Welcome to Fall at the Farm
Maan Farms in Abbotsford
A Journey Through Generations of Growth
When we sat down with Gaurav Maan, Winery Manager at Maan Farms in Abbotsford, the story of this family-owned farm unfolded like a heartfelt saga. It all began in the 1970s, when his grandparents, Jawahar and Gurbachan Maan, left Punjab, India, armed with little more than $20 and a dream. They gathered their extended family, pooled their resources, and purchased a farm on 1136 McKenzie Road, just down the street from where Maan Farms stands today.
Maan Farms
BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCEAs the years rolled by, Maan Farms flourished, thanks to the unwavering support of the local community and their dedicated customers. Fast forward to 2005, a pivotal moment arrived with the acquisition of their current property. Picture a barren 45-degree slope, now transformed into a thriving hub of family fun. From bouncy pillows to ziplines, the landscape grew organically, a testament to their commitment to reinvestment.
However, the farm faced a harsh trial in 2014, when an arsonist reduced their beloved two-story building to ashes. The Maans rallied, reopening their berry stand just days later, and with the community’s help, they rebuilt. The lesson? Resilience and community spirit are the cornerstones of Maan Farms.
Over the years, the Maan family has added a host of activities that promise laughter, excitement, and unforgettable moments:
Innovation at Maan Farms
Vertical Strawberry Greenhouse
In 2021, Maan Farms unveiled Canada’s first vertical strawberry greenhouse, a testament to their forward-thinking approach. This groundbreaking technology, imported from Spain and Portugal, allows them to cultivate ten acres of strawberries on just two acres of land. Not only is it a triumph of efficiency, but it’s also a model of sustainability. Natural pest control, ergonomic harvesting, and weather protection are all part of this innovative farming paradigm.
In 2021, Maan Farms achieved a significant milestone in agricultural innovation, introducing Canada’s inaugural vertical strawberry greenhouse. This pioneering technology, sourced from the agricultural hotspots of Spain and Portugal, stands as a testament to their forward-thinking ethos.
Nestled just a stone’s throw away from their main site, this greenhouse revolutionizes strawberry cultivation. They cultivate a specific variety called Albion, known for its exceptional flavor and vibrant red hue. These strawberries, originally hailing from California, find their true potential on the fertile soils of Maan Farms.
Albion strawberries are renowned for their remarkable taste, a perfect harmony of sweet and tart notes that burst with every bite. Unlike the ones you might find in grocery stores, these berries are picked at the pinnacle of ripeness, ensuring an unrivaled depth of flavor.
One of the most remarkable aspects is the integration of natural pest control. Rather than relying on chemicals, Maan Farms takes an organic approach. Ladybugs, nature’s own defenders, are strategically deployed to safeguard the delicate strawberry plants. This eco-friendly method not only preserves the integrity of the crops but also contributes to a healthier ecosystem.
Beyond pest management, the greenhouse allows for ergonomic harvesting. No more strained backs or stooped postures. Workers stand comfortably as they pluck ripe, succulent berries. It’s a shift towards a more sustainable and worker-friendly agricultural practice.
Weather, often an unpredictable factor in farming, is brought under a measure of control within the confines of this innovative greenhouse. The capriciousness of nature is mitigated, reducing the risk of crop loss due to adverse weather conditions.
Before the introduction of this vertical strawberry greenhouse, Maan Farms faced the perennial challenge of weather dependency. A significant portion of their strawberry crop could be compromised by rain or overly warm temperatures. Now, with the greenhouse, the outcome is radically different. Losses that once amounted to 50% or more have been nearly eradicated, marking a monumental leap in efficiency.
Considering the exorbitant cost of land in the lower mainland, every inch counts. With this groundbreaking greenhouse, Maan Farms has maximized their land use, reaping the equivalent of ten acres from just two. It’s a game-changing innovation that not only amplifies productivity but also sets a new standard for sustainable, forward-looking agriculture.
Mama Maan’s Kitchen: A Culinary Journey Rooted in Tradition
From Gourmet Delights to Authentic Indian Fare, How Maan Farms Found its Flavourful Identity After the Fire
In the days before the fire, the Maan family’s Country Kitchen was a haven for gourmet enthusiasts. The menu boasted gourmet pizzas, hot dogs, burgers, and an array of delectable treats. A skilled chef curated a menu that reflected their diverse culinary interests, creating a polished dining experience.
However, as the embers settled and the Maan’s set out to rebuild, they saw an opportunity to forge a deeper connection with their roots and the community they cherished. The new building, born from the ashes, exuded a rustic charm, a testament to their commitment to authenticity.
With resources stretched thin, hiring a chef was no longer a viable option post-fire. This presented an opportunity for Mama Maan to step into the culinary spotlight. Armed with cherished family recipes, she took charge of the kitchen. Soon, the tantalizing aroma of samosas, rich butter chicken, and hearty chickpea curry wafted through the air, drawing in visitors from all around.
Mama Maan’s cooking quickly gained acclaim, becoming a beloved staple for locals and visitors alike. The community now flocks to Maan Farms not only for the fresh produce and exceptional wines but also for a taste of authentic, homemade Indian cuisine. Mama Maan’s Kitchen has become a treasured cornerstone of the Maan Farms experience, where every dish is crafted with love and tradition.
Fruitful Fermentation
Maan Farms Estate Winery
Since 2012, Maan Farms has been on a mission to transform their bountiful fruit harvests into exquisite wines.
