Discover
the history and values of Domaine Lafrance
History
Founded in 1925 by Georges-Étienne Lafrance and his father Wilfrid, Domaine Lafrance was born out of a passion for apples and the Quebec terroir. Over the decades, this family business has grown and innovated while respecting traditions. From the planting of the first orchards to obtaining the artisanal cider production permit in 1997, Domaine Lafrance has always remained at the forefront of agriculture and artisanal production.
Today, with expertise passed down through generations, the Domaine is recognized as one of the leading producers of ciders and spirits in Quebec, while remaining a must-visit agrotourism site.
1925
First successful apple deliveries to Montreal.
1953
Expansion of the orchards to meet growing demand.
1986
Modernization of the Domaine with new production facilities.
2000
Launch of sales at the SAQ.
2013
Launch of the first spirits with the acquisition of a still.
2023
Major investments in innovation while preserving artisanal traditions.
Our Values and Commitment
At Domaine Lafrance, our core values as an agri-food company drive us to continually surpass ourselves and promote Quebec terroir products beyond our borders, with respect for nature, the quality of our products, and innovation.
An Environmental and Sustainable Commitment: Ecological farming practices, conservation initiatives, and environmental protection efforts.
Éric Lafrance
Owner / President
Julie Hubert
Vice President / Controller
Laurent P. Boisclair
Operations Manager
Charles Lafrance
Head of Maple Production and Grounds Maintenance
The Orchard
Today, Vergers Lafrance is a unique place where tradition meets innovation. With over 13,000 apple trees, we grow a variety of high-quality apples, offering a unique pick-your-own experience for the whole family. Our apples are at the heart of the production of our award-winning ciders and artisanal spirits, renowned throughout Quebec and beyond. In addition to seasonal activities, the orchard is a true agrotourism space where you can discover the apple transformation process, participate in workshops, and taste the products made directly from our harvests.
The Bistro
The Bistro at Domaine Lafrance, where local gastronomy meets terroir authenticity, is open year-round to offer you a unique culinary experience. Located at the heart of the estate, it offers a varied menu highlighting fresh, local products, with apples from our orchards as the key ingredient. Whether for brunch, a convivial meal, or an aperitif, our bistro welcomes you in a warm setting. In the summer, enjoy our terrace with a breathtaking view of the orchards, and throughout the year, discover our artisanal ciders and spirits that perfectly accompany our carefully prepared dishes. It’s the ideal place for a gourmet break, whatever the season.
The Boutique
The Boutique at Domaine Lafrance is a true treasure for lovers of local products. Open year-round, it offers a selection of our artisanal ciders, spirits, and apple-based products, all made directly on the estate. You’ll also find homemade pastries, including our famous apple fritters, as well as a variety of carefully selected local products. Whether you’re looking for a gift or a treat for yourself, the boutique is the perfect place to discover the richness of our expertise and take home a piece of our terroir.
The Cidery
Domaine Lafrance is renowned for its expertise as a producer and grower of artisanal spirits, including ciders and oak barrel-aged spirits. Every step of the production process, from orchard to bottle, is carried out with care and passion, ensuring products of exceptional quality. Our ciders, whether sparkling, still, ice, or aged, are the fruit of unique know-how and a rigorous selection of apples from our own orchards. As an alcohol producer, we combine tradition and innovation to offer authentic and refined flavors that reflect the Quebec terroir, with subtle woody notes from oak barrel aging.
Innovation and Development
At Domaine Lafrance, key innovations have been implemented to optimize production and quality, such as the introduction of new sustainable farming techniques and improved processing infrastructures. Going forward, the estate plans to expand its orchards and develop new product varieties, including unique artisanal ciders, to meet growing demand and diversify its offerings.
Write to Us
Contact Information
1473 Chemin Principal
Saint-Joseph-du-Lac J0N 1MO (QC)
Opening Hours
Ticket Purchase
Tickets and payment: Tickets can be purchased directly on site at Domaine Lafrance.
