| Excellent Soils and a gentle south-facing slope attracted McKay Birtch and his family to this farm in 1946. Operated as a mixed farm for several years, the first apple trees were planted in 1956. One of those original trees greets you as you enter the laneway. Current owners, grandson Bob and his wife Dyann purchased the farm from McKay in 1978. Bob and Dyann planted new orchards and built new storage buildings all the while raising a young family of three boys. Now three young men, sons Josh, Matthew and Nathan are all involved with the farm in varying degrees.
From the beginning McKay encouraged folk from town to visit and purchase produce fresh from his fertile fields. Bob and Dyann carried on with that tradition and over the years noticed a steady increase in the number of people visiting the farm.
|
|
|
In 1993 the decision was made to encourage and expand upon that interest. A retail store was created in a portion of the barn. The first apple festival was hosted that fall, receiving rave reviews and becoming an annual event. Over the next several years they expanded continually, becoming one of the region's most popular fall destinations. Quality products, fun and education for all ages combined with warm personal service are the guiding principles credited for continual growth.
The latest venture (or adventure), Birtch Farms Estate Winery, evolved from years of research and trials along with the encouragement and enthusiasm of family and friends. Their most ambitious undertaking to date, the Birtch family take pride in presenting the fruit of Ontario in a bottle! |
