Revealing the Secrets inside a Winemaker's Home and Heart

Do you love wine, food, and travel? Then you're going to love this episode! I'm excited to welcome Sue-Ann Staff to Wine Behind the Scenes. She is a seventh-generation farmer and fifth-generation grape grower in the Niagara Peninsula. Sue-Ann loves making Icewine and other wines, and she has some incredible stories to share. We talk about her journey from growing up on the family farm to becoming one of Niagara's most passionate advocates for local wine. Sue-Ann doesn't just make wine, she creates experiences. Whether battling Mother Nature, perfecting food and wine pairings, or travelling to places like Singapore and Germany to share her craft, her dedication and love for winemaking are truly inspiring. Join us for this fun and insightful conversation, and get ready to see Niagara wines in a whole new light! In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover the unique world of Icewine-making and the excitement of the Icewine Festival in Niagara, as Sue-Ann shares her passion for this specialty wine.
• Learn about the challenges of winemaking, including the importance of adapting to changing climate conditions.
• Explore the personal journey of Sue-Ann, a fifth-generation grape grower, and her path to becoming a winemaker, including her studies in Australia.
• Uncover the significance of community and collaboration among wineries in the Niagara Benchlands and how they aim to change perceptions about Ontario wines.
• Enjoy insightful food and wine pairing tips, including unexpected combinations that elevate the tasting experience, such as Icewine with savory dishes.

Sue-Ann Staff is a passionate winemaker and the driving force behind Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, located in the picturesque Niagara Benchlands of Ontario. As a seventh-generation farmer and fifth-generation grape grower, Sue-Ann has deep roots in the vineyard, where her love for winemaking began at an early age. With a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Guelph University and a graduate degree in winemaking from the University of Adelaide, she has honed her craft in one of the world's most dynamic wine regions. Sue-Ann's expertise lies in producing high-quality Icewine and a variety of other wines, including Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Baco Noir. Her commitment to showcasing the unique terroir of the Niagara Peninsula is evident in her work with the Niagara Benchlands Wineries, a collaborative group of 31 wineries dedicated to promoting the region's exceptional wines. In addition to her winemaking endeavours, Sue-Ann is an engaging storyteller who loves to connect with wine enthusiasts through tastings, events, and innovative online segments like "Sizzling with Sass," where she pairs delicious food with her wines. With a focus on quality, community, and the joy of sharing wine, Sue-Ann invites everyone to experience the warmth and hospitality of her winery, where every bottle tells a story. When she's not in the vineyard or the cellar, you can find Sue-Ann enjoying the great outdoors, skiing, or planning her next international wine adventure. Follow her journey and discover the magic of Niagara wines at Sue-AnnStaff.com. Contact Sue-Ann Staff here:

• Website: https://www.sue-annstaff.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sueannstaffestatewinery/#
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@sue-annstaffestatewinery3058
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sueannstaffestatewinery