Robert Bell's

Wines of Canada

Since 1992

Herbert Konzelmann

Herbert Konzelmann (1937 – 2021), the founder of Konzelmann Estate Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, hails from a family with a long winemaking tradition dating back to 1893 in Germany. Originally, the Konzelmann family was established in the small town of Uhlbach*, located near Stuttgart, where they were known for producing quality wines that gained considerable local recognition.

Herbert Konzelmann, representing the fourth generation of the family’s winemakers, initially operated in Germany but became increasingly intrigued by the potential of the Canadian wine scene. In the 1980s, after scouting several regions, Herbert discovered Niagara-on-the-Lake, whose cool climate and unique terroir reminded him of Germany’s Alsace region. He saw the potential for producing premium wines, especially in the growing conditions ideal for cool-climate varieties like Riesling and Pinot Noir.

In 1984, at the age of 47 Herbert made the bold decision to relocate his winemaking operations to Niagara-on-the-Lake, establishing Konzelmann Estate Winery. He was an enthusiastic hunter who took trips to both British Columbia and Ontario. He heard about Canada's wines and decided to investigate. He filled a suitcase with soil from a lakeshore peach orchard and took it back home to Germany to be tested. Upon retiring home he discussed the potential of Ontario with his father. So he packed up his family and machinery moving to Niagara-on-the Lake.

Herbert purchased forty acres of peaches at 1096 Lakeshore Road in picturesque Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, and soon replaced many of them with vinifera plantings. The Konzelmann residence was constructed in the summer of 1986, and the winery opened its doors for business on April 9, 1988. The peaches did not go to waste, but instead became the talk of the town, as many of them were fermented into Konzelmann’s famous Peachwine.**

A second vineyard was purchased in 1977.

This move marked a significant step in the development of the Niagara wine industry. His commitment to quality and tradition helped elevate the reputation of Canadian wines on the international stage. Among his many accolades, Herbert was proud to be named the inaugural 'Winemaker of the Year' and 'Lifetime Achievement') at the Ontario Wine Awards, a distinction that remained one of his most cherished achievements.

Herbert's influence can be seen in Konzelmann’s focus on crafting wines with a blend of Old World elegance and New World innovation. Today, the winery remains one of the most well-respected in the region, known for its Rieslings, icewines, and other varietals.

In 2019, Herbert Konzelmann was awarded with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Ontario Wine Awards – 25 years after becoming the very first recipient of Ontario’s Winemaker of the Year honour. Prior to that he was named the first Ontario Wine Awards Winemaker of the Year.

Herbert loved to work in the vineyards he had a very strong work ethic but to him it was just something he loved to do.

Konzelmann Estate Winery was officially the seventh winery to open its doors in Ontario, and now is one of over 180. The winery has won hundreds of awards over the years. Today the winery is flourishing, “producing more than 500,000 bottles each year and employing a team of close to 75 people.

Although Herbert is gone, his legacy continues through the leadership of his Daughter Claudia and son-in law Jim, who carry on his dedication to excellence in winemaking and on-site experiences while maintaining the strong family tradition.

“I have not only lost a father, but a best friend, confidant and role model,” said his daughter Claudia in emailed comments. “My father was a man of faith who cared deeply for his friends, community, co-workers, and most of all, family.”

* Grape growing in Uhlbach dates back to 1108 and the annual wine festival, Weindorf, celebrates the hard work and dedication of the farmers and winemakers.

**Wines Niagara

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