VQA Ontario gathered a small group of wine writers from across Canada for an exploration of sub-appellations within the Niagara Peninsula. The group was accompanied by VQA officials and faculty from Brock University who provided in-depth technical resources and discussed academic research in progress to study sensory differences between appellations. Highlights of the tour included visits to vineyards in Niagara River, St. David's Bench and Twenty Mile Bench along with wine tastings led by senior winemakers. The tour highlighted the physical differences between the sub-appellations, discussed the impact of terroir and growing conditions on wine, and engaged participants in a wide ranging discussion about the relationship between appellation of origin and specific wine characteristics. |
Ken Douglas has been elected the new President and Chair of the VQA Ontario Board of Directors. Ken is a St. Catharine's lawyer and is affiliated with the 13th Street Winery, located in Jordan, ON. Ken is the third Chair of the Board of Directors since VQA Ontario assumed its regulatory authority in 2000 and has been a member of the Board since 2004. Brian Schmidt of Vineland Estates assumes the position of Vice-Chair. Greg Berti becomes Past-Chair and the Board thanks him for his dedicated and capable leadership. Several new Directors were also welcomed, including Keith Bown, Jim Clark, Bill Redelmeier and Kevin Watson and thanks go to retiring Directors Bill George, Paul Lizak, and Len Pennachetti. |