Kingston Royal Rugs O'Hara Mill Homestead Abstract Art Part II The Art of Food and Wine Pairing
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FALL 2019
Prince Edward County Durham I Hastings I Kanata I Kingston I Northumberland I Peterborough I Quinte
Celebrates 10 Years
Kingston Royal Rugs
O’Hara Mill Homestead
Abstract Art Part II
The Art of Food and Wine Pairing
Complimentary
Showroom Dream -Design - Renovate - Enjoy
FALL 2019
www.grapevinemagazine.ca
Prince Edward County Durham I Hastings I Kanata I Kingston I Northumberland I Peterborough I Quinte
@GrapevineMag
PUBLISHER Tracey C. Keary
facebook.com/grapevinemag
EDITOR/IMAGINEER Jeff Keary
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Natalie Piper
Grapevine Magazine is published quarterly by Grapevine Magazine.
Opinions expressed are those of the writer(s)and do not reflect the
PRODUCTION EDITOR Hri Neil opinions of Grapevine Magazine, its editor or publisher. No part of
this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent.
COPY EDITOR Kate Gordon
ADVERTISING
SOCIAL MEDIA Alexander Keary tracey@grapevinemagazine.ca • Ph 613.243.0079
Durham region, contact: lisa@grapevinemagazine.ca
ACCOUNTS EXECUTIVE Lisa Mele Ph: 905.626.2370
DISTRIBUTION
jeff@grapevinemagazine.ca
CONTACT
Office 613.480.5368
Toll Free 1.855.550.1685
MASONIC TEMPLE HALL
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 1
Gallery in Warkworth to report on a transition
in the world of antiques.
contents & ad index
FROM Konrad Ejbich chides the LCBO
THE EDITOR re their recent computer generated melt Fall 2019
down. Hopefully this will be resolved before
Thanksgiving, and Michael Pinkus visits
Lighthall, Broken Stone and TerraCello art
wineries in extended interviews. Priya Rao
talks to sommelier Jennifer Huether for
M
y last note ended with a plea for Kingston Royal Rugs 6
sunshine and it seems the powers advice on food and wine pairings and is given Winker's Nook 16
that be heard my request. Now is it a vegan recipe for Shepard’s Pie. Sandor
Johnson previews the Judgement of Kingston Considering Abstract Art Part II 30
too much to ask for some long sunny spells
as we slowly slide into fall? where County wines will compete with those Meet the Makers 38
Welcome to our ripe fall issue which of New Zealand. Art Seen 48
is bursting at the seams with all manner of Meet the Makers features the The Kingston Portrait Prize 68
good things. We have a full harvest of recipes, creative couple Mitchell Elliot and Dale Evans,
two from Anna Olson, one from Seasons in he a metal worker and Dale a seamstress, culture
Napanee, which graces the front page, and whose talents combine in Napanee’s Simply
another from Alexander Ojan. Angela Hawn Elegant.
shares a recipe for a very special birthday cake I thought we might dip a toe into A Visit to Simply Eclectic 12
and Josie Newman has been on her bike to the political arena, inviting John Arkelian, Canning, Freezing, Dehydrating 20
have lunch at the Pastry Peddler and acquired a former member of Canada’s diplomatic O'Hara Mill Homestead 26
their Squash and Coconut soup recipe. Lindy service to address the stand off between Bowen Therapy 40
Mechefske delivers an encyclopaedic survey Canada and China. Is a local magazine Grandma's Cake 42
of sources of good local foods in and around inevitably parochial, or does it have a role
in the wider context? Please pass on your
On the World Stage 64
Kingston and beyond. Herma’s continue to
show us how to entertain in fall with style. thoughts. Great Reads 74
Welcome to new contributor In the visual arts Hri Neil discusses Love it or List it 76
Sam Lamont who will be focusing on the Kingston Portrait Prize, Canada’s leading Last Bite 80
interior design. Sam gets off to a good start portrait painting competition coming up in
administering a serious kick in the pants to
complacent design choices, encouraging a
Gananoque and reports on further artistic
developments in The County, and I continue
food
more adventurous approach, especially to my humble efforts to explain abstract art to
non believers. From Seasons Fine Food Napanee 21
Aunt Tillie’s cast off furniture. Caroline Williams
has been busy visiting Simply Eclectic near Now I need to make a start on Roast Butternut Squash Risotto 21
Deseronto and Winker’s Nook and the Nook bringing in the winter wood. Apologies for Millbrook's Café Society 24
mentioning the ‘w’ word. E
Jeff Herma’s Feature
Mark Reynolds The Tale of
44
contributors Uncle Chester's Hot Sauce
Local Foods Kingston and Beyond
Lucky Birthday Breaskfast Eats
Anna's Kitchen
46
58
60
70
Konrad Ejbich Anna Olson Josie Newman
wine
Privatization Talk Heats Up 18
On Being Judgemental 28
Michael Pinkus Interviews 50
Lillie Normille Marcia Masino Priya Rao Mastering the Art of Wine
and Food Pairing 54
special features
Angela Hawn
Michael Pinkus Lindy Mechefske
Belleville 4
Warkworth 14
Bloomfield 22
Quinte West 35
Hri Neil Port Hope 56
Sharon Harrison
Bowmanville 62
2 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019
Acoustic Grill 38 Belleville Special Feature 4/5
Apt One 13 Belleville City Hall
Batawa Lofts 73 Bourbon and Bean Handshake Society
Besties Pet Spa & Cuisine 67 Glanmore House
Cahill's Outerwear Specialists 67 Ideal Bike
Carbon Art and Design 47 Kate's Kitchen
Carson's Garden + Market 20 The 116 Bistro
Casa Dea 29 The Lark
Cellar Door 66
Ceremonies by Lisa 33 Bloomfield Special Feature 22/23
Closson Chase 53 Flame + Smith
Colborne Art Gallery 33 Garb
Cooney Farms 72 Green Gables
County Fireplace 19 Guildworks
County FM 67 Kinsip Distillery
Cumberland Wealth 11 Nap N Nosh
Deerhaven 8 Pedego Electric Bikes
Downtown Brighton 13 Prinzen Ford
Dragonfly 13
EC Awnings 66 Bowmanville Special Feature 63
ExecuTrans 51 Bowmanville BDIA
G. Boyd Boutique 13 Brown & Co
Gliding Shelf Solutions 34 Clarrington Tourism
Goods' Garden Cat Resort 13 Glass Slipper
Greater Napanee 34 Hoopers Jewellers
Herrington's 3 Scrub'n
Haute Goat Farm 33 Star Apples
Herma's 45 Tyrone Mills Ltd.
