Wine, Friends, and Scenic Views: A Memorable Tasting at Unsworth

This past weekend, Stacey and I, along with our good friends Pete and Sharon, had the pleasure of visiting Unsworth Vineyards for a Collector Tasting. Pete and Sharon were our generous hosts during our stay on Vancouver Island, and after a short Saturday hike at the breathtaking Kinsol Trestle, we realized we were just a short drive from Unsworth’s winery—one of the premier wine producers in the emerging Cowichan Valley wine region.

Known for its commitment to quality, Unsworth Vineyards has earned a stellar reputation, so we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to experience their Collector Tasting. This curated flight of five premium, limited-production vinifera varietal wines offered us a deep dive into the region’s terroir and Unsworth’s winemaking philosophy. At $20 per guest—or complimentary for Collector Club members and up to three guests per visit—the experience was both an education and a delight.

Our knowledgeable host guided us through the tasting, sharing insights about the vineyard’s history, the unique climate of the Cowichan Valley, and the meticulous process behind each wine we sampled. Every pour was a testament to the artistry and dedication that defines Unsworth’s approach to winemaking.

From start to finish, the visit was an absolute highlight of our weekend. If you find yourself in the Cowichan Valley, a stop at Unsworth Vineyards is a must for any wine enthusiast.

Cheers to good wine, great company, and the beauty of Vancouver Island!

Author

  • Mike Klassen is a Vancouver city councillor, communications professional, and long-time advocate for British Columbia’s wine industry. He co‑founded BC Wine Lover in 2007 with his wife Stacey, sharing stories from their travels through the province’s wine regions and spotlighting the people and places that make B.C. wine distinctive.

    In 2015, Mike led the BC Wine Appellation Task Group, guiding a province‑wide consultation that produced recommendations—later endorsed by industry plebiscite—that strengthened B.C.’s appellation standards and helped establish today’s sub‑GIs.

    His writing has appeared in the Vancouver Sun, Huffington Post, and Daily Hive, blending history, policy insight, and personal experience. Alongside his work on Vancouver City Council, Mike continues to explore vineyards across the province, champion local producers, and celebrate the evolving culture of B.C. wine.