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British Columbia’s wine scene is overflowing with cool-climate elegance, and the Fraser Valley—just a short drive from Vancouver—is one of its most accessible and charming regions.
After visiting the Canadian wine strongholds of Ontario and Okanagan, we were eager to check out this new-to-us area. Known for its crisp whites, expressive reds, and growing reputation for traditional method sparkling wines, the Fraser Valley offers a mix of boutique wineries, passionate winemakers, and unforgettable tasting experiences. During our recent visit, we explored three standout wineries that showcased the artistry and soul of BC wine: Township 7, Backyard Vineyards, and Chaberton Estate Winery.
Saber & Sip at Township 7 Vineyards & Winery
As many of you know, I love to saber sparkling wine—and on this trip, I had the chance to perform my first international sabrage! Thanks to Township 7 Vineyards & Winery, a winery acclaimed for its Seven Stars sparkling collection, I got to pop a bottle in style during their Saber & Sip tasting experience.
This unique offering includes a guided tasting of their traditional method bubbles and the thrilling opportunity to saber a bottle yourself—outdoors, with a vineyard view and a gleaming Champagne saber in hand. The setting featured a perfect “launch” area for sabrage, with a stack of wine barrels as a target. I was offered a plastic face guard, which was similar to one on an NHL helmet. Needless to say, I declined.
Polaris, a Chardonnay-based sparkler, was the one I chose to saber. The wine offers a taste of brioche with creamy perlage and citrus notes. In the interest of improving international relations, we shared the sabered wine with our new Canadian friends. We also sampled the Riegel (Riesling-based), Sirius (a Pinot-Chardonnay blend), and Aurora, a Pinot Noir Blanc de Noir. It was surprising to discover a winery specializing in bubbles in the midst of Langley, BC.
Our host, Zulie Visram, led us through a delightful tasting overlooking the vines. Each of the Seven Stars wines had its own personality, and the experience was pure magic. If you’re visiting the Vancouver area, Township 7 should absolutely be on your itinerary—especially if you’re ready to channel your inner sword-wielding sommelier.
Legacy and Rare Grapes at Chaberton Estate Winery
One of the highlights of our trip was visiting Chaberton Estate Winery, one of British Columbia’s oldest and largest estate wineries. We were warmly welcomed by winemaker Gary Zhygailo, who gave us a behind-the-scenes tour of the vineyard, production area, and barrel room. Joining my wife and me were Margot Savell (@writeforwine) and her husband, Dave—dear friends from our Wine Bloggers Conference days dating back 15 years.
Gary, originally from Ukraine, brings heart and energy to every bottle. His guided tasting introduced us to Chaberton’s 55 acres of vines, including rare grapes like Ortega, Bacchus, and Siegerrebe. The 2024 Dry Bacchus was a revelation—floral and peachy with lovely stonefruit notes. This was our first taste of this grape – and we loved it. The winery also offers an off-dry Bacchus, which is their best seller.
The 2024 Pinot Gris, aged partially in barrel and on the lees, delivers a smooth, textured package with notes of grapefruit, ginger, and lemon. The 2023 La Fleur de Chaberton Rosé, a blend of Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir, was fresh and minerally with hints of watermelon.
Among the reds, the 2023 Estate Zweigelt (15 months in neutral oak) stood out with vanilla and spice, while the 2019 Cabernet Franc Reserve was silky and rich with cocoa and currant. The crowning wine was the 2020 Meritage from the Okanagan Valley VQA —a heavenly blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.
Chaberton is a true gem, offering unexpected varieties and a warm welcome that made our visit an epic wine adventure.
Cozy Charm and Bold Reds at Backyard Vineyards
Our final stop in Langley was Backyard Vineyards, nestled in the Fraser Valley just 45 minutes from Vancouver. This cozy, welcoming winery is the second-oldest in the region, with roots dating back to 2000. We opted for the reserve tasting and paired it with a delicious charcuterie board—an ideal way to unwind after a day of vineyard hopping.
Backyard Vineyards is known for its 100% BC wines, and the 2022 Bacchus white wine was a standout. This grape thrives in the Fraser Valley’s cooler climate, and the wine was bursting with peach and tropical fruit. The reds were equally impressive. These grapes are sourced from the southern Okanagan Valley, except for five acres of estate Pinot Noir. The 2020 Reserve Cabernet Franc dazzled with cranberry, plum, and pepper, while the limited-production 2020 Reserve Meritage (just 120 cases!) offered crushed strawberry and tobacco notes.
We couldn’t resist bringing home the award-winning 2020 Reserve Syrah, a savory treat layered with raspberry, dried herbs, and licorice. With its gazebo and outdoor seating overlooking the vines, Backyard Vineyards is a perfect sipping spot for your next BC adventure.
Final Thoughts
British Columbia’s Fraser Valley is more than just a wine region—it’s a place where tradition meets innovation, and every tasting comes with a story. Langley is a short drive from Vancouver, giving you a chance to escape the big city for a relaxing day in wine country. Whether you’re sabering sparkling wine at Township 7, sipping Syrah at Backyard Vineyards, or exploring rare grapes at Chaberton Estate, you’ll certainly find something to love. And for me, it was a chance to reconnect with old friends, discover new favorites, and raise a glass to the brilliance of BC wine.
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