In the charming town of Chelsea, Quebec, there’s a new buzz surrounding an exciting project that aims to enrich the community and attract visitors from near and far. The Chelsea Vineyard, a picturesque property nestled between Chelsea and Wakefield, is undergoing a transformation that promises to enhance the town’s offerings. Under the leadership of Derick Cotnam, CEO and founder of My Catering Group, this beloved local landmark is poised to become a hub for agritourism and eco-friendly farm-to-table experiences.
Transforming a vision into reality
When Derick Cotnam acquired Le Vignobel de Chelsea in December 2023, he saw more than just a beautiful 22-acre property. He saw an opportunity to preserve and showcase a piece of Chelsea’s heritage while creating a space that could serve the community and visitors. The first step in that vision? Improving the on-site sugar shack. By modernizing the maple sap collection and syrup-making process, Le Vignoblede Chelsea will not only produce premium maple syrup, but also provide a unique and educational experience for all who visit the maple sap.
The upgrades, which are expected to be completed by October, will ensure that the sugar shack is ready to create memories by spring 2025. With new equipment, including a state-of-the-art evaporator and advanced sap collection systems, the sugar shack will be able to produce maple syrup more efficiently and sustainably. These upgrades will be showcased each spring when the sugar shack opens its doors to the community for traditional meals and guided tours of the sugar shack.
A community-driven effort
This project is not just about upgrading equipment; it’s about building something the entire community can be proud of. Derick and his team are working closely with local partners like the MRC des Collines-de-l’Outaouais, Tourisme Outaouais and Juniper Farm to ensure the project aligns with the community’s values and priorities. These collaborations have gone a long way in shaping the project and ensuring its success. For example, the new vegetable garden, developed in partnership with Juniper Farm, will provide fresh produce for catered events, showcasing the farm-to-table experience that Chelsea Vineyards aims to provide.
The involvement of these local partners not only strengthens the project, but also ensures that it benefits the entire region. By creating a space where people can connect with the land and learn about sustainable farming practices, Le Vignobles de Chelsea is poised to become a focal point for locals and tourists alike.
A new destination for agritourists and ecotourists
Chelsea, close to Gatineau Park and the nation’s capital, has always been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Now, with the enhancements to VignoBLE Chelsea, the town is poised to attract a new wave of visitors interested in agritourism and eco-friendly experiences. The property’s rich history, combined with its new amenities, will appeal to everyone from passing cyclists to international tourists looking to experience rural Quebec.
The Sugar Shack revitalization is just the beginning. Plans are already underway to enhance the property’s vineyards, expand the vegetable gardens, and introduce additional farm-to-table offerings. As these plans unfold, Le Vignoble de Chelsea will become a year-round destination, offering everything from maple syrup production in the spring to farm-fresh dinners in the summer and cozy gatherings in the fall.
Building a sustainable future
At the heart of this project is a commitment to sustainability. By producing maple syrup, vegetables, wine, honey and more on-site, Le Vignoble de Chelsea is reducing its environmental footprint and promoting sustainable practices. The focus on farm-to-table dining eliminates the need to transport food long distances, reducing carbon emissions and supporting local agriculture. Additionally, the project aims to preserve the ecological potential of the land, ensuring it remains a vibrant and productive space for generations to come.
The sugar shack and surrounding property will serve as a living classroom, where visitors can learn about sustainable farming practices and the importance of local food production. By hosting events and workshops, Le VignoBLE de Chelsea will inspire others to integrate sustainability into their own lives, which will have a positive impact on the environment and community.
A bright future ahead
As Chelsea Vineyard prepares for its next chapter, there is a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. The sugar shack upgrades are more than just a project; they represent a vision for the future, one where tradition and innovation come together to create something truly special. With the support of the community and a strong commitment to sustainability, Chelsea Vineyard is poised to become a destination everyone can be proud of.
Derick Cotnam and his team at My Catering Group are laying the foundation for a bright future, one where Le Vignobles de Chelsea continues to be a cherished member of the Chelsea community. As the project progresses, there is no doubt that this sugar shack will be the most beautiful place in town, creating memories that will last for years to come.
