Small batch, single vineyard, low intervention wines

Drea’s Small Batch Wines are crafted in Niagara-on-the-Lake by Andrea Kaiser, daughter of world renowned winemaker Karl J. Kaiser who co-founded Inniskillin Wines. As a visionary pioneer, his contributions to modern Canadian winemaking cannot be understated. She closely follows the tenants of her father’s winemaking philosophies with a focus on natural fruit flavours and aromas, making bone dry wines that are well balanced with a bright acidity. The wines in her collection are an expression of his legacy and are dedicated to her father, who affectionately called her ‘Drea’.

“My father, Karl J. Kaiser was a winemaker and considered by many to be the pioneer of modern Canadian winemaking. His pursuit in creating exceptional wine was equalized by my grandmother Oka’s natural talent in the kitchen. Both somehow understood how to balance flavours perfectly for the palate. While both were of great influence to me growing up, I also seemed to have a natural affinity for understanding the importance of balance in cooking and wine, and later for pairing wine with food.  

Perhaps it was this aptitude that led me to a life-long career in hospitality which was cemented when my well-laid plans to go to law school were interrupted by my father’s spontaneous decision to buy a local restaurant. After ten years as a restauranteur, the world of wine did call me back when I joined a neighbouring family winery. Along the way, my appetite for learning was satiated by travel abroad and wine education including sommelier training and attending University of California, Davis and Stanford University for wine studies. I am always delighted in sharing my passions by teaching and writing articles about what else, but food and wine.

My journey continues with the launch of Drea’s Wine Co. which fulfills my aspiration to carry on my father’s legacy in some small way. It is also of great significance to me as it has been made possible by family, friends and colleagues. A very special thank you to my brother Maximilian, a graphic designer, who designed my labels and made my creative vision a reality. I am also most thankful to winemakers Roberto DiDomenico and Fernando Morales who help craft my wines at Reif Estate Winery in the style I loves best, and to Klaus W. Reif who made it possible for my dream to become a reality.” Drea