The Cowichan Valley is one of BC VQA’s most-notable sub-Geographical Indications. With a climate likened to Burgundy in France, the Cowichan Valley is a milder climate than the Okanagan. It is best-suited for growing white wines, Pinot Noirs, and hardy red-hybrids. The Cowichan Valley doesn’t suffer the annual fires and drought that the Okanagan does, and is increasingly considered a desirable region.
The Cowichan Valley has a low frost risk and between 900 and 1,200 growing degree days. Jackson Family Wines, one of America’s largest wine producers, recently invested in the region by acquiring both Blue Grouse and Unsworth wineries in 2022. There are currently 14 wineries in the Cowichan Valley and 175 acres of planted vines.
presenting the offering of canada's premiere pinot noir winery. highly acclaimed averill creek vineyards offers a turnkey winery operation amidst the breathtaking north cowichan scenery. the winery’s state of the art building was designed by architect vasko pavlov with a unique gravity flow design. perched above the vineyards, the stunning building blends seamlessly into the riparian landscape. this reputable winery business includes a 45 acre property with 24 acres of planted vineyard, the 8,300 square foot production building/tasting room, a manufactured home for farm workers, all winery and vineyard equipment, and the brand and business intangible assets.
the vineyards are planted with pinot noir, pinot gris, gewurtztraminer, marechal foch, cabernet foch, merlot, and pinot grigio. they are located 12 km from the ocean on the gentle slopes of mount prevost, surrounded by old-growth forest. the winery is situated on royston-qualicum soil: a blend of glacial stone, clay, and old-growth organics, which allows sufficient drainage and root penetration. averill creek primarily dry-farms with a focus on biodynamic, regenerative, and organic principles.
located within the sonomos region of the cowichan valley geographical indication, averill creek is known for its exceptional quality, minimal intervention wines. their wine is served at vancouver’s michelin star restaurants and notable establishments throughout the province. their wine lineup ranges from their popular “joue” table-wine collection to their trademarked charme de l’ile sparkling wine to their premium reserve pinot noir.
averill creek’s winemaking approach is one of pragmatism. being in a cool climate, they aim to demonstrate the inherent elegance, texture, perfume and refreshing quality of their wines. they often employ techniques such as foot-stomping, skin contact, whole-bunch fermentation, pigeage, and lees ageing to enhance these characteristics. begin ning with the 2018 vintage, with the arrival of current winemaker, brent rowland, their wines are wild fermented. no enzymes or nutrients are added, and little to no sulphur is added. most wines are unfined and unfiltered.
the winery is situated in canada’s only maritime-mediterranean climate. consistent warm, dry summer days ensure phenolic ripeness, while coastal influence and overall latitude equate to persistent acid and freshness in the fruit. soil profile varies throughout the valley, and can consist of glacial sand, glacial stone, clay and loam. given the relative infancy of the region, soils are fairly pristine and many producers are committed to preserving the region by farming sustainably. averill creek vineyards offers a wine enthusiast and aspiring entrepreneur the opportunity to own a notable winery in this exceptional and increasingly-recognized wine region.
please reach out to the listing agents for a tour. we respectfully ask that you do not solicit, approach staff, or reach out to the business owner directly in regards to the winery sale.
