This unique piece of property has been agricultural for nearly 150 years. From its auspicious beginnings, it has proven to be one of the most verdant farms in Niagara. Its origins date back to 1869, when David Jackson Lowrey planted one of the earliest commercial vineyards with 500 vines. Five farming generations of Lowreys would eventually reap the benefits of his decision, growing several varieties of tree fruits and grapes and producing for household names like Del Monte & Aylmer. In the mid 1970s they sold their entire crop of grapes to T.G. Bright Ltd.,Canada’s largest existing winery. At that time, almost the entire 100 acre farm was planted in Labrusca and French hybrid grapes. Eventually most of them were torn out and for several years the vineyard lay fallow until 2003 when Lowrey descendant Norma Jane (Lowrey) Harber and her husband Blair Harber prepared to return the upper farm to grapes; this time however, to very fine European varieties.

Today the 34 acre winery site is located in the sub-appellation of Niagara called St. Davids Bench. It is different from other sub-appellations in Niagara mostly because it is the warmest area in the region, 20 percent warmer than any other location. The vineyard shares this fortuitous, distinguishing feature with its neighbours, but if you go a little deeper, that is where the common physical attribute ends. In fact, the property is actually an anomaly. The soils are lighter, its airflow and water drainage are more consistent and its position on the Bench is at its highest elevation.

Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Riesling are the latest inhabitants, continuing a strong and proud historical legacy of superb fruit from one of Niagara’s most unique agricultural sites.