Huff Estates Winery 52/53
Innovative Interiors 47 Port Hope Special Feature 56/57
James Reid 47 Acanthus Interiors
Judgement of Kingston 28 Bosley Real Estate
Kingsbridge Retirement Community 43 Dwellissimo
Kingston Market 47 Inuit Fine Art
Kingston Portrait Prize 69 Sugar Dust Bakery
Kingston Royal Rugs 1 The Social Bar + Table
Lamont Lifesylie Interiors 8 Thrill of the Find
Luke's for Home 9
Maker's Hand 33 Quinte West Special Feature 35/36/37
Meta4 Gallery 9 Eyes N Optics
Mindful Movements Studio 72 Hollandale Landscaping
Montrose Inn 72 iDesigns Optical
Municipality of Brighton 13 Off the Hook
Northumberland Heights Wellness Old Bank Cafe
Retreat and Spa 75 Quinte Art and Custom Frame
Ontario Agri-Food Venture Centre 46 Quinte West
PEC Foods 19 The ArtiZen Cafe
Picton Public Library 34 Trent Port Marina
Quinn’s of Tweed 10 Vivacious
Sage Design and Construction 77 Wish Home Accents
Savon Du Bois 41
SideStreet Gallery 33 Warkworth Special Feature 14/15
Simply Eclectic 33 Centre & Main
Simply Elegant 34 Frantic Farms
Soul Stone 77 Metaphorhome
Studio 22 32 Orchard Hill
Taylors Country Store 25 The Village Pantry
The Loft 9 Warkworth Golf Club
The Shoe Store 13 Winker’s Nook
The Robert McLaughlin Gallery 33
Tuggs Furniture Gallery 9 Real Estate 78/79
Waring House 50 Elizabeth Crombie
Wellings of Pcton 17 Keller Williams Energy Real Estate
Wentworth 8 Foreman Davis Group
With All My Art 33 Homelife Realty One
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 3
special feature
Be a part of it Isn’t it time you rediscovered downtown Belleville?
C
ontributing to the continental will help to reduce our plastic consumption “grab and go” menu.
atmosphere of downtown Belleville and minimize recycling. Shop at Kate’s
is the new patio experience at Earl Kitchen and help our planet. In the heart of downtown Belleville since
& Angelo’s, complementing those of The 2011, Ideal Bike has been fully committed to
Lark and Capers. Alfresco dining can also The Lark Food and Drink features award keeping you riding your bike all year round.
be enjoyed at Bourbon & Bean, Auberge winning cocktails and the largest natural/ Ideal Bike has helped cyclists of all levels find
de France and Chilango’s. Things are biodynamic/organic wine list in Quinte, and maintain their ideal ride. A wide range
happening on Front Street. One such curated by Certified Sommelier Alex of tools, parts, helmets, racks, baskets and
development is the recently introduced Bruce. Rising star, Chef Emily Southwind’s tube repair kits are available to keep you
Trolley Bus operating on Friday evening seasonally driven menu is ideal for sharing. going. Not only does Ideal Bike sell bicycles,
and over the weekend. Come downtown An intimate and elegant space with they also service them and have a range of
for drinks, dinner and entertainment…and knowledgeable staff makes this an essential skate boards and scooters.
be taken back to your hotel. And it’s free! spot for visitors. Reservations at thelark.ca
Porchfest is coming soon and look out for The Bourbon & Bean Hand Shake Society is a
The After Party, a tapas menu being prepared The vision for The 116 Bistro in Pinnacle café by day and Whiskey Bar by night. Front
to encourage visitors to enjoy music and Street is to provide quality, beautiful food of house are brother and sister team, Cara
nibbles at differing locations. made fresh in-house day. Take your pick and Shane. The menu comprises intriguingly
from fresh coffee, homemade soup, fresh named cocktails (aka Giggle Water), and light
New for the season at Kate’s Kitchen is a baked tea biscuits, cheesecakes, salads and meals. Bourbon and Bean regularly supports
range of eco-friendly products addressing sandwiches. Tempted? And there’s also live music. If you’re looking for ‘good coffee
the issue of the excessive use of plastics in free wi fi, if you must keep in touch with the and better whiskey,’ you will find it here. E
the home. Products such as bee’s wax wraps office. For those in a rush, check out the
downtownbelleville.ca
OPEN YEAR-ROUND
TUESDAY TO SUNDAY
257 B RIDGE S TREET E AST , SEPTEMBER TO MAY: 1 PM-4:30 PM
B ELLEVILLE , ON JUNE TO AUGUST: 10 AM—4:30 PM
613-962-2329
-TripAdvisor Review
4 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019
special feature Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 5
art
F
or a chosen few, finding a career, one
that can be described as anything
but work, must be celebrated as an
achievement. Having been immersed in
a craft, a culture, and a lifestyle that comes
from a place of tradition doesn’t happen to
many in a lifetime, and it doesn’t happen by
accident. David Bakhshi acknowledges the
opportunities that present themselves daily,
knowing he was put here to fulfill a passion,
a commitment and so much more.
You might say rugs and carpets are in his DNA; the very juice running through
his veins, he lives and breathes a profession of which he is immensely proud,
and one that has never wavered over time. Not only is every client important,
but every transaction must be completed with the upmost care and
understanding; treating each and every one of his customers–past, present
and future–as if they were his own kin. Call him old fashioned, diligent or
any number of adjectives, all of which accurately depict this gentleman and
the traditional values of his craft, but look beyond and there is a charm, a
dedication and genuine loyalty. It doesn’t happen by chance; a lifetime of
building a clientele, getting to know people, building trust, providing them
with what they need, ensures the business is built upon a solid foundation,
where customers become returning friends.
“I am fascinated by the history and geography of where they are made,
how they are made, and after so many years, maybe hundreds of
years, still the rugs are surviving and people are enjoying them,” said
Bakhshi, who refers to the rugs as “art on the floor”. As the
founder and owner of Kingston Royal Rugs on Kingston’s
Princess Street, David Bakhshi, the face and the heart of the
business, has a long-standing reputation. Serving Kingston
for eighteen years, the last few from a charming 1890s
heritage storefront building, his love for antique
rugs and their preservation runs deep.
With two more locations in Toronto, he
imports and sells a wide selection of Oriental
rugs to Canadians, within Ontario and beyond;
he is the only business covering an area from
Niagara-on-the-Lake to Brockville, reaching north
and south. The Mount Pleasant location deals with
antique and rare pieces, some a hundred years old,
art
others three or even four hundred years than making a new carpet. “With
old. “It looks like a museum; they are restoration, you have to exactly follow
spectacular quality, one-of-a kind pieces the steps of how they made it a hundred
you won’t see anything like it in Canada years ago, two hundred years ago, or
or North America, it’s phenomenal,” he even three hundred years ago, whatever
says. His clientele comprises collectors, they may be.”
and institutions and organizations, such
as the Art Gallery of Ontario, the City of Working with the rugs, whether it’s
Toronto, and several museums. restoring, repairing, cleaning or buying,
the process gives him a sense of purpose,
Restoring old and antique rugs means the a sense of place, a sense of history, and
textiles can live on, sometimes with the is where his heart lies, but he notes that
same family, perhaps in a different home, you have to love it. “Your heart has to be
for another three or four generations. in it; if your heart is not in it, you won’t
While restoration and repair are a big get what you want.” For Bakhshi, an
part of what Bakhshi does, his business immigrant from Iran, he speaks fondly
also involves appraising and selling of Canada, the country he has proudly
rugs, carpets, and textiles, each of which called home for a quarter of a century.
is hand-picked by the master, where His profession means love, passion, and
perhaps as many as twenty thousand pleasure all coming together in one
have passed through his hands in his place, where he bonds with each piece
lifetime. “I have done so many special he handles. “I go out of my way to give
restoration pieces in different places and a boost to the person who made it and
countries, including Rome, Italy and for is no longer in this life,” he says. Bakhshi
a collector in France.” he adds. “There immediately connects to the soul of the
have been spectacular and magnificent
rug maker to feel and experience the full
pieces, very unique tapestries, rare
flavour of each creation.
pieces, and I have done many jobs for
high-end dealers and collectors.”
