Grape growing and wine making were once integral to the agricultural economy of South Essex. That tradition faded in the early twentieth century as the profi tability of tobacco reshaped local farming priorities. The modern revival of viticulture began in the late 1970s, when master vintner Carlo Negri, trained in northern Italy, recognized the region’s potential and laid the groundwork for a renewed wine industry. In 1980, Colio Wines opened in Harrow, producing wines whose quality quickly earned recognition across Ontario.

Since that time, the wine industry in Colchester South has grown dramatically. Today, fourteen local wineries contribute signifi cantly to the area’s agricultural economy and tourism sector, working collaboratively as EPIC Wineries to promote the region and its wines.

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