Recently, I spent my summer vacation exploring much of the northern part of the Unites States, eight states to be exact. Many natural phenomenon will stay with me for a lifetime such as Acadia Park and variegated worn ocean rocks that filled the water’s perimeter edge of Kennebunkport. All miles worth driven. Yet while I, like all that visit Acadia Park and Bar Harbor, was taken back by its stunning beauty; I was prepared in advance for the anticipated majestic views by many who visited before me. I was not, however, as prepared for the first time I laid eyes on one of the great lake of Lake Ontario, Canadian side, only a few days later into my trip. To say the lake was vast was an understatement, perhaps it was the sheer size of its blue oasis arc that left me speechless. Combine the imagery with towns whose neighbor’s backyard slope quietly down to the massive vessel, the combination only heightens the jaw dropping experience. While I made many attempts to take images that could parlez the great lake’s panoramic, it really was no use. Lake Ontario must be experienced in person. Americans and Canadians share a beauty that does not disappoint.
Later that day, I thought no experience could top Lake Ontario then out of the corner of my eye again my jaw dropped again simply because, again, the sight was so unexpected. Minimalist? Modernist? Suggestive structures of subtle grandeur? what was I passing by? At first I thought corporations perhaps closed for the weekend until I noted and marveled at the endless lovingly cared for finely defined rows of precious stock. Viticulture was at hand: Viticulture (from the Latin word for vine) is the science, production and study of grapes which deals with the series of events that occur in the vineyard. I turned my car around and just as the sun started to set I reached for my camera in amazement only to find expressions of modern winery architecture that rivaled the next winery. “The Niagara Escarpment AVA takes its name from the limestone ridge that runs more than 650 miles through the Great Lakes region. Because of this ridge, grapevines are protected from drastic temperatures, the soil has a good mineral content and the slope provides better air drainage.” In essence, a perfect environment for growing award winning grapes.
Alongside the elegant rows of pre-cast moderinst concrete benches and re-claimed barrels in artful poses was the forward exclamation of sustainability not only practiced during construction but encouraged throughout the winery tastes facilities on signage and in practice. I was not only impressed with the effort in design planning but the stunning beauty of the achieved design. Blush no more, the wineries of yesteryear’s pull-off the road last minute wine tasting lean-to bar shanties, have been remodeled across the country with haute couture at the forefront especially in the Lake Ontario region, Canadian and American sides. Upstate emergingarchitecture alongside emerging wine labels that as jointly impressive, from the bottle’s re-branded appearance to re-claimed wine barrels sculptures that adorn the wineries. Even if one is not a connoisseur of vines or cares for the multitude of bottled offerings; one could easily find themselves ‘tipsy’ over the assortment of winery architectural masterpieces hugging the breathtaking shoreline of lake Ontario…I know I did. No wine needed eh?
Southbrook, is no exception. The simplicity of form and natural materials used on main building is so sublime you reach an inner peace even before you glance upon the orderly rows of grapes harmoniously growing alongside it. Jack Diamond the architect, helped Southbrook achieve a LEED gold Certified status 2008.
Mesmerizing and tranquil all the same, the reflecting pool doing just that, reflecting against the poured concrete above it.
Soaking up the late afternoon sun, the grape vine leaves seem transparent.
Sculptures are derived form re-claimed barrels. Innovative and musical sans the noise.
It's in the details- this is certainly is the case at Stratus, the wood grain is celebrated and the form designed to awe in in simplicity. 'Zen-like' moments abound. LEED certification awarded as well as evidenced throughout. www.stratuswines.com
Branding at Stratus is not forgotten but carried out as an elemental delivery that is elegant and far from invasive.
Modern touches at Stratus are carefully laid & hand picked. Naturally beautiful.
Stratus' tasting room, is no room. It's open in all directions more of an arena of aromas.
Recognition where recognition is due.
While 360 in recognition toward the customer's efforts.
Succulents...arranged in concrete basins...sort a play on plant specification. In that I am sure they are sucking up the environment as well.
The wineries entries are uncluttered, elevating the landscape beyond that benefits from the lake effect as well.
At Jackson-Triggs, the state-of-the art building envelope opens up to the customer in every facet, from custom designed door hardware to letting the customer experience the immaculate vegetable garden. While modern in every sense, nothing has been forgotten, not even the over sized modern expressionist art that adorns the indoor/outdoor atrium guest passageway.
Below:"Designed by the Turin architectural firm, Deabate, it is totally transparent landscape architecture presented as sculpture and blends seamlessly into the surrounding countryside."
Below, artists and are finding new purposes for the discarded wine barrel. The aged barrel wood is coveted and more over furnishings and unique offerings are emerging pleasing the customer knowing that their purchase was re-purposed with passion. Artist Source: https://www.facebook.com/barrelyliving
Students too are exploring the brand and the effort behind a fine wine. Designing stunning labels and bottle adornment to compliment, have elevated wine bottles only to shiver in shame when tucked away in a paper bag till gifted or consumed. Student designer: http://www.packiii.com/3291/rivero-gonzalez-designed-by-anagrama/
My recent summer trip inspired me to venture into my own yard and harvest concord grapes that I had my eye on all summer. Ready for making jelly-I did so and now will have the taste of summer during winter to look forward to.