Having spent a lifetime working at a
profession he refers to as a hobby, as a
“A rug has to speak to me before I
fourth generation family business, having
purchase it, and each one is individual
mastered his trade since he was twelve
and one-of-a-kind,” Bakhshi explains
Working with the years-old, Bakhshi will tell you it’s in his
that each rug is “unique in its design, and
blood. “I haven’t done anything else in
rugs, whether it’s colour palette; it has the history, and an
my life other than carpets,” he says, “I don’t
identification of the tribe, or the country
restoring, repairing, or the city where it was created.” He know what any other job feels like as
cleaning or buying, has the skill and experience to look at a that’s all I know.” His work encompasses
rug and identify the country, the region cleaning, restoration, repair, appraisals,
the process gives him dyeing wools, designing, and buying
and often the maker from the way the
a sense of purpose, wool has been dyed or by the choice and selling. “It gives me joy, pleasure,
energy when you look at the rug, and I
a sense of place, a of colours used, which can be specific
look at it as representing the soul of the
to a certain family, or the clue may lay
sense of history, and in the materials used, or the design and person who made it and it sticks with
is where his heart lies, technique. “The rug is an identification me.” He feels good energy in the pieces,
of the family; how they made it, and recognizing their beauty and senses a
but he notes that you communication with the rugs. “Every
you can basically tell from the quality
have to love it. and the design and the technique how house I go to, if there are handmade
they were making it,” said Bakhshi. “It rugs, it’s like I am having a family friend in
is like a signature, the signature of the this house and I am communicating with
family.” Rugs are imported from Iran the carpet.” E
and Afghanistan, Pakistan and India,
Turkey and Morocco, and occasionally Kingston Royal Rugs
China. Interestingly, he explains how 214 Princess Street, Kingston, ON
rug restoration is a more difficult process 613.531.8222 • royalantiquerugs.ca
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 7
lamont lifestyle interiors
...there's no place like home.
sam lamont
professional interior design / decor
647-881-7009
lamontlifestyle@gmail.com
instagram: lamontlifestyle
From simply advice to whole home. As much, or as little as you need...
8 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019September 29
Les AMIS Concert
Postcards, Old and New
J.S. Bach, Biber, Lutoslawski, Ravel
and Bartok $30 - 3 PM
October 31
John Wort Hannam
Alberta-based, lyrically-driven
roots music $25 - 7:30 PM
November 3
Nicole Lisa Craig Trio, with David
Henman and Tom Nagy
‘Dragon & Phoenix' $25 - 3 PM
November 10
Les AMIS Concert
Franz Schubert: Sonata for flute;
Felix Mendelssohn: Trio; Michael
Pepa: Gusle for Solo Cello
$30 - 3 PM
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 9Global Investing in an
Environment with Trade
Wars, Negative Interest Rates
and Geopolitical Unrest
To learn more please
contact Jason and please
visit: cumberlandpat.com
Jason Trueman CFA
Portfolio Manager
In March 2018, Cumberland Private Wealth Management Inc.
completed our merger with Perron & Partners Wealth Management
out of Calgary and NCM Investments bringing our total assets for
successful Canadian families to over $3.5 billion. With the merger
came an award winning investment manager: Craig Millar, who
specializes in global equities.
A
s a Global Investment Manager, growth prospects, strong brands,
you have significant ground to high margins and profitability, strong
cover. It takes time and effort cash generation, earnings stability,
to stay on top of regional operating efficiency, high barriers to
economies, trade disputes, entry, and lower share price volatility.
negative interest rates and This investment approach and style
geopolitical unrest but you do have one big allows you to invest in the ‘best of
advantage: you can choose the very best the best’ business opportunities on a
investment alternatives available around global basis, and these businesses very
the entire globe, without the constraints of often have the ability to compound
geographic boundaries or industries like the your money over time.”
majority of investment managers have.
With high quality investment portfolios,
Here are some investing words of wisdom Craig Millar and the team at Cumberland
The Quinn’s of Tweed building is from one of Canada’s seasoned investment Private Wealth believe that short term market
one of the town’s oldest and most managers, Craig Millar: corrections can be viewed as an “opportunity
beautiful historic stone structures,
dating back to the 1880s for the future, rather than a threat.”
“With trade wars, Brexit, falling bond
• Quinn’s presents the recent work yields and recent market volatility, Blending disciplined investing in high quality,
of Canada’s finest artists and artisans investors have lots to worry about. dominant companies carefully selected by a
• Over 6,000 sq.ft. of gallery space
During times of stress, it is always leading investment manager with a uniquely
• Paintings, photographs, artisanal
helpful to focus on the fundamentals.” tailored holistic wealth management plan
works and fine gifts from our
represented contemporary artists including financial, tax and estate planning
• Art consultations, art restorations, “Emphasizing high quality companies by a team of experienced professionals,
as well as professional framing and at attractive valuations is essential. makes managing your financial affairs much
mounting Quality businesses tend to have strong easier. E
Quinn’s Of Tweed
345 Victoria Street North, Tweed On K0K 3J0 When seeking a wealth manager best suited for you, consider more than
613-478-0000 QuinnsOfTweed.ca just past investment returns, and look to the additional skills, expertise and
Open 7 Days a Week 10am - 5pm fiduciary duties your advisor will bring to your long-term financial success.
10 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019With age came wisdom
and the understanding
that one should focus on what’s valuable
and worry not about one’s wealth
Go Far. Together.
Partner with us by visiting
cumberlandprivatewealth.com
or call 1 613 929 1090
Cumberland Private Wealth Management Inc.
218 King St. East, Kingston, ON, Canada, K7L 3A6culture
A VISIT TO
Follow the long winding track at 4549
Blessington Road as it rises through
adjacent fields. Turn left at the top and
you will find an old red barn. This is the
location of Simply Eclectic, the passion
project of Diana Desnoo. These days the
word eclectic pops up everywhere and is
much over used, but here it is fully justified.
