News & Views

Top wine features of 2024

December 30, 2024

What were the wine features that trended the most with our readers? Revisit some of our biggest stories of the past year

The past year in wine has been a celebration of resilience, innovation, and evolution. Across Canada and beyond, we’ve witnessed stories of heritage wineries finding new life, hybrid grapes stepping into the spotlight as climate challenges mount, and wine regions including Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Quebec continuing to redefine themselves on the global stage.

The past year also continued to showcase the creativity and dedication of winemakers and entrepreneurs, from the continuous reinvention of Ontario chardonnay and gamay as signature expressions to the inspiring tales of wine bar owners navigating the challenges of the industry. Meanwhile, unique experiences like the Napa Valley Wine Train captured the essence of wine as more than just a beverage.

Read Also: Top food and wine articles of 2024

Below, explore VineRoutes’ Top Wine Features of 2024, where we delve into these captivating stories and celebrate the passion driving the world of wine forward. Click on each headline to read the full features. And let’s get ready for 2025!

Gillian Marks, PhD.’s article offers a glimpse into the dreams, challenges, and decisions that shape these businesses.

So, you want to open a wine bar…

Through the lens of three wine bar owners, this feature examines the triumphs and trials of opening, sustaining, and, in some cases, closing a wine bar. Lynn and Gary McLean, owners of Napatini in Carlsbad, California, transformed a casual idea into a thriving family-run operation despite licensing hurdles, pandemic delays, and budget overruns. Their adaptability turned Napatini into a welcoming hub for wine lovers.

Michelle Velchek of La Costa Wine in La Costa, California, exemplifies the perseverance needed to sustain a wine bar, overcoming challenges like construction disruptions and pandemic pressures. Her personal touch and focus on creating an inclusive wine experience have built a loyal customer base.

The story of Casellula in Manhattan’s Hell’s Kitchen highlights the bittersweet reality of closing a beloved wine bar. Founded by Brian Keyser in 2007, it thrived for 15 years before pandemic-related challenges forced its closure in 2022. Together, these stories capture the passion, resilience, and uncertainty of turning a wine bar dream into reality.

Posted January 17, 2024

Nova Scotia’s unique microclimate, fertile soils, and Atlantic influences create ideal conditions for viticulture.

Top wineries (and more) to explore in Nova Scotia: A travel guide

Nova Scotia’s winemaking heritage dates back to 1611, with its first vineyard predating most of Canada’s by over 200 years. Today, the region thrives on innovation and quality, with Tidal Bay standing out as Nova Scotia’s appellation wine—a crisp, aromatic blend designed to pair perfectly with local seafood. Visitors are encouraged to explore the wineries and surrounding areas, dine at top restaurants, and enjoy curated tours. For a broader experience, a day trip to the historic town of Lunenburg or Peggy’s Cove complements the journey, offering maritime charm, local cuisine, and even more opportunities to enjoy Nova Scotia’s vibrant wine scene.

Posted August 1, 2024

Winery President and CEO Michael Leskovec shares the journey of revitalizing one of Prince Edward County’s most historic wineries.

The revival of The Grange of Prince Edward

The Grange of Prince Edward, a historic winery in Prince Edward County, Ontario, has undergone a remarkable revitalization since 2021 under new leadership. In this Q&A, CEO Michael Leskovec shares how the return of vineyard manager Mike Peddlesden and winemaker Jonas Newman has helped restore the vineyards and produce exceptional terroir-driven wines.

With the introduction of the Farmer’s Series to highlight local collaborations and a revamped culinary program led by Executive Chef Paul Tobias, The Grange is once again a must-visit destination winery. Blending history, quality, and innovation, it’s poised to reclaim its place as a leader in the County’s wine scene.

Posted September 23, 2024

Through continuous research within the vineyard, hybrids are becoming much more than something for wine snobs to snuff their noses at.

Are hybrid grapes Canada’s unsung hero? We think so.

Hybrid grapes are becoming essential in Canadian winemaking as vineyards face climate challenges like fires, frost, and floods. Known for their resilience, hybrids thrive in regions like Quebec, where they make up 80% of vines, and Nova Scotia, home to the cold-hardy L’Acadie blanc used in Tidal Bay wines.

