November 28, 2011

Elgin Business Resource Centre, St. Thomas

Elgin County was always known for its orchards.  But, in 1972, Redi Quai, an Italian immigrant, planted grapes, establishing a family vineyard. 

Fast forward 10 years:  his son, Roberto decides to open a wine and beer making supply store.  As that business grew, Roberto faced numerous rejections from financial institutions, until he approached Elgin LEAD (later CFDC).  His ultimate goal was to produce wine commercially; soon, he established Elgin County’s first winery.

Following a year of applications addressing LCBO requirements and preparing samples, Quai du Vin Estate Winery sold its first bottle June 19, 1990.

Today, after four expansions, the winery produces 35,000 litres per year.  Roberto and his wife Lisa are joined by son Jamie, who has taken over winemaking.

“While Elgin CFDC did not have a direct contribution to the winery, it was their funding and mentoring that enabled me to expand my knowledge, experience and capital base,” Roberto says.  He has served as Chair of the Loans Committee and on the Board of the CFDC, now known as the Elgin Business Resource Centre.

Photo:  Winemaker Jamie Quai and his father Robert Quai – a small business evolved into a successful winery