Victoria Wine Tour with Wine Tastings and Charcuterie

If you’re considering a wine adventure on Vancouver Island, this Victoria wine tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a relaxed, small-group experience with private tastings at some notable wineries, plus the chance to peek behind the scenes and learn about local wine production. With a solid 5.0 rating from 54 reviews and a recommended rate of 94%, it’s clearly a popular choice among visitors.

What really draws us in are the intimate setting—limiting the group to 15 people or fewer—and the knowledgeable guides who bring the wineries’ stories to life. The inclusion of a light lunch and charcuterie adds a tasty dimension to the day, making it more than just wine sipping. On the flip side, some reviews mention the actual group size sometimes exceeds expectations, which could affect the small-group feel.

This tour feels best suited for those who want to enjoy a laid-back, informative day of wine tasting with good company, rather than a high-paced, highly commercial experience. If you love good wine, scenic drives, and learning from passionate guides, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Small-group experience limits the crowds and enhances interaction.
• Private tastings at each winery provide a more personal experience.
• The tour includes a behind-the-scenes look at wine production, which is a rare bonus.
• The scenic drive on Vancouver Island adds a visual treat to the day.
• The guide’s knowledge makes the experience engaging and informative.
• The value for money includes tastings, lunch, and discounts on wine purchases.

An Honest Dive Into the Experience

If you’re looking for a full, yet relaxed day of wine tasting just outside Victoria, this tour offers a lot. We loved the way it combines scenic beauty with wine education. The drive from downtown Victoria to the Saanich Peninsula is enjoyable in itself—countryside views, rolling vineyards, and a sense of escaping the city’s busy streets.

The tour lasts approximately 5.5 hours, which makes it a comfortable day without feeling rushed. You’ll start in the morning, meeting at a central spot in Victoria, then hop into a clean, comfortable van with a small group—usually no more than 14 people, although some reviews note that sometimes the group size can be a bit larger.

The Stops: What You’ll Visit

Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard is your first stop. It’s known for its beauty—set in what many consider the most picturesque part of Cowichan Valley—and offers a chance to walk around the vineyard and snap photos. The tasting here is private, giving you the chance to savor wines in a relaxed atmosphere. Taking time to appreciate the vineyard views really makes this stop special.

Next, you’ll visit Enrico Winery, where you’ll get a more in-depth look behind the scenes. The tour at Enrico involves a behind-the-scenes visit, where you’ll learn about wine production directly from the owner—an aspect that adds depth to your tasting experience. Plus, there’s a light lunch included here, with tastings paired to the food. Reviewers have said that Enrico’s owner was proud of his wines and eager to share knowledge, making it a highlight for many.

The third stop is Unsworth Vineyards, which is praised for its stunning grounds. Here, you’ll enjoy a more casual tasting in a scenic setting, with about 45 minutes allocated for this part. Many mention that this winery’s grounds and the wines themselves are lovely, although some felt more time at this stop would have been nice.

The Tasting Experience and Guide

Most reviewers agree that the tastings are generous—not just in volume but in variety. Several reviews mention that the guide is a true highlight: friendly, knowledgeable, and able to add context to each wine. One reviewer said, “Kim was fantastic—genuine and informative,” while others appreciated guides who could tell stories about the wineries’ background, adding richness to the experience.

The tour price of $133.43 per person is reasonable when you consider that it includes all tastings, a light lunch, transportation, and a discount at select wineries. Many reviews note that the value for money is high, especially given the scenic drive and the opportunity to learn directly from the owners and staff.

The Group Size and Atmosphere

While the tour is advertised as a small-group experience, some reviews have pointed out that occasionally the group can be larger than expected, around 25 people, which might diminish the intimacy. Despite this, most found the organization to be good and the atmosphere relaxed—not overly commercial, but friendly and fun.

What Could Be Better?

One common critique from reviewers is about the group size inconsistency. If you’re looking for complete quiet and exclusivity, be aware that sometimes the group might be a bit larger than the 15 limit. Also, while the wineries are beautiful, some visitors mentioned that at one or two spots, the pours felt a little stingy—only about an ounce or two per glass—though others found the tastings ample.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you enjoy small, guided tours with a good mix of scenery, wine, and stories. It’s well suited for couples, friends, or anyone eager to learn about Vancouver Island’s wine scene in a relaxed environment. Not necessarily a family-friendly tour unless your older teens are interested in wine, but definitely perfect for adults who want a laid-back, educational day away from the city.

If you’re a wine enthusiast or just someone who appreciates beautiful landscapes and good company, you’ll find plenty to love here. The inclusion of a behind-the-scenes visit and the chance to buy wine at a discount are real perks that add to the overall value.

Final Thoughts

This Victoria wine tour offers a well-rounded blend of scenic drives, private tastings, and engaging guides, making it a solid choice for anyone wanting a taste of Vancouver Island’s wine world without the fuss. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides add a personal touch, elevating what could otherwise be a straightforward tasting day.

While the group size may sometimes feel larger than advertised, most find that the experience remains intimate enough for meaningful conversations and questions. The inclusion of a light lunch and behind-the-scenes access makes it more than just a tasting—it’s a chance to truly understand the local wine culture.

If you’re after a relaxed, informative, and scenic day out that balances wine, nature, and storytelling, this tour is likely to hit the mark.

FAQ

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

What’s the age requirement?
All passengers must be 19 or older to participate, which is standard for wine tastings.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, giving enough time to visit each winery without feeling rushed.

Are the tastings private?
Yes, each stop offers private tastings for your group, ensuring a more relaxed and personalized experience.

Can I buy wine on the tour?
While the tour includes a discount at some wineries, you need to arrange shipping separately if you want to take wine home.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 14 travelers, but some reviews mention that occasionally it can be slightly larger, around 25.

What is included in the price?
All tasting fees, a professional guide, and a light lunch are included. The tour is a good value considering these extras.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Since the minimum age is 19, it’s only for adults. It’s perfect for wine lovers and those interested in learning about local wine production.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes are fine. Since some stops may involve walking around vineyards or winery grounds, wear suitable shoes.

If you’re looking for a day of beautiful scenery, quality wine, and friendly storytelling, this Victoria wine tour is worth considering. It’s perfect if you prefer smaller groups, enjoy learning from passionate guides, and want a taste of Vancouver Island’s premier wineries—all in a relaxed, approachable setting.