When you think of Alberta agriculture, your mind probably jumps to sprawling wheat fields, grazing cattle, and root vegetables pulled from the dirt. But tucked away just 20 minutes from Lethbridge, there is a winery that is flipping that narrative on its head.
Meet Little Gem Winery, a boutique fruit winery in Nobleford that is turning a lesser-known berry into one of Alberta’s most delightful tasting experiences. Run by brothers Joel and Rick Mans and their lifelong friend Jordan, this small but mighty operation has carved out something truly special among the province’s endless acres of farmland. And trust us, it is a must-visit.
From Dirt to Drink: The Haskap Story
In 2018, guided by equal parts curiosity and courage, the trio planted their first haskap berry crops, inspired by conversations with Eastern Canadian winemakers and experts from British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. According to an article in Culinaire Magazine, it was a bold move, a total departure from the type of farming their family had done for generations. But it worked. And it worked beautifully.
What is a haskap, you ask? Often called Alberta’s superfruit, the haskap berry is native to cold climates and thrives in the southern Alberta sun. Shaped like a long blueberry and bursting with a tangy sweet flavour, haskaps are loaded with antioxidants and have a taste that falls somewhere between a blueberry, raspberry, and blackcurrant. Their deep blue hue and bold profile make them perfect for winemaking, adding both depth and vibrancy to every bottle.
Sip Something Unexpected
Little Gem’s lineup is as down to earth as it is impressive. Their berry forward wines include a Reserve Red aged in oak, a crisp white, a bright rosé, and a bold red blend, all crafted to showcase the unique flavour of the haskap berry. There is also a haskap apple cider that is just begging to be enjoyed on a patio in the sun.
They are not interested in overprocessing or adding unnecessary fluff. What you taste is what you get, pure fruit, thoughtfully fermented, with just the right amount of polish. Their wines are made with minimal additives, allowing the natural tartness and sweetness of the berries to shine.
A Visit That Is All Vibes
Stopping by Little Gem Winery is not just about sipping wine. According to Travel Alberta, visitors can tour the 28-acre haskap orchard and learn how these nutrient-rich berries go from bush to bottle. The tasting room itself is cozy, inviting, and often stocked with local cheeses, meats, and Dutch treats. It feels more like you have been welcomed into a neighbour’s home than dropped into a commercial tasting room.
Guided tours are available for just ten dollars per person, and they offer a relaxed, intimate peek into Alberta’s blossoming wine scene. Whether you are a full-blown wine nerd or just looking for a fun stop on your southern Alberta road trip, you will walk away with a bottle in hand and a story worth telling.
Small Fruit, Big Dream
The name Little Gem says it all. It nods to the haskap itself, a small berry with a big personality, and to the winery’s humble beginnings. What started as an experiment between three friends has turned into a vibrant destination that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and Alberta’s often overlooked potential as a wine-growing region.
So this summer, swap the vineyard crowds for a peaceful orchard, follow the backroads of Nobleford, and discover what makes Little Gem Winery such a standout. You might come for the wine, but you will leave with so much more.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
