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1 Wine Country Ontario YOUR OFFICIAL 2010 YEAR-ROUND TRAVEL GUIDE Published by Wines of Ontario Display until April 2011

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Page 1: Wine Country Ontario 2010

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Wine Country OntarioYOUR OFFICIAL 2010 YEAR-ROUND TRAVEL GUIDE

Published by Wines of OntarioDisplay until April 2011

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How to use this guide

Legend

Accommodations

Patio fare

Restaurant

Wheelchair access

Sustainable Winemaking Ontario

Experience wine country 5

Five great destinations 11 to explore

Lake Erie North Shore 17 & Pelee Island

Niagara Escarpment & area 21

Niagara-on-the-Lake 41

Toronto & York Region 57

Prince Edward County & area 61

Where to stay, dine & play 67

For more planning tips and information, visit winesofontario.ca.

Ontario’s wine-country regions span hundreds of kilometres, making it easy to find a getaway that’s as close—or as far away—as you want it to be.

To help you plan your trip, we’ve divided our winery listings into five popular destination areas: Lake Erie North Shore and Pelee Island, Niagara Escarpment and area, Niagara-on- the-Lake, Toronto and York Region, and Prince Edward County and area.

Once you see what these areas have to o!er, you can then check the colour-coded winery listings for each. The pullout Wine Route Map will make your navigation easy.

Because no trip to wine country is complete without experiencing our great local cuisine and hospitality, be sure to check out the “Where to stay, dine & play” listings starting on page 67.

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Experience wine country

HIDDEN TREASURES AWAIT YOU

The scent of summer wildflowers, autumn leaves or crisp winter air is carried to you on gentle breezes. Rows of grapevines, sprouting buds, heavy with fruit or in hibernation, create a tranquil countryside view—and hint at the marvellous wines that await you, crafted with care and passion by our renowned winemakers.

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A FOODIE’S HEAVENAnd the wine is just the beginning. A steady stream of the country’s top chefs continue to set up shop in our wine regions, drawn by the opportunity to pair our wines with creative menu items showcasing our finest, freshest local produce.

Culinary artisans, from bakers to cheese makers to charcuterie experts, join in to create a foodie’s heaven.

STROLL, SHOP, RELAXMake it a day trip or a longer adventure: Enjoy a luxurious spa treatment with friends, spend an evening at the theatre, and relax in a charming B&B or inn. Stroll through historic streets, browsing in boutiques and antique shops.

We promise you, once you discover the secrets of wine country, you’ll be back for more.

NO CAR? NO PROBLEM.A favourite way to experience wine country is by bicycle, allowing you to tour and explore along scenic roads in the fresh air. Bike rentals are available in every region. If you want to bring your own gear, the Bike Train initiative makes it easier than ever to get to wine country. Through this initiative, select passenger rail trains from the Greater Toronto Area have installed on-board bike racks, creating easy cycling access to destinations across Ontario—including our wine regions. For details, visit www.biketrain.ca.

Marvellous wines await you, crafted with care and passion by our renowned winemakers.

VQA: CERTIFIED WINES OF ORIGIN, 100% ONTARIO-GROWN GRAPESWine-producing countries around the world define the best wine-growing regions and set standards for their winesof origin. VQA is Ontario’s “appellation of origin” system.

Ontario has four primary grape-growing regions, or “appellations,” where the soil and climate create unique conditions (it’s the same principle that makes Vidalia onions, Georgia peaches and Malpeque oysters so special). Our wine appellations are Lake Erie North Shore, Pelee Island, the Niagara Peninsula, and Prince Edward County.

Sub-appellations—smaller regions within the Niagara Peninsula—have also been identified, as grape growers have

nurtured their grapes in the unique soils and special microclimates across the region and found the best combinations of grape variety, location and wine style. The result? Today, like never before, Ontario winemakers can showcase the distinct qualities of individual vineyards and create wines that reflect the essence of the place where they are grown.

VQA also imposes strict quality standards for all Ontario wines of origin. When you see VQA and an appellation name on a bottle of wine, it means that—from vineyard to glass—the wine has passed through a quality-assurance and label-integrity program, and is made from 100% Ontario-grown grapes.

