Collection: Nyarai Cellars, Niagara

Founded by Steve Byfield, the name Nyarai (pronounced Na-Rye) is derived from the Southern African Shona dialect meaning Humility. His aim is to craft wines that are sourced from prime Niagara Peninsula vineyards that speak proudly of their origin. Nyarai Cellars is a “Virtual” winery, in that they don't own their own vineyards or winery building.

Steve is one of a small but emerging collection of highly motivated, vintner directed, brands in Niagara. Born and raised in Kitchener, Ontario, he was introduced to the culture of wine during his university studies as an amateur winemaker. He's worked with the esteemed teams at Southbrook, Ridgepoint, Calamus Estate and Thomas and Vaughn wineries in Niagara before launching Nyarai in 2008. 

With minimal intervention during the winemaking process, Nyarai's wines develop naturally; yielding a product that is true to their varietal character. The cool climate of the Niagara Peninsula along with its diverse soils offers a bounty of flavours and textures that are indicative to this wonderfully unique wine growing region.

The strength of individual appellations such as Niagara River, Lincoln Lakeshore and Twenty Valley Bench, were appealing to create a product of distinct character and elegance. A simplistic approach is followed during the entire winemaking process, which allows for purity-of-fruit to be the main focus. In order to achieve this, fermentation of their white wines is conducted at low temperatures in stainless steel to retain the delicate nuances of the fruit. Once primary fermentation is completed the wines are allowed to mature on their lees for complexity and stability