Food & Wine Guide

FoOD GuiDe wINE a n d

LANGLEY / ABBOTSFORD / CHILLIWACK / HARRISON

TerROir

The Fraser Valley is situated in the southwestern region of British Columbia, less than 100 kilometres east of Downtown Vancouver. Known for being one of the most agriculturally productive parts of BC, The Fraser Valley is responsible for more than half of BC’s annual agriculture revenue. Here you will find rich fertile alluvial soils and a cooler climate than the neighbouring Okanagan Valley. The mild coastal climate, which prevails with breezes from the Pacific Coast, extends the growing season. The moderate temperatures help for a steady ripening of the grapes allowing them to develop and maintain a bright acidity fantastic for the varietals planted in the Fraser Valley. With the low risk of frost and winter damage and the lack of irrigation needed, the over 200 acres of many varietals is made into beautiful wines.

The Fraser Valley WINE GUIDE

StewarDs OF THE VALleY

LANGLEY

For countless generations, the Kwantlen People lived in villages along the Lower Fraser River that shaped a vibrant cultural landscape. The Kwantlen People were very early adaptors of agriculture, utilizing all of their surrounding resources. The lower floodplain landscape was predominantly herbaceous vegetation. Though these villages are now primarily urbanized, Kwantlen maintains a strong, sacred connection to each of these places.

ABBOTSFORD

The Halq’emeylem name for Abbotsford is Selxwi:chel, the “centre of something” or “middle of three.”

The ridge of Abbotsford overlooks the tribal territories of the Sema:th to the east, the Mathekwi to the north and the Nexwseq to the south. Abbotsford was first inhabited by the Sto:lo First Nations, followed by European settlers fresh from the Gold Rush.

CHILLIWACK

Chilliwack’s modern history saw humble beginnings with the first farmers arriving around 1860. Elements such as the grasslands, scrub forests, ever-changing creeks, ancient cedars, as well as fir and hemlock forests inspired these farmers to take root. Chilliwack is now home to a thriving agricultural community, growing and producing world class corn, hops, dairy products, and more.

HARRISON

This region is a collective of communities spanning Agassiz, Harrison Hot Springs, and Harrison Mills. Sharing the land of the Sts’ ailes, Seabird Island, Sq’ewá:lxw, Cheam, Douglas, Leq’a:mel, Samahquam, Sq’ewlets, and Skatin First Nation. The region has rich fertile soil, mighty waterways, and pristine wilderness.

A cool climate, fertile soil, and farmers with a passion for viticulture bring a diversity of wine styles to The Fraser Valley. You will find all of your favourites and well-loved varietals, as well as some unique styles that may surprise you!

What are a few other wine regions of the world that are cool climate?

Mosel, De

CHAbLis, FR Marlborough, NZ

wilLameTtE, OR Fall Winter SPRING Summer Seasons

Answers: All of them!

POP QUIZ

We’re more than just grapes.

The Fraser Valley offers something for everyone with a selection of meaderies and fruit wines rounding out your experience.

PINOT NOIR

Pinot Noir is a black grape of the Vitis vinifera species. It is grown all over the world but thrives greatly in cooler climates. Compared to other red wines, Pinot Noir is typically light-medium bodied, has aromas of fruit, flower and spice, and is accentuated with a smooth finish.

PINOT GRIS

Pinot Gris (or Grigio) is one of the most planted white grapes in BC, as it adapts easily to the soils and climate. It is well known for its crisp, mineral and stone fruit flavours. With scientific research showing multiple comparisons between Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir’s DNA structure, Pinot Gris has a world wide popularity and can be finished from sweet to crisp and dry.

BACCHUS

Bacchus is a German white grape variety created as a result of crossing a Silvaner - Riesling cross and MüllerThurgau. Bacchus is a varietal known for its assertive and crisp flavours, usually balanced with light and floral notes. As this varietal ripens earlier than most, it is often one of the first grapes harvested in The Fraser Valley each year.

