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La Halte des Pèlerins: Urban winemaking

La Halte des Pèlerins

Interviews

La Halte des Pèlerins: Urban winemaking

Estrie, just 5 minutes away from Sherbrooke, is where Marco Corbin and his family combine their love of wine with their flair for hosting to create the star products at La Halte des Pèlerins vineyard, which include Le Prestige and Le Voyageur. Here’s my visit to this fascinating urban winery.

Published on January 11, 2023

Warmth and the spirit of sharing are front and centre at La Halte des Pèlerins (“Pilgrims’ Break”). There was no denying it during my visit on a sunny Saturday in October, when I had the unique experience of taking part in their harvest. For years now, they’ve organized special events where folks can help collect the fruit off the vines, as owner Marco’s friend Paulin belts out tune after tune for the crowd. His singing brought so much joy to both the vineyard and the winery. As per tradition, Marco joined him for a duet, to the delight of the grape pickers enchanted by the pair. 

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A treat for the ears and the taste buds

When I asked how he came up with the idea of a musical harvest, Marco explained that entertainment had been an integral part of the business ever since it opened. The family had always wanted to offer their visitors an experience unlike any other—one that everybody can appreciate. Marco then revealed the secret to their success. “It’s simplicity. After spending a day picking grapes to music, our visitors become diehard fans, and they come back every year.”

A well-deserved break

After some time in the vineyard, I made my way to the boutique, where Geneviève Chabot and her daughters had the winery’s products ready for me to taste. As I sipped a glass of Le Graal—their popular red ice wine with notes of plum, blackberry and blackcurrant—I inquired about the name of the estate. Geneviève explained that they’re located close to Sanctuaire du Sacré-Cœur de Beauvoir, a pilgrimage site. “Every year on Good Friday, penitents make their way from downtown Sherbrooke to the sanctuary. I saw them through my window one day as they were passing the vineyard. It gets quite steep at the end, so I figured they could use a break before that last stretch.”

A commitment to the environment

As I wandered around the property, I discovered that the roads and landscaping elements were built with materials available on site. Likewise, the patio and amphitheatre were constructed using local materials. I also learned that the winery is committed to reducing its use of chemicals, namely by using a steam-powered machine to clean their vats. And they’re particularly proud to partner with local businesses and employ people from the area. 

Good wine, good company and commitments that matter—there are many good reasons to make a pilgrimage to this little slice of heaven. La Halte des Pèlerins offers more than just tastings—you won’t believe what they have in store for visitors. One thing’s for sure: you’ll be tempted to take a longer break! 

haltedespelerins.com

693, chemin du Sanctuaire
Sherbrooke, QC
J1H 0E1

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