Wine Islands Growers`Association (WIGA)

WIGA is an incorporated non-profit society to promote quality wine grape growing on South Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. The society provides educational programs, information, and services to assist in successful wine grape growing in the region.

The WIGA organization and its members have been an invaluable source of information for us in the development of our vineyard – varietal selection and management, vineyard design, etc. We appreciate all of those that took the time to talk to us in our formative days and continue to share learnings. We also want to give our thanks in particular to those that were pioneers in grape growing in this region – the benefits of your early grape trials to determine what grows well in this region cannot be overstated.

Far more important than just technical exchange of information is the tremendous source of support and encouragement we have received from the WIGA members, and our association with WIGA has resulted in friendships that we are sure will be life-long. We look forward to being able to return the favour by sharing our ever-expanding knowledge with those interested in getting into the vineyard and winery business.

A hint, and a request, to anyone considering growing vines and/or starting a winery, is to do your research before requesting a meeting with a vineyard or winery manager. Generally, most vineyard and winery managers are willing to share their experiences, and give up a bit of their time to talk about the business, however the conversation is far more valuable if you’ve done some research in advance, and have come prepared. A good place to start is to review some of the references provided in the Learn More section of this website.