Having been staying close to home lately, I decided to borrow a story written by Brenda Hetman-Craig, co-owner, along with her husband, Layne Robert Craig of 40 Knotts Estate Winery in Comox.. Layne being the winemaker. 40 Kotts is one of Vancouver Island's most successful wineries.
Nestled in the Comox Valley, adjacent to the Salish Sea, the winery is one of the closest in the world to the ocean. 40 Knots is one of the largest wineries on Vancouver Island, farming sustainably and using the best practices from organics, biodynamics and plant-based practices, on 24 stunning acres
The winery features wonderful hospitality, knowledgeable staff, great owners and fantastic wines. The name comes from the 40 Knots winds from the Strait of Georgia. These winds help keep the grapes dry in the vineyard. The winery's founder was a tugboat captain, 40 knots at sea, which is a time to come in to land and enjoy a nice bottle of wine. 40 Knots' logo has swallows, which are seen in the vineyard and they depict homecoming to a sailor.
Their vineyard terrace is among the very best, and you can not beat their picnic baskets.
Why is 40 Knots Green!
At 40 Knots Winery, our story begins with a question from the most honest critic we could ever imagine—our daughter. In 2014, as we shared our dream of starting a winery, her very first words were, “You are going to be a green winery, right?” She was an adult at the time, but already thinking like a guardian, and with her own tiny grandchildren who believed in sustainability as much as she did. It wasn’t just a sweet moment—it was a challenge. Of course, sustainability was always our intention, but suddenly, we had a multi-generational reminder holding us accountable, someone whose pride and vision mattered more than anyone else’s. From that moment, our commitment to environmental responsibility became personal.
Since opening our doors, we have never stopped learning and improving. Sustainability isn’t just a label at 40 Knots; it’s embedded in every decision we make. From vineyard management to production practices, we work closely with experts who audit our processes regularly. These audits are more than a checklist—they are opportunities to learn, to refine, and to ensure that every bottle of wine we produce aligns with the highest standards of environmental, social, and economic responsibility.
It’s true, audits require effort. There are detailed reports, site visits, and constant attention to processes—but the value far outweighs the work. Each audit strengthens our operations, reinforces our commitment, and gives our customers confidence that the wine they enjoy is crafted with integrity. We know that every sustainable choice we make enhances the quality of our wine and the health of our community.
Our journey has also been one of education and sharing. Every step of the way, we strive to inspire our customers and partners to consider sustainability not as an obligation, but as an opportunity. By integrating green practices into every facet of our winery—from energy use to water management and waste reduction—we demonstrate that environmental responsibility and business success are not mutually exclusive.
More than a winery, 40 Knots is a family endeavor built on values, pride, and the desire to make a positive impact. Our daughter’s words—and the tiny guardians watching over her—continue to remind us of why we started: to create something she, her grandchildren, and all of us can be proud of. And as we grow and evolve, our commitment to sustainability, transparency, and quality remains unwavering.
Every bottle from 40 Knots Winery carries a story: of a family, of a vineyard nurtured with care, and of a dedication to doing better every day. For us, being a green winery isn’t just a mission—it’s our legacy.
