VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL WINE FESTIVAL || A Celebration of Global Viticulture

The Vancouver International Wine Festival (VIWF) celebrated its 46th edition from February 22 to March 2, 2025, transforming the city into a vibrant hub for wine enthusiasts.

This year's festival spotlighted the "Taste West Coast" theme, bringing together 121 wineries from 15 countries and emphasizing the distinctive wines of North America's West Coast. ​

A Global Wine Journey

The festival's trade show floor was a testament to the rich tapestry of global viticulture. Attendees had the opportunity to explore wines from diverse regions, each offering unique flavours and stories.​

California, renowned for its sunny climate and varied terroirs, showcased robust Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valley and elegant Chardonnays from the Russian River Valley. Wineries like Beaulieu Vineyard and Bogle Family Vineyards highlighted the state's winemaking prowess.​

With its cool, misty climate, Oregon's Willamette Valley is ideal for cultivating Pinot Noir. Wineries from this area presented wines with delicate berry flavours and earthy undertones, reflecting the region's commitment to sustainable practices.​

Washington State, characterized by its diverse microclimates, offered a variety of wines, from full-bodied Syrahs to crisp Rieslings. The state's unique terroir contributes to wines with rich flavours and balanced acidity.​

Local wineries from British Columbia's Okanagan Valley showcased aromatic whites like Gewürztraminer and complex reds like Merlot, reflecting the region's varied climate and soil types.​

Italian participants delighted attendees with diverse offerings, from Tuscany's Sangiovese-based wines to the crisp Pinot Grigios of Veneto.​

Wines from Australia included bold Shiraz from Barossa Valley and citrusy Rieslings from Clare Valley, showcasing the country's dynamic wine scene.​

Embracing the West Coast Terroir

The "Taste West Coast" theme was a central highlight, focusing on the unique characteristics of wines from California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. Each region's distinct climate and geography are pivotal in shaping their wines.​ Navigating the festival's expansive trade show floor, several wineries left a lasting impression.

Beaulieu Vineyard (California) stood out with their Cabernet Sauvignon, offering deep blackberry notes and a hint of dark chocolate, embodying Napa Valley's rich terroir. The depth and structure of this wine showcased the winery’s legacy of crafting bold, expressive reds.

Justin Vineyards (California) impressed with their 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, a vibrant and refreshing expression of Paso Robles' terroir. This wine opened with bright aromas of citrus and tropical fruit, leading to crisp flavours of grapefruit, passion fruit, and hints of green apple. The well-balanced acidity and clean finish made it a standout white, perfect for spring and summer sipping.

Elemental Wines (Oregon) caught attention not only for their Chardonnay, which received glowing compliments from festival-goers, but also for their commitment to sustainability. Their Chardonnay delivered a harmonious balance of crisp apple, juice peach, and delicate vanilla notes with a creamy texture that lingered beautifully on the palate. The winery’s eco-conscious approach was equally impressive, featuring fully recyclable, lightweight packaging designed to reduce environmental impact without compromising quality.

A Festival to Remember

The 2025 Vancouver International Wine Festival provided a platform to taste and discover a myriad of wines and fostered a deeper appreciation for the stories and regions behind each bottle. The "Taste West Coast" theme offered attendees a curated journey through some of North America's most exciting wine territories, leaving many eager to explore these regions further. We look forward to next year’s edition of this celebration of global viticulture.