Two Years Running: Blue Grouse is the Best Island Winery!
Readers of Times-Colonist have been heard
The results are in! Blue Grouse Estate Winery has been named (for the second year in a row) as the Best Island Winery by readers of Times-Colonist, Vancouver Island’s main newspaper.
After a fruitful 2019 year with the release of a new portfolio, label refresh, and several awards, the Blue Grouse team is thrilled to receive this important recognition from their fans and visitors.
From left to right: Paula, Cristina, and Paul Brunner - Jaqueline Downey photo
Every year the winery team works hard to elevate the experience of wine lovers and travelers looking to explore the beauty of the Cowichan Valley, by offering distinct experiences, events, and expressive cool climate wines.
Blue Grouse Estate Winery is now one of the main attractions on the island. Open 11 months a year, Blue Grouse offers popular food options in partnership with local caterers, wine tastings of exclusive small-batch vintages, and a luxurious winery stay.
"We are so grateful to the local public for voting for us," says winery owner Paul Brunner.
Download photos related to Blue Grouse Estate Winery here.
About Blue Grouse Estate Winery:
Blue Grouse Estate Winery is a family owned Cowichan Valley favourite. After purchasing the winery seven years ago, Paul Brunner and his family are leading the way on Vancouver Island by sustainably farming, providing outstanding hospitality, and practising terroir-driven viticulture.
The experience at Blue Grouse is extraordinary. Visitors stroll past a pond strewn with birds, tadpoles, and beehives as they step towards the winery. Guests then walk into in a bright, airy, and sustainably constructed tasting room that opens up onto a sun-drenched patio, the perfect spot for charcuterie and a glass of rosé.
In the winter, guests enjoy house-made flavours during the winery’s weekly “Soup Saturday,” while delicious brunch classics paired with local ingredients are available on the occasional (but very popular) “Sunday Brunch.”
Don’t forget about the wines. Winemaker Bailey Williamson produces an Estate-grown label and a secondary label, called “Quill,” which incorporates Okanagan fruit. Varieties include Ortega, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and a traditional method sparkling wine named after the owner’s daughter: Paula. The wines are sought after, sell out year after year, and have been collecting numerous accolades and positive critical acclaim.
The Blue Grouse mezzanine and its romantic views make this an essential stop in your Cowichan Valley visit, while the surrounding vineyards offer the perfect setting for weddings or special events. Make a stay of it with luxurious vineyard-surrounded accommodation in the Grouse House, open year-round.
Learn more about this biodiverse, progressive, eco-conscious winery at bluegrouse.ca.