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Saison Market Vineyard: Rustic bakery and high-density vineyard
By Holly Rose
Saison Market Vineyard is a unique concept I have never seen before. Monday to Friday, owners Ingrid and Frédéric work the vines, and on weekends, they open the bakery to the public.
The bakery is humble and heartwarming. The ingredients are local whenever possible and often organic. They have never advertised and relied solely on word of mouth. This is how I stumbled upon Saison and their fabulous baked goods and jarred jams; a rave recommendation from a friend.
In sitting down with owner Ingrid, I find that Frédéric was trained as a chef and Ingrid herself was trained as a baker. I think it is as much their training as their love of the land that brings together this beautiful place with delicious goods.
You may find yourself drawn to a loaf of organic bread or a sweet treat—whatever catches your eye, I encourage you to indulge. It's like eating Mom's cooking, baked with a little extra love.
This is definitely a well-guarded secret in the Duncan area, and one that locals love to enjoy. The coffee comes in paper cups, while the pastries rest on plates. The environment is casual but the food is divine.
Saison (French for "seasons') has been growing varietals that are known to grow well in the Cowichan Valley for a few years. Once the grapes are at a point they are happy with, rather than starting a winery, they will begin selling their grapes to local vineyards. This will support local vintners in being more Vancouver Island reliant, as many wineries purchase grapes from the Okanagan.
Currently growing at Saison are vines of Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Nios and Seigerrebe, which all thrive in the Cowichan Valley soil.
Whether you are looking to enjoy the seasonal fare at the market—like fresh fruit preserves, garden veggies, artisan breads, savory treats or pastries—or are looking to have a coffee while overlooking a gorgeous vineyard, this is a delightful spot to recharge your batteries on a weekend afternoon.
Saison is open Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 4pm and is located at 7575 Mays Road, North Cowichan, BC. For more information check out their website at www.saisonmarket.ca or call 250-597-0484.
- Text & photos by Holly Rose©
