Hernder Winery: Rising From The Ashes By Martine Mackenzie with Hernder Winery “The passions that govern us are to grow the finest grapes, to produce superb wines, and to perpetually expand our horizons…better wines, improved varieties, and spectacular places to showcase them in; to share with new and old friends alike.” Hernder Winery Hernder Winery holds an established spot in the viticulture history of the Niagara Region. Well into its third generation of grape growing, the Hernder family has transformed a love of viticulture into one of the largest family Estate winery operations in Canada. 48
Inspire Niagara & Beyond
A natural progression of events began after Gottfried Hernder emigrated from Germany to western Canada. In 1939, the family moved to the “Grapeview” area of St. Catharines, Ontario, to a mixed fruit farm that included acreage of indigenous grapes. “Fred” Hernder’s boyhood chores would become the foundation for future skills. After the passing of his father, Fred purchased the family farm in 1968, and began the acquisition of others. His success was heralded when he was crowned as the youngest Niagara “GRAPE KING” in 1977. Forever the entrepreneur, Fred began selling not only grapes