SAUVIGNON BLANC

Sauvignon Blanc is a white wine with a bit of a different taste compared to others due to its green and herbaceous flavours. The primary fruit flavours are lime, green apple, passion fruit, and white peach. In The Fraser Valley, our wineries like to put a twist on this particular variant, each specific to their tastes. From bramble leaves to pineapple, the Sauvignon Blanc is worth exploring.

L’ACADIE BLANC

L’Acadie Blanc is a white Eastern-Canadian hybrid variety grown primarily in Nova Scotia. It is reminiscent of Sauvignon Blanc with grassy aromas, gooseberry, grapefruit and honey, excellent for both still and sparkling production. The L’Acadie Blanc is the most successful variety for our Fraser Valley terroir.

PETITE MILO

Another variety of grape commonly grown in Maritime climates, this early ripening grape makes for stylish aromatic wines and has good potential for creating blends. This varietal can achieve high sugar levels while retaining good acidity. As these wines can be finished from off-dry to dry, they nicely pair with a wide selection of cuisines.

Langley Wineries

BACKYARD VINEYARDS

Since opening in 2009, Backyard Vineyards has been recognized for producing top-quality varietal, blended and bubbly wines from 100% B.C. grapes. Their grapes are grown in their local Langley vineyard and complimented with notes of fruit from throughout The Fraser Valley and South Okanagan. Winning medals for their reds, whites, and bubbles, Backyard Vineyards takes great pride in its exceptional wine. Enjoy sipping in your own backyard, or let their captivating vineyard be the perfect backdrop for a private tasting or event.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY 3033 232 St | 604.539.9463

backyardvineyards.ca | @backyardwines

CHABERTON ESTATE WINERY & BACCHUS BISTRO

With over 55 beautiful acres of vineyards, fields, and their 5-star restaurant, come and experience the oldest and largest Winery in The Fraser Valley. Being open since 1991, Chaberton Estate Winery is a little slice of history here in Langley. All starting with the founders, Claude and Inge Violet, who sold their winery and vineyard in France and ventured across the world, starting their new adventure here in Langley. Pack a little lunch or enjoy a meal at the Bacchus Bistro, an authentic French bistro overlooking the estate’s vineyards.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY 1064 216 St | 604.530.1736

chabertonwinery.com | @chabertonestatewinery

Backyard Vineyards

FESTINA LENTE ESTATE WINERY

The words “Festina Lente” are Latin for “Make haste slowly” and reflect the care and attention to detail evident in the creation of their elegant and surprisingly dry Meads (Honey Wines). Owners Teresa and Bill Townsley were inspired by their love of fermentation and beekeeping to explore the ancient art of meadmaking and have expanded their repertoire to over 35 different mead varieties to reflect modern tastes. Having been recognized by the BC Wine Authority as a Quality Certified Wine producer, these impressive wines demand a place in every wine cellar and on your table. Enjoy their comfortable tasting room open year round or relax with a flight on their picturesque farm patio. WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY 21113 16 Ave | 604.510.2336

festinalente.ca | @festinalentewinery

GLASS HOUSE ESTATE WINERY

Glass House Estate Winery is a family-run business that has been present in Langley since 1983. The name Glass House pays homage to the de Jong family’s history in the greenhouse industry for over 60 years, which first started in the Netherlands, leading up to the present day in North America. Through a minimalistic winemaking approach, Glass House has created beautifully built wines, showcasing each varietal’s best characteristics. Enjoy a glass of wine and locally sourced food in a contemporary style, with enhanced services in a spectacular setting.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY

23449 0 Ave | 604.427.3225

glasshouseestatewinery.com | @glasshousewine

KRAUSE BERRY FARMS & ESTATE WINERY

Krause Berry Farms & Estate Winery is a family owned and operated farm, serving the community since 1974. The Estate Winery is open year round producing award winning wines from berries grown on their 200 acre farm. Guests can select from 30 different wines by the glass or bottle, wine flights, cider and seasonal cocktails. Summer weekends they provide live musical entertainment on 2 stages for visitors of the Farm and Estate Winery to enjoy. While you’re here, order one of their famous fresh, hot, berry waffles then visit the Market & Bakery for over 100 farm made products produced in their on-site Harvest Kitchen.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

