Winemaking business uncorked at Fitch Street Plaza in Welland

Christine Leduc, co-owner of Von Bin, a new winemaking business in Welland's Fitch Street Plaza. KRIS DUBE / TORSTAR

By Kris Dubé
Courtesy of The Tribune

Wine lovers who live near Fitch Street Plaza in Welland suffered a bit of a loss when a 59-year-old LCBO store closed in April as result of a new outlet opening in the northeast end of the city.

But in July, Vin Bon, a microwinery chain now with 17 Ontario locations, opened its doors at the shopping centre.

The local business is owned by Roger and Christibe Leduc, a couple who for years patronized other local winemaking businesses and became intrigued by the industry.

Roger had already been trained on the science behind the craft and the couple were fortunate enough to get their own Vin Bon location.

“We became passionate about it and decided to try our own venture,” said Roger.

Unique to the brand is that it only uses fresh juices, “no concentrates, no kits,” said Roger.

Barrels of pure product from places including California, France, Spain, Argentina and Germany are delivered to the shop.

Once they become warm, this begins the fermentation process. The “fine tuning” of it comes together ahead of customers picking up their orders, which must be placed in advance at a minimum of 12 bottles.

“You have to keep an eye on it every day,” said Roger about the importance of fermentation and making sure product doesn’t spoil.

Customers bottle their orders at the store alongside staff.

The couple are pleased to be in a plaza that has “lots of traffic,” said Christine.

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