Within the barn, serenely illuminated by
shafts of sunlight is a vast collection of
memorabilia, mementoes and collectibles:
a veritable feast for nostalgia buffs. Almost
big enough to get lost in, the barn
positively teems with carefully composed
beautifully colour themed displays that, in
their own right, deserve admiration.
Days of yore burst into life as one’s eye
meanders around the merchandise
remembering articles and items from
childhood or childhood visits to one’s
grandparents. It is perhaps only in the
living presence of history one realizes how
much one has totally forgotten. Simply
Eclectic, offers a trip down Memory Lane
for all and certainly lives up to its name.
Check it out and see if nostalgia is what it
used to be. Simply Eclectic will be open
from 10 to 4 pm every Saturday and
Sunday during November, after that Diana
will not be open again till Mother’s Day
and Victoria Day weekends. To keep things
simple all transactions are cash only.
By Caroline Williams
4595 Blessington Road, Deseronto, Ontario
12 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019
613.885.47231332 Morganston Road, 905.355.3090
Castleton, K0K 1M0
905.355.3090
www.catboardingresort.com 613.481.6117
TAKE A
CLOSER
LOOK
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 13special feature
Warkworth permanent resident. You do not want to
miss this event.
without a visit to metaphorhome’s designer
collection of accessories and furnishings and
Village Pantry can provide everything for
Orchard Hills Country Townhomes will your new kitchen and an excellent selection
Falling for Warkworth make the move to Warkworth a whole lot of artisanal cheeses. Winker’s Nook and
easier with homes available from early next the Nook Gallery now offer bespoke hand
year. What could be better? Warkworth’s painted antique furniture perfect for your
W
arkworth’s seductive mix of history
and bespoke retailers has been distinctly different retailers conveniently home. Frantic Farms is a haven of the hand
attracting visitors for many years. on the doorstep and a golf course just over made with uniquely hand blown glass and
Some stay for a few hours, some for days or the way. Work off a post Centre & Main ceramics for everyday use and decorative
weeks and some just move right in. Indeed chocolate indulgence at Warkworth Golf purposes. E
many of the current business owners who Club. Your new home will be incomplete
have brought their energy and talents to
Warkworth hail from bigger cities and this is
responsible for creating such a cosmopolitan
atmosphere in the Northumberland Hills
countryside.
A crucial element of Warkworth’s enduring
charm is the Ah! Centre and its frequently
changing series of art and heritage themed
exhibitions. The next show will be Jessica
Hein running from 20 September. A further
date for everyone’s diaries is 16 November
when the Ah! Centre presents its annual
fundraiser hosted by Wakworth’s own Jeanne
Beker, yet another visitor who became a
14 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019special feature
You won’t leave empty handed!
ARTISANAL CHEESES
KITCHENWARE • GOURMET GOODS
613.921.2604
thevillagepantry.ca
27 Main Street, Warkworth, ON KoK 3K0
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 15art
Winker’s Nook
Adventures in Wood in Warkworth
Winker’s Nook and the Nook Gallery
Found on Main Street Warkworth, Winker's
Nook and The Nook Gallery are owned by
Lana Turner and her husband Gordon Mills.
Lana runs the businesses with the help of a
dedicated band of employees.
By Caroline Williams
C
ollecting furniture has
been the couple’s joint
passion for over twenty
five years to such an extent that
buying beautiful furniture has
often replaced taking a vacation.
With an eye to future possibilities,
they try and acquire pieces
that will work with a variety
of decorating styles. A love of
wood and solid construction fuels
their appetite, be it pine, maple,
cherry, butternut, mahogany
or black walnut, it must be
well made. Pieces attracting
their interest may not necessarily
be ‘antiques,’ by the official
definition, (which is over one hundred years or the bonfire can be given the opportunity to the client’s requirements and therefore
old), as they place greater value on the quality to provide useful service for another fitting perfectly with their décor.
of design and craftsmanship rather than hundred years or even longer. Compare
obsessing over the precise vintage. that to big box store flat pack alternatives. In the near future lessons will be offered on
Using a Canadian made voc free clay based an individual and group basis, and patrons
paint which is virtually odourless allows will have the opportunity to work on their
With baby boomers downsizing there is a
Lana and her staff to carry out all the painting own piece in a sympathetic environment
large quantity of antique wood furniture
in the store: you can actually see your with help and encouragement available if
available now but unfortunately the
piece progress stage by stage to the final and when needed.
traditional market has shrunk. The market finished product. All the work is carried
is changing and therefore Lana and out entirely by hand. Depending on the Drop in to Winker’s Nook and the Nook
Gordon’s business is responding to these technique employed and the finish required, Gallery in Main Street, Warkworth and
developments by switching focus a little at least two coats of paint are applied and explore Lana’s love of wood in action. Enjoy a
and moving into refinishing and hand often several more, then it may be sealed warm atmosphere and the authentic charm
painting furniture. with a tinted or natural wax which will of Lana and Gordon’s beautiful collection
sharpen up the details, or varnished with a of antiques, pre-loved and refinished
The business is eco-friendly. Refinishing fine water based top coat for further protection. furniture, one of a kind country home
furniture to appeal to a younger market is a The outcome is a fully functional well made and cottage décor that will add character
pretty cool form of recycling: quality pieces charming piece of furniture that could easily to any home. E
that might otherwise end up in the landfill last another lifetime, specifically painted winkersnook.com
16 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019FLEXIBLE by Design
FREEDOM LIVING by Choice
A unique concept in 55 plus living
Book your personalized visit today!
15 Wellings Drive, Picton 613-827-5338
ONLY 5 Contact: Katherine
Email: Katherine@wellingsofpicton.com
APARTMENT WellingsofPicton.com
SUITES LEFT!
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 17wine
The liquor monopoly
claims to support local
wineries, but it’s all
talk. Only twenty
percent of bottles in
the Canadian wine
Privatization section are VQA,
which means they are
made using locally
Talk Heats Up grown grapes.
By Konrad Ejbich
I
magine this: the only place you can legally international brands of lager and beer and Although Ontarians pay the operating costs
shop for shoes is a government owned wines saw steep declines in sales. and salaries of the LCBO, no one at the liquor
chain of stores called the Footwear Control board would respond to my questions about
Board of Ontario. Canadian products suffered, too. With the cost of the new system, either projected
widespread shortages in the monopoly’s or real. Just this:
One day, the FCBO decides to switch to a province wide distribution system of over
new warehousing and distribution system. six hundred stores, many domestic wineries, “The introduction of our new Warehouse
Suddenly, in the middle of the summer micro-breweries and craft distilleries have Management System (WMS) at our Durham
shoe sale season, many of the fashionable lost sales. Retail Service Centre is a critical system
French and Italian dress shoes you love are upgrade to help us serve customers better
unavailable. Adidas and Nike are also out Consumers unable to buy the products and more efficiently. Updating legacy
of stock in some cities. Birkenstock sales they prefer have no qualms about switching systems is a requirement for major
are down by fifty percent. Meanwhile, brands to get the bottles they ultimately retailers and as with any major technology
manufacturers are backed up with sandals, need. Even if a favourite wine is not in stock, implementation there were impacts – some
sneakers and stilettos they cannot get into they will not leave the store empty-handed. anticipated and some unexpected.”
stores and they are losing sales and valuable
market share. “No Rosehall Run Chardonnay available Impacts? Not shortages; not lost sales and
disappointed customers; not screw-ups.
today? Dang! I’ll just pick up this other wine
Preposterous? Impacts?
for tonight’s dinner.”