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SUSTAINABILITY: A SHARED COMMITMENTAround the world, fine wines are judgedon how they express the character of their soil, a term known as “terroir.” Large-scale use of synthetic chemicals, such as fertilizers, will prevent the grapes from o!ering their truest expression. Pesticides and herbicides can further disrupt the composition of the soil.

Here in Ontario, our grape growers and winemakers are committed to crafting wines that express our particular terroir. A growing number are exploring innovative methods, such as gravity-fed operations, biodynamic farming and organic certification.

Wines of Ontario has developed best-practice guidelines, in a program called Sustainable Winemaking Ontario, that cover aspects from viticulture and waste water management on the farm to e"cient energy usage in all winery operations. This “from soil to shelf” program will help sustain Ontario’s success on the world stage. Wineries participating in this program are indicated in the winery listings with a green leaf icon: .

Visit www.winesofontario.ca/eco-winegrowing for more information.

Here in Ontario, our grape growers and winemakers are

committed to crafting wines that express our particular “terroir.”

BRING WINE COUNTRY HOMEMany of our wineries o!er online ordering, so if your favourite Ontario wine isn’t available at the LCBO, you can order it and have it delivered to your home.

In addition, WineryToHome.com sells over 475 VQA Ontario wines online, with delivery to anywhere in Ontario. In Canada’s largest VQA marketplace, choose your own wines or subscribe to their wine-of-the-month delivery. All wines are reviewed and rated by professional wine tasters, o!ering expert guidance.

Want to try Ontario wines, but can’t make it to wine country? The Ontario Wine Society (www.ontariowinesociety.com)—with chapters in Toronto,

Niagara Peninsula and Oakville—hosts events and tastings for its members andthe general public.

A GETAWAY FOR ALL SEASONSOntario’s wine country is spectacular in the warmth of summer and in the abundance of the autumn harvest seasons. But did you know that most of our wineries are open for tours and tastings year-round? Try a winter visit and see the harvest of frozen grapes for Icewine, Canada’s liquid gold; a Valentine’s weekend with fine dining and a couple’s spa treatment; or a spring-break road trip with friends. Visitors from the US can easily bring wine home. Check online at www.cbp.gov for limits and details.

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Legend

A Accommodations

P Patio

FD Fine dining

W Wheelchair access

S Sustainable wine making

PF Private functions

Experience wine country 5

Five great destinations 11 to explore

Lake Erie North Shore 17 & Pelee Island

Niagara Escarpment & area 21

Niagara-on-the-Lake 41

Toronto & York Region 57

Prince Edward County & area 61

Where to stay, dine & play 67

For more planning tips and information, visit www.winesofontario.ca.

Once you see what each area has to o!er, you can then check the colour-coded listings of the wineries in each area. The pullout Wine Route Map will make your navigation easy.

Because no trip to wine country is complete without experiencing our great local cuisine and hospitality, be sure to check out the “Where to stay, dine and play” listings starting on page 67.

Five great destinations to explore

CLOSER THAN YOU THINK

Ontario’s wineries are as easy to find as they are to love. When you’re in wine country, the distinctive white and blue Wine Route road signs are a friendly reminder that great wines are nearby. Each winery has its own sign, marking its turno! from the route.

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LAKE ERIE NORTH SHORE & PELEE ISLANDStretching along the warm, shallow waters of Lake Erie, this area boasts a long growing season, with summer heat and moderating lake breezes providing excellent ripening conditions for producing full-bodied wines.

On the mainland, local attractions include gardens, bike trails, produce stands, B&Bs and festivals, including the Shores of Erie International Wine Festival. Just 25 kilometres from the shore and accessible by car ferry, Pelee Island is Canada’s most southerly point, with the longest wine-growing season in the country. Famous for its magnificent migrations of birds and

monarch butterflies, the combined island and mainland charms of this destination include majestic Carolinian forests and glorious stretches of sand dunes and beach. Observe a wonderful array of Great Lakes wildlife in well-conserved wetlands and protected marshes. When you plan a visit to Lake Erie North Shore and Pelee Island, be prepared to toast your good fortune.

