Niagara-on-the-Lake Deputy Mayor just crowned 2023 Grape King

Just in time for the Grape and Wine Festival, Niagara-on-the-Lake grape grower Erwin Wiens, also the town’s Deputy Mayor, has been selected as the 2023 Grape King.

Chosen by the Grape Growers of Ontario, Wiens will receive the title of the 66th Grape King in his vineyard located at 800 Concession 1 in Niagara-on-the-Lake on Sept. 13 following the Grape Growers of Ontario’s annual Celebrity Luncheon.

The new king runs a sizeable 120-acre vineyard that grows a range of grapes including Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, and Riesling.

Debbie Zimmerman, CEO of the Grape Growers of Ontario, says “We are delighted that Erwin Wiens has been selected as 2023 Grape King. Erwin will be a wonderful ambassador for the Ontario grape and wine industry.”

While running for municipal office last October, Weins made it clear that he would continue to bring an agricultural voice to the council table of the popular destination but added that the town’s budget and tourism were also priorities.