Well, that’s precisely the present day scenario And to my question about when the system
Sale lost.
at the Liquor Control Board of Ontario, the might be back on track:
only one stop shop where Ontarians can buy
Producers, suppliers and agents, hampered in
liquor, wine and beer. “Significant progress is being made daily and
their ability to speak publicly, quietly seethed
we are confident that delivery schedules will
A great deal of ink has been spilled over to head office clerks and store managers. be back on track by the Civic long weekend.”
the LCBO’s latest fiasco. This spring, a new They can’t and won’t raise a public ruckus for
warehousing and distribution management fear of liquor board reprisals against anyone Once that statement was made public, even
system was installed in order to streamline in the trade who brings attention to the the liquor board’s own employees started
the movement of alcoholic beverages from monopoly’s bumbling and incompetence. shaking their heads in disbelief.
producers around the globe to consumers
throughout the province. Apt comparisons have been drawn to the Warren (Smokey) Thomas, president of the
Phoenix payroll disaster the federal Liberal Ontario Public Service Employees Union
Instead, it was a massive screw-up, and many government continues to face, but there is publicly said LCBO president George Soleas
stores were left with empty shelves. Major one important difference, secrecy. would have to “pull a rabbit out of a hat”
18 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019wine
to so quickly resolve the warehousing and
distribution problems.
So much for Premier Ford’s promises
about financial transparency, about having
governments govern and business people
do business, or about supporting Ontario
farmers and local industries.
Domestic wineries, first and foremost,
produce wines for local drinkers. Sadly, the
vast majority of the drinking world has yet to
discover Ontario wine.
If there’s anywhere wineries should be able
to sell their products freely, it is in their home
markets, without their own government
trying to undermine them by promoting
foreign competitors.
Many of our estate wineries are, in essence,
family farms. In Prince Edward County alone,
there may be as many as thirty or more,
working extremely hard all year round, to
make a decent product for the Canadian
public to drink and enjoy.
The liquor monopoly claims to support local
wineries, but it’s all talk. Only twenty percent
of bottles in the Canadian wine section are
VQA, which means they are made using
locally grown grapes. The other eighty
THE
percent are produced using foreign bulk
wine by corporations that own very little CAPE COD
vineyard acreage.
The money-grubbing monopoly would
Cleanest
rather promote foreign wine than encourage
local producers.
Wood Stove in
Of all the Vintages catalogues produced
the World
during the year, only the September issue
features a significant release of Ontario wines.
Ontario wineries pay for that promotion, not
the LCBO. What the Ontario industry giveth,
the LCBO taketh away.
But there’s one area in which local producers
get equal treatment with foreign vendors.
LCBO category managers treat Ontario
winemakers with as much disdain as they
treat wine producers from other countries.
THE COUNTY’S LARGEST SHOWROOM
Ask any winemaker to talk “off the record” 124 MAIN ST. PICTON
about what it’s like to do business with the 613.476.9259 www.countyfireplace.ca
LCBO. And prepare to get an earful. E
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 19culture
W
e are quickly heading into my
favourite time of the year! While
Just make some may look at autumn as the
sure that last chance to get yard work done before
winter, I prefer to focus on the rewards of
you are all the effort that I put in throughout spring
preserving and summer. This is the time of year best
known for the harvest, and my vegetable
garden is bursting with all the proverbial
‘fruits of my labour’. This is also the time of
By Carson Arthur year when I need to start filling the freezer,
and preserve all of the food that I grew for
my family to eat. I focus on three methods
CANNING of food preservation: canning, freezing and
dehydrating.
FREEZING When it comes to canning, the technique is
DEHYDRATING pretty simple. Put food into a jar and seal the
jar so that no bacteria can attack your food.
Obviously there are more steps involved,
but from a basic perspective, this is what
canning is. I do a lot of my canning of carrots,
cucumbers and beans by incorporating
a brine; a solution of salt and vinegar. This
simple liquid, mixed with herbs, garlic, chilies
or other spices not only preserves the food;
it also imparts flavour. For foods like jams
and sauces that can be poured into a jar
eliminating air pockets, adding brine isn’t
necessary. Instead, the filled jars are boiled to extend the life of my fresh and frozen
so that the air pocket is removed from the foods because it effectively removes the
top of the jar creating a vacuum. oxygen from the specially designed bags
and containers. Studies have shown that
Filling the freezer full of produce and meats your food will last up to five times longer
is not only rewarding, it’s an amazing by using this system.
way to feed your family healthy food and
save money at the same time. I often Finally, I often will dehydrate a lot of my
incorporate a sheet pan when I foods to preserve them, especially the
am freezing ‘juicy’ foods like juicy ones like tomatoes and apples.
strawberries or blueberries Dehydration has some great benefits
because they tend to stick over canning and freezing. This process
together. By spreading of drying food removes more of the risk
the food across the sheet of botulism, requires less room for storage
pan, you can ensure and is relatively inexpensive. The key to
that each piece freezes dehydrating food is to prepare it the way
individually. Another you plan on consuming it before you dry
big challenge with it out because it is often very difficult to
the use of the freezer work with once preserved.
is damage from air in
the bag or container. Whether you have a garden or just visit
Called ‘freezer burn,’ the local farmer’s market, get out this fall
it is one of the most and stock up on all the best and freshest
common ways that fruits, meats and vegetables that your
food is damaged community has to offer. Just make sure
through dehydration that you are preserving them so that you
and oxidation. I use a can feed your family through the entire
vacuum sealing system winter. Efood
From Seasons Fine Foods Napan ee
et W., Napanee ON. 613.354.7557
Gourmet Grocery Store • 6 Dundas Stre
pie shape - approx 10 inches
Preheat oven to 400F • Roll dough into
Harvest Vegetable Galette
e,
Ingredients: 2. Toss vegetables in a bowl with thym
olive oil un l evenly coated.
Pie crust (based on your favourite pie
crust salt, pepper, and
recip e)
1 small zucchini thinly sliced 3. ayer the vegetables in alterna ng
on-
2 beets boiled and thinly sliced pa erns i.e. ucchini, beets, carrot, and
circu lar pa ern rom the outs ide in.
1 carrot thinly sliced on the diagonal ion in a
1 onion thinly sliced one
4 tbsp grated parmesan cheese divided 4. Fold over the edge of the crust (fold
doug h over onto the gale e
1/2 cup sour cream piece o the
h,
1/2 tsp thyme lling. hen old the next piece o doug
allo ing it to overlap on your rst old.
tbsp olive oil
salt and pepper to taste o
5. rush the crust ith a very thin layer
the rema ining
nstruc ons milk and sprinkle the pie with
min.
