There’s plenty to love at Savour Cowichan, but the festival, which runs from Sept. 25 to Oct. 4 is even better this year.
Merridale Estate Cider is always a booster of anything Cowichan, but this year
distiller Rick Pipes is showcasing his rave-worthy world-class gin.
And the Valley’s Red Arrow Brewing Company is also working hard at making a name for itself. Adam Ball and his team are really gaining a following with beer that is hand crafted in small batches.
The Old Fork Diner
is also new to Savour Cowichan. Why not check out the largest gourmet burger menu on Vancouver Island? Yum.
At Blue Grouse Estate Winery, there have been some changes made. Meet the Brunner family, learn about their big plans for the venerable vineyard, and, of course, taste and buy some great wine.
Venturi-Schulze Vineyards
will this year, with great fanfare, be releasing their 25-year-old balsamic vinegar. Forward the foodie stampede!
It’s a delightful drive into the country to find the Tea Farm where talented potter Margit Nellemann and her storytelling husband, Victor Vesely, produce Canada’s only home-grown tea.
And wine-tour favourite Cherry Point Estate Wines is this year offering a free traditional paella and sangria event. There are lots of other must-visit, must-tries around the Valley, too.
Hudson’s on First is an intimate restaurant in a beautifully restored 106-year-old heritage building in Duncan, where a Top Chef Canada contender holds sway in the kitchen.
If you’re in the mood for charcuterie, check out Cure Artisan Cheese and Meat
in Cobble Hill for craveable house-made pates, specialty cheeses, meats and more.
High on the hill above Highway 18, Averill Creek Vineyards
showcases the Island’s terroir with world class offerings.
In Cowichan Bay, Rocky Creek Winery was started by a delightful couple that went from corporate suits to gumboots and have become the Valley’s most awarded winemaker.
Nearby, Cowichan Bay Seafood
offers an unmatched selection of local, sustainable seafood. Just the ticket to go with those superb local wines.
And while you’re in the southeastern part of the Valley, a visit to Enrico, a charming boutique winery will show you why they won the 2015 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in British Columbia Wines and Damali Lavender & Winery
will offer heart’s ease and a haven of relaxation and inspiration. Need proof? In July of 2013 Damali B&B was listed in Fodor’s Top 7 Farm Stays in the World.
At Unsworth Vineyard, where the owners pride themselves on handcrafting wines of distinction, visitors can also check out a vineyard restaurant and brewery.
Alderlea Farm in Glenora, Providence Farm, and Tatlo Road Farm located near Crofton, which grows a wide range of organic vegetables, herbs and fruit using agro-ecological practices, could be just the places to visit.