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VANCOUVER ISLAND Wine Country
Vancouver island Wine region
On Vancouver Island, grape winemaking really began after a provincial government-funded trial – the Duncan Project – identified Pinot Gris, Auxerrois and Ortega as promising varieties for this unique seaside environment.
Vancouver Island is home to a dedicated community of family grapegrowers and winemakers. A tour through the natural beauty of lush green valleys, dense forested mountains, and ocean landscapes provides the opportunity to meet friendly, passionate people crafting products they are proud of and that you will delight in. “The Island” also offers some exceptional food festivals and culinary experiences to pair with your winery visits.
FACT: Wineries in the Cowichan Valley are generally shielded from Pacific Ocean storms by nearby mountains and have a long growing season with low frost risk.
FACT: Winemaking on Vancouver Island began in the early 1920’s with wines produced from loganberries by the Growers’ Wine Company.
FACT: 1,097 growing degree days (North Cowichan).
FACT: Several areas have local climatic conditions conducive to grapegrowing. Wineries in the Cowichan Valley are generally shielded from Pacific Ocean storms by nearby mountains, and have a long growing season with low frost risk.
Zanatta Winery – 1992
First Winery
321
Acres Planted
22
LICENSED GRAPE WINERIES
Vancouver island
WINERIES
Exploring British Columbia’s vineyards reveals the unique terroir & diverse varietals flourishing in this picturesque Canadian province.
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