Eatdrink #73 September/October 2018

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24 | September/October 2018 eatdrink.ca |@eatdrinkmag Wine Pioneers of “Huron Shores” Alton Farms Estate Winery in Lambton County by GARY KILLOPS Looking for a day trip close to home? Alton Farms Estate Winery, located at 5547 Aberarder Line, Plympton- Wyoming is just about an hour west of London. Marc Alton and Anne Kurtz- Alton, who own and operate the vineyard, recently celebrated the fifth anniversary of the winery. The Altons purchased the 90-acre property in 2005 and soon after planted a test acre of fifteen different varietals to see what they could grow best on the property. They proved wrong the naysayers who said it would be too cold for grapes to grow and for vines to survive the cold winters, and went on to became Lambton County’s first winery. Together with Dark Horse Estate Winery and Maelstrom Winery in neighboring Huron County an Ontario wine region is forming, unofficially called “Huron Shores”. “From the beginning we have always been committed to sustainability both in the vineyard and the winery,” Anne explains. “We try not to waste anything. We compost the pruned vines in the spring, and the grape skins and seeds after harvest. We also have a herd of Shetland sheep and 15 lambs who eat the ground cover between the rows of vine and fertilize the soil.” As is the case for most vineyards in southern Ontario, too much moisture from rain and humidity can be a concern. Marc, who is both the winemaker and vineyard manager, keeps a close watch on the climate and will only use the most sustainable products when there is a need to spray in the vineyard. A geo-engineer and marine geologist by profession, Marc is a self-taught winemaker and grape grower. He is learning, adapting, and challenging traditional winemaking practices and is willing to experiment with unusual blends that are both interesting and unique. In 2013 the winery opened to the public in a century-old wooden drive shed on the property. “It’s been a labour of love,” says Anne. “As our budget allows we look to make Anne Kurtz-Alton with some of the vital sheep at the Alton Farms vineyard
eatdrink: The Local Food & Drink Magazine September/October 2018 | 25 Taste the elements. 1709 Front Road, St. Williams, Norfolk County, ON Tastings, Tours & Events burningkilnwinery.ca 519.586.9858 @burningkilnwine
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Eatdrink #73 September/October 2018

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