NIAGARA ESCARPMENT & AREAFirst-time visitors are often astonished by the breathtaking natural beauty of the Niagara Escarpment, a massive ridge carved out by ancient glaciers. This magnificent feature is responsible for Niagara Falls—and for the distinctive,

fossil-rich limestone soils and microclimate that create the classic mineral profile of the region’s wines. The Escarpment—a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and the backbone of the Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest footpath—supports a vital ecosystem, with hundreds of species of animals and plants, including 37 types of wild orchids. Whether you’re looking to catch a glimpse of nature’s treasures or pick up a one-of-a-kind antique in one of the area’s many charming shops, the Niagara Escarpment and surrounding area o!ers plenty to see and do.

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKEA world-renowned wine-country—and wine-culture—destination, this area is well known for its annual celebrations of wine and food. Start your journey at a delightful inn or B&B, followed by a wine tour or two, a play at the Shaw Festival, antique shopping, a local spa treatment and a gourmet meal. For year-round activities and entertainment, Niagara-on-the-Lake is the place wheresophisticated entertainment and rural pleasures live side by side. Journey backin time with a carriage ride through thecharming streets of Old Town, or have a blast with a jet-boat ride up the Niagara River: Niagara-on-the-Lake has something for everyone.

When planning a trip to Ontario’s wine-country destinations, your only difficulty will be deciding which one to visit first.

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TORONTO & YORK REGIONIf a trip to Canada’s biggest city is on your agenda, you may want to learn a little-known secret: the northern reaches of Toronto and York Region are home to a number of great wineries! Tour the facilities, enjoy tastings, and purchase award-winning wines on- site. Enhance your trip with fabulous shopping, world-class entertainment and a vibrant culinary landscape. Toronto and York Region’s restaurants, with their culturally diverse menus, o!er perfect pairings for many Ontario wines, so ask your sommelier for a list of VQA wines.

PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY & AREAOntario’s newest wine appellation, “The County” is quickly becoming one of the province’s must-visit destinations. The area boasts mineral-driven wines, small-batch beers and crisp ciders, artisanal cheeses, Italian-style ice creams, mouth-watering mealsand gourmet hot dogs—all inspired by a dedication to local ingredients. It’s alsohome to some of North America’s largest freshwater beaches. Plus, visit Northumberland County’s historic towns, scenic countryside and local wineries. Both counties o!er relaxing getaways that are a short drive from Toronto, Ottawa and Kingston.

In every destination, Ontario’s wine country is

home to some of Canada’s best hidden treasures.

FOR TRAVEL DETAILSLake Erie North Shore

& Pelee Island1 800 265 3633

Niagara Escarpment & area1 800 263 2988

Niagara-on-the-Lake1 800 263 2988

Toronto & York Regiontorontotourism.com and

yorktourism.com

Prince Edward County & area

northumberlandcounty.caand 1 800 640 4717

pec.on.ca,

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Lake Erie North Shore &

Pelee IslandVisit the warm,

beautiful south

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Lake Erie North Shore & Pelee Island

9963

Ontario WineSuperstarsat the LCBO

01 MASTRONARDI ESTATEWINERY 36GIn 2002, Tony and Eadie Mastronardi purchased a large 40-hectare block of mature vineyard and entered the wine business. They hired winemaker Lyse LeBlanc, whose experience with her own small winery made her familiar with the region’s winemaking. Mastronardi o!ers over 15 di!erent varietals, with some emphasis on Bordeaux red varieties, a regional specialty. Vidal Icewine and Merlot have struck gold. The winery o!ers in-depth vineyard and production tours, holds two-hour wine-tasting seminars for groups of 10 or more, and frequently hosts weddings and other group functions.

