The K’ómoks First Nation’s economic development sector on mid-Vancouver Island has revealed its acquisition of 40 Knots Winery and Events Centre in Comox. The Kâómoks Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) has stated that this purchase enhances its presence in the tourism and hospitality industry. Highlighted as a prominent winery and events hub on Vancouver Island, 40 Knots is anticipated to play a crucial role in advancing KEDC’s mission of establishing sustainable economic prospects, fostering local employment, and fostering lasting prosperity for the Kâómoks First Nation, as stated by the nation in a release.
The completion of the purchase is projected by the end of October, according to the nation, with plans to retain the winery’s existing staff. 40 Knots transitioned into a vineyard around 2007, as outlined on its website, and was acquired by Layne Robert Craig and Brenda Hetman-Craig, a husband-and-wife duo, in 2014. The vineyard, spanning 9.7 hectares (24 acres), was listed for sale for just under $10 million in 2025, with Hetman-Craig mentioning on social media that the sale was part of their retirement arrangements.
Jeff Guignard, CEO of Wine Growers of B.C., views the acquisition as a positive sign of investment in the province’s wine sector. He also highlighted that the purchase makes 40 Knots the second Indigenous-owned winery in British Columbia, following Nk’Mip Cellars in the Okanagan, owned by the Osoyoos Indian Band. Another Indigenous-owned winery, Indigenous World in the Okanagan, closed its doors in 2023.
Guignard pointed out that Nk’Mip has successfully integrated cultural experiences with wine tastings, boosting tourism in the Okanagan region. He expressed excitement about the First Nation’s ownership of 40 Knots and anticipated great outcomes for the Comox Valley.
