A selection of wines from the NC Teaching Winery have been handpicked to become part of an exciting new collaboration with George Brown College.
On November 12, senior leaders from both colleges celebrated the launch of the Trillium Cellars Project at the Chef’s House in Toronto. The Trillium Cellars Project is a collaborative initiative between the two colleges which combines their shared and complementary expertise in winemaking, culinary and hospitality.
While the wines were produced by the NC Teaching Winery, GBC students and faculty participated in the product development process, providing feedback and insights that helped shape Trillium Cellars into a unique product for customers, stakeholders, students and community.
“For more than 20 years the Niagara College Teaching Winery has served as a model for applied education, and we are thrilled that the Trillium Cellars Project will create unique experiential learning opportunities for even more students,” said Niagara College President Sean Kennedy. “This collaboration between the Niagara College Teaching Winery and George Brown College is a shining example of the vital role that highly skilled Ontario college graduates play in helping key sectors like winery and viticulture, hospitality and culinary grow and thrive.”
As the Teaching Winery enhances learning opportunities for NC students, the Trillium Cellars Project opens doors to new hands-on experiences for students at GBC, including its Graphic Design students who had an opportunity to work on commercial product label development. GBC plans to integrate Trillium Cellars into its hospitality training, as well as its on-site restaurant.
“As leaders in Ontario’s culinary and wine sectors, the collaboration between George Brown College and Niagara College exemplifies our dedication to innovation,” said Gervan Fearon, PhD, President of George Brown College. “By merging our expertise in hospitality and winemaking, we are providing invaluable real-world experience and equally ensuring our graduates are prepared for the industry’s evolving demands. Together, we are advancing the attractiveness and competitiveness of Ontario’s wine and culinary sectors.”
The first releases with the new Trillium Cellars label include NV Brut, 2019 Riesling, 2019 Chardonnay, 2021 Pinot Noir, and 2019 Cabernet Franc. They were selected as a representation of what is grown well and sustainably in Ontario.
“It’s exciting that select NC student-crafted wines will pour into the Toronto market through the Trillium Cellars Project,” said Steve Gill, General Manager, NC Learning Enterprise Corporation. “In the spirit of education, we look forward to opportunities to work with George Brown College on this project which will enhance the educational experience for their students while supporting student learning at NC.”
Trillium Cellars beverages will be available at the GBC’s learning enterprises, including the Chef’s House (215 King St. East, Toronto), as well as various events hosted by its Centre for Hospitality and Culinary Arts throughout the year. They will also be available for retail sale to CHCA guests and clients.
Five wines created by the NC Teaching Winery have been released with Trillium Cellars labels, designed by students at GBC, through a new collaboration between the two colleges.
