The K’ómoks First Nation’s economic development sector on mid-Vancouver Island has revealed its acquisition of the 40 Knots Winery and Events Centre in Comox. The Kâómoks Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) has stated that this purchase will enhance its presence in the tourism and hospitality industry. The nation expressed that 40 Knots, known as one of Vancouver Island’s top wineries and event venues, will play a crucial role in advancing KEDC’s goal of fostering sustainable economic opportunities, supporting local jobs, and creating lasting prosperity for the Kâómoks First Nation.
The transaction is anticipated to finalize by the end of October, with the intention of retaining the winery’s existing staff members. 40 Knots, which transformed into a vineyard around 2007 according to its website, was bought by Layne Robert Craig and Brenda Hetman-Craig in 2014. The 9.7-hectare (24-acre) vineyard was put up for sale for just under $10 million in 2025, as the owners prepared for retirement.
Jeff Guignard, CEO of Wine Growers of B.C., views this acquisition as a positive indicator for the province’s wine industry. He highlighted that 40 Knots will be B.C.’s second Indigenous-owned winery, following Nk’Mip Cellars in the Okanagan, owned by the Osoyoos Indian Band. Guignard mentioned that while another Indigenous-owned winery, Indigenous World in the Okanagan, closed in 2023, Nk’Mip has successfully integrated cultural experiences with tastings, becoming a significant tourist attraction in the region.
Expressing his anticipation for the First Nation’s management of the winery, Guignard believes that the 40 Knots purchase will greatly benefit the Comox Valley.