Wine and Agricultural Tours from Vancouver
to the Okanagan, Fraser Valley, and Vancouver Island

Wine Tours

British Columbia's wine industry produces premium quality, distinctive wines which receive awards and accolades from around the world.

The wine regions of this province, although relatively young, attract a wide range of skilled vintners who strive to produce wines that reflect BC's unique natural environment.

The preferred way to discover BC wines is to visit the wineries and meet the people behind the wines. From the Okanagan to the Fraser Valley and Vancouver Island, their wineries are nestled against a backdrop of majestic mountains, sparkling lakes, lush orchards and vineyards, rolling hillsides and backcountry roads.

When to Visit

Many wineries offer tours from April through October, and some are open in the winter months. Visitors can sample award-winning wines, learn about the process of winemaking, and enjoy delicious gourmet cuisine while taking in spectacular scenery. British Columbia is also home to various wine festivals that bring the best of each region together in celebration.

The Okanagan

British Columbia's most established and largest wine-producing region is the Okanagan, which produces 95% of BC wines. Located in the south central part of the province, it is often called Napa North. The Okanagan enjoys four distinct seasons with the warmest summer temperature in Canada, making it an ideal climate for grape growing.

There are more than 130 wineries in the Okanagan, with grape production covering about 9,000 acres. Some of the varietals found here include Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, Bordeaux varieties, Gewurztraminer and Syrah. Fruit wines are growing in popularity, with varietals made from apricots, black currants, Fuji apples and more.

The Okanagan is also recognized as a world leader in the production of Icewines. An Okanagan vintage was named the world's top Icewine at the 2008 International Wine Challenge in London.

Wineries in this region consistently attract international attention. Frommer's named the Okanagan a Top Travel Destination for 2007, while Sherman's Travel named the Okanagan Valley one of the Top 10 Places to Go in 2008.

Fraser Valley

Another region that is gaining attention for its wines is the Fraser Valley. Located just east of Vancouver, the Fraser Valley is British Columbia's largest agricultural region. It is home to a diverse range of wineries, including many that are family-owned. With significant precipitation during the spring, winter and autumn months, and dry summers, the Fraser Valley's temperate climate is ideal for early ripening of grapes. Common varietals in this region include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Germanic white varietals.

Vancouver Island

The newest wine-growing region in the province is the southeastern part of Vancouver Island, just off the coast of British Columbia. This fast-growing region features wineries and vineyards tucked into scenic hillsides. The heart of Vancouver Island's wine industry is the Cowichan, an area named after a First Nations word for the "Warm Land". Often called the new Provence, the Cowichan boasts ideal growing conditions and passionate winemakers committed to producing outstanding wines.

With distinctive wines, beautiful surroundings and a welcoming community of vintners, British Columbia promises an unforgettable experience for wine lovers.