Jeff Duc is a third-generation grower in Niagara-on-the-Lake, managing the farm alongside his dad at Forrer Farms. They operate approximately 250 acres of vineyards with varieties including Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Riesling, Gamay, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon, Merlot, and some hybrids. They also produce Icewine.

Between high school and college, Jeff travelled to Australia and did harvest work for a winery in the small wine region of Mudgee. After returning from Australia, he graduated from the Niagara College Wine and Viticulture program, where he met his wife, Beth. They have two children, Abby and Michael. Abby is in 11th grade and has spent two summers working on the farm. Michael is in 5th grade; he is too young to know if he will be interested in farming or not. Jeff is proud and honoured to raise his kids on the farm and in the same house where he grew up.

In addition to managing the vineyard, Jeff is an avid sports lover who has been involved in minor hockey for the past twenty years. Jeff has coached Niagara-on-the-Lake minor hockey and the Brock Junior Badgers girls’ hockey organization during this time. In the summer months, Jeff coaches for the Niagara-on-the-Lake minor softball league.

Jeff is a valuable member of the Board of Directors of the Grape Growers of Ontario and the Board of Directors of the Niagara Peninsula Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association, and is involved in multiple committees for both Boards.

Jeff Duc was officially installed as the 67th Grape King on Wednesday, September 18th.