Best Wineries Near Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC and the nearby Cowichan Valley are becoming well-known destinations for wine lovers. With a climate that’s ideal for growing grapes and a growing number of passionate winemakers, this region offers some of the most enjoyable wine tasting experiences in Canada. Whether you’re a local or thinking of moving to Victoria, exploring the local wineries is a perfect way to connect with the land, the community, and some outstanding wines.

In this post, we’ll look at some of the best wineries in Victoria, Duncan, and the Cowichan Valley. We'll also take a closer look at Emandare Vineyard, a standout winery in Duncan known for its organic practices and stunning location.

Why This Region Is Great for Wine

Vancouver Island’s southern coast, including Victoria, Duncan, and the Cowichan Valley, enjoys a unique climate. It has warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. This climate is rare in Canada and similar to parts of Europe where wine has been made for centuries. The long growing season and rich soil make this area perfect for cool-climate grape varieties.

Wine lovers can find everything from crisp whites and elegant reds to sparkling wines and cider. Many local wineries are small, family-run businesses that focus on quality, sustainability, and local food partnerships.

Featured Winery: Emandare Vineyard in Duncan, BC

I was up island on a recent road trip and I found a paradise just out of Duncan, and if you’re only going to visit one winery in the area, make it Emandare Vineyard. About an hour north of Victoria, Emandare is a small, family-owned winery known for organic farming and minimal-intervention winemaking.

Other Top Winery Picks in Victoria to the Cowichan Valley

Church & State Wines – Brentwood Bay

Just 20 minutes from downtown Victoria, Church & State offers one of the region’s most scenic winery experiences. With beautiful views and award-winning wines, it’s also a popular venue for weddings and events.

Symphony Vineyard – Saanich

This boutique winery produces aromatic whites and light reds grown right in the Saanich Peninsula. The owners focus on dry wines and traditional winemaking techniques.

Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse – Saanichton

Although not technically a winery, Sea Cider is a must-visit spot. Their ciders are made with organic heritage apples, and the tasting room offers incredible views over the Haro Strait.

Blue Grouse Estate Winery – Cowichan Valley

One of the oldest wineries on Vancouver Island, Blue Grouse is known for sustainable farming and quality wines. Their tasting room is beautifully designed, and the surrounding views are breathtaking.

Unsworth Vineyards – Cowichan Valley

Unsworth produces handcrafted wines and offers a great farm-to-table restaurant. It's a local favorite for relaxed weekend visits and wine tastings in a modern rural setting.

About Emandare Vineyard

Owned and operated by Mike and Robin Nierychlo, Emandare sits on a hillside overlooking Somenos Lake. The vineyard gets full sun and is protected by nearby Mount Prevost, creating a perfect microclimate for grape growing. Their philosophy is simple: “Wine is grown, not made.” That means every bottle reflects the land it comes from.

The name "Emandare" comes from the couple’s initials (M and R) and reflects their personal investment in every step of the winemaking process.

Winemaking Philosophy

Emandare uses organic farming methods and does not irrigate the vines. This forces the roots to grow deep and creates stronger, more resilient plants. They use native yeast fermentation and avoid unnecessary chemicals or processing. Every vintage is a true expression of that year’s weather, soil, and sunlight.

This low-intervention style makes the wines unique and full of character. The wines are alive, and each bottle tells a story of the land.

Wines You’ll Find at Emandare

All grapes are grown on-site. The winery’s small production means the wines often sell out fast. Here are a few highlights:

• 2022 PS – A fresh, aromatic blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, and Siegerrebe with bright citrus and melon notes.
• Estate Pinot Noir – Elegant and earthy with subtle spice and red berry flavors.
• Dry White Wines – Crisp and food-friendly with bright acidity, perfect for pairing with seafood or light dishes.

Emandare wines are made in small batches, and they are only sold directly through the vineyard. This keeps the connection personal and ensures quality over quantity.

Visiting Emandare Vineyard

If you're planning a wine tour, a stop at Emandare is a must. Here's what to expect:

Wine Shop

Open Fridays and Saturdays from 12 pm to 4 pm. Walk-ins welcome for casual tastings and wine purchases.

Private Tastings

From April to September, visitors can book private tastings with winemaker Mike. You'll sample wines, hear stories about the vineyard, and enjoy local cheese and charcuterie. The cost is $45 per person, waived if you buy a case or join their wine club. The experience with Mike is unforgettable - from his tour you instantly know he has a diverse background in winemaking and loves to express his love of the industry with his candor and excitement of lessons learned and positive outlook.

Tractor Shed Guest House

Want to stay the night? Emandare offers a charming guest house right on the property. It's a peaceful spot with vineyard views, perfect for a romantic getaway or relaxing escape.

Local Partnerships and Community

Emandare supports the local food and wine community. They partner with farmers, chefs, and artists in the Cowichan Valley. Events at the vineyard often feature music, food trucks, and seasonal celebrations.

Their wines are featured at local restaurants and wineries across the island. But the best way to enjoy them is at the source, with the people who grow and make them.

The wine scene near Victoria, BC is rich with variety, charm, and passion. From seaside cideries to hillside vineyards, every stop offers something special. But if you want an experience that connects you directly with the land, the people, and the process, Emandare Vineyard is the perfect place to start.

With its organic practices, thoughtful winemaking, and stunning views, Emandare captures what makes Vancouver Island wine so unique. Whether you're a serious wine lover or just looking for a relaxing weekend trip, a visit here is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Thinking of buying a winery near Victoria BC? This wine country lifestyle, with its focus on community, sustainability, and natural beauty could be just what you're looking for.