Farming has been in new Grape King’s blood since day 1
By Luke Edwards
In a year that’s been full of difficult surprises for local farmers, from economic uncertainty and wild weather, one Niagara-on-the-Lake grape grower last month received a most welcome surprise.
Steve Pohorly was named the newest Grape King, joining an exclusive list of grape growers who have helped create and shape Ontario’s grape and wine industry. As his family welcomed industry members, friends, family and a football legend to their farm, outgoing Grape King Augusta Van Muyen handed over the chains to Pohorly, officially installing him as the new Grape King.
“It was a shock, a surprise, and a great honour,” said Pohorly.
Running Riverbend Farm in Virgil, the family maintains about 50 acres of farmland, including 30 acres of premium wine grapes. While they came from farm families, Steve’s parents, Frank and Susan, struck out on their own and established the farm in 1971.
It started as primarily fruit, with an orchard and pick-your-own strawberries. Pohorly recalled helping out as a child at the checkout counter, where his parents taught him the business side of farming.
But joking he was born with John Deere gear in tow, Pohorly said the farming life has always been his passion.
“Farming has been in my blood since day one,” he said.
While they’ve transitioned to begin focusing on grapes, they still grow a mixture of fruits that harkens back to their days operating the Fruit Shack market and bakery.
Riverbend has a longstanding partnership with Arterra Wines, going back to when they were known as Brights Wines, and today supply local wineries like Inniskillin and Jackson-Triggs.
While calling it an honour to be named Grape King, Pohorly said the support of family, friends and staff have made all the difference. He singled out the three offshore workers who have been longtime returnees.
“They care just as much about our farm’s success as we do,” he said.
Still, others were quick to sing Pohorly’s praises. Matt Peters, of new Grape King sponsor NM Bartlett, called the Pohorlys wonderful people.
“(Steve) puts himself out there to do what he can for his community,” Peters said. “And he still has time to grow some good grapes.”
Pohorly has served as a GGO director for nearly 20 years, sits on the board of the Niagara Peninsula Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association, and participates in many industry committees and research groups. Beyond farming, he is dedicated to youth sports, coaching and supporting NOTL minor hockey, where his son plays, as well as his daughter Maelle’s softball team.
Looking ahead, Pohorly said he’s excited to take part in the trip to the Okanagan Valley, an annual tradition for the Grape King as they get to tour that wine region and learn from its local grape growers and winemakers.
He’ll also spend the year championing the industry at various events and helping advocate for more support. He and others said resilience helps define the grape and wine sector.
“We do our very best with whatever curveballs are thrown our way,” he said.
Pohorly likewise echoed comments made earlier in the day at the GGO celebrity luncheon that featured a presentation from CFL legend Michael “Pinball” Clemons about the value of teamwork.
“Every bottle of Niagara wine must be great, for all of us to thrive,” Pohorly said.
At the same time he encouraged Ontario wine drinkers to stock their cellars with local bottles.
“Keep reaching for Ontario wines, explore it, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised,” he said.
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