Jim Landsborough and Catherine Peckitt-Landsborough have roots deep in Huron County. Jim and his ancestors have farmed in Tuckersmith Township in the Municipality of Huron East since 1834, and the present 100-acre spread they call home was once part of Catherine's family farm. However, since 2009 this industrious couple has put down quite different roots, while embarking on an enterprise that will bring a new industry to Huron County.
Their goal is to produce the highest quality wine from the very best grapes that Huron County can grow. Following considerable research, which included hiring renowned cool climate consultant Kevin Ker to assist with site and vine selection and visits to numerous wineries throughout Canada and the USA, as well as a one acre test plot and several trial batches, Maelstrom's Vineyard now spreads over 8 acres and comprises 9,600 vines.
Huron East has proven to be just the place to deliver the moderate adversity that grape vines require to produce excellent fruit.....the plants need stress to condense the grapes, which results in the most flavourful wines. This boutique winery is growing several hybrid grape varieties developed as cold-hardy, disease tolerant, and early ripening. And Jim and Catherine have also put in "vitis vinifera", pure bred European vines, planted on a root stock that makes them hardier.
Maelstrom Winery will produce red, white, and rosé wines as well as blends and sparkling cider. Ably assisted by their sons, Brett, Blaine and Brian, who are very much involved with the new business, the entire family is looking forward to developing this unique initiative, one that's sure to heighten the profile of Huron County with wine-lovers and tourists alike.
It has been said that life is too short to drink bad wine Maelstrom Winery agrees and will deliver preeminent Riesling, Baco Noir, Cabernet Franc, Geisenheim, Chardonnay, Maréchal Foch Frontenac Blanc, Vidal and Marquette, an award winning wine that finishes as a complex, ruby red with pronounced tannins and highly desirable notes of cherry, berry, black pepper, and spice on both nose and palate.
For more details on this exciting new venture located just south of Seaforth, Ontario in the heart of Ontario's West Coast contact the owners, Jim & Catherine at jclandsb@tcc.on.ca.
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