By Sean Delaney
In an era where quality and affordability often seem at odds, a local winery is proving that the
two can indeed coexist. As it celebrates its 45th anniversary, the Vin Bon winery is not only
reflecting on its storied past but also looking ahead with a spirit of innovation and expansion.
Vin Bon winery began in 1979 when Steven Locilento’s grandfather, Angelo, co-founded it with
a partner. “He came here from Italy at 16 years old,” Steven explained. “He was originally a
banker, but saw it was quite difficult to move up the ladder in that industry. So, he bought into
Vin Bon in 1986 and became a co-founder.”
Steven’s grandfather saw quality wine in Canada, but in regions such as Ontario, you could only
make wine during fall harvest season. “He had the idea to import grapes from all around the
world, because different regions around the world have different growing seasons, so then you
could always have fresh grapes and make fresh grape juice for wine all year round.”
Today, they have evolved to having more than 100 types of grape juices to make into wine, and
in 2012, Steven’s father Philip, President & CEO, decided to franchise the business. And now,
they have 16 micro boutique wine locations all across Ontario.
The winery, known for its commitment to producing high-quality wines at accessible prices, has
recently made significant strides in both production and retail. For just two dollars a bottle, wine
enthusiasts can enjoy a product with a fraction of the additives and preservatives found in those
sold by the LCBO. This reduced use of sulfites is intentional, given the winery’s confidence that
its red wines are consumed within three to five years. In contrast, wines sold at the LCBO
endure prolonged shelf lives under less-than-optimal conditions, necessitating a higher level of
preservatives.
In a bold move, the winery has added a retail section to its store, enhancing the shopping
experience with a range of Italian-themed complimentary items such as olives, eggplant, and
pasta.
This shift caters to a newer generation less inclined to make wine at home, allowing the store to
clear out winemaking equipment in favor of retail food products.
Non-alcoholic beverages, including beers and Proseccos, now grace the cooler shelves,
broadening the appeal to a diverse clientele.
Customization remains a cornerstone of the winery’s offerings. With spring and wedding season
on the horizon, the demand for private labels is expected to soar. The winery excels in creating
custom labels for corporate retreats, weddings, and other special occasions, adding a personal
touch to every bottle.
Innovation is at the heart of the winery’s vision for the future. It proudly holds the distinction of
creating Ontario’s first naturally colored blue wine, achieved through the pigments of grape
skins. This commitment to creativity is coupled with an unwavering focus on maintaining
affordable, high-quality products. Remarkably, the winery has managed to keep its prices steady
for five years, despite industry-wide inflationary pressures.
Expansion is also on the agenda, with new stores being opened through franchising. This
growth strategy ensures that more customers can experience the unique offerings that have
become synonymous with the winery’s name.
As the winery celebrates this milestone anniversary, it does so with a sense of pride and
optimism. Forty-five years of dedication, innovation, and customer focus have set the stage for a
future that promises continued excellence and growth. Here’s to the next 45 years of
outstanding wine and unwavering commitment to quality.
Vin Bon is located at 191 Toryork Drive, North York.
You can them at: 416-746-4501
Or find them online at: www.vinbon.com (or scan the attached QR code).