Grapes & Growth
a Vinequity Wine Camp
Grapes & Growth
Fall 2024
The Vinequity Grapes & Growth program, a groundbreaking 5-day immersive wine camp for BIPOC professionals, has successfully concluded its inaugural run.
This first-of-its-kind initiative brought together aspiring wine professionals from diverse backgrounds, offering them a unique opportunity to deepen their knowledge and connections within the industry.
Grapes & Growth participants discussing land access, photos courtesy of Mingle Creative Co.
Participants embarked on an enriching journey through two of Ontario's premier wine regions: Prince Edward County and the Niagara Peninsula. The program featured hands-on workshops, tastings, and educational sessions led by industry experts. From exploring the journey of a vine to understanding the intricacies of winemaking and sales, attendees gained invaluable insights into various aspects of winemaking and the wine business.
The Grapes & Growth program addresses a critical need for diversity in the wine industry. With the percentage of BIPOC individuals who own wineries or serve as head winemakers is less than 1%, initiatives like this are essential for fostering inclusivity and representation.
By providing BIPOC individuals with education, mentorship, and networking opportunities, Vinequity is working to break down barriers and create pathways for underrepresented communities to thrive in the wine world.
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Ontario Grape and Wine Research Incorporated is honoured to sponsor and co-host educational workshops in Vinequity's Grapes & Growth Wine Camp! Fresh perspectives and collaboration amongst different areas of expertise are drivers of industry advancements and innovation. This is why Vinequity's work is so important, so that BIPOC communities are provided with equal opportunities to learn and contribute to Ontario's resilient grape and wine sector!
Dairen Temple, Executive Director, CGCN-RCCV &Project Manager, OGWRI
The Grapes & Growth program not only empowers participants with knowledge and skills but also gives diverse voices a platform to stand on and the support they need to thrive. As the Canadian wine sector continues to grow, contributing over $11.6 billion annually to the economy, it's crucial that the industry reflects the diversity of its consumers. The Grapes & Growth program is a significant step towards ensuring that BIPOC professionals have the opportunity to contribute their unique perspectives and talents to this vibrant and economically important sector.
Why It Matters
The Grapes & Growth program provided an intensive and comprehensive learning experience for its 12 participants. Over the course of five days, these aspiring BIPOC wine professionals delved into a wide range of viticulture and winemaking topics. They gained in-depth knowledge about rootstocks and clones, soil composition, and the intricacies of white, red, rosé, and sparkling wine production.
The journey of a vine, from planting to harvest, was explored in detail, along with crucial information on vine pests, diseases, and control methods. Perhaps most valuable were the eight direct meet-and-greets with experienced winemakers, offering participants unparalleled access to industry insights and networking opportunities.
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Grapes & Growth is one of the most unique programs ever.
Lorna Kipkosgei, Grapes & Growth winning applicant and program participant 2024
Initiatives like Vinequity's Grapes & Growth program are vital for addressing the stark underrepresentation of BIPOC individuals in the wine industry. By providing education, mentorship, and networking opportunities specifically tailored to BIPOC professionals, Vinequity is actively working to diversify the wine world. This benefits not only the participants themselves but the entire industry and its consumers. A more diverse wine industry brings fresh perspectives, innovative approaches, and a broader range of experiences to the table, ultimately enhancing the quality and variety of wines produced.
As these 12 participants return to their respective roles armed with new knowledge and connections, they are poised to make significant contributions to the industry, paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic future in wine.
Grapes & Growth participants discussing wine styles found in Ontario, photos courtesy of Mingle Creative Co.