BCWineTrends is an independent Canadian wine publication focused on how the BC wine industry really works, economically, structurally, and within Canada’s complex regulatory landscape. Since 2015, BCWineTrends has published in-depth analyses on BC wineries, pricing and taxation, direct-to-consumer sales, wine tourism, and market trends, alongside detailed reviews and regional guides. The platform is read by consumers, winery owners, industry executives, and policymakers who value clear-eyed commentary grounded in data, policy context, and real-world market dynamics. BCWineTrends is editorially independent, not pay-to-play, and committed to explaining the forces shaping BC wine beyond the tasting note.
We love living in the Okanagan Valley, close to so many first-class wineries and enthusiastic winemakers. Before starting the BC Wine Trends blog in 2015, we had the opportunity to visit wineries on three continents.
Australia
Born in Melbourne, I spent time in Margaret River, Barossa Valley, Coonawarra, McLaren Vale, Hunter Valley, Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Gippsland, the home of my favourite Pinot “Bass Phillip”. I was fortunate to go to school with Phil Jones and remember helping him out with some early ’70s plantings in his Leongatha vineyard. Best Aussie Wine 2013
The other Aussie wine I love is Rockford’s Black Shiraz, the quintessential smooth sparkling red!
USA
Living in Phoenix for 15 years gave us the opportunity for multiple trips to the California wineries in Napa, Sonoma, Lodi, Paso Robles, Temecula and my favourite Santa Barbara. Hard to beat the Lodi Zins and Santa Barbara Pinots for value! Another favourite west coast destination was Seattle with easy access to the Woodinville wineries, love those Cabs and Syrahs.
Europe
Our vacations took us to some exciting winery locations in Italy (Tuscany and Veneto, where we fell in love with Amarone). In Spain, the sparkling wines of Cava outside of Barcelona and the great reds of Rioja.
This gives you a feel for my background. The objective of this wine blog is to cut through the Marketing hype and deliver information of value to BC Wine enthusiasts.
Cheers,
Julian
