Carolyn Hurst and Grant Westcott are a big part of the Niagara region’s future. Their story is one that many dream of, made real by a lifetime of hard work. Carolyn grew up in Fonthill, less than 20 km away from Westcott Vineyards in Jordan where they’ve created a family business.
“We’re a reverse brain drain couple returning to the area and living the dream,” says Carolyn. “It’s also very much a family business, our daughter Victoria our events and social coordinator and our son Garrett is vineyard manager and assistant winemaker.”
Since buying land in 2006, and moving to Jordan from Toronto in 2008 the couple has received tremendous support that has allowed that dream to continue to grow. Westcott Vineyards first vintage was in 2012, the winery building, constructed from a 200-yearold reclaimed timber-fame barn, started in fall of 2013.
“It’s a complicated industry filled with passionate people,” says Carolyn. “We’ve had some great support from some great people.”
Today, the winery makes small quantities of premium hand crafted wines with a focus on Burgundian Cool Climate Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Sparkling wines using sustainable viticulture practices. Westcott Vineyards have already won international awards for their wines including 16 medals this year alone.
As part of Niagara’s business sector, the Jordan area is a very distinct rural setting that’s only one hour from downtown Toronto. On site there’s the Westcott tasting room where a member of the Westcott family or a winemaking or viticulture student is happy to discuss all aspects of wine making – or you can simply enjoy a fine glass of wine in a beautiful space. The hands on owners offer an intimate and relaxing atmosphere for smaller scale special functions; weddings throughout the year; and Fireside Fridays – unique seasonal food events with great visiting chefs.
To learn more and make plans, call us at 905-562-7517 or visit westcottvineyards.com today.
