6 cideries to check out in and around Victoria

Victoria Cider Co. by Sarah Reynolds Photo. Instagram.

The weather is finally warming up, patios are calling, and the Island’s cider scene is in full bloom. If you’re after an orchard-side charcuterie board, a unique cider flight with ocean views, or a laid-back family-run farm, Vancouver Island cideries know how to do it right. So grab your sunglasses and follow us on a tour of sip-worthy cideries in and within reach of Victoria.

Junction Orchard & Cidery – West Saanich

Just 20 minutes from downtown, Junction is the closest full-on orchard and cidery to the city. Formerly known as Todd Creek Cidery, this orchard was founded by four friends—Jillian, Nick, Cody, and Tamra, who used their initials (JNCT) to help form Junction’s name. Cody and Jillian Brown remain as the current owners of the cidery, with a focus on creative, small-batch flavours. The south-facing patio is ideal for sipping in the sun, and it’s kid- and bike-friendly (and often dog-friendly too). They are open on weekends.

Address: 273 Prospect Lake Rd. 

Victoria Cider Co. – North Saanich

Located on a five-acre orchard with over 40 varieties of apples and more than 2,000 trees that have been nurtured over the past several years, Victoria Cider Co. is a family-run operation led by master cidermaker Wayne Ralph with support and help from his wife Maureen and their four children Kirstie, Jamie, Emily and Daniel. Their cider approach blends classic apple varieties with locally inspired flavours like ginger and lavender. Their premium English and French cider apples are grown on the farm surrounding the original 1912 farmhouse. The harvest is crushed by family and friends, and the pure juice is hand-blended in small batches—truly a farm-to-bottle process. They are open on weekends with extended hours during the summer. 

Address: 9635 W Saanich Rd.

Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse – Saanich Peninsula

Sea Cider is perched on a hillside orchard in the Saanich Peninsula, offering one of the most iconic cider tasting experiences on the Island. The modern tasting room has floor-to-ceiling windows looking out across the orchard and the ocean, and the large patio is perfect for a slow, sunny afternoon.

The farm spans 10 acres and is home to over 1,300 apple trees, with more than 50 varieties of apples. Their commitment to organic farming and traditional cider-making techniques has resulted in award-winning ciders that reflect the uniqueness of the region. 

The tasting room offers flights of their handcrafted ciders, which can be paired with organic cheeses, local meats, spreads, and more. The venue also hosts various events throughout the year, including cooking classes, paint nights, and yoga retreats, providing a vibrant community space for locals to gather and celebrate.

Address: 2487 Mt. St. Michael Rd.

Merridale Cidery & Distillery – Cobble Hill

The 20-acre orchard has a free self-guided tour for you to fully immerse yourself in the Merridale story. Nestled in Cobble Hill, it spans 20 acres of apple trees. The bistro serves up brunch, lunch, and orchard-forward fare all day. Cider tastings are available too, and they host many events throughout the year. 

Address: 1230 Merridale Rd., Cobble Hill