Those who live in rainy territories aren’t picky when it comes to getaways. But as full-fledged heat-infused vacays aren’t always an option, we know wine tasting can be just as satisfyingly warm—especially when “island” becomes part of the equation. Even though we can’t guarantee that the only water you’ll encounter will be the surrounding Pacific Ocean, we still think you should pack that umbrella with enthusiasm—and maybe your sunnies if you’re optimistic. Watch out Hawaii, the top island living producers in the Northwest are just a ferry ride away.
San Juan Vineyards || San Juan Island, WA
A quaint 1895 schoolhouse turned tasting nook, San Juan Vineyards calls Washington’s well-known island home. Although it’s no longer a place for arithmetic and plaid skirts, there’s lots to learn at the acclaimed winery that specializes in Madeline Angevine and Siegerrebe. Either varietal perfectly follows up a day of whale watching or lavender field frolicking.
Orcas Island Winery || Orcas Island, WA
After a long day of hiking Orcas Island’s nearby Turtleback Mountain, nothing is more refreshing than the mountain-ocean sentiment that accompanies each glass of vino at Orcas Island Winery. Outdoor seating, picnic areas and fire pits welcome you to sit back and enjoy the abundant surrounding nature with each sip.
Lopez Island Vineyards || Lopez Island, WA
Although a bit smaller than its aforementioned fellow islands in the San Juans, Lopez Island has no shortage of wine, thanks to Lopez Island Vineyards (LIV). Familiar island picks Madeline Angevine and Siegerrebe are products of 30 acres of lush farmland partially owned and maintained by the community—a true devotion and union that is exuded through each glass of award-winning wine.
Cherry Point Estate Wines || Vancouver Island, BC
Surrounded by acres of blackberry bushes and rolling hills sits Cherry Point Estate Wines, the second largest vineyard on Vancouver Island. Benefiting from a long, Mediterranean-esque growing season are a variety of unique wines, each a companion for a meal from the winery’s Cherry Point Bistro, open May through September for befitting cuisine and wine pairings.
Salt Spring Vineyards || Salt Spring Island, BC
Nestled within the Gulf Islands, Salt Spring Vineyards welcomes you to unwind in the tasting room and then enjoy a stay at the on-site bed and breakfast. The exceptional coastal wines are the result of palate-enlightening travel to wine hubs Italy and France, alongside Okanagan climate envy, leading to a distinct and challenging array of wines that any wine lover will appreciate.
Symphony Vineyard || Saanich Peninsula, Vancouver Island, BC
A 10 minute drive from well known Victoria and Butchart Gardens, Symphony Vineyard creates wines from grapes that are 100 percent Saanich grown and true to their roots. The family-run vineyard is dedicated to local ingredients, offering farm-made chutneys, wine jellies and jams to complement the array of aromas their vast selection of wines offers.
