3725 Dandy Road (County Road 12), Champlain
Open for the season. See vankleekhillvineyard.com for hours of operation.
Best vantage point: Dandy Road or County Road 12.
You are responsible for your own safety and security.
“We are both excited to meet everyone, to share good wine and good relationships that come from good collaborations! The Popsilos circuit is a great way to bring it all together.”
- Scott Lambert and Teresa Bressan, owners
Popsilos Mural: Kruk by Omen. Theme: Diversity.
OMEN chose to illustrate diversity through a representation of the ecosystem that has been created throughout the years : over 27 000 trees have been planted! This has fostered an ecosystem of its own that many birds (and other animals) call home, namely the raven. The leaves behind the raven are those of different trees on the property: elm, maple and oak. It takes trees of all sorts to create this healthy ecosystem, where crops thrive organically. There's a parallel to be drawn between what’s possible when you create a healthy environmental ecosystem and how Canadians strive to shape their country to foster diversity, where people live harmoniously.
Kruk means raven in Polish and Omen chose to name his work Kruk as it is significant to him, son of Polish immigrants. He also has a personal attachment to ravens.
Creativity, country-living and wine
Scott Lambert and Teresa Bressan were drawn to each other a little later in life and discovered they had the same passion for creativity, country living and wine. Since that fall day in 2013, they haven’t stopped exploring for a business opportunity to start together. It was a last-minute decision to visit the Vankleek Hill Vineyard in 2018 that brought them to want to make the vineyard theirs. Instantly, driving up the entrance, the breathtaking Popsilo struck them. Their entrepreneurial drive lead them to see the potential instantly. They truly believe in the transformative power of positivity and hard work. Their ability to elevate experiences, engage and inspire others seems to fit within the community-oriented town of Vankleek Hill, Ontario. The Vankleek Hill Vineyard is their windfall.
Today, the 55-acre property boasts over 27 000 mature trees, allowing a natural habitat for all wild life. It has walking trails and rest areas for an absolute oasis of relaxation or to host private events. It is also possible to walk through the six acres of colder climate vines such as Frontenac Noir (red) and Frontenac Gris (white). New varieties will be added in the near future to diversify their wine production. Scott and Teresa have a vision: an ambitious hand-crafted vineyard that brings families and the community together with great wine. They are excited to start their new adventure and future in the business of winemaking. They are working tirelessly to prepare the vineyard for their grand opening.
