Where to go for a glass of whine from the vine in Ontario

Southern Ontario has four main wine regions: Niagara Peninsula, Lake Erie North Shore, Prince Edward County, and Emerging Regions. Each region has its own unique climate, soil, and grape varieties that produce distinctive wines.

• Niagara Peninsula: 

This is the largest and most diverse wine region in Ontario, with over 100 wineries and 13 sub-appellations. The region is famous for its icewine, a sweet dessert wine made from grapes that are frozen on the vine. Some of the well-known wineries in this region are [Inniskillin], [Peller Estates], [Trius], [Jackson-Triggs], and Konzelmann12.

• Lake Erie North Shore: 

This is the southernmost wine region in Canada, with a warm and sunny climate that allows for a long growing season. The region has over 20 wineries and produces a variety of wines, such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Some of the notable wineries in this region are [Colio Estate Wines], [Pelee Island Winery], [Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards], and [Oxley Estate Winery]1.

• Prince Edward County: 

This is the newest and fastest-growing wine region in Ontario, with over 40 wineries and a cool climate that creates elegant and expressive wines. The region is known for its Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sparkling Wine, and Rosé. Some of the acclaimed wineries in this region are [Huff Estates Winery], [Rosehall Run], [Norman Hardie Winery], and [Closson Chase]2.

• Emerging Regions: 

These are the other areas in Southern Ontario that have a smaller number of wineries but are developing their own wine styles and identities. Some of these regions are Georgian Bay, Huron County, Norfolk County, and Toronto. Some of the interesting wineries in these regions are [Georgian Hills Vineyards], [Maelstrom Winery], [Burning Kiln Winery], and [Niagara College Teaching Winery]3.

Cheers🍷