The Shrugging Doctor Vineyard
Innovation to the Extreme –
Showing the Best of Manitoba’s Agriculture
Surprised that Manitoba can grow wine grapes? Well thanks to ambition, perseverance, and the perfect set of circumstances – we are happy to report that we can.
The Shrugging Doctor Vineyard covers a few acres of land in Southern Manitoba, in an undisclosed location south of Winkler. Located in The Pembina Valley, this is some of the best land in the province. Originally planted in the late 2000s, we partnered with and co-managed with the land owner in 2017, and then eventually completely took over the project in 2020.
Contrary to popular belief, our growing season is indeed long and warm enough to support grape production, the real problem is our brutal winters which can kill most vines before harvest. We have planted many varietals of especially cold hearty grapes that have been created by Universities. Namely the Agriculture Research Department of the University of Minnesota. These are called “cold climate grapes” which differ from the “cool climate grapes” of Ontario and British Columbia.
Grape Varietals
The main varietals of grapes that we grow on the Shrugging Vineyard are:
Red: Frontenac Gris, Frontenac Noir, Marquette, Sabrevois
White: Frontenac Blanc, Vandal Cliche, Prairie Star, Louise Swenson
We also grow many experimental grapes that have not been named yet! These are usually called something like “E-7642176”.
All of our grapes make quite dry wines, as it doesn’t get warm enough in Manitoba for long enough to grow super sweet grapes. Expect floral notes with a lot of acidity, finished with earthy notes reflecting the hearty Manitoban soil.
Because our Vineyard is a working farm, it can be dangerous for people to come down. However,
we have one Tour every single year in September. Contact us for more information!
