Victoria Grapes to Grains Full Day Guided Tour

If you’re heading to Vancouver Island and craving a comprehensive taste of the island’s vibrant beverage scene, the Victoria Grapes to Grains Full Day Guided Tour might just be your perfect day out. This six-hour exploration takes you from the lush vineyards and serene wineries of Cowichan Valley to innovative breweries and artisanal distilleries, all wrapped up in a comfortably curated experience. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out—and what you should keep in mind—so you can decide if it’s worth booking.

Three things that immediately caught our attention about this tour are its diverse offerings—wine, beer, and spirits in one day—top-notch guides who know their stuff, and the scenic drive through Vancouver Island’s beautiful countryside. On the flip side, travelers should note that the lunch isn’t included in the price, so you’ll want to budget for that meal, and the tour does require booking well in advance (typically 71 days ahead). If you love exploring local flavors with a small group and value expert commentary, this experience is likely a strong contender.

Good To Know

Diverse Tasting Stops: Featuring wineries, a cidery, and a brewery, this tour offers a well-rounded beverage experience.
Expert Guides: Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, enhancing the tour with stories and insights.
Beautiful Scenery: The drive through Cowichan Valley is picturesque, with stops in idyllic vineyard and countryside settings.
All-Inclusive Tasting Fees: Tasting experiences at each location are included, offering good value for money.
Flexible Experience: The tour is suitable for those with around six hours to spare, and it caters to small groups for personalized attention.
Potential Extras: Lunch at The Red Arrow Brewing Company is not included, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Victoria Grapes to Grains Tour

Starting with a Scenic Drive into Cowichan Valley

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup in Victoria, ensuring a hassle-free start. The small group size—max 14 travelers—keeps things intimate and friendly. As your comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle whisk you away, you’ll enjoy the views of Vancouver Island’s rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming rural landscapes. The drive itself becomes part of the experience, building anticipation for the tastings ahead.

First Stop: Blue Grouse Estate Winery & Vineyard

Our first visit is to Blue Grouse Estate, a standout for its beautiful grounds and modern tasting room. Reviewers have called it “phenomenal,” praising the outdoor cabana-like seating that makes sipping wine feel even more relaxed. Blue Grouse is particularly known for its sparkling wines, rosé, and pinot noir, making it a great introduction to the region’s wine profile.

Guests can expect to spend about 50 minutes here, sampling a curated selection of wines while taking in the scenic vineyard views. The tasting experience is included in the tour fee, so you get to indulge without extra costs. Reviewers mention the wines are “exceptional,” with one highlighting the “great variety and quality,” which makes each sip memorable.

Second Stop: Stillhead Distillery

Next up is Stillhead Distillery, renowned for its award-winning spirits. Here, you’ll get the chance for an intimate, one-on-one conversation with the distiller, a highlight praised by visitors for the personal connection and behind-the-scenes insights. The focus here is on artisanal spirits, which are described as incredibly smooth and crafted with care.

The tasting lasts around 50 minutes and usually includes sampling a few of their signature spirits. Reviewers loved the “expertly crafted” drinks and found the experience “informative and fun,” especially those interested in the craft of spirits production. This stop adds a special touch to the itinerary, offering a different flavor profile compared to the wines.

Lunch Break at Red Arrow Brewing Company

After the distillery, the tour makes its way to Red Arrow Brewing Company for a relaxed lunch break. The brewery, situated in a former motorcycle shop, is known for small-batch, high-quality craft beers made with locally sourced ingredients. The 2-hour stop provides an opportunity to enjoy a meal (not included in the tour price) and sample some of their untamed beer portfolio.

Guests have described the experience as “great fun” and appreciated the informal atmosphere. The brewery’s location and the variety of beers on tap make it a fun stop for beer lovers and those looking for a casual break from tasting wines and spirits.

Final Stop: Unsworth Vineyards Tasting Room

The last tasting point is at Unsworth Vineyards, an award-winning winery famous for its serene, garden-like setting. The estate features a peaceful pond and lush gardens, providing a perfect backdrop for winding down the day with a glass of wine. Expect to sample rosé, whites, reds, and possibly some sparkling options.

Guests often comment on the beautiful surroundings and the quality of the wines—consistent praise from reviewers who found the wines “delicious” and the setting “absolutely charming.” The 50-minute tasting here rounds out the beverage journey with a tranquil, scenic atmosphere.

Ending with Cider or Spirits

Before heading back to Victoria, you’ll have the opportunity to choose between a final cider or spirit tasting, adding a personalized touch to your experience. This is a nice way to cap off the day, especially for those who enjoy exploring different types of beverages.

Practical Details and Overall Value

The cost of $155.15 per person covers all tasting fees, transportation, and guided commentary—making it a solid value for a full day of tastings across multiple locations. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics, and bottled water is provided for comfort.

Lunch is not included, so you’ll want to plan ahead or bring some snacks. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so rain or shine, you’ll be exploring scenic Vineyards and countryside.

The group size is limited to 14, maintaining a friendly and engaging environment, and the guided approach ensures you get the most out of each stop.

Who will love this tour?

This tour is ideal for wine, beer, and spirit enthusiasts looking for a one-day sampler of Vancouver Island’s beverage scene. It suits travelers who appreciate guided experiences with knowledgeable guides, small group intimacy, and scenic surroundings. If you enjoy variety—and want a relaxed, informative day—this tour will serve you well. It’s especially perfect for those who prefer a balanced mix of outdoor beauty, cultural insights, and delicious tastings.

Final Thoughts

The Victoria Grapes to Grains Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable glimpse into Vancouver Island’s thriving beverage industry. With expert guides, scenic stops, and included tastings, it provides good value and a rich experience without feeling rushed.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a craft beer enthusiast, or curious about artisanal spirits, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for small groups seeking an authentic, personalized day that combines education, relaxation, and a touch of the island’s natural beauty.

If you’re in Victoria and want to explore the local flavors beyond the city’s borders, this tour is a lovely way to spend a day—full of flavor, scenery, and good company.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Victoria, making logistics simple.
How long is the tour? The entire experience lasts approximately 6 hours, including travel time between stops.
Are tastings included in the price? Yes, tasting fees at all four venues are covered in the $155.15 per person cost.
Can I choose between cider and spirits? Yes, your final tasting is either cider or spirits, based on your preference.
What is the group size? The tour operates with a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a small, intimate experience.
Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, but a recommended stop at Red Arrow Brewing Co. offers food options.
What should I wear? Dress comfortably for a day of driving and tasting; casual clothing is fine, and bring layers if the weather changes.
Is there an age restriction? Yes, the minimum drinking age is 19 years.
How do I book? You can reserve your spot online through the provider’s booking system, usually well in advance.
Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

This tour offers a balanced, engaging way to taste Vancouver Island’s best drinks while enjoying its scenic beauty—perfect for a relaxed, flavor-filled day.