Every winery is dependant on two key factors that contribute to its success. Firstly, the grapes used must be of the highest quality, produced from vineyards that have a terroir that reflects the unique character of the Niagara Peninsula, and thus provide a window through which to experience the soil and climate of the region. The next crucial element lies in the skills of the vintner, who through their experience, innovation and natural talent, can deliver the juice that becomes a wine which captures the essence of the region, while exhibiting the classic characteristics that have made the grape variety famous for centuries.

FOUNDER JIM WARREN

While teaching Latin and French at a Hamilton High School Jim received a home winemaking kit for Christmas in 1970 from his wife Charlotte – his first chance at making wine.  After winning his first entry at an amateur winemaking contest Jim drove to Niagara to source new hybrid and vinifera grapes and his fate was sealed.  Over the next several years Jim was named Ontario amateur Winemaking Champion and Canadian Amateur Champion three times.

In 1985 Jim and fellow wine club members Bryce Weylie who owned a farm in Vinemount decided to start a winery and the Stoney Ridge adventure began.  From the very beginning the wine impressed wine critics and writers and in short order Stoney Ridge became Canada’s most awarded winery.

In 1989 Stoney Ridge moved to a larger facility at Puddicombe Farms in Winona and grew rapidly, winning more awards in local and international competitions.  In 1997 Jim was selected Ontario Winemaker of the Year.  Shortly after the winery moved to Vineland and took on new partners allowing Jim to retire.

Over the last few years Jim has consulted at a number of Ontario wineries, revisiting his teaching roots at Niagara College Winery where he helped initiate the winemaking program and operated the winery for five years.

He founded and is Executive Director of Fruit Wines of Ontario and is currently President of the Ontario Viniculture Association where he acts as a critic and advocate, taking on issues facing the province’s grape and wine industry.

Now with the Founder’s Signature Collection and the Warren Classics series Jim has returned to Stoney Ridge to work with new winemaker Gord Robert in a collaborative effort to continue the tradition of excellence at Stoney Ridge as it plans for its 25^th Anniversary.