There's just something about visiting the winery to taste. Usually, the staff is knowledgeable and generally interested in talking about their wines (though there is always the exception...)
And you can try a number of their wares before you buy. The biggest pitfall is who will have to forgo and drive?
Erin, Colin and I solved that dilemma by bringing our bikes for the afternoon tastings. Now everyone can imbibe and you don't get too tipsy, especially when you have a serious hill to climb between tastings!
I have to admit that overall, I'm not a huge fan of BC Wines. I think they are weak and/or overpriced. I also think Bruce at Vino spoiled me, but what can you do?
That being said, here are two exceptional exceptions:
Therapy Vineyards, Freudian Sip. This lovely white blend is a perfect summer sipper and very reminiscent of Sokol-Blossers Evolution #9.
Howling Bluff. This is an evolving vineyard, working towards a very exceptional product. It's a father-son operation that pours right out of their kitchen. We got to enjoy a great (10:30am!) sip talking to the Dad and listeninig to his plans for the future of the winery, If you see their wine, grab a bottle or three for the cellar. They will become beauties!
Honorable Mention: Elephant Island. This winery uses no grapes in their wine production and had you told me these fruit wines would be anything but sweet I would have raised my eyebrows with suspicion. But a number of them were quite dry and very refreshing on their patio.
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