For Episode 31 of the Read Between the Wines Podcast, we are honoured to host Donald Ziraldo, a pivotal figure in the history of Canadian winemaking and one of its greatest storytellers. As the first winery to receive an official licence in Ontario from the government, Ziraldo co-founded Inniskillin Wines with his business partner, Karl Kaiser, setting the stage for the Niagara region's transformation into a world-renowned wine destination.  In this episode, Ziraldo takes us on a journey through the early days of Inniskillin, sharing stories of perseverance, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence - thanks mostly to his partner Karl Kaiser’s approach to winemaking. With a natural talent for networking and an endless array of connections, Ziraldo was not just a winemaker but also a master salesman who helped elevate Canadian wines on the global stage. His efforts in promoting the unique qualities of Canadian wines, especially the now-iconic ice wine, brought international acclaim and respect to a burgeoning industry that was once overlooked. Ziraldo’s stories are filled with fascinating insights into the challenges and triumphs of building a wine industry from the ground up. From persuading global distributors to take a chance on Canadian wines to collaborating with some of the most influential figures in the wine world, his narrative is a compelling blend of history and personal anecdotes. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in the origins and evolution of Canadian wine, and for anyone who appreciates the power of vision, tenacity, and exceptional storytelling.

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