The finest wines can only be produced from the best quality grapes. Cave Spring wines are made from vitis vinifera, the classic grape varieties of Europe. We concentrate on varieties native to regions with growing conditions similar to our own. Chardonnay, for example, is the great white grape of Chablis and Burgundy in Northern France, while Riesling is the source of Germany's most famous wines. By working with classic varieties which are well suited to Niagara's cool climate, our winemakers are able to capture the goût de terroir which makes the Beamsville Bench unique.

Situated on the finest slopes of the Beamsville Bench, the Cave Spring Estate was first planted in 1978, making it one of Niagara's most mature vinifera vineyards.

By planting at densities of 4500 vines per hectare, twice Niagara's average, we are able to increase competition among the vines for vital ground nutrients. This forces vine roots deep into the lime-rich soils of the Bench and enhances flavour development in the berries. Careful winter pruning combined with removal of excess fruit during the growing season also permit us to reduce yields and improve ripeness at harvest; all of which guarantees that Cave Spring 'Estate Bottled' wines embody our highest commitment to the terroir of the Beamsville Bench. In accordance with VQA regulations, Cave Spring wines bearing the 'Estate Bottled' designation originate 100% from fruit grown in our own vineyards according to strict ripeness standards.

Along this narrow ledge of the Niagara Escarpment, three to six kilometres from the shore of Lake Ontario, is to be found one of the Niagara Peninsula's best microclimates for the cultivation of the finest quality vinifera grapes. Hillside Air FlowsAs Niagara's only hillside, the Escarpment prevents frost damage in Bench vineyards during winter and spring by trapping warm air released from Lake Ontario. In the summer months, the Bench benefits from cool lake-effect breezes which, as they circulate along its slopes, discourage harmful mildews. And during autumn, warm lake air displaces cool air as it descends from the Escarpment crest, thereby extending the ripening season. All year long, the proximity of the Bench to Lake Ontario graces us with ideal conditions for growing fine quality wine grapes.

Well Drained Soils

The Bench's hillside exposure furnishes excellent natural drainage, which forces vine roots to search deep into mineral-rich clay/loam soils for moisture. This serves to reduce yields and improve the concentration and complexity of flavour in the berries at harvest time.

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