I’m regularly asked about British Columbia-grown organic wines.
There are 40-plus wineries across our province bearing Organic Certified labels. I would argue it’s important that wine enthusiasts keep an open mind to the many non-certified winegrowers, across the province using organic, sustainable farming methods and utilizing bio-dynamic growing methods. But because you asked, I’ve shared a few of my favourite certified organic wineries from B.C.’s wine-growing regions.
Beaufort Vineyard & Estate Winery in Courtenay is Vancouver Island first organic certified wine grower. Their hands-on approach to winemaking and vineyard management, the influence of the Salish Sea’s cool ocean climate lends a vibrant, refreshing acidity to their white wines. Having recently joined Beaufort; winemaker Staphanie Clark brings a wealth of experience and a promise to continue in crafting fresh, vibrant wines.
I recently sampled their 2023 Borealis estate blend which is aged in stainless steel. Aromatic, slightly off dry it makes a perfect pairing for your favourite Thai or Indian foods, or an afternoon on the patio with friends.
Ortega is a cool climate grape somewhat synonymous with British Columbia’s coastal wine regions. Dry, Beaufort’s 2022 Ortega expresses the unique terroir of Vancouver Island’s northerly vineyards. Subtle tropical fruit flavours, it pairs nicely with the Island’s seafoods.
Kismet Estate Winery in Oliver can boast of 600 acres of vineyards. Yet they continue a hands-on commitment to organic wine growing. Keeping some of the best of the best each harvest for their Kismet Estate wines. Winemaker Manpreet Dhaliwal produces award-winning wines such as their 2023 Pinot Grigio. Clean and refreshing, boasting of understated Okanagan tree fruit, a floral nose and a light, earthy finish. Enjoy it with prawns, scallops or your summer salad.
Somewhat unique, their Infinity Rosé is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. This Saignee method Rosé, is a wee bit off dry, tasting of dark plums and fresh berries. Enjoy it with a charcuterie.
Tim and Caroline Cottrill have been producing award-winning wine in the Similkameen Valley for nearly 30 years. From that beginning in 1996, Robins Ridge Winery’s signature wine has been Gamay. Their growing collection of distinct wines ranges from a slightly off dry 2021 Reisling to their full bodied, earthy 2015 Frigate Meritage.
Tim and Caroline will tell you that their goal is to “allow nature to speak through the terroir to produce naturally intense flavoured grapes and wines.”
A favourite of mine, their 2022 Gamay boasts of dark fruit flavours and nose and a touch of spice. Wines from these growers are available from your local Wines of B.C. outlet.
A resident of Qualicum Beach, Chris Herbert is a wine enthusiast who enjoys sharing everything that B.C. wines have to offer. He looks forward to hearing from you with your questions and comments via email at spillthatvino@gmail.com.
