Averill Creek Vineyard has introduced Okeanós, a wine that explores place, curiosity and the deep roots of ancient winemaking. The process behind Okeanós began with a question: “If we’re trying to express a sense of place, how could we ignore the ocean?”
The answer was inspired by pioneering work from Australia by L.A.S. Vino that explored the relationship between their Vermentino and seawater from the Indian Ocean. Reimagined for Vancouver Island’s coast, Averill Creek turned to the nearby Salish Sea, known for its pristine waters, complex currents and crisp salinity.
Long before sulphur, the ancient Greeks turned to the sea – washing their grapes in ocean water to preserve them naturally. The winemaking process was in line with Averill Creek’s ethos of being pragmatic, not dogmatic, and holding space for the more poetic side of the craft. Pinot Noir and Gewürztraminer grapes were soaked in seawater from the Salish Sea before fermentation. The end result is a wine that defies classification – part skin-contact white, part maritime experiment, entirely a reflection of place.
It’s vibrant, structured and layered with unexpected minerality, like a gentle breeze carrying a touch of sea spray through ripe vineyard fruit. What emerged was both surprising and beautiful. It carries the hallmark freshness and elegance of Averill Creek, yet with a soft, creamy texture – lifted by a gentle salinity.
“Okeanós captures the spirit of the Island,” said the Averill Creek team. “Our coastal waters are cold, clean and alive. This wine reflects that energy – structured, yet fluid. Familiar, yet untamed.”
The name Okeanós nods to the Greek personification of the ocean, a reminder of movement, mystery and transformation. Averill Creek continues to explore new ways of expressing the unique character of the Cowichan Valley through thoughtful, place-driven winemaking. Okeanós stands as both an homage to nature’s interconnectedness and a testament to what happens when curiosity grabs the helm.
Okeanós will be available this winter at Averill Creek Vineyard’s tasting room starting Dec. 1 and on the menu at select restaurants.
