Three local Cowichan Valley wines perfect for summer BBQ entertaining
Father’s Day is coming up and summer is here — what better way to celebrate than a backyard BBQ with family and friends, paired with some of the finest wines produced right here in the Cowichan Valley? Here are three local bottles worth seeking out for your next outdoor gathering.
2025 Pinot Gris — Alderlea Vineyards
Alderlea’s signature 24-hour skin contact Pinot Gris is a dry, copper-coloured wine, showing sweet aromas of stone fruit, with a balanced mouthfeel and bright flavours of tangerine and peach. The winemaker recommends pairing this Pinot Gris with prawns — spot or otherwise — and other fresh fish and seafood dishes. It also pairs nicely with charcuterie boards, especially with mild or herbed cheeses. $26.55
2024 Bacchus — Blue Grouse Estate Winery
Bright and aromatic, with lime zest, white peach and a clean, mineral finish. Its crisp acidity makes it a fresh match for grilled seafood, especially halibut, salmon, oysters or prawns with lemon and herbs. $29.99
Okeanos — Averill Creek Vineyard
100% whole bunch Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer soaked in Salish Sea water then drained, pressed, and wild fermented in older French Oak. A gentle but complex delivery of white flower, Nashi pear, and apple skin, lifted by a delicate salinity that leaves you salivating, craving your next sip. $48
All three wines are available at fine liquor stores and wineries across the Cowichan Valley. Averill Creek is now serving on the summer patio, open daily 11–5. This Father’s Day, raise a glass to local producers who are crafting world-class wines right in our own backyard.
Alderlea Vineyards · Blue Grouse Estate Winery · Averill Creek Vineyard (open daily 11–5)
Available at fine liquor stores across BC
Originally published in Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine, June 2026 — Issue 211. | cowichanvalleyvoice.com