Sip Your Way Through These Prince Edward County Wineries
Prince Edward County, sometimes informally referred to as PEC, is located along Lake Ontario’s northeastern shores and is well known for being home to the sandy beaches and limestone cliffs of Sandbanks Provincial Park. With 800 kilometers of shoreline and just a 2‑hour drive from Toronto, or a 4‑hour drive from Montreal, it’s a scenic spot for day trips or long weekend adventures.
Contributing to its natural beauty and opportunity for good times are over forty Prince Edward County Wineries. This region was designated a VQA appellation of origin in 2007, and for good reason. This signifies that PEC is a young grape-growing region with many experimental winemakers. Adding to the quality of the ingredients are the characteristics of the land. Winds that come off Lake Ontario protect the grapes from early frost, while the soil, which is a mixture of clay and limestone, is often compared to that found in Burgundy, a prestigious French wine-growing region. If you’re planning a visit to Prince Edward County, be prepared to enjoy the sights of the rustic barns & rolling fields, as well as a delicious farm-to-table meal paired with a glass of its well-known pinot noir or chardonnay wines.
Check Out the Iconic Purple Barn (and Great Wine) at Closson Chase Vineyards
You can’t miss the iconic purple barn of Closson Chase Vineyards. A great backdrop for an Instagram photoshoot, this winery was around well before mainstream social media. It’s one of the oldest in Prince Edward County, opening its doors in 1998. Head winemaker, Keith Tyers, prides Closson Chase Vineyards for capturing the distinct qualities of the soil and climatic variations of the seasons to grow some of the finest grapes. Their wine-making process mimics centuries-old European traditions, while their growing techniques are sustainable.
When looking for wine tasting in Prince Edward County, be sure to add Closson Chase Vineyards to your list. Enjoy a glass of their notable chardonnay and pinot noir while gazing out amongst the winery’s 30 acres of property.
Visit the County’s Oldest Winery — Waupoos Estate Winery
If you’re looking for a winery with a view, look no further than Waupoos Estates. Located on a 100-acre property, including a hillside vista of Lake Ontario, this is the oldest winery in Prince Edward County. It opened in 2001 and is credited with inspiring the many wineries that came after it.
Waupoos Estates is one of several Prince Edward County wineries with restaurants. The on-site restaurant is in a waterfront gazebo nestled amongst the surrounding vineyards. To go along with the serene atmosphere, guests can enjoy farm-to-table fare that will leave them craving another visit. The best way to enjoy your meal is to pair it with one or more of the eighteen wine varieties on offer here. Grab another glass of wine and stroll the picturesque vineyard as it gently slopes towards Lake Ontario. Stop by the dock and relax on the benches to take in the views and sounds of the lake.
Enjoy Great Wines and Authentic Neapolitan Pizza at TerraCello Winery
TerraCello Winery is best known for its fine natural wines and crafting authentic Neapolitan pizza. For wine connoisseurs, the tasting area and barrel room are located within a newly renovated farmhouse which is both intimate and tranquil. After you’ve tried a variety of wines, kick back and relax on the patio. Enjoy a cannoli or go for an entire meal, including a pizza cooked in their Tuscan-style wood oven. The Calabrese pizza is a visitor favorite and includes toppings like Italian salami, mozza sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and green olives. The grounds have so much to offer. Visitors can stay into the evening to sit by a fire pit or get competitive with a game of bocce.
Tony Auciello, Owner at TerraCello Winery, is passionate about his craft, and it shows. He is often seen around the grounds speaking to guests and demonstrating his processes during one of the best wine tours in Prince Edward County.
Try Sparkling Wine and Experience Various Wine Making Methods at Hinterland
If you enjoy sparkling wine, then look no further than the Hinterland Wine Company. They have mastered recipes for delicious and refreshing sparkling wine. What sets Hinterland apart from others are the three different processes used to create the perfect bubbles. The Charmat, Traditional and Ancestral methods utilize different fermentation processes to achieve the bubbling synonymous with sparkling wine. Visitors can enjoy a tasting while overlooking the large winery or from within the pleasant confines of the on-site barn.
Wood-Oven Pizza, On-Site Art Gallery and Some Great Wine at Huff Estates
Huff Estates is so much more than a great winery. Of course, you can sample their delicious Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Noir at the tasting bar, but be prepared for a half or full day of additional opportunities if you wish. Guests can accompany their wines with fresh, wood-fired oven pizza on the outdoor patio. After sampling wine and devouring a Margarita pizza, guests can visit the Oeno Gallery, an on-site art gallery home to a 4‑acre sculpture garden. See a piece you like? Talk to the gallery staff as almost all artwork is available for purchase.
If you’re looking for an at-home experience, then bring the taste of Canada’s best wine regions to your table with these top recommendations.
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