– by Barry Mathias –
This is part of a rotating series of articles on members of Sidney Meet Up Women’s Networking Group, featuring women in business on the Saanich Peninsula.
Peninsula U Brew Winery was established in 1988 and later moved to its present location at 2031 Malaview Avenue in West Sidney (across from Slegg Lumber). “We acquired the business seven years ago,” says Maureen Biford, “and I have enjoyed every minute of it.” Maureen and her husband Stan had been regular customers at the U Brew for 15 years, when circumstances had Stan looking for a new career. “The winery wasn’t actually for sale,” Maureen says, “but that didn’t stop us making an offer! We haven’t looked back.”
Maureen is a successful businesswoman. “We are not a franchise,” she emphasizes. “Being independent allows us to choose what product line we wish to carry.” They guarantee the product, and are the only authorized local dealers with Winexpert, a division of Global Vintners. They are also one of the largest “on premises” businesses in B.C.
Over the years, they have established a knowledgeable staff, who will help you decide which wine, from a large range, will suit your requirements. It is often the fact that new customers have no real idea what they want to purchase: they have some thoughts in regards to white or red, and they know how much they might wish to pay, but they are often overwhelmed with the choice: “we have over 125 different wines in stock,” notes Maureen.
“When a new customer arrives, our staff will ask them 10 questions to identify the wine that will suit their palate,” she says. “Basically, the amount of juice in the wine brew will dictate how full-bodied the wine is, how long it will need to be kept before it reaches its full maturity, and the cost.” Maureen explains: “our staff prepare the batch, while the customer starts the process by pitching in the yeast. It’s that simple.
“We have some excellent wines on our list, including fine Cabernets and Merlots. “People need to understand that these are an investment,” she says. If kept for a year, these top-range wines will continue to improve. “Many newcomers are amazed at the quality and value. Customers can also make their beer ‘on-premise’ in about four weeks, or buy a kit for home brewing.”
Since acquiring the business, Maureen and Stan have reached out to the local population: “We have an Annual Customer Appreciation Day,” she says. They provide food, refreshments, entertainment and games. “It’s just our way to say thanks to all of our wonderful customers, who are in fact friends as well.”
Recently, they have expanded their storefront, creating a touch of elegance, and introduced a new oak-barrel aging program. Maureen smiles: “We take a pride in what we do.”
