Marynissen Estates, a remarkable winery, has a rich history that is deeply rooted in the fertile soil of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Not only does this extraordinary estate boast the oldest commercial planting of Cabernet Sauvignon in Canada, but it also carries a legacy of pioneering spirit and a passion for excellence in winemaking.
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A Vineyard Born of Vision and Resilience
The story of Marynissen Estates begins with John Marynissen, a visionary and viticulture pioneer. Ignoring the naysayers who doubted the viability of vinifera grapes in the Canadian climate, John bravely paved the way for a new era in Canadian winemaking. His successful cultivation of these classic European grape varieties proved that the microclimate of Niagara-on-the-Lake was ideal for producing exceptional wines.
The Founding of Marynissen Estates
The property, originally an old pig barn, was purchased by John Marynissen and his wife Adrianna in 1953. The couple soon began to grow their own grapes. However, it wasn’t until 1975 that they started planting vinifera varieties, which included Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Riesling, Merlot, and Gamay Noir. In 1978, the couple took a bold step and planted Cabernet Sauvignon.
John’s daring and persistence paid off. The thriving vineyard he established not only survived but flourished, producing wines of outstanding quality. John’s passing in 2009 was a great loss, but his vision for Marynissen Estates remains intact.
The Marynissen Legacy: A Commitment to Quality
The vineyard’s rich history was born out of a strong devotion to the land, pioneering spirit, and passion for excellence. The tradition of exceptional winemaking at Marynissen Estates is carried on by Mitchell McCurdy and his expert team.
Tasting The Fruits of Our Labour: Wine Sampling at Marynissen Estates
Visitors to Marynissen Estates are invited to taste the fruits of the vineyard’s labour. For just $17, guests can sample four different wines, each one a testament to the vineyard’s commitment to quality.
Marynissen Estates in the Present Day
At present, Marynissen Estates is a bustling hub of activity, opening its doors to wine enthusiasts daily from 10 AM to 6 PM. The estate offers a range of services, including wine tastings and sales by the glass.
Wine Subscriptions at Marynissen Estates
For those who wish to enjoy the outstanding wines of Marynissen Estates regularly, the vineyard offers carefully selected wine subscriptions. These curated packages are delivered every other month, providing subscribers with a steady supply of exceptional wines.
Events at Marynissen Estates
Marynissen Estates is more than just a vineyard; it’s also a vibrant community hub, hosting a variety of events throughout the year. From wine tastings to fundraisers, there’s always something exciting happening at Marynissen Estates.
Visiting Marynissen Estates
To experience the legacy of Marynissen Estates firsthand, visitors are welcome to drop by the estate at 1208 Concession 1 Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON L0S 1J0. The boutique and tasting room are open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.
Contacting Marynissen Estates
For inquiries, Marynissen Estates can be reached via email at [email protected].
Stay in Touch with Marynissen Estates
To keep abreast of all the latest news and events at Marynissen Estates, consider subscribing to the estate’s newsletter. By doing so, you’ll be the first to know about all the exciting developments at this exceptional winery.
The legacy of Marynissen Estates is rooted in a deep love for the land and a passion for winemaking. This commitment to excellence is evident in every bottle of wine the vineyard produces. From its humble beginnings as an old pig barn to its current standing as an esteemed winery, Marynissen Estates remains a testament to the vision and resilience of its founders.