’re fortunate, you might even stumble upon a wine freezie!
| Pro tip: Averill Creek also offers an impressive charcuterie package available for purchase, perfect for enjoying on the terrace. |
Wander through the Vineyards at Blue Grouse Estate Winery
Website: https://bluegrouse.ca/
Address: 2182 Lakeside Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 6M3, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-743-3834
Operating hours: Wednesday to Sunday: 11am to 5pm
As one of the longstanding estate wineries in British Columbia, Blue Grouse Estate Winery spans across 65 acres situated on a sunny slope in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island.
For a more intimate experience, tastings at Blue Grouse are by reservation and offer a seated setting. The winery provides a breathtaking balcony view that gazes over the expansive 8 acres of vineyards.
Remarkably, the tasting experience comes at excellent value, priced at only $5 for a sampling of 5 glasses.
| Pro tip: Make sure to try their locally made charcuterie! |
Soak in the Breathtaking Views at Cherry Point Estate Wines
Website: http://cherrypointestatewines.com/
Address: 840 Cherry Point Rd, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L3, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-743-1272
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday: 10am to 5pm
Nestled in Cobble Hill, Cherry Point Estate Wines is a charming boutique vineyard offering a serene and secluded atmosphere, complete with the delightful presence of hummingbirds.
Their outdoor patio garden sets the stage for an enchanting dining experience, where you’re treated to exquisitely fresh and flavorful cuisine thoughtfully paired with the estate wines.
Cherry Point distinguishes itself by exclusively using grapes grown on the property. During the wine tasting, you’re treated not only to a diverse selection of wines but also to engaging anecdotes and detailed explanations from the presenter.
| Pro tip: Once you have narrowed down your favorite red, white, or rose, treat yourself to the most fabulous meal at their Bistro. |
Lose Yourself in the Charm of Emandare Vineyard
Website: https://www.emandarevineyard.com/
Address: 6798 Norcross Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 6C3, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-597-4075
Operating hours: Saturday: 12pm to 4pm
Covering five acres and cultivated organically, this vineyard boasts some of Vancouver Island’s oldest vines. Nestled on a distinctive south-sloping hillside within the rain shadow of Mount Prevost, the vineyard benefits from a unique terroir.
Distinguishing itself further, the winemaking process involves natural yeast fermentation, with all wines offered at the bar being 100% estate-grown, organically farmed, and dry farmed.
The wine selection is diverse, featuring Pinot Noir, FTV Valley Red, Estate Marechal Foch, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc, Blanc de Noir, Rose, Chardonnay, and Estate Gewurztraminer.
| Pro tip: Be sure to try the delicious cured meat plate which pairs beautifully. |
Experience the Beauty of the Vineyards at Venturi Schulze
Website: http://www.venturischulze.com/
Address: 4235 Vineyard Rd, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L5, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-743-5630
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Sunday: 10am to 4pm
Renowned for their pristine wines and Ancient Method Balsamic Vinegar, Venturi Schulze Vineyards prides itself on cultivating 100% estate-grown grapes on their small, beyond-organic farm located on Vancouver Island.
Nestled on a picturesque hill with a gentle slope overlooking the valley and surrounded by majestic mountains, the vineyard offers tastings by appointment from March to December.
During your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of wines, including reds, whites, sparkling, and sweet wines. Known for their bold flavors and unique profiles, these wines are incredibly approachable.
| Pro tip: With a tasting room accommodating up to a dozen people, it’s advisable to call ahead if you plan to bring a larger group. |
