From Fruit Farm Roots to Industry-Defying Winery - Ontario - Canada's Entrepreneur

Alicia Hardman grew up on a fruit farm just down the ridge from Shale Ridge Winery and always dreamed of tying her roots to a place of her own, where craft and hospitality meet. Years later, she left a full-time job and went all-in on that vision. It wasn’t a retirement project. It was an underdog leap, capital-heavy, complex, and humbling. Alicia says starting from the bottom meant ups and downs, tough lessons, and a lot of perseverance. But when heart and vision stay aligned, you find your way. Every bottle, every table we set, and every smile at the door is a thank-you to the people who believed with us, and to you for being part of it. Alicia didn’t arrive with all the answers. She learned fast, sought out seasoned growers and makers, invested in the right equipment, and kept listening, to the land and to the guests. The result is a Shale Ridge Winery, Cidery and Spa. A place that feels personal: with swings, sunshine, seasonal plates, and glasses that tell the story of where they came from. Stay Connected with #CanadasEntrepreneur! Join our growing community of entrepreneurs across Canada! Don't miss out on inspiring interviews, expert insights, and the latest business trends from the people shaping the future of our economy. 👉 Subscribe to our YouTube channel for full episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@CanadasEntrepreneur 🌐 Explore more on our website: https://canadasentrepreneur.com 💼 Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/canadas-entrepreneur 📸 Follow behind-the-scenes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canadasentrepreneur 👍 Stay in the loop on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/canadasentrepreneur 🐦 Join the conversation on X: https://x.com/CanadasPreneur 💡 Want exclusive updates on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Make sure to subscribe and never miss a beat! Your support helps us continue bringing you the best stories from Canada’s top business leaders.