Vancouver Island Wine Guide
Winemaking began on Vancouver Island as early as the 1920s, with fruit wine made from local berries—a traditional that endures today, with not only fruit wine but honey wine (mead) and still and sparkling wine from grapes made here. It was a provincial government research project in the 1980s, tasked with identifying grape varietals that could thrive in the maritime climate (such as many hardy hybrid grapes), that really fuelled the modern wine industry. Today the Island boasts around 30 wineries, from the Comox Valley on the northeast coast down to Sooke, near the southern tip.
Most are boutique-sized estates with grapes grown and wine made on site, and among them are many family-run enterprises where you’ll find a welcoming clan member pouring your tasting. Some offer tours and tastings only seasonally; if you’re visiting outside the June to September period, check ahead to confirm hours. In the summer and early fall season, even many wineries that don’t have full-service restaurants offer lovely picnic areas licensed for wine consumption with the food you’ll surely source from other local farms and producers.
Plan your Island wine route with a designated driver and enjoy responsibly at the region’s wineries, restaurants and tasting bars.
Comox Valley, Denman, and Hornby Island Wineries
With a focus on sustainable farming and grape varietals suited to this cool coastal climate, boutique wineries here (including one owned by Titanic director James Cameron) excel at crisp, aromatic wines.
2400 Anderton Rd, Comox, BC, CA, V9M 4E5
One of the closest vineyards in the world to an ocean offers its Vineyard Terrace restaurant with popular Wine Wednesdays and live music, tours and tastings year-round (closed Mondays).
5854 Pickering Rd, Courtenay, BC, CA, V9J 1T4
Owned by the legendary film director, James Cameron, Beaufort Vineyard may have Hollywood connections but is pure to its island roots. In September 2019, the vineyard and crops were officially certified organic. Over the years, they have garnered multiple awards from the All Canadian Wine Championships.
4905 Darcy Rd, Courtenay, BC, CA, V9J 1R5
A little different from the rest in the Comox Valley, Raven's Moon focuses on producing fruit wines and ciders thanks to its abundant organic berry farm.
2186 Endall Rd, Black Creek, BC, CA, V9J 1G8
Coastal Black Winery has been serving up award-winning fruit wines, ciders, and mead since 2009. They even produce their own honey on-site!
8441 McFarlane Rd, Denman Island, BC, CA, V0R 1T0
An 100% certified organic vineyard, farm and boutique winery on Denman Island. Visit the tasting room, walk the vineyard and gardens (take a picnic and a glass of wine!), enjoy a homemade lunch, and purchase award-winning wines.
1885 Central Rd, Hornby Island, BC, CA, V0R 1Z0
Located on Hornby Island, BC. Producing some of the Gulf Island’s finest wines, and offering even better views.
7000 Anderson Dr, Hornby Island, BC, CA, V0R 1Z0
A hidden gem for wine enthusiasts seeking an authentic and unforgettable tasting experience. Situated on the picturesque Hornby Island, this boutique winery embodies the essence of artisanal craftsmanship and sustainable viticulture.
3505 Euston Rd, Hornby Island, BC, CA, V0R 1Z0
This artisanal meadery is dedicated to the ancient art of mead-making, crafting exquisite honey wines that celebrate the natural abundance and rich heritage of the region.
Central Island Wineries
2300 E Wellington Rd, Nanaimo, BC, CA, V9R 6V7
Down East Wellington Road at Millstone Estate Winery, the small family-run farm and vineyard produces Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Ortega, Gwertz, among others.
Cowichan Wineries
A long growing season means the wineries of this valley can produce lovely red, white, fruit, dessert and sparkling wines. A weekend stay or day-trip from Duncan gives a taste of equally vibrant cultural and agricultural scenes, where many local wineries proudly feature local art on their walls and restaurants and cafés proudly serve local food.
6552 North Road, Duncan, British Columbia, Canada, V9L 6K9
Sparkling wine is a highlight at this sleek modern winery (year-round tasting, weekends only in winter), with ocean views from the seasonal garden patio.
2182 Lakeside Rd, Duncan, BC, CA, V9L 6M3
“We’re in a very different climate for growing. We have a lot of humidity,” says vineyard manager Michael Abbott, who’s currently converting the property to organic status. “There are a number of us who are going organic on the Island. I would say it’s a very feasible project; it’s just a matter of adapting our methods.” Discover the elegant white wines staying at the Grouse House vineyard retreat on the property.
840 Cherry Point Rd, Cobble Hill, BC, CA, V8H 0E9
Year-round tastings feature more than a dozen diverse sips, from red and white varietals to sweet dessert wine. A seasonal bistro with patio nestles among the grapevines and cedars.
6798 Norcross Rd, Duncan, BC, CA, V9L 6C3
Extend your weekend tasting here with a stay: the two-bedroom Tractor Shed guest house has a hot tub, fireplace and luxe furnishings for comfortable sipping.
2915 Cameron Taggart Rd, Mill Bay, BC, CA, V8H 1A2
Pair your tasting of red, white, rosé and sparkling wines with a bite in the year-round restaurant, located in a restored barn, or on the seasonal pizza patio overlooking apple and walnut orchards plus an herb and vegetable garden.
4235 Vineyard Rd, Cobble Hill, BC, CA, V8H 0A6
This organic farm not only makes red and white wines but also gourmet jams and balsamic-style vinegar, available from the year-round Farmstore (by-appointment tasting only in winter).
