Do you love wine, food, and travel? Then you’re going to love
this episode!
I’m excited to welcome Sue-Ann Staff to Wine Behind the
Scenes. She is a seventh-generation farmer and fifth-generation
grape grower in the Niagara Peninsula. Sue-Ann loves making Icewine
and other wines, and she has some incredible stories to
share.
We talk about her journey from growing up on the family farm to
becoming one of Niagara’s most passionate advocates for local wine.
Sue-Ann doesn’t just make wine, she creates experiences. Whether
battling Mother Nature, perfecting food and wine pairings, or
travelling to places like Singapore and Germany to share her craft,
her dedication and love for winemaking are truly inspiring.
Join us for this fun and insightful conversation, and get
ready to see Niagara wines in a whole new light!
In this episode, you will be able to:
- Discover the unique world of Icewine-making and the excitement
of the Icewine Festival in Niagara, as Sue-Ann shares her passion
for this specialty wine.
- Learn about the challenges of winemaking, including the
importance of adapting to changing climate conditions.
- Explore the personal journey of Sue-Ann, a fifth-generation
grape grower, and her path to becoming a winemaker, including her
studies in Australia.
- Uncover the significance of community and collaboration among
wineries in the Niagara Benchlands and how they aim to change
perceptions about Ontario wines.
- Enjoy insightful food and wine pairing tips, including
unexpected combinations that elevate the tasting experience, such
as Icewine with savory dishes.
Sue-Ann Staff is a passionate winemaker and the driving force
behind Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, located in the picturesque
Niagara Benchlands of Ontario. As a seventh-generation farmer and
fifth-generation grape grower, Sue-Ann has deep roots in the
vineyard, where her love for winemaking began at an early age. With
a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Guelph University and a
graduate degree in winemaking from the University of Adelaide, she
has honed her craft in one of the world's most dynamic wine
regions.
Sue-Ann's expertise lies in producing high-quality Icewine and
a variety of other wines, including Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and
Baco Noir. Her commitment to showcasing the unique terroir of the
Niagara Peninsula is evident in her work with the Niagara
Benchlands Wineries, a collaborative group of 31 wineries dedicated
to promoting the region's exceptional wines.
In addition to her winemaking endeavours, Sue-Ann is an
engaging storyteller who loves to connect with wine enthusiasts
through tastings, events, and innovative online segments like
"Sizzling with Sass," where she pairs delicious food with her
wines. With a focus on quality, community, and the joy of sharing
wine, Sue-Ann invites everyone to experience the warmth and
hospitality of her winery, where every bottle tells a story.
When she's not in the vineyard or the cellar, you can find
Sue-Ann enjoying the great outdoors, skiing, or planning her next
international wine adventure. Follow her journey and discover the
magic of Niagara wines at
Sue-AnnStaff.com.
Contact Sue-Ann Staff here:
