In June of this year the Ontario wine world was rocked when allegations of repeated sexual harassment surfaced thanks to the reporting of Ivy Knight and Ann Hui. You can read the full article here – https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-canadian-winemaker-norman-hardie-accused-of-sexual-misconduct/ . Out of more than fifty people who were interviewed only three had their names attached to the article. I know in the wine world – nobody wanted to be the one to take down Norman Hardie. These women need to be commended for their bravery – but I am asking myself how are they doing now? I don’t know any of them personally, but I hope that sharing their story has helped them heal, and helped those who didn’t attach their names to the story heal.
Think of all the good that he has done for the industry – hell, the reason why this website exists is to help spread the word on great Ontario wines and let everyone know that we stand on the world stage. There is no denying that Norm was a great self-promoter, and did a lot to raise the profile of the County, and Canadian wine. But, that’s where it ends. I’m sorry but the treatment of women at his winery nullifies that “good” work.
In August, Louis CK got on the stage at the Comedy Cellar in New York – apparently testing the waters on making a comeback. I don’t think it went very well. I reflected a bit on the backlash and I am left scratching my head on how these men think that you can issue a bullshit written apology disappear and come back. I know my perception of someone like Louis CK is forever changed – but what is he DOING to make amends for what he has done. Someone like Louis CK has access to some of the largest platforms on the planet, and I can only imagine how difficult it will be to face the public at large again, but at least TRY. The passage of time is not making amends.
Which brings me back to Norman Hardie. He followed the formula – issue a written apology and disappear. Restaurants issued statements – the LCBO issued a statement – wines were removed from wine lists – outrage ensued. July 13th – @normanhardiewinery on instagram returned to business as usual. Come drink the wine – come eat the pizza. Visitors to the County reported to me that the winery has never been busier. But Norm – WHERE ARE YOU? – What have you been doing in the 3 and a half months since you admitted to your own sexual harassment to make it right? Have you been busy calling all the women who were subjected to the harassment? That would probably be a start. I really don’t mean to pick on the hardworking people at the winery BUT HIS NAME IS ON THE DAMNED DOOR. This isn’t about publicly shaming Norm at this point – this is about holding people to account.
I have heard from people that Norman Hardie’s wines have been quietly making an appearance on wine lists again. I have even seen some people involved in the industry saying that he wasn’t convicted of anything – so there’s no reason to avoid the wines. I just don’t think that’s good enough. A single written statement doesn’t really demonstrate any remorse beyond remorse at being caught. I’m worried that things are just not going to change. I guess we only care about #metoo if it’s a real celebrity. I realize that I’m one person – but that’s not good enough for me. I don’t plan on returning to Norm’s anytime soon – nor do I plan on spending any money at restaurants currently stocking his wines.