WinemakerLyse LeBlanc

Winemaker’s choice2007 Merlot

Location1193 Concession 3 East Kingsville N9Y 2E5 519.733.9463 1.800.320.5040 [email protected] mastronardiwines.com

HoursDaily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursViticulture tours by appointment from May to September

02 PELEE ISLAND WINERY 36GFounded in 1979, Pelee Island Winery, on the mainland, is among Canada’s oldest. And, with 550 acres of vineyard on Pelee Island itself, it is also the largest—and the most southerly—estate winery in eastern Canada. Winemaker Martin Janz oversees a very large portfolio of fruit-forward whites, reds and good-value Vinedresser Reserves, made at the mainland winery in Kingsville. Pinot Noir has been one of the most awarded reds recently; Pinot Grigio, the red Monarch blend and a unique Cabernet–Petit Verdot also took Golds at the 2009 Ontario Wine Awards. Look for their new Lighthouse line, launched this year.

WinemakerMartin Janz

Winemaker’s choiceCabernet Franc

Best LCBO brandEco Trail White

Location455 Seacliff Drive Kingsville N9Y 2K5 519.733.6551 1.800.597.3533 [email protected] peleeisland.com

HoursMonday–Saturday 9 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hours12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm

03 PELEE ISLAND WINERY PAVILION 37HThe Pelee Island Winery Pavilion is a hub of activity on the island. It takes a full day, or a weekend, to properly explore the unique 10,000-acre natural treasure that is Pelee Island, so consult the website’s ferry schedules to plan ahead. Pelee Island has thousands of unique plants, wildlife and Carolinian habitat, making it a paradise for birdwatchers, hikers and cyclists. The ruins of Vin Villa, Canada’s first winery, are yet another attraction. A popular spot for weddings and group functions, the Pavilion features a large wine store, restaurant and gift shop.

WinemakerMartin Janz

Winemaker’s choiceChardonnay

Best LCBO brandCabernet Franc

Location20 East West Road Pelee Island N0R 1M0 519.724.2469 1.800.597.3533 [email protected] peleeisland.com

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–4 pm

Extended summer and weekend hours

Tour hoursMay–October Daily 12 pm, 2 pm

Additional tours in summer and on weekends

04 SPRUCEWOOD SHORESESTATE WINERY 35GThe 2006 opening of this grand Tuscan-style winery and hospitality centre was a long-held dream come true for Gord and Hannah Mitchell, who purchased the lakefront property in 1975 and planted the first vines in 1991. Today, visitors look out over 15 hectares growing many popular varietals, from Pinot Gris to Pinot Noir to Cabernet Sauvignon. Many wines from the 2007 vintage have taken medals in recent competitions. At the winery, which accommodates large groups and hosts special events, enjoy tastings and lunch on the patio, or purchase a picnic basket to take to the lakeside or into the vineyard.

WinemakerTanya Mitchell

Winemaker’s choiceMeritage

Location7258 County Road 50 West Harrow N0R 1G0 519.738.9253 1.866.938.9253 [email protected]

HoursDaily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursDaily by appointment

04030201

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Niagara Escarpment

& areaCarved by an

ancient glacier

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Niagara Escarpment & area

01 13TH STREET WINERY 19FIn 1998, four amateur enthusiasts founded 13th Street as a workshop for single-vineyard, small-batch winemaking. In 2009, new owners expanded the vineyards and the scope of the St. Catharines winery, moving it from 13th Street to Fourth Avenue, just around the corner. An air of serenity pervades the tasting room, which also houses an art gallery and sculpture garden; add to this a kitchen, event space, and a barrel club for members’ use. A growing focus on sparkling wine nicely suits the winery’s sophisticated ambience, but powerful old-vine Gamay, Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir maintain 13th Street’s tradition. French winemaker Jean-Pierre Colas has joined the team for the 2009 season.

WinemakerJean-Pierre Colas

Winemaker’s choiceGamay

Location1776 Fourth Avenue St. Catharines L2R 6P9 905.984.8463 [email protected] 13thstreetwinery.com

HoursJune–October Monday–Saturday 11 am–6 pm

November–May Monday–Saturday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

02 ALVENTO WINERY 16EBruno Moos and Elyane Grenier have toiled for almost a decade after transplanting their winemaking passion and expertise from Tuscany. Establishing their five-hectare site in 2001, they then faced three di!cult Ontario winters, releasing tiny quantities of Nebbiolo, Viognier and Cabernet-based reds in 2005. The choice of Nebbiolo, the Piedmontese grape that makes Barolo, was based on climatic similarity, and the early results are promising. Viognier (called Vio) is excellent, and you can decide whether you want an oaked or unoaked style. Overall, it’s a rewarding, o"-the-beaten path experience. The 2007s will be the breakout vintage.

