Hobby Vineyard
Welcome to My Hobby Vineyard
Nestled in the heart of nature, my vineyard is more than just a passion—it's a journey. On this page, I’ll share the story of my vineyard, the care and dedication that go into nurturing the vines, and the seasonal rhythms that guide my work. From tending to the grapevines to the excitement of harvest time, this is where the fruits of my labor come to life.
When the conditions are right and the harvest is plentiful, the grapes become the inspiration for something truly special: homemade, unique jams that capture the essence of the vineyard in every jar. Join me as I celebrate the beauty of this rewarding hobby and the joy it brings to both the table and the soul.
How It All Began
The story of my vineyard started with an unexpected friendship and a bold idea. While working in Ottawa, I met a friend who mentioned he planned to start a vineyard and winery in the Ottawa region. My first reaction was disbelief—how could anyone grow wine grapes in such a cold climate? But he introduced me to the Marquette grape, a variety specifically developed to withstand temperatures as low as -35°C. Along with other varieties like Frontenac Blanc, Frontenac Gris, and Frontenac Noir, he built his winery around these hardy grapes.
Intrigued by his passion and determination, I asked if I could help. He agreed, and over the years, I worked off and on under his guidance, watching his, and his wife's, dream grow into a thriving business. The two of them eventually retired, but the experience left a lasting impression on me.
Inspired by their success and the joy I found in the work (admittedly less demanding for me than it was for them!), I decided to start my own small vineyard. While they managed over 11 acres, I planted about 1/4 of an acre with the same grape varieties on my property.
Today, I continue to care for my vines, facing the challenges of nature—especially keeping turkeys and deer at bay—but also finding joy in seeing the grapes thrive, for the most part. My vineyard may be small, but it’s rooted in friendship, curiosity, and a love for the land.
The West Field
This field holds a special place in my journey, as it’s where I planted my very first vines in 2012, sourced from a nursery in Quebec. Over the years, it has become a reflection of patience and possibility. While I’ve continued to care for the vines, I haven’t yet been able to dedicate as much time as I’d like to fully develop this space. Still, it remains a cornerstone of my vineyard, carrying the promise of growth and the roots of my passion for food and wine.
The East Field
This is one of my two vineyard fields, a special space where the first vines were planted in 2022. While the vines are still young and growing, they represent the beginnings of a dream. The field is a work in progress, reflecting both the challenges and the quiet beauty of nurturing something new. Although I haven’t yet been able to dedicate as much time to it as I’d like, this field holds the promise of what’s to come—a future brimming with life, growth, and harvest.
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