Ontario's Best Wineries - As Chosen by you!

When the Ontario grapes start ripening you know it’s time for a Wine Country Ontario adventure. We asked you what was your favourite Ontario vineyard, and here’s what you told us.

1. Pelee Island, Ontario
Submitted by Dennise W. & Vashti P.

It’s not only the wine, but the warm community feel which made the visit to Pelee Island Winery special for Vashti. While the island has developed it’s trademarked reputation with wine experts and enthusiasts, naturalist enthusiasts enjoy the island’s unspoiled beauty and rustic simplicity.

Pelee Island is on the same latitude as the prestigious wine regions of the world (Portugal, Spain, Italy, Germany and France). Its southerly latitude means that the vines of Pelee Island Winery enjoy Canada’s longest growing season, creating ideal grape-growing conditions. The winery offers tours and tastings for $5, or the delicious Chocolate and Wine tour for $30.

2. Konzelmann Winery – Niagara-on-the-Lake,Ontario
Submitted by Wendy H.

Family owned, and named for founder Herbert Konzelmann, this winery on Niagara-on-the-Lake combines award winning wines with welcoming atmosphere. As Wendy told us, a highlight is the outdoor barbeques “…because the food is good, you can view the vineyards and it is right on Lake Ontario”. Public tours run from May to September and are
$5.00 per person

3. Peller Estates – Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
Submitted by Michele S.

Founded in 1968, Peller Estates has won many prestigious awards for signature products, like Icewine, as well as Chardonnays and Rieslings. What makes this winery special for Michele is the delicious food created by Chef Jason Parsons, Executive Chef at Peller Estates. Each season the winery offers a range of special dining experiences, including specialties like Sparkling Brunches or Harvest Dinners. Chef Parsons is also regularly featured CityTV’s Cityline.

4. Trius Winery at Hillibrand
Submitted by Tammy B.

Tammy’s recommendation speaks for itself! As she told us: “I love almost all Ontario wines. I’m a traveller, so wherever I go, I always drink the wine from that region (or as close to it as I can); which means when I’m home, my first choice is always Ontario wine! My favourite: Trius Red (ahem, Trius Grand Red when I want to splurge!). Every time I’m in the Niagara region, it’s straight to Hillebrand Winery!”

Hillebrand offers a range of tours throughout the year, including the Twilight Winery Tour & Tasting which takes place each evening in September.

5. Waupoos Estates Winery – Prince Edward County, Ontario
Submitted by Kim K.

In Eastern Ontario the Wineries of Prince Edward County offer picturesque views and award winning wines. Kim K. recommends Waupoos “… because it’s right on the water, with gorgeous views, good food, and good wine. It’s one of our top picks, for taking visiting friends and family”.