Victoria Full Day Guided Wine Tour With 4 Wineries

Experience the Best of Vancouver Island’s Wine Country in a Day

Imagine spending a full day exploring the second-largest wine region in British Columbia, just a short 45-minute drive north of Victoria. This guided tour, offered by Vivid Tours for around $140, takes you through the scenic Cowichan Valley, renowned for its award-winning wineries and lush vineyards. With round-trip transportation, tastings at four distinguished wineries, and a midday lunch, it’s a well-rounded way to savor the local vino while enjoying the landscape.

What we love most about this experience is how smoothly everything is organized — from hotel pickup to knowledgeable guides, and a relaxed itinerary that offers ample time at each stop. The other highlight? The variety of wines you’ll sample, from sparkling wines to reds and whites, showing the region’s versatility. A minor consideration? The tour’s popularity means booking well in advance is wise — on average, travelers reserve about 73 days ahead.

If you’re a wine lover wanting a taste of authentic British Columbia wines combined with a scenic day out, this tour suits you perfectly. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a guided, all-inclusive experience with informative guides and a focus on quality wine tasting in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Scenic Drive: Enjoy a 45-minute ride through lush Vancouver Island landscapes.
• All-Inclusive: Tastings at four award-winning wineries are included, along with a midday lunch.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Lee and Steve enhance the experience with friendly, insightful commentary.
• Variety of Wines: From Pinot Noir and Merlot to sparkling wine, there’s something for every palate.
• Flexible and Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off, round-trip transportation, and a small group size (max 14 travelers).
• Advance Booking: Highly popular, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

A Deep Dive into the Vancouver Island Wine Tour

The Itinerary: A Taste of Four Wineries

This tour is structured to maximize your exposure to the Cowichan Valley’s vibrant wine scene, with four stops that each bring something special to the table.

Stop 1: Cobble Hill Winery
Your day begins at Cobble Hill Winery, a fresh and lively operation on a former lavender farm. The team here is known for their enthusiasm, and the setting offers a peaceful start to your wine journey. Their focus on aromatic whites and elegant reds makes for compelling tastings. Visitors frequently comment on the friendly atmosphere and the uniqueness of the varietals. Expect around 50 minutes here, with tasting fees included, so you can relax and ask questions.

Stop 2: Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard
Next, the modern Blue Grouse offers a striking combination of beautiful grounds and a contemporary tasting room. Outdoor seating in a cabana-like setting provides a relaxed vibe, perfect for sipping sparkling wines and rosés. The views of the vineyard enhance the tasting experience — you’re not just drinking wine; you’re enjoying a visual feast as well. Expect another 50-minute stop with tasting fees included.

Stop 3: Unsworth Vineyards
Known for its award-winning wines and picturesque setting, Unsworth delivers a highlight of the day. The winery’s secret garden-like environment features a tranquil pond, making it a favorite among visitors. Here, you’ll spend about 2 hours, giving you plenty of time for a comprehensive tasting experience and a chance to soak in the serene surroundings. The winery’s reputation for quality and its inviting atmosphere make it a memorable stop.

Stop 4: Enrico Winery
Closing the day is Enrico Winery, where friendly staff lead you through an educational tasting of their diverse portfolio. Sparkling wines, rosés, whites, and reds ensure every guest finds something to enjoy. This stop offers another 50 minutes of relaxed tasting, rounding out your wine exploration with a sense of the approachable local winemaking scene.

The Food and Transport

Midway through the day, your tour includes a lunch reservation — a great chance to refresh, discuss your favorite wines, and enjoy local flavors. Though the meal cost isn’t included, this break helps balance the wine tastings with a satisfying meal.

Transportation in a luxury van makes the journey comfortable, with air conditioning and bottled water to keep you refreshed. The small group size (up to 14 people) ensures a friendly, intimate atmosphere, perfect for engaging with your guide and fellow travelers.

The Guides and Experience

Reviews praise guides like Lee and Steve for their knowledge, friendliness, and thoughtful commentary. They make the experience more than just wine tastings — they provide context, stories, and insights into the wineries and region, enriching your understanding and appreciation of the wines.

Authenticity and Value

What sets this tour apart is its focus on authentic regional wines and the personalized attention in a small group setting. The included tastings mean you get to sample a broad spectrum of wines without the hassle of separate fees or uncertain quality. Plus, the scenic drive and relaxed pace mean you’re not rushing from stop to stop but savoring each moment.

Potential Drawbacks

The main consideration is that advance booking is recommended — this tour is popular and can fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons. Also, while the tour is designed to be accessible, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at wineries and the duration of the stops.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates well-curated wine experiences, scenic landscapes, and expert guides, this tour is a winner. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers eager to explore BC’s wine scene without the stress of planning. It also suits those interested in learning more about wine production and regional varietals in a friendly, relaxed environment.

Practical Details & FAQ

Transportation: Round-trip in air-conditioned vans, starting at 9:45 am.
Duration: Approximately 6 hours, including travel, tastings, and lunch.
Price: Around $140.30 per person, with tastings and transport included.
Booking: Highly recommended to reserve 73 days in advance on average.
Group Size: Max 14 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.
Meeting Point: Pickup from your Victoria accommodation, with the option to specify your location.
Weather: Operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately.
Age Limit: Must be 19+ to participate.
Tips: Gratuity isn’t included; consider tipping guides if you’re pleased with their service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Tastings at four wineries, hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation in an air-conditioned van, and bottled water.

How long is the tour?
The total approximate duration is 6 hours, including travel time, tastings, and lunch.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is reserved, but the cost is not included.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, this tour is quite popular, usually booked about 73 days ahead.

Can I customize the pickup location?
Yes, you can specify your hotel or accommodation when booking.

What types of wines will I taste?
Expect a variety including Pinot Noir, Merlot, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Bacchus, and sparkling wines.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely; guides provide educational tastings, and the relaxed pace makes it accessible for all levels.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, and shoes appropriate for walking around vineyards.

Is the tour family-friendly?
The minimum drinking age is 19, so it’s not suitable for minors.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so bring appropriate rain gear if needed.

Final Thoughts

This guided Victoria wine tour offers a carefully curated experience of Vancouver Island’s Cowichan Valley’s finest wineries. It balances professional guidance, beautiful scenery, and a chance to taste a broad spectrum of regional wines, all in a relaxed, small-group setting. The inclusion of tastings, transportation, and a scenic drive makes it a strong value for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

Ideal for those wanting a taste of authentic BC wines, this tour provides an engaging day out — with a friendly guide, delicious wines, and plenty of scenic moments. Whether you’re celebrating, learning, or simply enjoying a day in beautiful vineyards, this experience hits the right notes.

If you’re seeking an easy, enjoyable way to explore Vancouver Island’s wine scene with expert guides and excellent value, this tour will serve you well. For those who love good wine, stunning vistas, and the company of fellow travelers, it’s a smart choice.