Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring the vineyards of Vancouver Island without the hassle of planning, this Victoria Wine Tour might just be your perfect escape. Designed for lovers of good wine and beautiful scenery, this small-group experience offers a blend of private tastings, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and picturesque stops on the Saanich Peninsula—all within a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

What immediately caught our eye (and what others repeatedly praise) are the knowledgeable guides who bring the region’s wine story to life, and the stunning vineyard vistas that make each stop memorable. The tour’s value for money is also notable: at roughly $133 per person for over five hours of wine tasting, transportation, and a light lunch, it’s an experience that feels both comprehensive and laid-back. A potential consideration is the size of the group—though advertised as small, some reviews mention larger numbers, which might affect intimacy.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy guided experiences, appreciate good scenery, and want to learn about local wines without the fuss of self-driving. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a dedicated connoisseur, this day out offers a genuine taste of Vancouver Island’s vibrant wine culture.

• Intimate group setting: Limited to 15 or fewer participants for a more personal experience.
• Behind-the-scenes access: Gain insights into wine production at a local winery.
• Multiple wineries: Visit three different vineyards with private tastings.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides enhance the experience.
• Beautiful scenery: The drive and vineyards offer picturesque views.
• All-inclusive price: Tasting fees, guide, and light lunch included for great value.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from a central location in downtown Victoria, specifically at 721 Government St., at 10:00 am. You’ll meet your guide and small group before heading out in a comfortable vehicle—likely a van—that’s praised for its cleanliness and smooth ride. The drive down to the Saanich Peninsula is scenic, with many reviewers noting the pleasant, relaxed atmosphere during transit.

A key perk here is the round-trip transportation included in the price. This means you can focus on the wines and scenery without any worries about driving, making it suitable for those who prefer a stress-free day. The group size, capped at 15 (though some reviews note up to 25), helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

First Stop: Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard

The first vineyard, Blue Grouse, is acclaimed as “the most beautiful winery in the Cowichan Valley,” and you get about an hour here. You’ll enjoy private wine tastings and the chance to snap photos in the vineyard, which is a highlight for many visitors. The estate’s setting is often described as picturesque, with lush vines and inviting views.

The tasting at Blue Grouse is an excellent way to set the tone for the day, with knowledgeable staff sharing stories behind each wine. It’s worth noting that the reviewers mention the winery’s scenic beauty as a bonus. The opportunity to take pictures amidst such a beautiful backdrop makes this stop more than just about the wines—it’s about the experience.

Second Stop: Enrico Winery

Next, you’ll visit Enrico Winery, where the emphasis shifts to more intimate, private tastings. Here, you’ll also enjoy a light lunch paired with wine, giving a nice break in the schedule. One of the standout features is the behind-the-scenes tour, giving you insight into the wine production process—something that many wine lovers find fascinating.

The owner, Mr. John, at Enrico, receives praise for his pride in his wines and his willingness to share knowledge. You’ll have the chance to learn about the different varieties, and the expert guide will help make sense of the tasting notes. Many reviewers appreciated the stories and explanations, making the experience educational rather than just a casual sip session.

Final Stop: Unsworth Vineyards

The last vineyard, Unsworth, offers a relaxing conclusion to the day with a 45-minute tasting in their charming tasting room. It’s described as a picturesque location, with grounds that are lovely for strolling or simply soaking in the atmosphere. While some reviews suggest the tasting here is less detailed than at previous stops, everyone agrees that the setting is beautiful and perfect for unwinding.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour costs about $133.43 per person, which covers tasting fees, the professional guide, transportation, and a light lunch. The inclusive pricing offers excellent value considering the private tastings and behind-the-scenes tour at Enrico. The only potential extra costs are for purchasing bottles—and the tour does include a discount at select wineries, which is a nice bonus for those wanting to take home a bottle or two.

It’s important to note that custom pickup for groups is not included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated spot in Victoria. Also, all participants must be 19 or older, which is standard for wine tours in Canada.

The Guide’s Role

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides make or break this experience. Many reviewers highlight guides like Scott, Kim, or Colin, praising their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep things flowing smoothly. One reviewer commented that a guide “went above expectations,” while another appreciated the helpfulness and safety of the driver.

The guides do more than just pour wine—they tell stories, explain the wine-making process, and keep the group engaged. This personal touch elevates the tour from a simple tasting to an educational outing.

The Wine and the Experience

While most reviewers say the wines are good, some mention that the first winery’s offerings were less impressive than the others. However, the passion of the winemakers at Cherry Point, especially Xavier, is noted as a highlight. The opportunity to taste a variety of wines, from Ortega to reds, allows for a well-rounded experience.

One reviewer noted that the charcuterie pairing at one winery was enjoyable, especially with the chicken and duck pâté, adding a gourmet touch to the day. The beautiful grounds, combined with the stories from owners and staff, create a well-rounded experience that appeals to both casual visitors and wine enthusiasts.

Review Highlights and Authentic Voices

Many guests mention the relaxed, friendly atmosphere and ample time to ask questions. The presence of knowledgeable guides who explain the wines and the regions’ history makes this tour stand out. For example, one reviewer said, “Kim was fantastic. Very genuine and informative,” and another highlighted how the timing at each stop was well organized.

Some cons are also noted—such as larger-than-expected groups—which could affect the intimacy. But overall, the consensus is positive, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Overall Value

At just over $130, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Vancouver Island’s wine scene. The mix of private tastings, behind-the-scenes tours, and scenic drives means you’re not just drinking wine—you’re learning about it and experiencing the landscape where these wines are cultivated. The included light lunch, along with discounts at wineries, adds to the value.

This experience is ideal for wine lovers who enjoy guided tours and want to learn more about local wines in a relaxed setting. It’s perfect for visitors who value scenic drives, intimate group sizes, and engaging guides. If you’re looking for a fun, informative day without the hassle of planning, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also suitable for those who prefer a social atmosphere—many reviews mention the fun shared with fellow travelers—and for first-timers eager to dip their toes into Canadian wines.

The Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie offers a well-balanced experience of scenic beauty, quality wines, and engaging storytelling. The tour’s focus on small groups and behind-the-scenes access makes it stand out from more generic wine excursions. Whether you’re in Victoria for just a day or a longer stay, it’s a wonderful way to discover the region’s viticultural gems.

While it’s not a wine geek’s ultimate pilgrimage—some of the wines are more approachable than complex—it compensates with its warm guides, beautiful scenery, and a relaxed pace. You’ll leave with not only new wines to enjoy but also a deeper appreciation of Vancouver Island’s growing reputation as a wine destination.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from downtown Victoria is included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about driving.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 15 guests, although some reviews mention groups of up to 25, which might slightly affect the intimate feel.

Are tasting fees included?
Absolutely. The price covers all tasting fees at each winery, along with a discount at select wineries.

What should I wear?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, and wear shoes you don’t mind walking in at vineyards or tasting rooms.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While you can enjoy the scenery and learn about wine, the main activity involves tastings, and all participants must be 19 or older.

Can I buy wine to take home?
Yes, you can purchase bottles at the wineries, and the tour offers discounts on select bottles—though shipping costs are not included.

This Victoria wine tour promises a warm, friendly environment where you’ll get a taste of Vancouver Island’s wine industry—both literally and figuratively. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a dedicated oenophile, it’s a day well spent among beautiful vineyards, engaging stories, and good company.