Early indications point to a great season ahead for Lennox and Addington’s two wine producers. Warm September days and cool nights make for a heartier grape, which is just what a wine maker wants to see. “It’s those thick skins on the small berries that give it that concentrated flavour, for reds especially,” said Bergeron Estates Winery and Cider Co. owner David Bergeron. “It could turn out to be a pretty good year.”

Harvesting of this year’s crop is a bit behind compared to last year due to the late spring. That didn’t stop Bergeron Estates and neighbouring winery 33 Vines from teaming up to host their third annual wine tasting event this past weekend.

Guests were treated to live entertainment, vineyard tours and of course, wine samples. The weekend was aimed at one of the region’s fastest growing industries.

Since opening its doors in 2007, Bergeron Estates’ biggest problem has been keeping up with demand for their product. “Last year we brought on the Cole Point Cider and we sold out in 90 days,” said Bergeron. “This year we doubled our product and it’ll be sold out in probably six months.”

Apples for the cider are grown just up the road from the vineyard at Spring Meadow Orchards.

That same buying local approach is taken for Nona’s Pizzeria, a newly opened restaurant located at Bergeron’s. Many of the ingredients for the Italian style pizza are produced by local farmers.

Bergeron organized the wine tasting event in partnership with 33 Vines, which is just up the road on Highway 33. By 2014 Bergeron hopes to add another vineyard to the event when the area’s third wine maker opens up shop near the Glenora Ferry. Unlike most businesses, in wine growing the more producers in the area, the better.

“When we have three (vineyards) over here, which will be in two or three years, then we’ll have a critical mass,” said Bergeron. “It’ll be more of a destination.”

With a third vineyard in the area wine connoisseurs from across the province would be more inclined to plan a day to tour the county. If wine sales and awards are any indication, it appears L&A county is well on its way to becoming a major hub for wine producing.

From: Grape things growing for L&A County wineries
By: Adam Prudhomme
The Napanee Beaver
September 22, 2011