It’s Wine Time: The Cowichan Wine Festival!
It’s Wine Time: The Cowichan Wine Festival!
It’s that time again! The Cowichan Wine Festival, a premier event on British Columbia’s wine calendar, kicks off on August 1st and continues for the whole month. Our beautiful Valley is dotted with picturesque vineyards and this year 12 wineries are participating.
What’s It All About?
The Cowichan Wine Festival is over 20 years old, showcasing the region’s winemaking expertise and making the Cowichan Valley a must stop center for wine enthusiasts.
The festival is traditionally held during the wine grape harvest season in the month of August every year. All month long, attendees can tour vineyards, participate in wine-related events, and discover a new favourite wine at the tastings provided by Cowichan Valley winemakers.
History
Grapes have been cultivated in the Cowichan Valley since the late 1800s but the region wasn’t really recognized as a significant wine-producing area until much later in the 20th century. It was then that wine connoisseurs began to recognize the quality of the wine being produced in the Valley. As more wineries became established, the idea of having a wine festival to celebrate regional wines took hold.
The first Cowichan Wine Festival was held in the early 2000s, featuring only a handful of wineries. Since then, the number of wineries has grown and the festival has added a variety of events that attract thousands of visitors every year.
Who’s Who at the Festival: The Wineries
This year 12 local wineries, each with its own signature style and wines on offer are participating in the festival. From the charm of a family run boutique vineyard to the diversity of the larger, more well-established wineries, you are sure to experience something unique and exceptional.
The participants are:
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- Alderlea Vineyards
- Blue Grouse Estate Winery
- Cherry Point Estate Wines
- Damali Lavender and Winery
- Deol Estate Winery
- Divino Estate Winery
- Emandare Vineyard
- Enrico Winery
- Rocky Creek Winery
- Unsworth Vineyards
- Venturi Schulze Vineyards
- Zanatta Winery
Festival goers will be served a wine “flight” tasting (3 wines) at each of the participating wineries showcasing a variety of wines from crisp whites to full-bodied reds and even some exceptional sparkling wines.
What’s On
From formal wine tastings and food pairings to grape-stomping festivities and live entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The Valley’s wineries have really pulled out all the stops!
One of the festival’s key features is the “Wine Tasting Passport.” This passport allows visitors to explore multiple wineries at their own pace throughout the month of August. It’s an excellent way to savour a wide range of wines, interact with winemakers, and gain insights into the winemaking process and sustainability practices.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, many wineries offer vineyard tours, where guests can stroll through lush vineyards and learn about the grape-growing and winemaking techniques specific to Cowichan Valley.
The festival also celebrates local food and culinary excellence. Some wineries have teamed up with talented chefs to create exceptional food and wine pairing experiences. Guests can savour delectable dishes made from locally-sourced ingredients paired with the region’s finest wines.
Some wineries require reservations so check out their schedules before you head out. Better yet, get a group together and sign up for a Wine Tasting Tour with us and enjoy the festival from the comfort of an air-conditioned bus with a knowledgeable driver who will get you where you need to be, when you need to be. No hassle, no fuss!
Why Wait?
The Cowichan Wine Festival is more than just a celebration of wines; it’s a demonstration of the passion, dedication, and craftsmanship of the winemakers who have transformed the Cowichan Valley into a thriving wine region. Every year, the festival has continued to grow, attracting enthusiasts, sommeliers, and wine connoisseurs from all corners of the globe.
Come for the day or come every day! Experience the beauty of the Cowichan Valley’s stunning views, its exceptional wines, and its warm hospitality. The Cowichan Wine Festival is a truly unforgettable experience.
Whether you are a seasoned wine aficionado or a curious and enthusiastic beginner, the Cowichan Wine Festival offers a delightful taste of the world of Canadian wine. Cheers!
