Rockway Vineyards Featured in Business Link Magazine: The Hidden Gem of Niagara
Rockway Vineyards is known for its championship golf course, but the wine, food, and event space are quickly becoming the talk of the town. It truly is the hidden gem of Niagara.
If you haven’t already heard of Simone Ardiel, let us introduce you to Rockway’s newest, and most promising, Head Winemaker. Ardiel’s diverse winemaking experience has taken her around the world, but she has ultimately settled back home in Ontario where she was born and raised.
“After spending many years travelling abroad for work, as well as the years spent living in the Okanagan, I yearned to return to my family and friends,” said Ardiel.
Rockway Vineyards is nestled in one of the premium grape-growing regions of the world, Niagara’s Twenty-Mile Bench sub-appellation. Ardiel says she prefers the grape growing region of Southern Ontario, where cool-climate wines thrive.
“My vision for Rockway is to produce wines showcasing our great vineyard in the pursuit of excellence, and to further continue the evolution of quality in both the vineyard and winery,” she said.
Rockway’s new Patio 19, and restaurant Windows on Rockway, overlook an 18-hole championship golf course and vineyards. It is the only winery and golf course in Ontario, and one of only two such properties in all of Canada. This allows Rockway Vineyards to offer three unforgettable experiences in one unique destination. Wine. Dine. Golf.
Head Chef Matt McDowell is bringing his exquisite talents to Rockway’s kitchen with extraordinary new dishes that pair perfectly with Rockway’s wines.
“Many people know Rockway Vineyards as a place to golf and enjoy beautiful views, but we want people to know that we are also a destination for wine and culinary experiences, “said Ardiel. “We recently had a five-course winemaker’s dinner, featuring a different Rockway wine with each course. It was a great opportunity for our chef and sous-chef to showcase their talents.”
Rockway Vineyards excels in varietals best suited to their unique place of origin, with an emphasis on Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Syrah. The vast vineyard also includes a very small planting of Gewürztraminer, Vidal and, most recently as of spring 2021, Pinot Gris.
Many of the wines have won gold and silver medals at national and international wine competitions.
Events Manager, Kim Hamerton, is already gearing up for a busy year of weddings and private events in 2022. With more than 25 years of experience, she is looking forward to providing an exceptional experience for brides. Couples can find an enchanting space in Rockway’s Benchview Room, overlooking the Twenty-Mile Bench, to host their wedding receptions.
When you consider Rockway’s award winning wines, gourmet food, premium golfing, and beautiful event space, Rockway Vineyards really does offer something for everyone. It truly is the hidden gem of Niagara!