The 2008 grape harvest

No need to go to France, Australia or Chili to experience the grape harvest. Did you know that here in Quebec, more specifically in the magnificent Brome-Missisquoi region, 16 vineyards of the Wine Route will be harvesting the fruits of their vines from mid-September to mid-October?

Some of these wineries have included the grape harvest in their events calendars. On September 20, 27, October 4 and 11 (reservations required: 450-266-2149), the vignoble de la Bauge will be offering budding winegrowers the unique opportunity to take part in all of the steps in the creation of a new vintage. They will be able to experience the grape harvest, sorting and pressing the grapes, and the application of the yeast that will ferment the fresh juice into wine. Next year they will be invited to pick up their bottle, labeled with their name.

As for the vignoble Les Diurnes (450-263-1526), it will show the grape harvest using a unique harvesting machine. As well a tasting of wines, cheeses and regional products will be held during the Thanksgiving weekend.

At the vignoble de l’Orpailleur (450-295-2763) a small country market will be set up on site throughout September, offering the fruits of the harvest of the surrounding farmers and fine regional products. The guided hourly visits will intensify the experience and wine tastings will be held outside.

Why not take advantage of your visit to the region to visit the vignoble du Domaine des Côtes d’Ardoise (450-295-2020), which is presenting a sculpture exhibition of international caliber along the paths that crisscross the vineyard? On site you can taste wines accompanied by a regional cheese.

The first and only marked wine route in Quebec was created in 2003 in the wine region of Brome-Missisquoi. Sixteen wineries identified along 140 kilometres of roads are happy and proud to have visitors taste the fruits of their labours. Behind the numerous signs along the road tasty stops can be found in the heart of the vineyards: Tastings, guided tours, country picnics. A region of multiple flavours and landscapes to be experienced more than once…