CAVE SPRING VINEYARD

First named by European settlers in the late 18th century for the limestone caves and mineral springs found on the site of our estate vineyard, Cave Spring is nestled along a gently sloping terrace of the Niagara Escarpment. Overlooking Lake Ontario, this area known as the Beamsville Bench has proven ideal for cool-climate viticulture. As with any exceptional terroir, ours begins with the soil. Derived primarily from escarpment limestone, shale and sandstone, these stony clay tills are rich in minerals, yet limited in organic matter, creating the perfect balance of nutrients for growing grapes displaying character and sophistication.

Beneath the escarpment cliffs, the vineyard’s natural slope drains away excess precipitation, while retaining an optimal balance of moisture. Meanwhile, the presence of a hardwood forest on the ridge above the vineyard also aids in the retention of moisture, which is slowly released through layers of sedimentary rock into the sub-soils below. This mineral-rich water is the source of the site’s many natural springs, including our namesake springs, which surge from a series of caves at the foot of the escarpment. Many other springs continue down the escarpment slope, nourishing the vines from beneath during drier weather. Finally, the escarpment cliffs that surround Cave Spring Vineyard capture temperate lake-effect breezes from nearby Lake Ontario, lengthening the growing season, and allowing the fruit to achieve rich, flavourful ripeness.

With growing conditions similar to the great northern winegrowing regions of France and Germany, Cave Spring Vineyard has proven ideal for the cultivation of exceptional Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc. In addition to these core varieties, we also grow superior Gamay, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer.