« Happy at Harvest! »

I've just spent another blissful afternoon photographing in the Stratus Vineyards' vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. With virtually no leaves left on the vines, the vineyard has taken on a whole new kind of beauty, different from the lush green of a few months ago. Both are so alluring, as are the many stages in between. 

I've been fortunate to walk this vineyard regularly this year, especially during harvest, and each visit is a delight. Most times, the sun goes down on me before I'm ready to leave!

 

The Stratus vineyard is an extraordinary one in many ways, not the least of which is that it is home to seventeen varieties - some very unusual to Niagara. I've taken a portrait of each of these varieties pre-harvest this year and have been sharing them on Instagram. I've also put together an album for Stratus' Facebook page. I love my punny hashtag - #whatJLgrew - get it?

While Stratus' harvest is not over yet - still more Cabernet Franc to come in, as well as Sémillon and Cabernet Sauvignon - I've been working on a Steller "story" to celebrate the harvest too. It will change a little before harvest ends, but you can get a sneak peek now!