1. In a separate bowl, mix sour cream
with tbsp o parmesan cheese. ake or 0
(the rema ining parm esan or un l crust is gold en.
2 tbsp parm esan
the
will be spread on top later) and spread
leavi ng approx 1 inch of
mixture on dough
crust arou nd the edge s.
Roast Butternut Squash Risotto An Alexander Ojan Recipe
Prep Time: 30 mins
. Puree the bu ernut s uash esh
Cook Time: N/A in a
blender, adding water as needed
Serves: 6-8 people to help it
blend.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Ingredients 3. In a large saucepan over medium
heat,
1 bu ernut s uash so en the onion in the rest o the
olive oil.
2 tbsp brown sugar dd the rice and cook or 1 minute,
s rring
salt and pepper to coat well. Add the white wine
and reduce
6 tbsp olive oil un l almost dry.
1 onion, nely chopped
cup bu er 4. dd the broth, about 1 cup at
a me,
2 cups arborio rice s rring re uently un l the li uid
is
1 cup white wine completely absorbed before adding
more
broth. dd the bu ernut s uash
1.5 to 2 litres (6 to 8 cups) warm puree
chicken broth half-way through and mix in. Coo
k for 18 to
1/2 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggia minutes or un l the rice is al den
no cheese te. dd
4 tbsp chopped sage broth, as needed.
2 tbsp lemon juice
5. ake o the heat and add the chee
se,
nstruc ons bu er, sage and lemon juice. S r
un l the
1. Place bu ernut s uash halves texture is very creamy.
on a large
baking sheet esh side up. rush Adjust the seasoning.
ith hal
the olive oil. Sprinkle brown suga
r over 6. Divide the riso o into bo ls.
each s uash. Season ith salt and Serve
black
pepper. Roast 50 to 60 minutes, with roasted chicken breast, duc
or un l prosciu o or just as is. Sprinkle
k, speck,
esh is ork-tender. ith a li le
Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 21special feature
Bloomfield
In the Centre of it All
C
entrally located in Prince Edward primary business, whilst parts, servicing,
County, Bloomfield is also at the core replacement tires are also offered.
of The County’s architectural heritage.
Quaker ancestry has bequeathed a legacy of Dropping in on Kinsip House of Fine
fine historic buildings that simply demand Spirits requires a drive to 66 Gilead Road.
not to be omitted from the visitors’ itinerary. Six minutes west of Bloomfield finds the
And without doubt, whilst the weather splendid French influenced historic house
obliges, the best way to enjoy this heritage in which the tasting room is situated. This is
treat is on foot. The County’s only distillery and a tour of the
beautiful and mysterious still is an absolute
Recently opened at 346 Main Street, must. Sample white and dark spirits and
Guildworks is a gallery exclusively presenting explore the world of bitters.
high quality Canadian crafts. Guildworks
espouses an ethos that handmade artefacts Pedego Electric Bikes is located at 39
will become even more highly valued in an Stanley Street on County Road 12, near
age of mass production. Works in various the Millennial Trail and is the nexus of two
media are on show including clay, fibre, wheeled transport with a twist. If muscle
glass, metal, mixed media, stone and textiles. power wanes battery powered assistance is
The future is handmade. on tap. Try one out with a three hour rental
and become a convert. Talk to Bear and
Who doesn’t love the idea of a secret Gillian Maloney who are only too happy to
garden? Did you know Nap and Nosh at share their enthusiasm and experience.
295 Main Street has one? Covering an acre
with ancient birch and willow trees, greenery Garb at 282 Main Street brings the high
and seasonal flowers abound and there’s street designer boutique experience to
a pergola too. This verdant setting makes bucolic Bloomfield. For your fall wardrobe
the perfect backdrop for engagement options, Garb stocks designer clothing from
parties, smaller weddings and receptions. Junge, Pistache, Lyle & Luxe, Good Hyouman,
Photographs taken here will always be Bobi and more. Highly rated by customers,
treasured memories. Garb has become one of The County’s
favourite fashion destinations and is open
Flame and Smith is a sustainably minded seven days a week.
restaurant embracing the exciting art of
wood fire cooking, because they believe food Green Gables at 286 Main Street must be
cooked over a wood fire simply tastes better. Bloomfield’s largest store and is carved
‘Smith’ usually means a metal worker but in out of a 1850s Victorian house offering a
Dutch the term ‘smid’ means more than that, collection of eleven rooms in which one
it’s more like an artisan or craftsman. Why not could spend many hours. There really
sit under an umbrella and enjoy the fusion is something for everyone here with
of flame and flavour on the outdoor seating, rooms dedicated to gifts and toys, fashion
or experience the sophisticated ambience accessories, entertaining, garden accents,
awaiting indoors. home décor and speciality foods. E Nap N Nosh Bed and Breakfast has an acre
long secret garden that would be perfect for your
Bloomfield’s Prinzen Ford dealership has been wedding or event photography needs. Our ancient
Birches and Willow Trees are perfect for your
in business for thirty five years and is now photographic memories. Perfect backdrop for your
The County’s sole remaining representative
Without doubt, whilst the weather
small wedding, engagement or celebration
of a major motor manufacturer. That’s an obliges, the best way to enjoy this reception needs. Come take a look for yourself.
achievement lending credence to their heritage treat is on foot 647.920.9982 • nap.n.nosh295@gmail.com
mantra, “Where service builds sales.” New u
car sales and quality used car sales are the 295 Main Street, Bloomfield ON K0K 1G0
22 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019special feature
junge
Fransa
pistache
lyla & luxe
Ilse Jacobsen
Good Hyouman
Cashmere Clouds
uno de 50
kut denim Open for dinner at 5:00pm
Wednesday to Monday (closed Tuesday)
Reserve online at flameandsmith.com or
bobi call 613.393.1006
OPEN 7 DAYS
282 Main Street, Bloomfield 2 Main Street, Bloomfield On K0K 1G0 106 Main Street, Bloomfield
1 9 1 9 reen a le loomfield om On K0K 1G0
613-393-9958
VISIT THE COUNTY’S
ONLY DISTILLERY!
THE FINE ART OF CRAFT
Timeless pieces for your home
Handmade by some of
Canada’s best artists
Well made and beautiful
clay fibre glass metal
mixed media stone textile
10am- 6pm Open 7 days
Friday & Saturday open till 8pm
The Future is Handmade 1st October to 25th December
Open 7 days from 10am-5pm
346 Main St., Bloomfield
guildworks.ca 66 GILEAD ROAD IN BLOOMFIELD
613.393.1890 KINSIP.CA
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 23food
to sometimes toning down the main menu,
however, in order to appeal to a broader
variety of people.
The huge selection of baked items, such
as date squares and Hello Dollys, are a
composite of recipes from his and Bell's
families. “Both our families were big on
baking, and it shows with our desserts,” says
Hall. “Most desserts at The Pastry Peddler are
twice the size they would be elsewhere!”
In addition to running the restaurant, Hall
and Bell do a lot of private catering. In fact,
it accounts for about half of their business.
Millbrook’s Café Society When they cater to weddings and other
private events, an extended choice of
intriguing appetizers are served which are
By Joise Newman only rarely seen on the restaurant's menu.
“Parties have a big choice of appetizers. One
T
he Pastry Peddler Cafe, an eclectic the prestigious Stratford Chefs School
bistro-like eatery on the main street close to thirty years ago, has worked in of my favourites is the pork and black bean
of Millbrook, offers its patrons exactly various restaurants in Stratford, Ottawa, burger with ginger jam. Crab cakes with
what the name implies – pastry and bicycles. Peterborough, Lindsay, and Cobourg. sriracha aioli are popular, too.” Over twenty
Although pastries are his specialty, he is dips and appetizers grace the catering menu,
Housed in a charming two storey yellow brick adept at cooking main dishes too, and including cornmeal crusted chicken satay
building erected in the 1880s, the wood- studied at Sir Sanford Fleming College in with a chili dip, and Korean beef skewers
panelled cafe and open-concept kitchen Peterborough. Bell has always worked at accompanied with hoisin, as well as salads
occupy the first floor, while a vintage bicycle the front of the house, greeting people and and desserts.
shop, called Frog Cycle, takes up the second serving tables. Now they have engaged two
floor. Collectable bicycles, some decades other cooks and a baker. Hall prides himself on the popularity of their
old, are displayed on the walls downstairs hors d'oeuvres and desserts, which are also
while many retrofitted bikes and those in for “Our menu is eclectic and we try to use local sold at the 4th Line Theatre where they host
repair are located on the top floor. ingredients whenever possible. We strive to Festival Fridays selling pies, strudels, and
be modern in our approach but I like classics brownies to theatre-goers.
Co-owner Colin Hall is a trained pastry chef with a twist, too,” says Hall. One such is his
and avid cyclist. The Pastry Peddler attracts a macaroni and cheese topped with herb The restaurant is well-known and regarded in
wide range of patrons, from locals who want potato chip crumble, and beer and cayenne the local community. “We've been told we're
to support neighbourhood businesses to in the cream sauce. Another is quiche, the hub of Millbrook,” states Bell. Dropping
cyclists from far flung places all across North served daily in several of varieties, with a in at any time of day usually reveals a diverse
America. superbly flaky pastry that is a delightful taste clientele ranging from struggling artists
experience. to tourists to business people and locals.
Now a big fish in the small pond of Millbrook, There is always the work of a local artist
the Pastry Peddler has gained great stature Previously a cook in a Thai restaurant, on display along the walls of the cafe, and
since its humble beginnings in 2009 on the many of Hall's dishes seem influenced by sometimes books by local writers are sold at
opposite side of the street. Hall and business that experience, such as the summer Pad the front of the store. There are monthly jazz
partner Deanna Bell started the original Thai salad, served cold with chicken or dinners, where musicians from surrounding
Pastry Peddler because both of them had shrimp, tamarind vinaigrette and a cane communities, such as Warkworth, come to
“baking in their blood.” “We began by selling or brown sugar sweetener. Or the year- entertain two seatings of guests who enjoy
baked goods at the farmer's market in round gluten-free butter chicken nachos, a three-course prix fixe dinner with music.
Peterborough. Soon we needed somewhere a delicious warming dish of creamy garam And to that substantial roster of events,
bigger.” The current location opened in 2015 masala chicken served on aged cheddar- Ladies’ Nights have recently been added.
and serves a full menu changing seasonally, baked tortilla chips and completed by
in addition to a selection of baked goods, cilantro and sour cream. Many of his soups “There's a huge community of local cyclists
drinks, and alcohol. have flamboyant ingredients and pack a who frequently come out to the cafe,
real taste punch, try the roast pepper and including the Millbrook Mountain Bike Club,”
Hall, who was trained as a pastry chef at raspberry soup with herb cream. He admits adds Hall. E
24 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019food
u ernut S uash oconut Soup Method
1. oat s uash cubes ith olive oil, salt
Ingredients: and pepper and roast at 350F for 30-40
minutes.
1 x medium onion peeled and diced 2. Heat a large pan over a medium heat.
4 x cloves garlic finely shredded dd bu er and olive oil and allo to
1 x large butternut squash, peeled, melt.
seeded and cubed 3. Add onion, carrot, ginger and garlic
1 x large carrot, peeled and diced and saut un l ragrant and so ened
¼ cup grated ginger root appox 10 mins s r to combine.
1 x litre coconut milk 4. dd roasted s uash cubes, bro n
1 x litre chicken or vegetable stock sugar, sambal olek, Dijon mustard, mix
3 tablespoons brown sugar or together and cook or 10 mins, s rring
maple syrup re uently.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 5. Add stock and coconut milk, bring to
1 tablespoon sambal olek a boil and then simmer for 20 mins or
(chili garlic paste) un l ork tender.
½ bunch cilantro washed and 6. dd chopped cilantro, s r to
chopped combine.
2 tablespoons butter and olive oil, 7. Remove from heat and blend with
salt and pepper. immersion blender un l smooth.
Season with salt and pepper.
Next year an expansion is planned which will add a patio with three four-seat tables.
To view menus or a list of events, visit www.pastrypeddler.ca
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 25culture
O’Hara Mill Homestead
Stepping Back in Time
BY SHARON HARRISON
W
hat was pioneer life like in the early thrill of a working mill and the romance of a Township. The decision came as word spread
1800s in rural eastern Ontario? covered bridge. that new lands for settlement had been
How did folks live, how did they made available by the British government.
earn a living, and what did they do for fun? This treasure and its eventful history began
Step back in time with the O’Hara family, with the O’Hara family, and involved a trip The O’Hara Mill Homestead and
where a visit to the O’Hara Mill Homestead across the Atlantic and new beginnings. The Conservation Area, a registered charitable
and Conservation Area will include a history year was 1789. At just twenty years of age, organization, is run solely by volunteers.
lesson and a taste of nature at its finest. Patrick O’Hara left Londonderry in Ireland for Dave Little, board member with the O'Hara
Conveniently located in Madoc, half-way the Americas, where five years on he married Volunteers Association, is known as ‘father
between Ottawa and Toronto close to Cynthia Prindle – she just 15. Enter James O’Hara’ to many according to chairman Rod
Highway 7, and seventy kilometres from O’Hara, one of their nine children, who in Woods. “He has been the driving force in
Peterborough, the eighty five acre property 1823 with his wife Mary and four year old bringing O'Hara to life.” Originally owned
embraces a simpler time, and includes the daughter Elizabeth, set up home in Madoc by Quinte Conservation, Little says the site
26 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019culture
whereby the group had complete control Remarkably, O’Hara Mill Homestead has
of the management and operation of the never charged admission fees, accepting
historic farm,” said Little, who clarified that only donations. “We want families to feel
the Conservation Area still owns the site and that no matter how big they are or how
pays the taxes on it. “From quite modest many children they have, that they can
beginnings, we restored the sawmill, we afford to come and enjoy it,” says Little. He
built a new dam and a covered bridge, and credits the rural sense of fellowship and the
we built several farm buildings to add to strong feeling of community for ensuring
the site.” Materials for some of these were the Association is successful in its mission.
