Open to: All BCIA Registrants and thier guests - PD Activity in Conjuction with VIB AGM OCT 25 

After the VIB AGM, join the Victoria & Islands Branch for a professional development tour at Cherry Point Estate Wines, one of Vancouver Island’s first licensed wineries. The event will be led by Xavier Bonilla, Proprietor of Cherry Point Estate Wines, who holds an MA in Agricultural Economics from the University of Wisconsin, Madison and has decades of experience in traditional European winemaking.

Participants will gain insight into:

• Viticulture practices unique to southern Vancouver Island’s mild maritime climate.

• Traditional European vinification processes adapted to local growing conditions.

• The history and development of the Island’s grape and wine sector, including partnerships with the Cowichan First Nations.

Learn how Cherry Point’s distinctive glacial moraine soils, Mediterranean growing season, and sustainable management practices shape its wines and contribute to the region’s evolving terroir.

The one-hour tour will conclude with an optional wine tasting, where guests can sample a selection of Cherry Point’s red and white wines while networking with fellow BCIA registrants.

Please Note:

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended (outdoor tour, weather permitting).

• Free parking is available on-site.

Please note that photographs and footage will be taken. These will be used by BCIA for marketing and publicity in our publications, on our website, newsletters, and on social media. Should you not wish to have your photo taken and used for these purposes, please advise the photographer at the time.