6179 248 St | 604.856.5757

krauseberryfarms.com | @krauseberryfarms

SINOCAN WINERY

Sinocan Winery is Langley’s newest winery located in South Langley. Come enjoy their estate grown blueberry wine while taking in the beautiful views of their lush gardens. Whether you are looking for a quiet escape to the country for a couple days, or to celebrate a wedding or other major event, Sinocan Winery’s manicured gardens, prestige suites, winery, conservatory and rural setting make it “Just the Place!”

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

2218 240 St | 778.278.6688

sinocanwinery.com | @sinocanwinery

THE FORT WINE CO.

Founded back in 2001 by tugboat captain and cranberry farmer Wade Bauck, the Fort Wine Company is home to wines with very diverse varietals. They have expanded into creating many different fruit wines with blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries. The cranberry wine was the first of 11 fruit varietals produced at the Fort Wine Co; it is a must-try! Through supporting their local farmers, the Fort Wine Co only gets the freshest fruit for their products. Come and enjoy some delicious wine with some fantastic company.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

26151 84 Ave | 604.857.1101 thefortwineco.com | @thefortwineco

TOWNSHIP 7 VINEYARDS & WINERY

It all started back in 2000, in Langley’s 7th Township (hence the name). Even though many years have passed, their principles, focus, and goals have stayed the same: making outstanding quality wine. At Township 7, you will not only find wine, but you will find extraordinary experiences through the knowledgeable staff and friendly atmosphere; also, don’t miss out on their live music events, culinary experiences, and art shows. WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY 21152 16 Ave | 604.532.1766 township7.com | @township7

VALLEY COMMONS

They are a winery based in the Okanagan but also have a bistro location in Fort Langley. They feature their own wines paired with simple food made from outstanding produce highlighting growers and farmers throughout BC. 9124 Glover Road | 604.371.4567

valleycommons.ca | @valleycommons

VISTA D’ORO F ARMS & WINERY

The traditional techniques and old-world values used in Vista D’oro’s artisanal preserves are also portrayed through their winemaking process. Owner and Winemaker, Patrick Murphy, wanted to bring in different techniques from around the world through his travelling experiences with small family-run businesses. Vista D’oro is dedicated to producing hand-crafted, small-batch wines through unique techniques. They grow produce to use in their wine and for their Preservatory. This is a duo you don’t want to miss. WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY 346 208 St | 604.514.3539

vistadoro.com | @vistadoro

Sinocan Winery

Abbotsford & Chilliwack Wineries

Abbotsford

CAMPBELL’S GOLD HONEY FARM & MEADERY

Thought to be the oldest known alcohol on earth, it can be as distinct as the cultures who appreciate it. Campbell’s Gold makes a dry and sweet mead, and creates melomels by adding fruit, cysors with the addition of apples, pyments with grapes and metheglin with zests and spice palettes. They plant many different crops for their bees and work with Mother Nature each year to produce over thirty styles of honey wine (dry, sweet and everything in between), all made at their family store using 80% of their own fruit.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

2595 Lefeuvre Rd | 604.856.2125

campbellsgold.com | @campbellsgold

CANNON ESTATE WINERY

Cannon Estate Winery is a family-owned vineyard that is dedicated to creating top calibre wines, demonstrating that the Fraser Valley is an exceptional place to produce wine. Rumour has it that their Rêverie 2021, their Provence-style Syrah Rosé, and Bonhomous 2021, have impressed even the hardest critics.

