Former Michelin sommelier aims to make authentic wine in Finland

Christina Haukka, a former sommelier at a Michelin-starred restaurant, is cultivating a vineyard in Naantali, Finland, aiming to produce genuine Finnish wine. She and Leo Laiho founded the vineyard two years ago, but a substantial harvest is not expected until autumn of the following year.

Haukka's journey into winemaking began after studying wine in Bordeaux. She returned to Finland and faced the harsh realities of viticulture, particularly during winter. In an early attempt at winter pruning, she admitted to cutting too much, inadvertently killing several young vines.

"I did the winter pruning for the first time ever. I cut too much and killed quite a few," Haukka confessed. She had relied on books and online tutorials for guidance, highlighting the steep learning curve involved in establishing a vineyard in a challenging climate.

The vineyard's vines are currently enduring the elements, facing threats from voles and deer. Despite these obstacles, Haukka is dedicated to nurturing the vineyard, learning from her initial mistakes and adapting her techniques. The anticipation for the first proper harvest underscores the long-term commitment and patience required in this endeavor.

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I did the winter pruning for the first time ever. I cut too much and killed quite a few.