reclaimed from 1800s barns. Neighbours are always there to lend a
hand, “Whenever I need help in any way
Little has been there from the beginning it’s always there: it’s that old farm concept
as he led the group through the initial two of neighbours helping neighbours.” With
years of negotiations. With nineteen years of around twenty thousand visitors annually,
Homestead volunteering under his belt, he Little explains how they have tried to avoid
describes himself as a “continual presence” commercialism, ensuring the site remains
where he shows up at least five days a week, very much the way it would have been in
every week. He happily admits O’Hara the 1800s. “Every week, I have two or three
Mill Homestead is his full time retirement people say they really enjoy the serenity here
passion, and calls himself lucky because not
everyone in retirement has a chance to play
such a valuable role in their community.
“When I saw this place at the point of being
abandoned and the absolute beauty of it
and the absolute potential of it, I wanted to
do something related to farming and this
opportunity almost just jumped out at me.”
The O’Hara’s remained in Madoc for four
generations. They are considered one of the
founding families in the Madoc area, and
likely the first settlers in the township, which
also saw the first white child born in May
1826. Becoming a prosperous farming family
O’Hara Mill Homestead &
thanks to the sawmill, they built the first onserva on rea
school house in the township and were very 638 Mill Road, Madoc, ON
involved establishing the Methodist church. oharamill.ca
“They appear to have been very learned,
because they left many photos, letters and
journals,” said Little. “I just marvel at how and the naturalness, the sense that we are in
many records we have of them, considering an authentic pioneer farm.”
they came here with nothing.”
Enjoyed by all who come, especially families,
With around ten buildings on site, some visitors hail from many countries, but Little
was a pioneer farm, bought in 1955 by the original and some restored, others more says the Irish that come are reminded of
Conservation Authority, mainly because recently constructed, visitors to the O’Hara home and have a real sense of belonging.
they wanted to preserve the historic water Mill Homestead and Conservation Area O’Hara Mill Homestead and Conservation
powered sawmill on the property. Between can experience a one room schoolhouse, Area grounds and trails are open year round,
the mid 50s and 2000, the mill and the drive sheds, blacksmith’s shop, log house, with buildings open Victoria Day weekend
property suffered hard times and as funds carpenter’s shop and carriage house, all to Labour Day weekend. Guided tours and
dried up the site fell into disrepair. redolent of the period. And there is also major events take place during the summer
the O’Hara Museum House, Visitors’ Centre season, with smaller events, activities and
The O’Hara Volunteers Association put and heritage gardens to be explored. Seven demonstrations throughout the year,
together a unique proposal that would allow walking trails of various lengths up to including Heritage Day, Christmas, Family
them to take over the running of the property, almost two kilometres offer experiences of Day, and a maple syrup event in March, done
and ultimately save it. “After considerable old growth forests, stacked stone walls and the pioneer way, just as the O’Hara’s would
negotiations, a legal agreement was signed marshes to be enjoyed. have had. E
Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019 27wine
learning about ruminants, Peter Jackson
On Being movies, and rugby.
However, make no mistake. This isn’t a
Judgemental sporting match. Event organizers Lubomyr
Luciuk and The Royal Winers are very serious
about celebrating our region’s achievements.
By Sandor Johnson The competition provides a fair forum to
compare, contrast and whittle down the
I
n 1976 in Paris, France “The Judgement from Prince Edward County will be compared offerings to the victorious - solely on the
of Paris” wine competition challenged to New Zealand’s best! The event will take merits of each wine by a fair voting process.
a group of French judges to two blind place on Saturday, November the 2nd, 2019
tasting comparisons of Bordeaux wines from from 3-6:30 p.m. Tickets are available now at Chris Whyman, Kingston’s Town Crier,
France and Cabernet Sauvignon wines from www.judgementofkingston.ca but will not dressed in attire that looks like he went
California. In each category a Californian last long. A group of wine experts including shopping at Forever 1841, will officially
wine hammered the best French selections. Tony Aspler, Michael Godel, Jennifer Huether, open the event with cries so loud, you’ll
This shocking result summarily had the Melissa Pulvermacher, (and myself, as Master think that you were standing on the set
French authorities sending the judges to the of Ceremonies) will blind taste wine sourced of CNN and Donald Trump just won the
guillotine “tout suite” and, forthwith, beset an from the heart of Prince Edward County, 2020 election. Dr. Kim Meathrel, a local
entire nation to fret over their crepes while versus “The Shire” to determine what wine is plastic surgeon, and graduate of the
angrily chain smoking Gauloises. It was a the very best. (Or what wine pairs best with University of California Davis winemakers’
rout that neither the elitist French, nor the a broken marriage and a TV dinner.) program, Certified Sommelier by the
bombastic Americans forgot. And thus a Court of Master Sommeliers, and owner of
new era of “New World” wine was born. The event promises to be a fun-filled Decantress Wine and Spirits Education, will
afternoon of tasteful sheep jokes and an also grace the event. She will help facilitate
Fast forward forty-three years to Kingston, education comparing both wine regions to the wine judging and, we’re hoping, will
Ontario for the fourth annual “Judgement further your oenological knowledge about also provide nose jobs for anyone
of Kingston” competition at the waterside things like, say, how to grow Pinot Noir wine unfortunately sniffing anything pungently
Residence Inn by Marriott where Pinot Noirs popsicles in -20C whilst simultaneously grimy, maybe made by Frodo Baggins’ new
winery ‘Tea Bagg Estates.’
Every year the Judgement of Kingston
attracts hundreds of folks who want to see
what it’s like not to drink alone. So grab your
ticket while there’s still some left. Sit down,
relax, and watch the pleasant bliss of your
neighbour sniffing the most delicate of the
world’s reds. Or, if the expression reminds
you of the guy in that movie opening the
Ark of the Covenant, maybe a not-so-
delicate red.
You’re never too old to experience an
afternoon punctuated by total bliss,
sheer terror and complete mediocrity - all
within minutes of each other! And no, I’m
not referring to an unfortunate incident
at summer camp. I’m talking about the
Judgement of Kingston. See for yourself if
your wine scoring expertise matches that
of the judges and members of the audience
or if you’re ‘The People vs Larry Flynt.’ Either
way, it’s an oenophile rollercoaster thrill ride
and a great afternoon to brighten up an
otherwise dreary November Saturday. Trust
me. I’ve been there.
So come on out! And you be the Judge. E
28 Grapevine Magazine I Fall 2019You can also read