30523 Burgess Ave | 604.743.9425

cannonwinery.ca.com| @cannonwinery

Maan Farms Estate Winery

MAAN FARMS ESTATE WINERY

An Abbotsford institution, Maan Farms is known for its delicious berries, which also make incredible wine! Try their award-winning berry and dessert wines made from the berries they grow themselves, or taste something more classic like their new grape wine varietals. Their tasting room is located on the farm, which also features children’s activities, Mama Maan’s Kitchen, and more!

/ PET FRIENDLY

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

790 McKenzie Rd | 604.864.5723

maanfarms.com | @maanfarmsestatewinery

MT. LEHMAN WINERY

Pioneers of the wine scene in Abbotsford, Mt. Lehman Winery produces a number of red and white varietals on their 80 acres of farmland. What seemed like a dream in the early 1990s became possible through the use of new techniques better suited to the Fraser Valley’s cool climate. Their goal for their wines is to achieve drinkability, not force or power. Their accessible, easy to drink boutique wines have won numerous awards including the prestigious Lieutenant Governor’s Award of Excellence. Their tasting room provides excellent views of the rolling hills of Mt. Lehman and has a great summer patio.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY 5094 Mt. Lehman Rd | 604.746.2881 mtlehmanwinery.com | @mtlehmanwinery

RIPPLES ESTATE WINERY & NEW WAVE DISTILLING

Ripples Winery, nestled in the beautiful gardens of Woodbridge Ponds, is a small family-run winery that produces high end wines made from chemical free homegrown blueberries and BC grapes. They are also home to the newly established New Wave Distilling, which creates craft spirits that are fantastic on their own or as a compliment to your favourite cocktail recipe. Visitors can sample their wine and spirits, relax on their expansive patio, and enjoy a menu of locally sourced food.

3387 Tolmie Rd | 604.864.1033

rippleswinery.com newwavedistilling.com

| @rippleswinery @newwavedistilling

SEASIDE PEARL FARMGATE WINERY

Another family owned boutique winery in Mt. Lehman, Seaside Pearl is famous for its copper-spired chapel tasting room that makes the picture perfect backdrop for a day in Fraser Valley wine country. Not to be overshadowed, their wines stand on their own being both unique and incredibly delicious. Stop by for an intimate tasting experience and make sure to try the estate-grown Charlotte Estate Petit Milo and Interurban Cabernet Foch.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY 5290 Olund Rd | 778.856.1312

seasidepearlwinery.ca | @seasidepearl_winery

SINGLETREE WINERY

With extensive farming experience, the Etsell family has developed a strong work ethic, sense of responsibility, and appreciation for agriculture, that they aim to express with Singletree wines. Singletree is an award-winning winery specializing in growing white grape varieties at its Abbotsford vineyard and red grapes at their Naramata vineyards. Stop by their tasting room for a sample or purchase a bottle and some local cheese and charcuterie to enjoy in their picnic area. For an extra special experience reserve one of their De Vine Domes for date night!

Chilliwack

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE / PET FRIENDLY

5782 Mt. Lehman Rd | 604.381.1788

singletreewinery.com | @singletreewine

FORTITUDE WINE BAR

Tucked away in the heart of Downtown Chilliwack’s District 1881 neighborhood, Fortitude Wine Bar is a hidden gem offering a one-of-a-kind wine and culinary experience. With an extensive selection of wines from around the world, Fortitude Wine Bar prides itself on providing a personalized, welcoming atmosphere where guests can explore and savor new flavors. In addition to its impressive wine list, enjoy a menu of delicious small plates and gourmet bites that are expertly crafted to complement each wine selection. From artisanal cheeses to decadent desserts, every dish is made with the freshest ingredients and presented with a touch of elegance.

