Our History
Our History
celebrate the old times
It all started back in 1988, when a farmer named Peter Warkentin had a dream to build a golf course. Warkentin teamed up with businessman Bruce Strongman and Rockway Glen Ltd. was incorporated on May 26th, 1989.
The Rockway Vineyards golf course officially opened in 1991.
Over time, the golf course changed direction from an equity membership course to the semi-private facility it is today.
In 2001, Rockway's humble foray into winemaking began.
Once the land and vineyard became available, Rockway Winery began. Our first vintage was 2001 with wine made for us under the Rockway Vineyards label by Reif Winery.
With the golf course and vineyard in place, the next step in Rockway's story was to build the
winery. After purchasing farmland of approximately 50 acres for our current wine building, the Rockway Vineyards winery became real.
Jeff Innes was hired as Rockway’s first official winemaker in 2005. That's when the owners purchased 50 acres of farmland and Rockway Glen Estate Winery was established.
In 2010, a young winemaker by the name of David Stasiuk brought his expertise to Rockway Vineyards, producing premium wines that captured several awards, including the prestigious Lieutenant Governor’s Award For Excellence In Ontario Wines, for our 2012 Small Lot Syrah.
Into the Future
Fast forward to today, and Rockway Vineyards is proud to have the very talented head winemaker, Simone Ardiel, leading us into the future.
When you consider Rockway’s award winning wines, gourmet food, premium golfing, and beautiful event space, Rockway Vineyards offers something for everyone. It truly is the hidden gem of Niagara!
