154 YEARS
Norma Jane (Lowrey) Harber grew up on this farm and has always been sensitive to the subtleties of its terrain. Ever since her great-grandfather David Jackson Lowrey bought the upper farm in 1867, it has been a source of pride for the Lowrey family. This pride has been fostered within our Head Winemaker, Lydia Tomek who has a deep desire to lovingly preserve the property and showcase our unique terroir.
In a gesture of respect for the land and the family, and to keep it free from imminent urban development, the family built the Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery. The land was happy when Norma Jane’s ancestors grew the ripest cherries, pears, peaches, grapes, plums and vegetables in the peninsula. It has now proven itself perfect for fine wine. In this we have learned a lot, attracted some great people and extended our passionate family. The result is not only great wines from our mother, Lowrey Farm, but a wonderful lifestyle that we are eager and proud to share.
1802
Wm. Woodruff House is originally built by David Secord (the namesake of St. Davids)
1814
Wm. Woodruff house destroyed when village is burned by American troops; house is re-built incorporating original fireplace and chimney
1815-1860
Additions to Wm. Woodruff house are completed, including summer kitchen, front section, and parlor
1867
Farm property purchased by David Jackson Lowrey.
1869
First grapes planted (500 vines) - first commercial vineyard in the area
1900
David's son Edwin David Lowrey takes over farm - grows tender fruit like peaches, cherries, pears, plums, apples, grapes, as well as asparagus, celery, currants, lawton berries
1900
During this time, E.D. Lowrey also owns the village General Store, the Post Office, the Queenston Quarry, "Sand and Gravel" quarry, and the Lowrey Bros. Canning factory
1969
Woodruff house is dismantled and moved to Caledon; drawings done by architect Finn Fris in February 1970
2003
House is sold to Blair and Norma Jane to allow it to return to the village of St. Davids
2004
Jane Burgess of Stevens Burgess Architects incorporates 'House of Nations" into her streetscape concept of the Winery
2007
Construction begins for the entire complex
2008
Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery opens to the public; after 40 years, the "House of Nations" re-opens to the public on July 30th
2011
Restaurant Build-out and Wood Oven constructed
2017
Lowrey Farm's 150th anniversary coincides with Canada 150 celebrations
2019
Event and Celebrations building has been completed
