Wines in Niagara published a profile on Allison Findlay, Niagara College’s Head Winemaker and first female winemaker.
As the Head Winemaker at the college, Findlay oversees a 3,500-case production that can consist of 36 different wines. She is responsible for guiding students through the winemaking process, from harvest to the finished product, in Niagara College’s hands-on, “living laboratory” approach to education–the first of its kind in Canada.
The article also highlights Findlay’s educational journey. After enrolling and graduating from the Niagara College Winery and Viticulture Technician program in 2014, she explored various roles both internationally and nationally.
Additionally, the profile features Gavin Robertson, Professor and Program Coordinator in the Winery and Viticulture program, who is also an alumnus of the program. Robertson praises Findlay’s natural talent and extensive industry experience: “After having a wonderful career so far in the Ontario wine industry, we are ecstatic to welcome her back to our teaching winery, where she continues to produce outstanding wines and become a valuable mentor for the budding industry professionals.”
Steve Gill, Manager of Learning Enterprises, is also quoted in the article. He mentions that under Findlay’s leadership, the wine portfolio at NC is undergoing a significant revamp. While the wines made at the college are part of the students’ learning process, Gill emphasizes that it is also “a working enterprise” that needs to be “sustainable.”
Read the July 30 profile here.