The Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards and Estate Winery
by
Kathy Sullivan
Summary: The Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards and Estate Winery is a family owned farm that offers wine tastings and wine tours. The tasting room and winery are located in a renovated 19th century built barn that has its own charm. A patio offers a delightful spot to enjoy a glass of wine. Originally the property was a Loyalist farm known as Meadowbrook Farms. Caroline's father, Robert Granger, purchased the property in the 1970's. He named it The Grange, especially appropriate since their last name is Granger. Visitors are invited to take a tour of the winery. The winery is dedicated to producing estate wine from the 60 acres of vineyards.
Vineyards at The Grange of Prince Edward Winery
The first block of vineyards was planted in 2001 and by 2005, 50 acres were planted with grapevines. In 2007 another 10 acres of vines were added to the property. The vineyards' varieties include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gamay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Cabernet Franc and Seyval Blanc. Eventually the vineyard will be increased. The grapevines are protected in the winter with a heavy covering of soil.
The Grange of PEC Tasting Room
The tasting room located in a renovated early 19th century barn has ambiance throughout. At one end of the spacious room, once a hayloft, there is a sitting area in front of a large stone fireplace. Nearby are items to browse available for purchase. These include custom made, exclusively for the winery, pottery by Peta Hall. A large rectangular tasting counter allows plenty of room to accommodate many visitors.
The winery opened in 2003 and produces between 7,000 and 10,000 cases. The winery and tasting room are located in an old barn built in 1826. The property had always been in the same family (Meadowbrook Farms) until the Grangers purchased it in the 1970's. Today the tasting room is located in the original hayloft while the cellars are in the cooler basement level of the barn.
All wines are produced from the onsite vineyards and grapes sourced from within Prince Edward County.
Sparkling Wine
Sparkling Brite Rosé Pinot Noir 2007 was a light pink. This sparkling wine was light, cleansing and refreshing.
White Wines
Single Fumé Blanc 2009 produced with Sauvignon Blanc was a light yellow. With hints of tropical fruit scents, the taste offered tropical fruit notes. The finish was crisp with fruit yielding to slight minerality. Sauvignon Blanc 2010 was fermented and aged in old oak. The result was an aroma with mineral and floral suggestions. The wine was smooth with sweet tropical nuances. The aftertaste was floral with honeysuckle. Trumpery's Mill Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2007 was a straw color. The aroma reminded one of floral and perfume essence. The taste was dry with green apple and pear notes.
Red Wines
Trumpour's Mill 2008 was a ruby Pinot Noir. The aroma had notes of minerals and red berries. The taste also had minerals with an emphasis on raspberries. The finish was crisp and fruity with mild tannins. The Pinot Noir Trumpour's Mill 2007 was ruby with a sienna hue. The aroma was of tart red fruit while the taste was smooth with mineral and red cherry notes. The finish with tannins offered fruit yielding to spice. Diana Block 2007 a Pinot Noir was a dark red. With red berry fruit on the aroma the taste was smooth and had mineral yielding to fruit. The finish had tannins with mineral and fruit nuances. Cabernet Franc 2007 was Super Premium with a dark red color. The wine was smooth and pungent with notes of black cherries. This dry wine had pepper on the finish. Cabernet 2008 Premium had light fruit notes on the aroma and dark fruit on the taste. The wine finished with tannins.
Events
Visit The Grange of PEC Vineyards and Estate Winery website to find occasional events to attend. Anyone looking to spend a day in the country will enjoy picnicking on the grounds within view of vineyards. Picnic lunches should be ordered at least 24 hours in advance. Selections include the Basic Picnic, Rustic Picnic and Gourmet Picnic. This may be a wonderful way to celebrate an anniversary or other special day in your life.
Private events can be scheduled at the winery. However, parties are scheduled after hours.
When planning a visit to The Grange of PEC Vineyards and Estate Winery, be sure to save time to enjoy the wines and the atmosphere.
The Grange of Prince Edward Vineyards and Estate Winery
990 Closson Road
Hillier, Ontario K0K 2J0
GPS: N43º 59.592’ W77º 24.749’
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