Canada’s westernmost province is among the fastest growing New World wine regions. Those who think that British Columbia is only known for great skiing and golf should think again. At last count, the number of BC wineries was nearing 100, with a good number of new ones pending. British Columbia is now catching international attention for the world-class wines that are being made in the provinces four recognized ‘Designated Viticultural Areas’ (DVAs): Okanagan Valley, Vancouver Island, Fraser Valley, and the Similkameen Valley. Bar far the most productive region is the Okanagan Valley where the province’s first wineries were founded. In total, approximately 5,500 acres of vines are planted, growing mainly French-style vinifera varieties including Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet and Syrah. There are also some German-style varieties like Gewurztraminer and Riesling. The Vintner’s Quality Alliance (VQA) label / medallion on a bottle assures that the wine is based solely on B.C. fruit. To secure the VQA designation wineries must follow strict guidelines, from grape varieties allowed and geographic specificity, to brix levels at harvest time, followed by random laboratory checks and tasting review.