5039 Marshall Rd, Duncan, BC, CA, V9L 6S3
Taste red, white, rosé and sparkling wine at this regional pioneer that participated in the 1980s Duncan Project that established the best grape varietals for Island growing.
South Island Wineries
A summer drive around the rural Saanich Peninsula charmingly meanders past not only wineries, but farm stands with “honour boxes” to pay for everything from eggs to pies.
1445 Benvenuto Ave, Victoria, BC, CA, V8M 1J5
A wrap-around terrace building houses the gorgeous Tasting Bar and Bistro (open most of the year) at this Brentwood Bay outpost of the popular B.C. winery, the largest on the Island.
9100 E Saanich Rd, North Saanich, BC, CA, V8L 1H5
A tasting of delicious white and various fruit wines is enhanced by a seasonal bakery-café visit (eat it the quirky refurbished bus outside) or bistro lunch and farm tour… ask to see the wine cellar “dungeon”!
10755 Madrona Dr, North Saanich, BC, CA, V8L 5M7
Invinity Sparkling Wine House invites you to embark on a journey of refined taste and elegant indulgence. With a legacy steeped in the artistry of winemaking, Invinity has mastered the craft of producing exquisite sparkling wines that captivate the senses and elevate any occasion.
Southern Gulf Islands
From the sun-drenched slopes of Saturna Island to the verdant hills of Salt Spring Island, these wineries embody the essence of terroir-driven viticulture, producing wines that reflect the distinctive character of their island home. Visitors are invited to embark on a journey of discovery as they explore vineyards framed by sweeping ocean views, sip on handcrafted wines infused with the essence of the Pacific Northwest, and immerse themselves in the warm hospitality of these idyllic island retreats.
1625 N End Rd, BC, CA, V8K 1N2
A family owned and operated Salt Spring Island boutique winery and vineyard. Made from both modern varieties and traditional vinifera, and sourced from the fruit of their own vineyards and other vineyards on the islands, Vivezza is proud to offer a small bath of wines.
164 Norton Rd, BC, CA, V8K 2P5
A family owned and operated Salt Spring Island boutique winery and vineyard. Made from both modern varieties and traditional vinifera, and sourced from the fruit of their own vineyards and other vineyards on the islands, Vivezza is proud to offer a small bath of wines.
1880 Fulford-Ganges Rd, Saltspring Island, BC, CA, V8K 2A5
Set against a backdrop of rolling hills and ancient Garry oak trees, this boutique winery embraces sustainable practices and a deep reverence for the land.
6621 Harbour Hill Dr, Pender Island, BC, CA, V0N 2M1
Listed as one of the “9 Wineries to Visit Before You Die” by Sip Magazine, Spring 2019, Sea Star Vineyards and Winery is nestled within the forest of picturesque Pender Island.
32 Trueworthy Rd, Saturna, BC, CA, V0N 2Y0
Nestled on a south-facing sea bench between sheer cliffs and ocean currents, the fields stretch down towards historic Saturna beach.
Explore More Trip Ideas
A drive for the city-slicker and nature enthusiast alike, the Pacific Marine Circle Route will take you from urban sprawl to the wild west coast and back again. This 289 km loop starts in Victoria and heads west through the funky oceanside town of Sooke and onto Port Renfrew, where the waves are as big as the drinks are cold. Take a day or more to enjoy the many stunning beaches, quaint cafes and sweeping waterfalls dappled along a winding road through the rain forest while making your way back to Victoria through Duncan, the City of Totems.
32 stops
Switch your street shoes for gumboots and put your driving skills to the test with this one-of-a-kind East-to-West Vancouver Island trek. You’ll travel from the major urban hub of Victoria to the untouched old-growth forests of Tofino and Ucluelet, soaking up that island vibe all along the way. World-class accommodations, intoxicating culinary delights and exhilarating wilderness adventures await, but be sure to take it slow through the mountain passes while you enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery.
12 stops
Take it easy while enjoying all the natural wonders Vancouver Island has to offer with this leisurely oceanside trip from Nanaimo to Campbell River. From sandy beaches and fishing villages to vast valleys and mountainous terrain, this trip offers you a chance to savour it all.
You’ll get acquainted with the beauty of the eastern coastline before the road takes you into the Comox Valley, nestled beside the island’s tallest mountain in Strathcona Provincial Park.
You can do this trip in just a few hours or take your time with a day trip to delve deeper into the treasure trove of this Central Island adventure.
13 stops
Choose your own adventure along one of the longest – and most wild – Vancouver Island road trip routes. This 385 km trip from Nanaimo to Port Hardy varies in travel time depending on the season but its rugged beauty is gorgeous year-round. The potential for animal sightings will have you at the edge of your seats with excitement but you’ll also find comfort in the warm embrace of trees towering around you. The northernmost town on Vancouver Island, Port Hardy is the end of the road – well, at least the paved road, but for the more seasoned outdoors enthusiasts, it’s here that the adventure really begins.
11 stops
Vancouver Island and the abundant life-giving waters of the surrounding Pacific Ocean are the Traditional Territory of the Coast Salish, Nuu-chah-nulth, and Kwakwakaw’akw People.
Embark on a transformative trip and seek Indigenous experiences from urban Victoria to the wilderness of the Pacific Rim. Let Indigenous wildlife viewing and dining opportunities, accommodations and cultural experiences guide your Vancouver Island itinerary.
19 stops