WinemakersBruno Moos, Elyane Grenier

Winemakers’ choiceCabernet Merlot

Best LCBO brandARIA (Nebbiolo)

Location3048 Second Avenue Vineland L0R 2E0 905.562.1212 [email protected] alvento.ca

HoursMay–September Friday–Sunday 10 am–6 pm

October–April Saturday–Sunday 10 am–6 pm

Any other time by appointment or by chance

Tour hoursBy appointment

03 ANGELS GATE WINERY 10EThe distinctive, Mission-style winery, with its gabled tower, sits just below the forested Niagara Escarpment—overlooking rolling vineyards and Lake Ontario. Though opened in 2002, the winery’s vineyard planting and Beamsville Bench acquisition began in the mid-’90s; Australian winemaker Philip Dowell currently sources fruit from six estate vineyards, including a small winery plot that delivers the powerful old-vine Chardonnay. His awards span many styles, including new Cabernet–Shiraz, Pinot Noir and Riesling. The Terrace remains an idyllic, popular lunch destination.

WinemakerPhilip Dowell

Best LCBO brandSüssreserve Riesling

Location4260 Mountainview Road Beamsville L0R 1B2 905.563.3942 1.877.ANG.GATE [email protected]

HoursJune–October Monday–Saturday 10 am–5:30 pm

Sunday 11 am–5:30 pm

November–May Daily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

04 CALAMUS ESTATE WINERY 16FAlong a serene back road near the Ball’s Falls Conservation Area, you will find the rustic wooden barns housing Calamus Winery, where visitors are routinely greeted by the owners. The name Calamus, Latin for “arrow,” was inspired by ancient arrowheads found in the area. Award-winning wines are produced from estate-grown fruit, such as Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Franc, Cab Sauvignon and Merlot, the latter combining in solid, balanced blends. A second-floor event room, with outdoor decks, captures the scenic surroundings and picnic areas. A first-class observatory sits on the roof, welcoming astronomy bu"s for scheduled evening events.

WinemakerArthur Harder

Winemaker’s choicePinot Gris

Best LCBO brandRiesling

Location3100 Glen Road Jordan L0R 1S0 905.562.9303 1.888.225.9866 [email protected] calamuswines.com

HoursJanuary–April Friday–Sunday and holidays 11 am–5 pm

April–December Thursday–Sunday and holidays 11 am–5 pm

Call for additional hours or appointments

Tour hoursBy appointment

04030201

get in >

Contact us for a FREE City Guide! Call 905-688-5601 ext. 1731 or email [email protected]

Let us wine and dine you at a winery, restaurant, bistro or café. Create your own wine tour by cycling along Niagara’s wine route, stopping to picnic along the way. Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine and the fresh !avours of each season. Visit the Farmers’ Market, open year round and featuring local baked goods, farm-raised meat, crafts, !owers and more. Stop at a roadside fruit stand to sample local produce or tour a farm and pick your own fresh fruit.

Wine and DineGetaways from

$219.99 per couple

Located in the heart of wine country with easy access to

Niagara-on-the-Lake,Twenty Valley and Niagara Falls,

St. Catharines is just minutes from many world-renowned wineries, boutiques and fine

dining establishments. Take a personalized winery

tour and indulge!For more information call

1-888-558-8820 or visitstcatharines.ca

Between the Water and the W eries...