45922 Thunderbird #103 | 604.795.4060

fortitudewinebar.com | @fortitudewinebar

WHISPERING HORSE WINERY

Located in beautiful Yarrow, Whispering Horse Winery is inspired by the history of the land and showcases the unique terroir of the Fraser Valley through its production of high-quality wines. This family-owned boutique winery hand-crafts exquisite, small lot, unique terroir wines made from 100% estate-grown grapes. The wines are focused on elegance, finesse and made with minimal intervention, allowing the expression of their grapes to represent the beautiful place in which they grow. Due to the Fraser Valley’s cooler climate, Whispering Horse specializes in traditional method sparkling wines, as well as crisp, aromatic whites and rosés. The entire process, from vineyard to bottling, is solely family-run, ensuring each limited production of wine maintains that hand-crafted approach.

CHECK WEBSITE FOR BOOKING TASTINGS AND HOURS

43721 Vedder Mtn Rd | 604.245.0443

whisperinghorsewinery.com | @whisperinghorsewinery

Winery

Seaside Pearl Farmgate

Good Pairings

Good wine is even better when paired with the right accompaniments. Every tasting experience is intimate and unique, whether you’re sampling in person with the sommelier or you’ve bought a bottle of your favourite Fraser Valley wine to enjoy at home. Try these other local treats, eats, and sips to complement and contrast flavours and take your wine and your palate to the next level.

LANGLEY

A) Milner Valley Cheese 21479 Smith Cres 604.880.8184

milnervalleycheese.com

B) Valley Commons 9124 Glover Rd 604.371.4567

valleycommons.ca

C) The Fraser Valley Cider Company 22128 16 Ave 604.427.3512

fraservalleycider.ca

D) Well Seasoned #117 20353 64 Ave 604.530.1518

wellseasoned.ca

E) Driediger Farms Market 23823 72 Ave 604.888.1665

driedigerfarms.com

F) Roots & Wings Distillery

7897 240 St

604.371.2268

rootsandwingsdistillery.ca

G) BC Buzz Honey

6321 248 St

855.722.2899

bcbuzzhoney.com

ABBOTSFORD

H) Mt. Lehman Cheese Co. 30854 Olund Rd 604.854.6261

mtlehmancheese.ca

I) ChocolaTas Chocolates 31060 Peardonville Rd 604.504.5957 chocolatas.com

J) Taves Estate Cidery 333 Gladwin Rd 604.853.3108 ext. 4 tavesestatecidery.com

K) Banter Ice Cream

33660 S Fraser Way 604.300.2123 bantericecream.com

L) A Box of Bonbons

#140-2553 Montrose Ave 778.982.2768 aboxofbonbons.com

M) Lepp Farm Market 33955 Clayburn Rd 604.851.5377 leppfarmmarket.com

N) Lepp Daily Market

2518 West Railway St 604.851.5377 leppsbakehouse.com

O) Birchwood Dairy Farm

Birchwood Dairy Farm 1154 Fadden Rd 604.857.1315 birchwooddairy.com

CHILLIWACK

P) Chilliwack River Valley

Natural Honey Ltd. 43476 Adams Rd 604.823.7400 chilliwackhoney.com

Q) Local Harvest Market 7697 Lickman Rd 604.846.6006 thelocalharvest.ca

R) Smits & Co.w Farm Cheese 5787 Lickman Rd 604.824.9779 smitsandcow.com

S) The Yarrow Farm Store 4540 Simmons Rd 604.798.9044 fvsp.ca/farm-store

T) Hofstede’s Country Barn 45796 Luckakuck Way 604.824.1192 hofstedes.ca

U) Kent’s Ice Cream Co. 47582 Yale Rd 604.845.6530

kentsicecreamco.ca

HARRISON

V) Farmhouse Natural Cheeses 5634 McCallum Rd, Agassiz 604.796.8741

farmhousecheeses.com

W) Creekside Cheese and Creamery 3990 Chaplin Road, Agassiz 604.796.8485

creeksidecreamery.ca

X) Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory 328 Esplanade Ave 604.491.2010

rockychoc.com

YARROW CENTRAL

CHILLIWACK CENTRAL

agassiz

Local Eats

Our fertile soils grow more than just great grapes: The Fraser Valley is well known for its superb farmto-table dining, and many of our local restaurants and cafes strive to grow and use locally sourced ingredients in each dish placed in front of you.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate dinner for two or grabbing a freshly brewed coffee and baked treat, our local eateries bring together fresh flavours and a warm atmosphere.