The transition from selling fruit by the pound to crafting bottles of wine marked a strategic move towards value-added products. Initially, sales were confined to their on-site tasting room, but a pivotal event in 2014—a fire that prompted the search for additional income streams—propelled Maan Farms into the broader market. Their first foray into a liquor store met with remarkable success, leading to expanded distribution. Today, Maan Farms’ wines grace the shelves of over 300 liquor stores, including major chains like Save-On-Foods and Superstore.
From a modest output of 100 cases per year, Maan Farms now boasts an impressive 7,000 to 8,000 cases annually. This meteoric rise is a testament to their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation. Strategic investments in cutting-edge equipment, including their own bottling and canning lines, have further fuelled their expansion.
One of the hallmarks of Maan Farms’ wines is their dedication to authenticity. Each bottle boasts an impressive two pounds of berries, absent of any added water. Their objective is simple yet powerful: to allow the natural fruit flavours to take centre stage. Dispelling common misconceptions about fruit wines being exclusively sweet, Maan Farms’ offerings strike a balance that encapsulates the essence of the fruits from which they’re derived.
This commitment to quality has not gone unnoticed. Maan Farms proudly holds the title of the most awarded fruit winery in Canada. Their accolades span prestigious international competitions in France and Germany to top honours in various Canadian contests. A notable achievement is the coveted “Best Fruit Wine of the Year” award, a testament to their unwavering commitment to producing exceptional wines.
In British Columbia, where grape wines traditionally dominate, Maan Farms has carved out a niche as one of the leading fruit wineries. Their prime location, strategically situated closer to Vancouver and its surrounding areas than the Okanagan Valley, affords them a competitive edge. This accessibility has enabled them to cultivate a loyal customer base and extend their reach far beyond their farm’s gates.
While Maan Farms’ core offerings include delectable wines made from blackberries, raspberries, strawberries, and rhubarb, they’ve also introduced unique and seasonal varieties. Notably, their “Mad Apple” and “Mad Pumpkin” wines add a captivating twist to their lineup. These seasonal specialties have garnered attention for their intriguing names. “Mad Apple” is a nod to the intense, bold flavours derived from carefully selected apples. Conversely, “Mad Pumpkin” pays homage to the vibrant, seasonal essence of pumpkins, encapsulating the spirit of fall in a bottle.
From modest beginnings, Maan Farms has evolved into a powerhouse in the fruit winemaking industry. Their dedication to crafting exceptional wines from locally sourced fruit, along with their willingness to push boundaries, has resulted in a diverse and award-winning lineup. As they continue to grow and innovate, Maan Farms is poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of fruit wines.
Explore Fall at the Farm
Before we wrap up, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the vibrant Maan Farms. From the Barnyard Adventureland to the adrenaline-pumping Zipline, there’s something for every member of the family to revel in. And don’t forget the goat yoga – a unique experience that exemplifies Maan Farms’ commitment to providing fun, family-oriented activities.
Fall at the Farm
The First-Ever Forest-Themed Pumpkin Patch in Canada
As autumn paints its golden strokes across the landscape, Maan Farms transforms into a harvest wonderland like no other. Here, the crisp air carries whispers of pumpkin spice, and the vibrant colours of changing leaves provide a breathtaking backdrop for families and friends to come together.
Step into a magical realm where pumpkins of all shapes and sizes adorn the earth in the first-ever forest-themed pumpkin patch in Canada. Each one seems to tell a story, and finding your perfect pumpkin becomes an adventure in itself. From petite gourds to colossal jack-o’-lantern candidates, there’s a pumpkin for every preference and creative vision.
Scariest Corn Maze: A Thrilling Adventure Awaits
For those seeking a spine-tingling challenge, the Scariest Corn Maze beckons. This intricate labyrinth of towering cornstalks promises heart-pounding excitement and a dash of Halloween spookiness. As the sun sets, the maze comes alive with eerie delights, creating an unforgettable experience for thrill-seekers of all ages.
Seasonal Treats: From the Farm to Your Plate
Indulge in the flavours of fall with Maan Farms’ seasonal treats that capture the essence of the harvest season. One can’t help but be tempted by the Double Pumpkin Spice Cream, a delectable concoction made with roasted pumpkins from the patch, and an array of spices including nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon. Topped with a homemade ginger molasses cookie and whipped cream, it’s the quintessential fall dessert.
And let’s not forget the made-to-order Deep Fried Mini Donuts, a crowd-favourite that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. For those in search of a homely touch, Mama Maan’s signature Pumpkin Pie reigns supreme, a cherished recipe passed down through generations. Maan Farms’ Country Kitchen overflows with these delectable fall delights, inviting guests to savour the taste of the season.
With every bite, you’ll taste the love and dedication that the Maan family pours into their culinary creations, a reflection of their commitment to providing authentic, farm-fresh experiences.
In every corner of Maan Farms, the spirit of fall comes alive, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come. Whether you’re strolling through the pumpkin patch, navigating the corn maze, or simply savouring a warm, freshly-made treat, you’ll feel the warmth and hospitality that the Maan family pours into every facet of their farm.
Come, join us in celebrating the magic of the harvest season at Maan Farms – a place where families and friends can create cherished memories amidst the bounty of fall.
Disclaimer: Thanks to Maan Farms and Tourism Abbotsford for facilitating our experience. All thoughts and opinions shared ours and not influenced in any way.
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