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An off hand comment made over a glass of Rose wine one afternoon leads to a
unique and dynamic synergy. From these auspicious beginnings, we now
proudly present Bowline Woodworks.
Gord Grant and Brian Ferguson were enjoying the mid-winter sunset when
Brian mentioned his son Colin's involvement with the Niagara Winery
market, and his ensuing frustration with the waste of “retired” white oak
wine barrels. Originally crafted in a French Tonnellerie (Cooperage), the
barrels are used for just five years before they are withdrawn from
production. While some wineries do sell the occasional barrel, most are
generally used as scrap or are burned.
As their discussion unfolded, it became apparent to both men that there
was an opportunity waiting to be discovered. With the combination of
Gord’s woodworking experience (and abject winter boredom) and Colin
Ferguson’s connections in the Niagara wine region, perhaps something
unique and exciting could emerge out of the used barrels.
After more discussion (and more wine), a call was placed to Colin.
Assorted barrel parts promptly arrived the next weekend. Some designs
emerged quickly from Gord’s workshop, and the trial and error process of
creating prototypes began.
What emerged were the beginnings of Bowline Woodworks oak products; two
styles of serving trays. The original tray has
hand-fitted oak stave handles and feet (from the same barrel), and the
second tray incorporates wrought iron handles and feet.
Three candelabras were created next; one with five votive candles, one
with seven tea lights, and one for nine tapers. Each candelabrum also has
wrought iron feet.
A tripod/oak barrel lid table followed which utilizes barrel staves for
legs and was designed to allow the top to be reversed to show either the
timeless white oak or the deep burgundy wine aged inner lid surface.
Several more designs, including a reversible barrel lid "Lazy Susan" and a 24-bottle wine rack, are in development.
After the concept stage, a flurry of activity ensued. A full colour
product brochure was created, which included the creative photography of
Lynn Moreland of Westcoast Photography in Goderich. Many hours of
preparation began to pay off!
The summer of 2008 will be one of learning and growth. We will continue to explore
and develop alternative marketing options in an, on going, promotion of
Bowline Woodworks' unique and diverse products!
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