VQA Ontario gathered a small group of wine writers from across Canada for an exploration of sub-appellations within the Niagara Peninsula. The group was accompanied by VQA officials and faculty from Brock University who provided in-depth technical resources and discussed academic research in progress to study sensory differences between appellations. Highlights of the tour included visits to vineyards in Niagara River, St. David's Bench and Twenty Mile Bench along with wine tastings led by senior winemakers. The tour highlighted the physical differences between the sub-appellations, discussed the impact of terroir and growing conditions on wine, and engaged participants in a wide ranging discussion about the relationship between appellation of origin and specific wine characteristics. |