Averill Creek Vineyard sits near Mount Prevost, northwest of Duncan in the Cowichan Valley. Its cool-climate wines, including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Maréchal Foch, are poured in a tasting room and on a garden terrace overlooking the vines and valley. Choose a flight, then add cheese, olives, crackers or smoked salmon. Written tasting notes can help you keep track of the wines. In winter, the winery runs a reservation-only Alpine cheese fondue and wine pairing.
Tastings in the Cowichan Valley
Averill Creek is northwest of Duncan, near Mount Prevost. The winery focuses on cool-climate varieties, including Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Maréchal Foch. Its approach is artisanal, with naturally made wines among the bottles poured for tasting.
Flights can include five wines, and written tasting notes help you follow each pour. Ask about the available flights when you arrive. Bottles to look out for include the rosé, sparkling wine, reserve Pinot Noir and 2018 Sassenach. The range can change, so use the tasting notes to decide which wines you want to take home.
The terrace and vineyard setting
The tasting room and outdoor terrace look across the vineyard and Cowichan Valley toward the Vancouver Island mountains. Trees, flowers and potted plants shade the patio, giving you a place to linger over a flight when the weather allows. The winery is set on the sunny, southeast-facing slopes of Mount Prevost, and the approach road is winding, so leave extra time for the drive.
In spring, temporary plastic covers can be placed over vine rows to trap heat and encourage foliage growth before warmer weather arrives. Their appearance changes the view of the slopes during that part of the growing season.
Food and the winter pairing
You can add snacks to a tasting, including cheese, olives, crackers and smoked salmon. Cheese and olives make a simple shareable pairing, while smoked salmon gives you another option alongside the wines. Outside food is not permitted, so check what is available at the tasting room when you visit.
Winter brings a seasonal Alpine cheese fondue and wine pairing. Reservations are required for this experience. Check directly with the winery for current details, including fees and whether any tasting cost can be applied to a purchase. For a warmer day, ask about patio seating; if you are bringing a dog, confirm the current policy first.
FAQ
Where is Averill Creek Vineyard?
It is at 6552 N Road, northwest of Duncan near Mount Prevost in the Cowichan Valley.
Do I need a reservation for a tasting?
Walk-ins have been accommodated, but availability can vary. Reserve ahead for the winter Alpine cheese fondue and wine pairing.
What food can I get at the winery?
Snacks include cheese, olives, crackers and smoked salmon. Outside food is not allowed.
Can I visit in winter?
Yes. The winery runs a reservation-only Alpine cheese fondue and wine pairing in winter.
