Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie

If you’re like us, you enjoy tasting the local flavors and learning about the craft behind the wine. This Victoria Wine Tour offers just that—an opportunity to explore some of Vancouver Island’s top wineries with a knowledgeable guide, all while soaking in scenic views on the Saanich Peninsula. We’ve reviewed the experience, and it’s clear this tour is designed for those who want a relaxed, authentic, and well-organized wine adventure.

Two things stand out immediately: the small-group atmosphere makes it intimate and personal, and the behind-the-scenes visit at one of the wineries adds a layer of insight you won’t get on larger tours. The only potential hurdle is the price point of around $133 per person, which we believe offers good value but might be a consideration for travelers on a tighter budget.

If you’re a wine enthusiast, a curious traveler wanting to learn, or simply seeking a memorable day outside Victoria, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a laid-back pace, quality tastings, and some local history thrown in.

Key Points

• Intimate Small Group: Limited to 15 people for a relaxed experience.
• Quality Tastings and Behind-the-Scenes Access: Private tastings plus a look into the wine production process.
• Scenic Drive and Gorgeous Wineries: Enjoy beautiful views en route and at each winery.
• Informed Guide: Extensive industry knowledge enhances the experience.
• Great Value: Includes tastings, a light lunch, and discounts on bottles.
• Flexible Timing: Well-organized stops with enough time to savor wines without feeling rushed.

Vancouver Island might be more famous for its natural beauty than its vineyards, but the wine produced here is surprisingly good—and the scenery makes every sip taste even better. This tour is an excellent way to see why the island’s Saanich Peninsula is gaining recognition among wine lovers.

You’ll start your day at a central Victoria meeting point, where the friendly driver and guide await. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable vehicle, and the journey begins with a scenic drive up to the vineyards. The small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd, and the knowledgeable guide makes the trip educational and fun.

Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard

Your first stop is at Blue Grouse Estate Winery, reputed for being the most beautiful winery in the Cowichan Valley. Here, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting and the chance to snap some photos amid the lush vineyard backdrop. This location sets a high standard for the day, with reviews praising its stunning setting and relaxed atmosphere.

You’ll spend about an hour here, which sounds like enough time to get a sense of the winery’s charm without feeling rushed. The tasting here is private, offering a chance to ask questions and soak in the scenic views that make this area special. Reviewers have commented on how picturesque and peaceful Blue Grouse is—perfect for taking in the landscape as you sip your wine.

Enrico Winery: Behind-the-Scenes and Light Lunch

Next, the tour heads to Enrico Winery, where the highlight is the behind-the-scenes tour. This is where you’ll learn about the wine-making process directly from the owner or staff, a feature that makes this tour stand out. Expect to see the production areas and hear about the craftsmanship involved.

The tasting here also includes a light lunch—a thoughtful addition that allows you to enjoy the wine alongside some local flavors. One reviewer noted that the owner was proud of his wines, sharing insights that added depth to the tasting experience. The relaxed atmosphere, combined with the chance to interact directly with the producer, makes this stop memorable.

Unsworth Vineyards Tasting Room

Your final winery visit is to Unsworth Vineyards, where you’ll enjoy a private tasting in a picturesque setting. The grounds are noted for their beauty, and the tasting room offers a relaxed environment to savor wines and reflect on the day.

This stop is slightly shorter, around 45 minutes, but reviews indicate that the quality of wines and the grounds made it a highlight. Several guests appreciated the balance of time and the chance to explore this charming spot at their own pace.

The entire experience lasts about 5.5 hours, including transportation, tastings, and the scenic drive. The tour departs at 10 am from downtown Victoria, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city. The round-trip transportation is included, so you don’t need to worry about logistics or driving.

The group size is limited to 14 travelers, fostering a convivial atmosphere. This small-group approach is often praised in reviews, as it allows for more personalized attention and easier questions. One guest raved about the comfortable van rides and how the timing was perfectly organized—some stops were quicker than others, giving extra time where needed.

The guide’s knowledge about the local wine industry is a big plus, transforming a simple tasting into a mini-lesson. Guests have appreciated the stories behind each wine, the background of the wineries, and the general enthusiasm of the guide.

Value for Money

At $133.43 per person, this tour offers good value if you value guided experiences, private tastings, scenic drives, and a behind-the-scenes look. The inclusion of a light lunch and a discount on bottles adds to the overall worth. Several reviewers pointed out that the wines were delicious and that the grounds at each winery were well worth the visit.

However, one review noted that the group was larger than expected (around 25 people, including guides), which slightly detracted from the intimacy. It’s worth confirming if your booking aligns with the small-group promise.

What Travelers Love Most

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that guides like Scott and Kim make the experience memorable. Their enthusiasm, friendly manner, and local knowledge turn a wine tasting into a lively, educational outing. Many guests appreciated the variety of wineries, each offering a different vibe and style of wine, from the picturesque Blue Grouse to the passionate work at Cherry Point (mentioned anecdotally in reviews).

The scenery and grounds at the wineries receive high praise, and the scenic drive offers stunning views of Vancouver Island’s lush landscape. Guests also love the relaxed pace—there’s enough time to savor each stop without feeling hurried.

• The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.
• You must be 19 or older to participate, as expected at wine tastings.
• The tour operates in all weather conditions, so bring an umbrella or sun protection as needed.
• The meeting point is centrally located on Government Street in Victoria.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility in case your plans change.
• Custom group pickup isn’t included, so plan to meet at the designated spot.

This tour is perfect for wine lovers looking to explore Vancouver Island’s wine scene without the hassle of driving. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate informative guides and scenic settings. If you enjoy small groups where you can ask questions and take your time, you’ll find this experience rewarding.

It’s a good fit for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a relaxed, immersive day. The inclusion of a light lunch and discounts makes it a practical choice for those seeking good value. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more independent experience, you might want to explore local wineries on your own.

This Victoria Wine Tour is a well-crafted experience that balances scenic beauty, educational value, and quality wine tastings. From the picturesque Blue Grouse to the passionate wine makers at Enrico and the beautiful grounds of Unsworth, it offers a variety of wine styles and atmospheres. The knowledgeable guides and intimate group size enhance the experience, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a deeper dive into Vancouver Island’s wine culture.

For travelers who enjoy a leisurely pace, meaningful interactions, and stunning scenery, this tour is a smart choice. It provides a good taste of Victoria’s nearby wine scene, without the fuss of planning your own day trip. A solid pick for a memorable, relaxed, and educational outing.

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from downtown Victoria is part of the package, so you don’t need to worry about driving or parking.

What is the group size? The tour is limited to 14 travelers for a more personal experience, though some reviews have noted larger groups in practice.

Are tastings private? Yes, each winery offers private tastings for your group, allowing for questions and a relaxed atmosphere.

Is a light lunch included? Yes, the tour includes a light lunch at Enrico Winery, pairing nicely with the wines you taste.

Can I buy wine at the wineries? Absolutely. Guests receive a discount on select bottles, and you might want to ask about shipping options if you wish to take some home.

What is the age requirement? All participants must be 19 or older to participate, as is standard for alcohol tastings in Canada.

Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or just looking to enjoy a beautiful day with some good wine, this Victoria Wine Tour offers a well-rounded experience worth considering. It combines scenic drives, engaging guides, and the chance to savor Vancouver Island’s best wines—all within a relaxed, friendly setting.