Norman Hardie Winery, Wellington, ON

In Prince Edward County, my passion for fine wine is put to the ultimate test. I have chosen select sites in Prince Edward County and Niagara with a magical combination of clay and limestone. In my early twenties I earned my sommelier certification from the esteemed wine program at the University of Dijon in Burgundy and then put my skills to work as a sommelier for Four Seasons Hotels for seven years. In 1996 I traded in my Hugo Boss and Armani suits for farm clothes, work boots and a backpack. My insatiable thirst to master the art of winemaking led me on a six year journey apprenticing for the very best producers/winemakers of cool climate varieties in Burgundy, South Africa, Oregon, New Zealand and California. In 2003 I put roots down in Prince Edward County by planting 12, 000 Pinot Noir vines and in 2004 planted an additional 3, 000 Chardonnay and 2, 000 Pinot Gris vines.