RIP Paul Pender of Tawse winery

Some shocking news on the Ontario wine scene: Paul Pender passed away on Friday "unexpectedly and tragically".

Paul was the former winemaker who produced some great wines for Tawse winery, turning them into a certified organic and biodynamic winery. Since 2020 he was the manager of viticulture and winemaking for Tawse and Redstone wineries, and led Tawse to winery of the year in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2016. He was named winemaker of the year in the Ontario Wine Awards in 2011. No details have been released on the cause of death.

I met Paul a few times, and was always impressed by his friendliness and willingness to talk to people, as well as his knowledge of wine.

Further news: A 31-year old man has been charged with second degree murder in connection with his death. Maury Tawse, the owner of Tawse winery, stated that Paul died "as he tried to help someone in distress".

He leaves behind a wife (the winemaker at Flat Rock Cellars) and three children.

There is a nice tribute to him here: https://winesinniagara.com/2022/02/he-leaves-a-lasting-legacy-for-canadian-wines/

[David M. Bueker]

ugh

Very sad in so many ways. Tawse is one of the very top Canadian wineries and has been for many years. Their chardonnays, rieslings, cab francs and pinots in particular have been consistently very good to great. It's a big loss for the winery and his many friends and family.

[Jenise]

How sad. Dying just for being a good person.