Romancing the Wine: How to Balance Innovation and Tradition

Wine Behind The Scenes

In this episode, Laurel Simmons interviews Doug Whitty, owner of 13th Street Winery, about the history of the winery, the challenges and rewards of the wine industry in the Niagara region, and the unique elements that make 13th Street Winery a destination. Doug shares insights into the winery's evolution, the importance of embracing change, and the integral role of family and passion in crafting exceptional wines. In this episode, you will learn about:

• The origins of 13th Street Winery and its evolution over time.
• Why passion is a crucial ingredient for success in the wine industry.
• Why wineries need diverse revenue streams to ensure sustainability.
• How climate change and Mother Nature impact winegrowers and winemakers.
• The growing prominence of Canadian wines and the Niagara region's potential.
• How to dispel common wine myths and make wine more approachable for everyone.
• Why it’s important to consider wine as a food that enhances the dining experience.
• How unexpected events and discoveries, like the versatility of Gamay, shape the wine industry.
• The fascinating story of oak barrel production and the preservation of oak forests.
• What it takes to successfully manage a winery with many moving parts.

Doug Whitty is the president of 13th Street Winery and of Whitty Farms, representing the third generation of the Whitty family and over 100 years of family-operated stewardship over Niagara soil. Upon earning a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Guelph, Doug travelled extensively as a member of the internal youth expedition in Japan and the Rotary Group Study Exchange in Central America. After returning to Niagara, Doug consciously cultivated the family fruit farm with sustainability in mind. Eventually, Doug would go on to be selected as the president of the Niagara Peninsula Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association. In 2019, Doug was the recipient of the Tony Aspler Cuvée Award of Excellence. This award is presented to the individual or institution that best furthers the aims and aspirations of Ontario’s wine industry at the annual Cuvée Grand Tasting. Beyond agriculture, Doug is a renaissance man with a deep affinity for abstract art, local musical talent, and authentic Canadian cuisine (i.e. butter tarts). Connect with and follow Doug: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/13thstreetwinery/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/13thStreetWines Website: https://13thstreetwinery.com/ Email: [email protected]