While the Okanagan Valley has long been celebrated as the heart of British Columbia’s wine industry, a quieter yet equally compelling contender has emerged: the Cowichan Valley.
This region of Vancouver Island offers a distinctive alternative to its mainland counterpart, characterized not only by its wines but also by its temperate climate.
Its maritime influence, moderated by the surrounding ocean waters and the protection from Vancouver Island’s topography, creates a unique microclimate ideal for grape cultivation. Mild winters and cooler summers foster a longer growing season and preserve the delicate balance of acidity and sugar in its grapes.
Vines and grapes in Cowichan are rapidly developing and the 2024 harvest is set to produce a variety of wines, including Pinot Noir, Marechal Foch, Pinot Gris and Cowichan’s famous Ortega.
The region is also hosting its 2024 Wine Festival from August 1 – 31.
The passport event provides the opportunity to meet the producers and experts behind the wines, ask questions and get to know the people who have dedicated themselves to the craft of winemaking in Cowichan.
Ticket-holders are given a map and souvenir tasting glass to take a self-guided tour of Cowichan and the wineries.
Participating wineries:
- Alderlea Vineyards
- Averill Creek Vineyard
- Blue Grouse Estate Winery
- Cherry Point Estate Wines
- Cobble Hill Winery
- Divino Estate Winery
- Emandare Vineyards
- Enrico Winery
- Rocky Creek Winery
- Unsworth Vineyards
- Venturi Schulze Vineyards
- Vigneti Zanatta Winery
Find ticket and festival information at CowichanWineries.com