LANGLEY

Beatniks Bistro

9194 Glover Rd

604.888.4487

beatniksbistro.com

Haven Kitchen + Bar #105 - 19664 64 Ave

604.539.1131

havenlangley.com

Rail and River Bistro

9273 Glover Rd

604.888.3342

railandriverbistro.com

S+L Kitchen & Bar Langley

8399 200 St

604.371.1040

jrg.ca/sl-kitchen-bar-langley

Saba Cafe and Bistro

Cafe - #102 - 23343 Mavis Ave

Bistro - #109 - 9220 Glover Rd

778.545.0024

sabacafeandbistro.ca

Tracycakes Bakery Café

21594 48 Ave

604.427.1424

traceycakesonline.com

Trading Post Eatery

9143 Glover Rd

604.343.2337

tradingpostbrewing.com

Valley Commons

9124 Glover Rd

604.371.4567

valleycommons.ca

Wendel’s Bookstore & Cafe

9233 Glover Rd

604.513.2238

wendelsonline.com

ABBOTSFORD

Bow & Stern

2551 Montrose Ave

604.776.3474

bowandstern.ca

Brambles Bistro

29985 Downes Rd

604.856.9339

tanglebank.com/bistro

BRGR BRGR

33758 Essendene Ave

604.746.6225

brgrbrgr.ca

Brodeur’s Bistro

3550 Mount Lehman Rd

604.746.5900

bbistro.ca

The Table Bistro #101 2180 Gladwin Rd 866.710.9813

thetablebistro.com

Re:vive: Boutique Bistro 33757 South Fraser Way 604.556.0568

reviveboutiquebistro.com

Oldhand Coffee

2617 Pauline St 778.779.3111

oldhandcoffee.com

Paliotti’s 33886 Essendene Ave 604.855.1888

paliottisitalianrestaurants.ca

Restaurant 62 #110 - 33559 Marshall Rd 604.855.3545

restaurant62.ca

CHILLIWACK

Bravo Restaurant & Lounge 46224 Yale Rd 604.792.7721

bravorestaurant.ca

Bow & Stern 46130 Yale Rd 604.392.5989

bowandstern.ca/location

Cultivate Cafe 10015 Young Rd 604.402.0072

cultivatecafe.ca

Harvest Store & Cafe 9381 Mill St 604.392.5501

harvestonmill.ca

The Offy 45925 Thunderbird Ln-Unit 101 604.392.2424

theoffybistro.com

Lakeside Beach Club 4131 Columbia Valley Rd 604.858.3374

lakesidebeachclub.ca

Garrison Bistro #6 45555 Market Way 604.846.1167

garrison-bistro.ca

Shandhar Hut 8835 Young Rd 604.793.0188

shandharhut.com

Frankie’s Italian Kitchen & Bar 7350 Vedder Rd 604.705.4222

chilliwack.frankiesitaliankitchen.ca

HARRISON

Morgan’s Bistro 160 Esplanade Ave 604.491.1696

Muddy Waters Cafe 328 Esplanade Ave 604.796.5563

muddywatersharrison.business.site

River’s Edge Clubhouse Restaurant 14282 Morris Valley Rd 604.796.1000

sandpiperresort.ca/clubhouse

The Copper Room 100 Esplanade Avenue 604.796.2244

harrisonresort.com

Bow & Stern

Frankie’s Italian Kitchen Bar

Shandhar Hut

Make a day of it

As The Fraser Valley wine region has grown in recent years, there is so much to see and taste. We recommend making a full day, or better yet, a weekend trip to the area. Beyond wine, our farm-to-table restaurants, quaint bed and breakfasts, and ever-expanding list of beverage producers will offer something for the casual wine enthusiast to the experienced connoisseur. Follow our suggested itinerary or create your own perfect day of wine tasting. Designate a driver, or check out our list of recommended tour operators. Better yet, spend the night at one of our many accommodation options and fully immerse yourself in all The Fraser Valley has to offer!

