Daniel Cosman
Nestled in the beautiful Cowichan Valley, you’ll find the picturesque, 50-acre Enrico Estate Winery, owned by winemaker Daniel Cosman.
This month we’re featuring Cosman for his role in helping put Vancouver Island wines on the map.
In 2015, Enrico Winery blew everyone away by winning the British Columbia Lieutenant Governor’s Wine Awards, one of the most prestigious awards for fine wine in the country.
It was also a bit of a shocker for the industry, as this was the first time in its 13-year history that a Vancouver Island wine - the 2014 Tempest Ortega - had taken away the top price at the LG Wine Awards.
“The amazing micro-climate allows us to grow 8 different varietals, ranging from fruity whites to full-bodied reds that are unique to Vancouver Island,” Cosman explains. He credits the land and that unique climate for the fact Enrico wines are winning medals across Canada and the United States.
O & V: How did you get started in the wine industry?
Daniel Cosman: Before and during university I worked in restaurants where I was exposed to some very knowledgeable industry people who introduced me to, and taught me a lot about wine. I just decided one day that this was what I was going to do. I wrote to every winery in BC and got a few responses. The rest is history.
O & V: Where did you go to school or apprentice?
Daniel Cosman: I would say that my first real opportunity to learn and grow in the industry was at Vigneti Zanatta in the Cowichan Valley. Jim Moody is a great winemaker and I learned a lot from him.
O & V: What is your favourite varietal to work with, and why?
Daniel Cosman: For me it is not so much about varietals, but wine style. Sparkling wine on Vancouver Island is really exciting. Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris are mostly used, with a smattering of Chardonnay.
O & V: What is the best thing about your job?
Daniel Cosman: Constantly learning in a milieu of creativity is the best part of my job. I have been in the industry nearly twenty years, and I still feel like there is a lot to learn; there is much that is not understood. There are so many variables; varieties, clones, rootstock, fermentation, barrels. It is no wonder we find wine mysterious and intoxicating.
O & V: Is there a particular wine or vintage that you have made that you are most proud of?
Daniel Cosman: The 2020 Enrico Pinot Gris was a great wine, but I am most proud of the “Charme de L’Île” project, which I spearheaded. The idea was for Charmat style wines produced on Vancouver island. It really took off.