Tucked away in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island, Unsworth Vineyards is one of the region’s largest wineries, producing approximately 120,000 bottles annually. Founded in 2009 by longtime Vancouver Island locals Tim and Colleen Turyk and their son Chris, they quickly got to work repurposing the original dairy farm when they recognized the land’s untapped winemaking potential, turning it into one of Vancouver Island’s most respected and sustainably driven wineries.
Unsworth Winery – Pioneers in Sustainable Winegrowing
Under the guidance and dedication of viticulturist Felix Egerer, Unsworth became the first winery outside the Okanagan to receive certification from Sustainable Winegrowing BC for four vineyards in April 2024.
It is also the first B.C. winery to be part of the Porto Protocol, a global movement sharing practical knowledge to empower the wine industry to take action to mitigate climate change and promote sustainability. Egerer has recently visited Colorado and England to learn more about vineyard regenerative agriculture and soil microbiology.
“We’re looking at a 50-year plan when it comes to farming and winemaking,” explains Chris Turyk, underscoring a commitment to future-proofing their land while raising the bar for cool-climate winemaking in Canada.
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Chris Turyk pours a tasting for us at Unsworth Winer. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Unsworth Vineyards
The winery operates two estate farms: 10 acres in Mill Bay and a newly acquired 43-acre vineyard just minutes away in Sahtlam, near Duncan. In addition, Unsworth leases vineyards in Mill Bay and Cobble Hill, totalling 85 acres, and collaborates with eight local growers to source premium fruit.
Wines are displayed in the Unsworth Vineyard tasting room. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Unique Island Varietals
Unsworth champions cool-climate hybrid grapes tailored to Vancouver Island’s maritime conditions:
- Siegerebe – A rare, aromatic white with vibrant acidity.
- Petit Milo – A Blattner hybrid producing crisp, fruit-forward whites.
- Sauvignette – A proprietary name and unique white hybrid exclusive to Vancouver Island.
- Pinot Noir – A flagship varietal showing Burgundian finesse and balance.
Vineyard views at Unsworth Vineyard in Mill Bay, Vancouver Island. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Views of the vineyard from The Restaurant at Unsworth. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Unsworth Wine Tasting and Winemaking
Unsworth’s most popular wine is their sparkling Charme de l’île, which is available in white and rosé, but the flagship wines are the Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Thanks to winemaker Dan Wright’s stellar craftsmanship, the 2021 Pinot Noir was the highest-ranked Canadian wine to win gold in the prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards. This is pretty impressive stacked up against the top wine regions in the world.
Unsworth Vineyard and Winery is participating in the 2025 BC Wine Passport, which offers complimentary wine tasting room experiences in 120 stops across BC. Book a Signature Tasting, Collector Tasting or Wine and Cheese Pairing in advance.
There is a new spacious tasting room being built, potentially with a grand opening in August. In addition, there will be a refreshed crush pad, bottling area, and red and white wine barrel halls.
The tasting room at Unsworth Winery. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
The beautiful patio outside the tasting room at Unsworth Vineyard in Mill Bay on Vancouver Island. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Awards are displayed in the tasting room at Unsworth Vineyard. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
The Restaurant at Unsworth: Farm-to Table Dining with Vineyard Views
Set in a beautifully restored old farmhouse from the early 1900s, the Restaurant at Unsworth’s farm-to-table philosophy supports local Vancouver Island farmers and food producers.
We enjoyed stunning vineyard views and a world-class, Michelin-worthy farm-to-table lunch tailored to complement the winery’s portfolio. The menu changes depending on the chef’s creations and the availability of ingredients.
The charming Restaurant at Unsworth was originally an old farmhouse from the early 1900s. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Ahi Tuna Tartare – tapioca crisps, avocado, black sesame, and bull kelp served at The Restaurant at Unsworth. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
The Restaurant at Unsworth. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Future Plans
Unsworth Winery plans to expand its production and sustainability practices, focusing on future-proofing its operations. It is the first vineyard outside of the Okanagan to be certified sustainable by Sustainable Wine Growing BC, and it plans to certify its new vineyard as well. The winery’s viticulturist will continue to pursue global learning and information sharing to improve farming practices.
The focus on quality and sustainability is expected to continue, and they plan to adapt to changing market trends and consumer preferences. It aims to attract a diverse demographic, including traditional wine consumers and younger generations interested in sustainability. With a 50-year horizon in mind, the team remains committed to advancing eco-conscious viticulture, investing in people, place, and process to ensure long-term excellence.
Find out about other adventures on Vancouver Island: Epic 5-Day Vancouver to Tofino Road Trip Itinerary: Coastal Adventures, Hidden Gems and Must-See Stops, 10 best family-friendly things to do in Nanaimo, Best family-friendly things to do in Victoria and 8 Reasons Why Newfoundland and Labrador Should Be on Your Bucket-list
About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
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