Ontario’s Vidal and Baco noir also play key roles, excelling in Icewine and red blends. Once overlooked, hybrids are gaining recognition for their quality and sustainability, helping shape a resilient future for Canada’s wine industry.

Posted June 18, 2024

Discover luxury rail travel paired with world-class wines, gourmet dining, and breathtaking views through Napa Valley’s iconic vineyards.

All aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train experience

The Napa Valley Wine Train offers a luxurious and historic way to explore California’s wine country. This restored 19th-century passenger railroad combines vintage charm with modern comforts, featuring gourmet meals, Napa’s finest wines, and breathtaking vineyard views.

Themed experiences, such as The Legacy Tour and Blue Note Express, cater to diverse interests, while the onboard menu highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients under Executive Chef Rodrigo Cuadra. Guests can enjoy panoramic scenery from the Vista Dome Car or capture perfect photos from the open-air observation deck. The Wine Train is an unforgettable blend of elegance, history, and culinary excellence.

Posted September 19, 2024

With a stylistic shift towards vibrancy and terroir-driven expressions, this iconic grape is now the province’s defining white wine.

A cool-climate masterpiece: The renaissance of Ontario chardonnay

Ontario’s chardonnay has undergone a remarkable transformation, moving away from heavy, oak-driven styles to fresher, more mineral-focused wines. This shift, driven by a new generation of winemakers, emphasizes the unique terroir of the region, with a focus on acidity and clarity. The International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration (i4C) has played a pivotal role in showcasing the evolution of the grape. With growing experimentation in fermentation and aging techniques, Ontario chardonnay is now considered a world-class wine, offering dynamic and expressive wines that reflect the province’s cool climate.

Posted October 10, 2024

Dan Sullivan is down-to-earth and funny, but his vision for Rosehall Run and Prince Edward County is serious, and nothing short of inspiring.

A-list Artisans: Dan Sullivan and the rise of Rosehall Run

Dan Sullivan, founder of Rosehall Run, is a pioneer in Prince Edward County’s wine industry. Since planting some of the region’s first vinifera vines in 2000, he has helped establish the County as a globally respected wine region. A leader in sustainability and craftsmanship, Sullivan played a key role in securing the County’s DVA designation in 2007.

With a focus on mentoring future winemakers, Sullivan remains committed to crafting wines that reflect the land while advocating for greater support of local wines. Humble yet influential, he has left an indelible mark on Canadian wine history.

Posted November 14, 2024

Quebec’s winemakers are redefining what it means to produce quality wines in a northern climate.

An introduction to Quebec’s cool climate wine regions

Quebec’s wine industry is thriving, with over 160 wineries producing more than three million bottles annually. Though modern winemaking began in 1980, the province’s viticulture roots date back to 1535. Hybrids like Frontenac dominate, but Vitis vinifera varieties, including chardonnay and pinot noir, are growing in popularity.

Known for sparkling wines, Icewine, and natural winemaking, Quebec combines innovation with sustainability. Wineries like Vignoble de l’Orpailleur and Vignoble l’Ardennais offer unique experiences, showcasing the region’s diverse terroir and passionate winemakers. Quebec is carving a distinct place in the global wine scene.

Posted June 25, 2024

Gamay’s popularity among wine consumers, winemakers and grape growers is not really a recent development.

Gamay’s gambit: Discover the wine that’s making moves in Ontario

“If pinot noir is the king of wines, gamay Noir is the knight,” says Thomas Bachelder, reflecting gamay’s growing status in Ontario. Once a blending grape, it now thrives as a single varietal thanks to producers like Malivoire, Bachelder Wines, and 13th Street Winery. Ontario boasts the most gamay acreage outside Beaujolais, with its resilience to harsh winters and early ripening making it ideal for the region. Winemakers are embracing its versatility, crafting everything from sparkling wines to bold reds. Gamay’s fresh, juicy character and ability to showcase Niagara’s terroir solidify its place as a signature Ontario grape.

Posted May 8, 2024

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