The 47th annual Vancouver International Wine Festival is nearly here, and once again, it promises a full week where Vancouver becomes one of the most exciting wine cities on the planet. Running Saturday, March 7 through Saturday, March 14, the festival brings together world-class producers, thoughtful programming, and a contagious sense of discovery that keeps both trade and consumers coming back year after year.

A key date to mark now: public seminars go on sale this Wednesday, January 21st. These are consistently among the most sought-after festival experiences—and for good reason.

What especially energizes me about VIWF this year is the beautiful balance between old-world depth and homegrown brilliance. France brings centuries of winemaking wisdom, regional nuance, and benchmark styles that continue to shape how we understand wine globally. At the same time, British Columbia wineries are stepping confidently onto that same stage—showing precision, restraint, and a clear sense of place. Seeing BC producers poured alongside French classics isn’t just exciting; it’s affirming. It sparks meaningful comparison, conversation, and pride, reminding us that our local wines belong in the global dialogue.

Education has always been the heartbeat of VIWF. One of my quotes about the VIWF made it into both the Vancouver Sun and The Georgia Straight newspapers: “The educational value is unmatched. Whether you are trade or a curious novice, you walk away smarter, more confident, and more excited about wine. It’s learning disguised as pure pleasure.” Fun—and thank you to Deb Hamilton for flagging this!

We have incredible moderators leading our seminars again this year. I’m delighted to welcome Arnica Rowan and Lisa Giovanella to the VIWF stage for the first time, and to welcome back James Nevison. Our speakers’ talent and passion for wine promise excellent content and meaningful educational takeaways from every session.

Two consumer seminars to watch closely: A Tour de France in Your Glass on Thursday, March 12, offering a sweeping, accessible exploration of French wine regions, and Passport to Global Wines on Friday, March 13, a lively overview of distinctive and unexpected wines from around the world.

I’m also thrilled to be moderating the Think Pink sit-down rosé lunch at The Farmhouse Restaurant, alongside Curtis Luk (Top Chef alumni), where we’ll deliver a joyful intersection of food, wine, and conversation. Our Think Pink rosé lunch will be held on Saturday, March 14th.

The International Festival Tastings are always a standout, featuring 114 wineries and wines from 14 countries under one roof. It’s an unmatched chance to explore classic regions and emerging voices side by side, glass in hand, curiosity fully engaged.

Whether you come to learn, taste, connect—or hopefully all three—the Vancouver International Wine Festival continues to prove why it is Canada’s premier food and wine event.

For the festival schedule and to purchase tickets, you can find this information here: www.vanwinefest.ca

I look forward to seeing you and welcoming you this March.

Christine