Since moving to the County, I’ve noticed the malleability of its residents. Often you’ll see your massage therapist bar tending at your favourite pub, the farmer selling his goods moonlighting at a local winery. Such is rural life – being open to all opportunity definitely molds the good people who live here, and helps bolster their pocketbooks. Similarly, County businesses must also constantly shape-shift to keep themselves afloat, often resulting in unique partnerships that make for unforgettable experiences. Summer at Rosehall Run Vineyards perfectly embodies the merging of a variety of County experience. Located on Greer Road in the heart of the Hillier wine district, Rosehall opened its doors in 2006 and offers meticulously crafted local Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sullyzwicker Red, and white and rose blends. Founder, winemaker and owner Dan Sullivan uses a hands-on approach to all aspects of vineyard operation, and like most County businesses has pushed the boundaries of partnership into some unique territory.

This summer, Rosehall is proud to announce the release of the 2007 Cooper’s Selection Cabernet Franc. The first winery to partner with The Carriage House Cooperage (the County’s local cooperage), Rosehall received their first barrel in January of 2008. This barrel became home to Rosehall’s outstanding 2007 vintage. Thrilled with their shared vision of a locally aged product, the cooperage and winery look forward to their next project together. While recently walking the Rosehall Run forest, an old fallen oak tree was found that has been taken to the cooperage for further aging – like wine, barrel-making takes time, and it’s expected to be ready for processing in three years. If you’re not able to wait that long, visit Rosehall on May 29^th from 1-4pm for the soft launch of the vintage at the “All Fired Up” event and enjoy barrel cellar tours, barrel toastings, tree plantings, and a B.B.Q.

If you prefer a little art with your wine, you’re in luck. Rosehall’s second unique partnership is with the County’s renowned professional theatre company – Festival Players.  This season, the production of The Ballad of Weedy Peetstraw, will showcase its nightly performance in the tasting room at Rosehall run. This contemporary take on the Faustian tale tells the musical story of a County boy who sells his soul to the devil to learn to play the banjo. This bluegrass production will run from August 3-29^th, and Rosehall’s wine will be sold by the glass before performances and at intermissions.

Whether you like art with your wine or your wine by itself, there’s obvious reason to visit Rosehall Run this summer – perhaps your passion could be a collaboration waiting to happen.