Viewpointe Estate Winery
by
Meghan Neumeier
Photos by
Andy Neumeier
Summary: Viewpointe Estate Winery, a family-owned winery in Harrow, Ontario, was founded in 2006. The Fancsy family, with their love for the region and their interest in wine, decided to capitalize on the emerging wine industry in the Lake Erie North Shore region. Today, visitors can relax beside the water, enjoy food and wine on the outdoor seasonal patio, and sip quality wines. Visitors who like to try unique varieties will enjoy Viewpointe’s Auxerrois and Colchester Cuvée wines.
Viewpointe Estate Winery, located on the edge of Lake Erie in Harrow, Ontario, was established in 2006 by brothers John and Steve Fancsy as well as Jean Fancsy. The brothers’ love for the region and passion for the art of winemaking fueled their desire to start a winery in the Lake Erie North Shore region. The first vines were planted in 2000. Shortly afterwards, production began on the estate’s buildings, warehouse, and retail store. The design of the buildings was inspired by the Mettawas Hotel and Casino, built in the 1800s. Visitors to this historic hotel and casino enjoyed spending time by the water. John, Steve, and Jean wanted to create a similar travel destination by establishing Viewpointe Estate Winery. The winery opened for business in 2006.
Vineyards
Viewpointe Estate Winery is home to three vineyards, measuring a total of 60 acres. Each vineyard has a specific microclimate and specific soil qualities, which influences the grape varieties grown there. Among the grape varieties grown in the vineyards are Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Auxerrois, Chardonnay, and Gewürztraminer. Auxerrois is a grape that is typically used in Chardonnay blends. Viewpointe is unique in the area because it offers an Auxerrois varietal wine.The Fancsy family grows and tends the majority of grapes on property themselves.
Wines
Viewpointe Estate Winery produces 10,000 cases of wine a year. Popular wines include the Auxerrois and the Cabernet Sauvignon. The Auxerrois is the color of straw. Stone fruits can be detected on the nose, and a sweet, tropical taste delights the tastebuds. This wine is smooth and light and would be particularly enjoyable on a hot summer day. The Cabernet Sauvignon, ruby red in color, has an oaky scent and a berry-laden flavor. It is a full-bodied wine and contains tannins on the finish. In addition to the Auxerrois and the Cabernet Sauvignon, the Colchester Cuvée wine is notable because it was made from grapes developed especially for the Essex region. Viewpointe Winery won an award from the Premier of Ontario for helping to develop this grape. Another notable wine is the High Pointe Syrah. Ruby red in color, this wine features a smokey scent and a peppery taste. It is rich and full and contains tannins. The High Pointe Syrah won a bronze medal at the 2013 All Canadian Wine Championships.
Tasting Room
The tasting room at Viewpointe is large and open and is filled with sunlight. Beautiful views of Lake Erie are accessible from the many windows gracing the area. Bright colors help make the atmosphere one of peace and tranquility. A small gift shop inside the tasting room offers etched wine glasses, Riedel wine decanters, corkscrews, wine stoppers, and gift bags. Outside, a patio affords visitors many scenic views of the lake. The patio contains tent-covered tables and chairs, where guests can enjoy wine and food. The patio is open seasonally.
Viewpointe holds many different types of events, including weddings, parties, and corporate events. Viewpointe is also home to a culinary center, where patio food is prepared and where winter and fall culinary classes are held. In addition, Viewpointe features lives music and Friday night dinners on the patio in the summer. Whether visitors are looking for a delightful glass of wine, tasty food, or scenic waterside views, they will be sure to discover an enjoyable travel destination at Viewpointe.
Viewpointe Estate Winery
151 County Road 50 E
Harrow, Ontario N0R 1G0, Canada
Article written August 2013
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