Vancouver Island’s only Sub-GI is the Cowichan Valley. Renowned for its distinctive terroir and temperate, Mediterranean-like climate, the area benefits from mild, maritime-influenced weather featuring warm summers and gentle winters, creating an ideal environment for cultivating diverse grape varieties.
The soils are varied, with a mix of gravel, sandy loam, marine sediment, clay, and volcanic soils. These well-drained soils allow for healthy vine growth and retain enough moisture to support consistent development during the dry summer months. This diverse range of soil types expresses distinct minerality in the wines from the Cowichan Valley.
The Cowichan Valley is an emerging wine region known for its cool-climate grape varieties. Notable white grape varieties include Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Ortega, and Bacchus. Additionally, Pinot Noir shines here, producing wines with vibrant fruit character and balanced acidity. The combination of cool temperatures, abundant sunlight, and well-draining soils creates ideal conditions for crafting sparkling wines that boast fresh acidity and vibrant fruit expression.
Vancouver Island’s Cowichan Valley is a captivating blend of natural beauty and artisanal winemaking. Nestled between lush forests and the shimmering coastline, its mild, maritime climate creates the perfect conditions for cool-climate varieties. It’s a region where winemakers are as passionate about their craft as they are about preserving the valley’s unique charm.
The land inside the boundary shown on the map entitled “Cowichan Valley Geographical Indication” and dated January 2, 2020
