Update: Hamilton Man Charged with Murder in Death of Niagara Winemaker

Tawse Winery mourning tragic loss of Paul Pender

Haldimand OPP say a 31 year old Hamilton man has been charged after a victim, identified as 54 year old Paul Pender of Grimsby died under suspicious circumstances at a home in Selkirk, Ontario.

Police were called to the scene on February 3rd around 8 pm where they found a seriously injured male.

In a release OPP say Paul Pender was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspect, identified as Bradley House, is facing a second degree murder charge.

Police are asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident, or who may have information to assist with the investigation, to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.

In a statement Tawse Estate and Redstone Winery owner Moray Tawse says "Paul died unexpectedly under tragic circumstances. We will all miss him more than words can express. He was not just our manager but our good friend as well."

The Town of Lincoln sending out condolences as well.

Mayor Sandra Easton says  "On behalf of Town Council and Staff, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies and condolences to Paul’s family, friends and colleagues; as we know this heart-breaking loss will be deeply felt by many."

Town officials adding information regarding the funeral and memorial service has not yet been released. We kindly ask that the privacy of Paul’s family and loved ones be respected during this difficult time.

Here is the full release from Tawse Winery:

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that we inform you of the death of our colleague and friend Paul Pender, who passed away on February 4, 2022. Paul died unexpectedly under tragic circumstances. We will all miss him more than words can express. He was not just our manager but our good friend as well.

Paul Pender joined the Tawse team in 2005 and became head winemaker in 2006. Under his leadership, Tawse achieved Ecocert organic and Demeter biodynamic certification and was named Canadian Winery of the year in 2010, 2011, 2012 and 2016. He earned the title of Winemaker of the Year at the Ontario Wine Awards in 2011.

Former carpenter, Paul was in the second graduating class of Niagara College’s Winery and Viticulture program. He adopted a “non-interventionist as far as possible” philosophy and was a firm believer that the start of every great wine begins in the vineyard.
We will share information regarding the funeral or memorial service as we hear more details. We ask that the privacy of Paul’s family be respected at this difficult time.

The Retail Stores and Restaurant at Tawse & Redstone will both be closed until Wednesday.