The drive out to Vista D’oro winery in Campbell Valley is a feast for the eyes.
It seems as though once you are beyond 30 Avenue, the landscape begins to transform into a European countryside.
I was amazed at how it all magically appeared, leaving me in awe of its acres of green amidst a hue of gold. Young people on horseback completed the canvas in an almost hard to believe scenic drive. It was a sunny reminder of why we live here in Langley.
Camera and curiosity in hand I approached the winery, owned by Patrick and Lee Murphy, in anticipation of what I might find, and to my surprise walked straight into a packed house consisting of a large group of men.
They all stood, glasses in hand, with serious attention being paid to both the wines and fruit preserves made available for sampling. Patrick waved me into the room and I was quickly invited to join the group. In that instant I knew that the Campbell Valley Wine Run was a great idea.
I asked the men in this testosterone-filled room, where they had come from and what had led them out to the Valley.
Who would have guessed that the boys from the North Vancouver Fire Department would venture out our way to celebrate a soon-to-be wed fireman’s final days of bachelorhood?
The young man was a wine lover and they could not think of a better experience than enjoying the fruits of labour from Vista D’oro Winery, Township 7, Domaine De Chaberton and Neck of the Woods.
Even the designated driver was having fun just enjoying the view.
After palates had been satisfied, they marched back out to their van, arms filled with bottles and cases of wine newly purchased from the shop. It was just another afternoon for Patrick, Lee and the farm, and just another perfect reason to drink local.
Vista D’oro has a kitchen on site, made available for all who are interested in a picnicking culinary experience, enjoyed in an area designated for outdoor dining.
It is a charming spot, framed by a white picket fence and rolling hills.
You can purchase cuisine befitting any self-proclaimed foodie, including artisan breads and preserves made from the Vista Kitchen, boasting such flavour combinations as strawberry with balsamic and pink peppercorns, mango-passionfruit and kirsch, green tomato with garam masala, local cheeses and salads served in mason jars.
Dessert is also available and is prepared fresh, mindful of the berries and fruits ripening in the fields. Don’t forget to order up your favorite glass or bottle of nectar from the tasting room to complete your banquet.
When explaining the four wineries involved in the new Campbell Valley Wine Run, Patrick referred to them as a “micro association.” At Vista the grapes grown on site are early ripening cool climate varietals, which leads me to believe that bubbles would be perfect.
You will have to visit the farm to sample Patrick’s magic in a bottle and Lee’s taste extravaganza in a jar. Be sure to ask Patrick about his famous walnut fortified wine and Marechal Foch, both are grown and harvested on site.
Vista has attracted customers from the outer lying areas and around the world…now if we could only convince Langley to drop by and say hello.
Next stop, Township 7.
Second in a series by Times Contributor Theresa Harrett