Benoit Labelle

Becoming a winemaker rarely starts with a business plan or a neatly organized Excel spreadsheet. More often, it begins with a slowly growing idea, a glass of wine in hand, a landscape that feels a little too dreamlike… and a slightly unreasonable thought: “What if I made my own wine?”

Merlot is one of the most beloved red grape varieties in the world of wine. Supple, smooth, and fruit-forward, it charms from the very first sip. As the second most widely planted grape variety globally, it is the foundation of prestigious wines, from Bordeaux appellations to the legendary Château Petrus.  Although Merlot originated in Bordeaux, it has spread to many wine-producing countries. In Québec, however, it remains a true rarity.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot may be among the most famous red grape varieties in the world—but few people know that they share a common ancestor: Cabernet Franc!   Often overshadowed by its celebrated descendants, this noble grape deserves to be rediscovered. Elegant, aromatic, and full of character, Cabernet Franc has a fascinating story to tell—and a truly distinctive taste to offer. At Hemmingford Winery, located in the southernmost part of Quebec, this grape has found the ideal terroir.