Canadian Cider With a French Twist

Winemaker Christian Barthomeuf and Louise Dupuis, expert in vine caring were dissatisfied with the tendency of major winemakers to use fruits that had been sprayed with pesticides and other chemicals. So, they decided to open Clos Saragnat, a winery dedicated to respecting the environment, and taking cues from nature when it comes to growing and tending its produce.

An Eco-Friendly and Natural Arraingement

Within the orchard complementary varieties of plants grow alongside one another, including grapevines, both Geisenheim and Muscat, apple, pear and plum trees. This has allowed the plants to develop in a balanced environment, coexisting as they would in the wild. Throughout the orchard, things are done the natural way; no tractors or heavy machinery are put to use and pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers are never used.

Inovative Wine and Cider Producers

Clos Saragnat winery sprawls across 86 acres of land on the sunny southern slopes of Pinnacle Mountain, at an elevation of 722 feet. Situated on the 45th Parallel, it is less than 2 miles from the United States border. This enviable location makes the winery an excellent destination for wine and cider enthusiasts. Despite the many wineries in the area, Clos Saragnat receives praise for being the inventor of ice cider. For years, Barthomeuf had been making ice wine, which is made from allowing the fermented juice of the grapes to freeze on the vine. However, one day, he decided to try something new. Barthomeuf left apples to freeze over the winter, pressed out the juice, and fermented it using wine yeast over the course of around 9 months. Ice cider was born, and since then it has been gaining popularity throughout North America.

Complimentary Taste Testing

From the middle of May to the middle of October guests to the winery are invited to sample different ice wine and cider liqueurs, as well as ice cider, on the terrace. From atop the mountainside the view is exquisite, and the simple looking stone and stucco winery add to the tranquility of the scene. One feels what Clos Saragnat is all about; being at one with nature and creating an ecological interchange as opposed to dominating the ecosystem. For those who wish to tour the orchards, a reservation must be made in advance. A small, unpretentious boutique sells bottled products to visitors who wish to take a taste of Clos Saragnat home with them. From start to finish, Clos Saragnat represents what the art of making wine is all about.

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