We chatted with Connor Lepoidevin, Marketing Manager at Pelee Island Winery & Vineyards Inc.. Here is the story of Pelee Island Winery & Vineyards, Canada's southernmost winery, which is renowned for its unique microclimate and high-quality wines. The vineyard offers a scenic experience, combining rich history, stunning landscapes, and a variety of award-winning wines. The Inspiration behind the company all starts with the Island. 

About Pelee Island

Pelee Island is home to a 700+ acre farm in Canada’s warmest grape-growing region, sharing the same latitude as some of the world’s most prestigious wine regions, such as Italy and Spain, with a winemaking history dating back over 150 years. You can explore the diverse selection of approachable wines, crafted with a commitment to ecological consciousness. Pelee Island Winery consistently produces exceptional wines that exceed expectations, encouraging guests to return and discover more.

Image credits: Pelee Island Winery & Vineyards Inc.

The Journey

Beginning with the first plantings of grapes for wine on Pelee Island in 1854 and extending to the present-day 700+ acres, this southernmost Canadian jewel has become a natural habitat for Vinifera grape growing. From the first international accolades at the Paris World Fair in 1878 to recent prestigious international awards, Pelee Island Winery continues to showcase the unique terroir of the Canadian South Islands sub-appellation through Vinifera varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Merlot.

Sustainable Island Viticulture

Having control of their grape supply allows Pelee Island Winery to grow and care for each vine according to the strict specifications outlined by the World Wildlife Fund’s sustainable vineyard practices. This involves limited and controlled pesticide use, along with the application of 100% island-grown natural fertilizer, sorghum grass. With unmatched heat units and frost-free days in Canada, the island is an ideal location for Vinifera grape growing. The soil, primarily Toledo clay with a limestone base found two to ten feet from the surface, is highly calcareous, indicating excellent fertility and intense biological activity.

Image credits: Pelee Island Winery & Vineyards Inc.

Competitive Edge

The uniqueness of Pelee Island lies in its ability to control its own grape supply. With over 700 acres of vineyards on the island, Pelee Island Winery is fully self-sufficient, allowing for meticulous care and consideration in every grape that goes into each bottle. Additionally, the winery holds the unique appellation of South Islands VQA and is the only winery in the world with this appellation designation.

Growth and Vision

Pelee Island Winery has recently begun working on Method Traditional Sparkling wines. These small-batch sparkling wines are hand-crafted by their winemakers and are exclusively sold at select stores, with only a few thousand bottles produced each year. The winery's future goals include expanding its distribution worldwide. Currently present in a few countries globally, Pelee Island Winery aims to broaden its reach and become a world-renowned brand.

Conclusion

Pelee Island Winery stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition, sustainability, and innovation. With a legacy that spans over 150 years and a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, it continues to captivate wine enthusiasts both locally and globally. As it expands its reach and explores new horizons, Pelee Island Winery remains dedicated to delivering outstanding wines that embody the unique spirit of Canada’s southernmost vineyard.

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