Vancouver Island stamp

DISCOVER

VANCOUVER ISLAND

Vancouver Island

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: Vineyards on Vancouver Island are centred on the Cowichan Valley. There are also producers close to Nanaimo, the Saanich Peninsula and Victoria.


Terroir

1,097 growing degree days (North Cowichan).

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.

Common Varietals

PINOT GRIS

PINOT NOIR

ORTEGA

MARÉCHAL FOCH

CHARDONNAY

GEWÜRZTRIMINER

Vancouver Islands Sub-Region

FIRST WINERY

ZANATTA WINERY

– 1992 –

ACRES PLANTED IN REGION

321

LICENSED GRAPE WINERIES

23