Most would be surprised to learn that walnuts are synonymous with Vista D'oro Farms & Winery in South Langley. In fact, the nutritious drupes are the foundation of their signature D'oro, a fortified dessert wine — not to mention they're one of the main ingredients in their top-selling preserve, Figs & Walnut Wine.
Owners Patrick and Lee Murphy cultivate the walnuts on their 10-acre farm — part orchard, part vineyard — which also accommodates the Farmgate Market & Tasting Room. "About 80 percent of what is grown on the farm ends up in a jar or bottle," says Lee.
To visit this farm and winery is to step into a world of pastoral bliss. See the vines used to create wine, walk around the orchards or bump into a friendly farm cat (or maybe even a chicken). Set on 10 acres, Vista D’oro offers a range of tasting experiences. Visitors can enjoy a tasting session of their wines – such as fortified walnut wine, or pear wine, or pinot noir – or browse the locally produced preserves and snacks at the Farmgate Shop. Budget more time for this location – this is more of an experience than a tasting.