It is a familiar sight to see grape vines in certain areas of Niagara, but a unique geological feature is making it possible in Pelham, where it may come as a surprise there is only one winery that is officially located in the municipality.
Sons & Daughters Winery was started by brothers Geoff Hall and Anthony Hall. The vineyard, located on Effingham Street, sits about equal distance from both Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.
Geoff Hall said that a lot of people thought it could be too cold, but said one of the advantages to their location is that they are higher in elevation which he says leads to less frost.
“In 2021 there was a lot of loss closer to the lake,” he said. “We were very fortunate. We didn't lose anything.”
The Fonthill Kame Delta is a result of retreating glaciers. The Kame rises about 75 metres above the surrounding land making it one of the highest points in the region.
The winery has two sections on the Kame – the Effingham vineyard with its more sandy soil for the whites, and the more gravelly soil on the Tice vineyard for the reds. The winery pays homage to the Kame with an artistic depiction prominently displayed in the winery's tasting room.
The pair did not have a wine background but have been in business together for many years. They were both seeking a change in lifestyle. They found found the property and the idea was born.
The brothers grew up in Dunnville but had a connection to the Fonthill area thanks to having attended E.L Crossley Secondary School.
“It was so nice with the rolling hills and south-facing slope,” said Anthony. “We thought we would take a chance and plant vines. So far, the vines are growing very nicely.
They first planted in 2018. Currently, they have varieties growing including Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Chambourcin, and Baco Noir. Anthony said they have plans to reserve some of the grapes for a later harvest and for icewine.
Currently, there are about 12 acres planted between the two properties. The brothers would like to expand that to around 20 acres over the next five to 10 years.
Dan Sherrington is the general manager – and a brother-in-law as well. Both brothers’ wives are also involved in the business along with their kids.
“I have four daughters. Geoff has three sons. Hence the name,” said Anthony Hall.
Without a background in the wine industry, the brothers say they have “learned a lot on their own” since they first planted in 2018. They have also hired consultants as well.
Anthony said they are doing a bit of “experimentation” and trying different techniques such as appassimento, where grapes are dried after they are picked to “increase the sugar content and the flavor profile.”
By trying things out in smaller batches, they can get feedback as to whether “something really works.”
The winery is currently making sales to the public through its online store.
Anthony said their wines were also available is some local stores and at the Pelham Farmer's Market, where they first sold their products.
The plan, they say, is to try to have the winery officially open to the public this summer, but note that could change.
They plan to have the tasting room open along with a courtyard with tables. They want to offer charcuterie and will have a pizza oven on site.