DAY 01

Have breakfast at Saba Bistro Langley

Wine tasting at Glass House Estate Winery (1) Langley

Wine tasting at Festina Lente Estate Winery (2) Langley

Wine tasting at Seaside Pearl Farmgate Winery Abbotsford

Have dinner at Restaurant 62 (3) Abbotsford

Spend the night at Brookside Inn Boutique Hotel Abbotsford

Festina Lente Estate Winery

Brambles Bistro

Restaurant 62

Glass House Estate Winery

DAY 02

Have Breakfast at Brambles Bistro (4) Abbotsford

Visit The Farm Store Chilliwack

Wine Tasting at Whispering Horse Winery (5) Chilliwack

Have lunch at Fortitude Wine Bar (6) Chilliwack

Grab a treat from

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory (7) Harrison

Have Dinner at Morgan’s Bistro Harrison

Spend the night at the Bramblebank Cottages Harrison

TOUR OPERATORS

BEYOND BUBBLES WINE TOURS

Pick Up locations throughout The Fraser Valley, including Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission & Harrison Hot Springs. 604.615.0910 beyondbubbles.ca

CANADIAN CRAFT TOURS

Pick Up locations throughout The Fraser Valley, customizable to each private tour. 778.320.3409 canadiancrafttours.ca

CHEW ON THIS TASTY TOURS

Beautiful self-guided walking tours for Lower Mainland foodies No Pick-Up locations; tours start in Fort Langley. chewonthistastytours.com

IT’S TIME TO GO

Pick Up locations throughout the Fraser Valley. 604.302.3665 ittg.com

VANCOUVER WINE TOURS

Pick Up locations throughout The Fraser Valley, including Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission, Harrison Hot Springs, & Hope. 604.227.0722 vancouverwinetour.ca

VINE & HOPS WINE & CRAFT BEER TOURS

Pick Up locations throughout The Fraser Valley, including Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, & Mission. Harrison Hot Springs and Hope are an extra cost.

778.320.3409 vineandhops.ca

SKY HELICOPTERS

Tours depart from the Pitt Meadows Airport and Downtown Vancouver Harbour Heliport. 604.239.0760

skyhelicopters.ca

Whispering Horse Winery

Fortitude Wine Bar

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

Cheers!

The Fraser Valley is the second largest producer of wine in the province.

CiRcle fARM Tour

Escape the concrete jungle and explore local farms, meet local farmers and learn how your food goes from the farm to the table with this legendary self-guided farm tour.

The Fraser Valley WINE

FUN fact

In 2003, Circle Farm Tour program was formed by the District of Kent for Agassiz and Harrison Mills. The original intent of this program was to encourage the development of a strong and vibrant agritourism sector in the Fraser Valley—which still stands true today.

Experience a SelfGuided Agricultural Adventure

The Fraser Valley’s beautiful countryside is filled with experiences to captivate your senses and connect you with our friendly people and their agricultural roots.

The Circle Farm Tour allows visitors and locals to spend an afternoon (or longer!) choosing their own agriadventure and exploring the best farms in the Valley.

It can be found in the communities of Abbotsford, Agassiz & Harrison Mills, Chilliwack and Langley. Find everything here from u-pick fields, learning opportunities at working dairy farms, great local shopping for farm fresh food and more. With categories such as Farm Experience, Farm Store, Sips & Spirits, and Eateries there is a way for everyone to experience life on the farm!

GET A PIC OF THIS!

Check out the Circle Farm Tour for your self-guided agri-adventure! @thefraservalley

Tuscan Farm Gardens

Farm House Cheese

Kensington Prairie Farm

History

Wine MakiNg

Winemakers in the Fraser Valley are some of the best in their field, with many of our local wines being awarded on the world stage.

