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In a news release today, the Turyk family has announced they have sold Unsworth Vineyards to American wine giants Barbara Banke and Julia Jackson.
Banke, the CEO of Jackson Family Wines, and Julia Jackson (pictured above) are part-owners of the family company. They will operate the winery outside of the Jackson Family Wines as co-owners. The Turyk family and staff are all staying on to run the winery, albeit with substantial financial support and some of the brightest wine minds in the business. It's a fantastic coup for Vancouver Island that appears to be a perfect fit for Banke and Jackson. They have devoted a lot of resources to protect the environment and to fight climate change, indicating a deep appreciation for a cool climate site. Exciting times indeed for Canadian wine. Expect a real focus on pinot noir and chardonnay to follow. ~AG
Released today:
The Turyk Family wishes to inform our valued customers, suppliers, growers, and all industry friends that effective June 22, 2020, Unsworth Vineyards will come under new ownership. We are thrilled to announce that the new owners of Unsworth will be Barbara Banke and Julia Jackson, members of the Banke / Jackson family of California.
We are pleased to say that the Company will continue to operate as a family-owned vineyard, winery and restaurant under the Unsworth name, and I will continue to manage the business. All current employees will remain in their key roles, and now will have the resources to truly challenge their skills and pursue their passion. All of us are excited at this opportunity to continue our vision that has evolved over the past 10 years, and with the new wealth of knowledge and experience behind us, help take Unsworth to a new level in terms of the grapes we grow, the wines we produce and the guest experience we offer.
There is a growing awareness, in wine circles, of Vancouver Island’s uniqueness within British Columbia’s wine regions, and very recently, the Cowichan Valley has been approved as a Sub-Geographical Indication of Vancouver Island region. We expect that the ownership change will not only be beneficial for Unsworth, but will further enhance the perception of Vancouver Island as a premium winegrowing region, to the benefit of all participants.
We thank all for the strong support over the past 10 years. We are proud of our accomplishments, and are personally gratified that Unsworth will continue to flourish long into the future.
Tim, Colleen & Chris Turyk
