Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie

Imagine sipping award-winning wines amid rolling vineyards on Vancouver Island’s Saanich Peninsula. This approximately 5.5-hour guided journey from Victoria offers a chance to visit three well-regarded wineries, enjoy private tastings, and even get a peek behind the scenes at one. With a small group limited to 15 guests, this tour fosters a relaxed, personal atmosphere, making it ideal for those who love authentic experiences and want to learn more about local wine production.

Two things we truly appreciate about this experience are the extensive knowledge of guides—often sharing stories and insights about each winery—and the scenic drive through lush landscapes that leaves you feeling relaxed and inspired. The inclusion of a light lunch and charcuterie pairing at one stop further elevates the experience, adding a delicious touch to your tasting journey.

One consideration to keep in mind is that, despite the promise of a small-group setting, some reviews note that at times there may be more guests than expected, which could slightly affect the intimacy. Also, this tour is geared toward adults 19 and over, so it’s not suitable for families with children.

This tour suits wine enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic day, or anyone curious about Vancouver Island’s burgeoning wine scene. If you value guided insight, beautiful views, and well-curated tastings, you’ll likely find this experience a delightful way to spend a day.

Key Points

• Educational & Entertaining Guides: Guides with extensive industry knowledge make the experience engaging and informative.
• Beautiful Vineyards & Scenery: Scenic drives and picturesque winery settings enhance the overall experience.
• Private Tastings & Behind-the-Scenes Access: Small-group tastings and behind-the-scenes tours offer an intimate look at wine production.
• Good Value: The tour includes tastings, a light lunch, and discounts on bottles, making it a worthwhile investment for wine lovers.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups create a more personal, relaxed environment, though some reviews suggest occasional larger groups.
• Convenient Transportation: Round-trip transportation from downtown Victoria simplifies travel and maximizes enjoyment.

A Deep Dive into the Victoria Wine Tour Experience

Getting out of Victoria for a day to explore Vancouver Island’s wine scene is a smart choice for travelers craving local flavor and scenic beauty. This tour, priced at around $133 per person, packs a lot into just over five hours, balancing wine education, pleasurable scenery, and delicious food. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a casual wine appreciator, this experience promises genuine insights and memorable sights.

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour kicks off at a downtown Victoria meeting point—721 Government St—where your guide, often praised for their friendliness and deep knowledge, welcomes you. The comfortable van ride to the Saanich Peninsula is part of the charm, offering sweeping views and a chance to unwind before the tastings. Guides like Kim and Colin receive glowing reviews for their attentive and engaging approach, setting a friendly tone for the day.

First Stop: Blue Grouse Estate Winery & Vineyard

Your first visit is to Blue Grouse Estate Winery, acclaimed as the most beautiful winery in the Cowichan Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy wine tastings paired with the serenity of the vineyard. The setting invites plenty of photo opportunities, and you may find yourself marveling at the lush vineyards stretching into the distance. We loved the way guides explain the wines, helping you distinguish between varieties and understand their nuances.

One review highlights that this location is perfect for taking pictures and soaking in the scenery, making it ideal for travelers who appreciate visual beauty along with good wine. The one-hour visit offers ample time for tasting and snapping photos without feeling rushed.

Second Stop: Enrico Winery

The day continues with a visit to Enrico Winery, where the emphasis shifts to deeper insights into winemaking. Here, the tour includes a behind-the-scenes look at production, giving you a chance to see how wine is crafted from grape to glass. Enrico’s owner, Mr. John, is noted for his pride and willingness to share his knowledge, which makes the tasting more meaningful.

A highlight from a review mentions that the owner “was very proud of his wines and shared and taught us about it,” adding a personal touch to the experience. The wine tasting here includes sample glasses changed for white and red wines, showcasing their craftsmanship. The pairing with a light lunch at this stop enriches the visit, offering a tasty break and a chance to enjoy the wines with complementary flavors.

Final Stop: Unsworth Vineyards Tasting Room

The last winery is Unsworth Vineyards, a location praised for its beautiful grounds. Here, the tasting room offers a relaxed atmosphere and stunning views, perfect for winding down the day. The approximately 45-minute tasting allows for conversation, soaking up the vineyard’s ambiance, and savoring the wines.

Many guests have noted that this stop provides ample time to ask questions and enjoy the surroundings, with some wishing they had more time to explore further. The setting is picturesque, making it a favorite among those who love capturing memories with their cameras.

Additional Highlights & Customer Feedback

• The small-group format offers more personalized attention, which most reviewers appreciate. One guest noted, “We had a great day, and the timing at each stop was well organized,” emphasizing the professionalism behind the planning.
• The guide’s enthusiasm and knowledge are often highlighted as the tour’s standout features, turning what could be a simple tasting into an educational adventure.
• Many reviewers commend the scenic drive and the beautiful winery settings, viewing it as part of the overall experience rather than just a tasting.
• The inclusion of discounts on bottles at some wineries encourages guests to take home a special souvenir, adding value to the tour.

Notable Drawbacks & Considerations

Some guests mention that the group size may occasionally be larger than the advertised 15 guests, which could impact the intimacy of the experience. Also, as the tour operates in all weather conditions, be prepared for rain or shine—your experience won’t be dampened by weather but might influence outdoor photo opportunities.

The tour is strictly for adults 19 and over, so families with young children should look elsewhere. Also, those seeking a more leisurely or unstructured day might find the organized schedule a bit tight, but for most, it strikes a good balance.

Overall Value & Who It’s For

Given the inclusive pricing that covers tastings, a light lunch, and transportation, this tour offers excellent value for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike. The focus on private tastings and behind-the-scenes access makes it stand out from self-guided or larger group tours, providing a more personalized experience.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives, enjoys learning about wine, and prefers a small, friendly group, this tour is an excellent choice. It caters well to those eager to explore Victoria’s wine scene without the hassle of planning or driving themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 5 hours and 30 minutes, including visits to three wineries, tastings, and a light lunch.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers tastings at each winery, a light lunch, driver/guide service, and discounts on selected bottles.

Do I need to be a wine expert?
Not at all. The guides provide plenty of information, and the experience is designed to be accessible whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting your tasting journey.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 guests or fewer, fostering a more relaxed and personal atmosphere. However, some reviews note that occasionally there may be more guests than the stated maximum.

Can I purchase wine to take home?
Yes, most wineries offer bottles for sale, and you’ll get discounts as a tour guest. Some reviews suggest bringing arrangements for shipping or carrying bottles home if you plan to buy several.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transportation from downtown Victoria is included, making it easy and safe to enjoy tasting without worries about driving.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather and walking shoes are recommended, especially if you want to explore the vineyards or take photos.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, only guests 19 years or older can participate, as it involves wine tasting.

Final Thoughts

This Victoria wine tour offers a beautifully curated experience that combines scenic drives, quality tastings, and insightful guiding. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, educational outing in the company of a small group, tasting some of Vancouver Island’s best wines while enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

The tour’s value for money is evident in the comprehensive nature of the experience—covering private tastings, behind-the-scenes looks, and a tasty lunch—all led by guides praised for their friendliness and expertise. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just eager to discover local wines, this trip delivers a satisfying and memorable day.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic, and scenic wine experience close to Victoria, this tour makes a smart choice—and it might just inspire you to return for more.