On the midsummer morning of my first trip on a private plane, I channelled my inner Shiv Roy – of my favourite dysfunctional billionaires drama, Succession – as I boarded the sleek nine-seater Pilatus at Toronto’s island airport.
As my colleagues and I lifted off, the city’s towering grey skyline faded, replaced by a vibrant quilt of fields, forests, and waterways. The excitement was palpable, knowing this lavish journey was courtesy of the investment firm that owns both the Grange of Prince Edward Winery and True North Airways. (Because, naturally, you can’t own a winery unless you have the accompanying fleet of luxury aircraft.)
After a smooth landing in Peterborough, we hopped onto a chartered helicopter. From 600 to 700 feet up, plush rolling hills, neatly arranged farms, and meandering rivers and streams swiftly unfolded below before we descended gracefully, touching down amidst the vines.
Tucked within the lush vineyard rows and serene gardens of the Grange, the highlight of the property was a 200-year-old barn that has been converted into a winery and event space where we were treated to an elegant farm-to-table lunch, cellar tour and tasting. During the meal, we also learned from veteran local winemakers and viticulturalists about the extensive overhaul of the former family-run wine program.
These experts spoke passionately about the recent rejuvenation of the vineyard, detailing how the 40 acres of vineyard rows had been meticulously revitalized to enhance grape quality and wine production (my favourite was the award-winning pinot noir). Their pride and passion were well-earned: from takeoff to tasting, the whole experience was an indulgence that at times felt so surreal I half-expected to spot a unicorn grazing among the vines. And if I’d had more to drink I might have.