Best in their Field

Dating back thousands of years, the practice of making wine is both an art form and a scientific process. Each winery and winemaker utilizes a different technique, style, and vision to create their perfect vintage, that keeps us pouring another glass.

From planting to bottling, wine making is a strenuous yet delicate process with a sweet reward.

1. THE GROWING SEASON

Each year the cycle starts with pruning happening in late winter/ early spring. The exciting bud break comes at the start of spring leading into the rapid growth and maturity of the vines. The vineyards are managed, pruned and maintained making sure the fruit is able to ripen to the level that the winemaker is looking for their particular wine. As most of the vineyards are smaller in size, the majority of maintenance is done by hand. Constant care allows the wine team to prepare for the best time to harvest.

2. HARVESTING

The winemaker has a rough plan for the grapes before they come off the vines so they will pick when the grapes are showing the right level of flavour, acid and brightness. Grapes for sparkling wine are harvested a bit earlier with a higher acidity. Red wine grapes are left to hang a bit longer to develop more tannin structure and deeper flavours. Harvesting is often done in the early and cooler part of the day and in the Fraser Valley it can start mid September depending on the season leading up to it.

3. CRUSHING & PRESSING:

Next, winemakers perform the century-old tradition of stomping the grapes into what is called ‘must’. It is fun to think of winemakers jumping into a barrel of grapes and crushing grapes with their feet; however, change has presented itself as time has gone on. In the present day, you will most likely see wineries use mechanical pressers, as it is a cleaner technique.

Once the grapes have been crushed, it is then time for the pressing process. Until this point creating white and red wine is the same. However, when a winemaker is making their white wine, they quickly press the must to separate the juice from the skin and seeds. Doing so will stop unwanted colour (from the grape skins) and tannins from leaking into the white wine. Red wine keeps in contact with the skin and seeds to create that beautiful red tone. Today, most wineries use a mechanical crusher/destemmer or press.

4. FERMENTATION

Simply put, yeast reacts with the natural sugars in the grapes to convert that sugar into alcohol. During this process, winemakers will take yeast and add it into the crushed and pressed grape juice, which forces fermentation. The process can take anywhere from 12 days, to multiple months; it is significantly dependent on how sweet the maker wants their wine to be and its overall taste.

5. AGING AND BOTTLING

Once the wine is done fermenting, the winemaker will choose to age it in a barrel developing more flavour and giving the tannin some time to soften. White wines are often not aged in barrels and therefore are usually the first wine of a new vintage to be released. Once the winemaker deems it ready, the wine will be bottled. Some wineries age their wine in bottle before releasing, some will release soon after bottling.

Travel Info

A Good Night’s Sleep

Whether you are looking for a luxurious suite, family-friendly accommodations you will find it in the Fraser Valley.

TAXES

A federal goods and services tax (GST) of 5% and a provincial sales tax (PST) of 7% are applicable on most purchased goods and services. In some municipalities, there is an additional hotel room tax of up to 3% as well.

AIRPORT

The Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) is the primary airport in the Fraser Valley region. With its central location, it is a quick, hassle-free alternative to the Vancouver International Airport for both Fraser Valley and north of the Fraser communities.

BORDER CROSSINGS

There are two border crossings in the Fraser Valley that can be used to enter Canada from the United States; the Abbotsford––Sumas border as well as the Lynden––Aldergrove Border Crossing.

More information can be found at: cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/gbi-rgf-eng.html

CAR RENTALS

The Fraser Valley is home to a variety of car rental companies to meet your needs in exploring our communities.

PASSPORTS

All international persons who enter Canada from any foreign destination by air, land or sea are required to have a valid passport and may also require a visa. US citizens entering Canada are not required to present a passport, however you should carry proof of citizenship such as a birth certificate, certificate of citizenship or naturalization, as well as photo ID.

More information can be found at: cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/travel-voyage/ivc-rnc-eng.html

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