During the fall, a wooden crate from California is cracked open and bunches of purple grapes
are flung into a large industrial wine-pressing machine. As more crates are heaved down a long
chute, the grinding hum of the press continues until all of the grapes are de-stemmed and pummeled
into a stream of flowing juice.
This grinding noise is sweet music to Silvano Musca, the Second Generation of Musca Wine Pressing
and Supplies on Somerstreet West. Mr. Musca is affectionately known as the "King of Grapes", introducing
several brands of California Wine Grapes and Fresh Juices here more than 40 years ago.
The fall ritual of making homemade wine, helped along over the years by Mr. Silvano Musca, is flourishing
as more people appreciate the grapes and fresh juices.
The Muscas were the very first to import fresh California Wine Grapes into Ottawa. They were always
very proud to have the best possible quality out of California. Their grapes are known to be a "House
Pack", and not a field pack. House packed grapes are more carefully selected by workers and properly
weighed and rarely contain any leaves or other debris.
When the Muscas first started, the shipments of 1000 crates were snapped up by eager Italian men
who waited anxiously alongside the old rail-yards near Scott Street to load them into their trucks.
Many of these loyal customers cultivated back then have stayed on as loyal clients, often bringing along
their sons and daughters to share in the winemaking experience.
Today, Silvano Musca and his wife, Carmen, import over 30, 000 crates of grapes under the Pia Label
from Lamanuzzi and Pantaleo winery. They have also expanded the business to include a large selection
of Award Winning Fresh Juices, Award Winning Fresh Concentrates, not to mention a large selection of
winemaking supplies, along with a huge wine Boutique. For those clients that just don't have the time or
patience the Muscas have expanded their operation to include the making of Wine on their Premises, with
over 90 different varietals to choose from.
The Muscas are generally acknowledged as wine pioneers in the city, allowing the tradition to continue
since 1954! The grape season is a favorite time of year. It is a time of gathering together in the basement
of their homes in order to share the tradition with family and friends. These traditions were given to them
by their ancestors in order to share them with their very own family and friends.
Thank you for allowing Musca Wine Pressing and Supplies to enter your home.
On Premise Grape Crushing Available!
Fresh Grapes Available under the "Pia" Label is Season only! September and October only!
Please note, just because the grape varietal is listed on the Web Site does not necessarily mean that it's
in stock. Always contact the store at (613) 235-5050 before you decide to pick up your fresh wine grapes!
