There are more than 15 wineries in the Fraser Valley near Vancouver – this is, after all, BC's largest agricultural region. Many are boutique-style, family-owned wineries that reflect the dedicated and passionate people behind them.
The climate here lends itself to white wines, such as Chardonnay or Germanic white varietals, as well as early-ripening reds, such as Pinot Noir. Fruit wines are also popular.
A Fraser Valley wine tour makes a scenic day trip from Vancouver or surrounding communities like Langley and Abbotsford. Wineries such as Domaine de Chaberton, Township 7 and Visto D’oro produce traditional red and white wine varietals. Sit on a patio, sample wine and snack on gourmet treats or enjoy a full course meal at Domaine de Chaberton’s French-style Bacchus Bistro.
Try fruit wine at places such as Westham Island Estate Winery. Campbell's Gold is the only meadery (honey winery) on BC’s mainland.
Popular Wineries
Most wineries are within an hour’s drive from Vancouver, and offer guided tours and tasting rooms that pair local wines with artisan food from the Fraser Valley.
Domaine de Chaberton in Langley is one of the largest and oldest wineries in the Fraser Valley and features daily wine tours and tastings. Their on-site restaurant, Bacchus Bistro, offers vineyard views and French cuisine created with BC ingredients.
In Abbotsford, Lotusland Vineyards uses only organically grown Fraser Valley grapes in its small-batch, limited release wines. For a complete wine and culinary experience, visit Langley's Visto D’oro Farms & Winery, home to hand-crafted wines, artisanal preserves, a culinary studio and farmers market.
Boutique wine producers like Township 7 (in Langley) and River’s Bend Winery (in Surrey) offer an intimate look at small, family-run wineries.
Fruit Wines
The Fraser Valley is home to several outstanding fruit wineries, including Westham Island Estate Winery and Wellbrook Winery (both in Delta) and the Fort Wine Company in Fort Langley. Sample tasty wines made from locally grown cranberries, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and wild blackberries.
For something different, sample and learn about mead – honey wine – at Campbell’s Gold, a honey farm in Abbotsford.
Self-Guided Wine Tours
To reach the wineries, follow the burgundy and white Wine Route signs and map boards at rest stops on or near Highway 1. Dining opportunities abound en route. Incorporate some other Fraser Valley favourites into the wine route, such as “u-pick” berry farms or historic Fort Langley. Picnic with fresh, local ingredients next to the Fraser River. Since many of the wineries are small and family-owned, it’s often possible to meet the vintners during tastings and tours.
Ask local Visitor Centres for winery information and maps.
Guided Wine Tours
Have someone else do the driving with a guided wine tour of the Fraser Valley. Most winery tour operators offer half to full day trips, visit four to five wineries, and can pick up from Metro Vancouver locations. Choose from pre-planned tour itineraries or work with a tour operator to create a customized tour.
When to Visit
Many wineries are open year-round, seven days a week, but require advance notice for winery tours. Some have seasonal hours of operations or may be closed on certain days of the week. If visiting during the week or in the “off” season, call ahead and see if they offer tastings and tours.
Practical Points
- Nominal fees may be in effect for tastings.
- It is recommended to call before visiting – some wineries have variable visiting hours.
- Local Visitor Centres are a good source of information.
- The minimum legal drinking age in BC is 19.
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