Free in-store delivery with purchases of $75+ in an estimated 3 to 5 business days.
For all the information on the ongoing negotiation and which stores are open today, please visit
Favourite store:
More details
Less details
One Father’s Day, France gifted three grapevine cuttings to her husband, Claude Rivard, who had long dreamed of owning his own vineyard. “If they survive the winter, we’ll sow your dream,” she had promised. As you may have guessed, the project was fruitful…
Plan your visit with Vaolo
The couple purchased a piece of land with a small abandoned farm on it. They worked it tirelessly using pickaxes, shovels, axes, and rakes to turn it into what it is today: a property that exudes character and charm, with an exquisite barn that houses a shop. Recycled barn wood, exposed beams, antique furniture—every element is carefully thought out.
On my arrival, France was there to greet me. Her passion for the terroir, its history and the quality of her products was infectious. She’s evidently someone who cares about preserving and promoting Quebec’s rich cultural heritage.
The estate is a place for people to reconnect with the very essence of land and the wine made from the grapes that grow there. For France, practising organic farming was a must. “Organic is a lifestyle, and everyone has to do their part. Respect for the land is ingrained in my values—and, of course, I spend a lot of my time here, so using pesticides is out of the question,” she explained.
She noted that the vineyard has been in better shape since organic practices were introduced. It appears more lush and the grapes are of better quality. To go a step further, France is learning about sustainable agriculture best practices, including biodynamics. She also works with other producers from the region to promote recycling—for instance, an artisan cheesemaker has used her grape pomace in the making of his washed rind cheese.
Le Mas des Patriotes belongs to an agritourism route that promotes shopping local. Folks from remote small villages come to buy wine, and the producers then refer them to other nearby businesses, inspiring them to discover the wealth of treasures the region has to offer.
“It’s important to me that I meet the people who come to my vineyard. A great deal of passion and effort goes into the wine we make—it’s no small feat. And spending some time with customers is a huge part of this wonderful adventure.”
- France, propriétaire Vignoble Mas des Patriotes
Towards the end of the visit, France led me into the winery’s secret room in the former stable that now serves as her furniture restoration workshop. That’s when I learned that she’s not only a winemaker, but also an antiques dealer! This completed the portrait of this multi-talented woman, who’s the embodiment of respect for the local terroir and cultural heritage.
France’s passion comes through in everything she does, from her organic—and soon-to-be biodynamic—growing practices to the use of noble and ancient materials to tastefully remodel the structures found on-site.
Head to Le Mas des Patriotes winery, where a deep reverence for the Richelieu Valley terroir comes through in every glass.
1072 Chemin des Patriotes Ouest
Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu QC J2Y 1H4
in partnership with Vaolo
Discover the organic wines from Le Mas des Patriotes
-
Available Online Available In store -
Available Online Available In store -
Available Online Available In store
-
Available Online Available In store -
Available Online Available In store
We recommend
-
Read moreAlong the wine route in Dunham, in the Montérégie region, sits the magnificent building that houses the Château des Cartes winery. It’s where Stéphane Lamarre has spent many years pursuing his passion for vine-growing.
-
Read moreCoteau Rougemont Vineyard and Cidery embodies a passion for Quebec wines that has stood the test of time. Majestically overlooking the Montérégie region, it offers an authentic experience and breathtaking views. A vision of perseverance that became a reality.
-
Read moreRight by the Quebec-Vermont border, 80 km south of Montreal, there’s a winery steeped in history located in the town of Dunham—Domaine des Côtes d’Ardoise. It’s considered to be the oldest active commercial vineyard in Quebec and stands out through its gardens, historical buildings and impressive art exhibit. And it’s where Henry-Alain Drocourt offers tastings of the estate’s wines.
Most recent
Two-day strike by store employees
Measure to avoid destroying private import products taken possession of by the SAQ
Thinking outside the bottle: the ABCs of eco-responsible containers
For the 15th spring running, the SAQ launches its Food Banks of Quebec campaign
Lettre ouverte: Un projet qui bonifiera l’offre à nos clients