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01 CAVE SPRING CELLARS 16F“The house that Riesling built,” Cave Spring Cellars stands at the centre of the picturesque village of Jordan, though its vineyards are a few kilometres west on the Beamsville Bench. The Pennachetti family express the terroir of these limestone-based soils in their premium, mature-vine CSV and Estate wines. Eight Riesling styles by veteran winemaker Angelo Pavan—from sparkling to brilliant Icewine—are elegant and exemplary, and Chardonnay also excels. Taut Pinot Noir, Gamay and Cabernet Franc embrace the cool-climate spirit of Niagara reds. Enjoy the full range while dining—and staying at the winery’s Inn on the Twenty.

WinemakerAngelo Pavan

Winemaker’s choice2006 Dolomite Brut

Best LCBO brandRiesling

Location3836 Main Street Jordan L0R 1S0 905.562.3581 [email protected] cavespring.ca

HoursJune–mid-October Daily 10 am–6 pm

Mid-October–May Sunday–Thursday 10 am–5 pm

Friday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursJune–September Daily 3 pm

September–May Saturday–Sunday 3 pm

Private tours by appointment

02 CORNERSTONE ESTATE WINERY 12EThis charming, small, family-owned winery was established in 2002. Using their own grapes, they focus on limited productions, resulting in small batches of quality VQA wines. Fine fruit wines are among their specialties. Award winners include their 2007 Cabernet Franc–Merlot VQA, their 2008 Strawberry Festival Fruit Wine and their 2007 Fine Port. Also look for their 2009 new releases; Chardonnay Musqué, Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Chenin Blanc. Wines can be purchased at Cornerstone, where you are likely to meet the friendly owners, who will guide you through an enjoyable tasting of their fine products. Online ordering available as well.

WinemakerJerry Kopanski

Winemaker’s choice2007 Cabernet Merlot

Location4390 Tufford Road Beamsville L0R 1B0 905.563.6758 [email protected]

HoursMay–October Thursday–Sunday 11 am–6 pm

November–April Thursday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

03 CREEKSIDE ESTATE WINERY 18FCreekside has delivered a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, and bold, bright wine, since its inception in 1997. The wine styling reveals an Australian influence, with former Penfolds winemaker Craig McDonald teamed up with co-winemaker Rob Power notching all kinds of national and local medals for Broken Press and Reserve Shiraz. Red and white Laura’s Blends are very successful, as are recent Cuvée winners Sauvignon Blanc Reserve and Viognier. The new Undercurrent series of one-o" single-barrel lots, available only at the winery, is reason enough alone to visit. The outdoor grill deck is another: It’s open on summer weekends and features local, seasonal fare by chef Mark Hand.

WinemakersCraig McDonald, Rob Power

Winemakers’ choiceSauvignon Blanc

Location2170 4th Avenue Jordan Station L0R 1S0 905.562.0035 1.877.262.9463 [email protected] creeksidewine.com

HoursMay–September Daily 10 am–6 pm

October–April Daily 10 am–5 pm

Tour hoursMay–September Daily 2 pm

Private tours by appointment

04 CROWN BENCH ESTATES 11FCrown Bench, named for its elevated position at the crown of the Beamsville Bench, boasts some of Niagara’s oldest vines—some planted in the late 1960s. Here, Peter Kocsis and Livia Sipos make a portfolio that spans whites, reds and dessert wines, all made under a philosophy that insists on grape quality, low yields and aging the wines before release. The winery’s more innovative o"erings include a chocolate-infused dessert wine called Ambrosia and, in some years, a botrytis-a"ected Chardonnay called Livia’s Gold.

WinemakerPeter Kocsis

Winemaker’s choiceMeritage

Best LCBO brandLivia’s Gold (Sauterne)

Location3850 Aberdeen Road Beamsville L0R 1B7 905.563.3959 1.888.537.6192 [email protected] crownbenchestates.com

HoursMonday–Friday 10 am–5 pm

Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–6 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

04030201

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01 DE SOUSA WINE CELLARS 12FThe winery’s classic European architecture and ambience speaks to the Portuguese winemaking tradition of the De Sousa family. Although the winery was acquired by Diamond Estates in 2008, third-generation family member John De Sousa continues to oversee a wide portfolio of whites and reds, sold under the Dois Amigos label and at the Reserve level. De Sousa’s Cabernet Franc Icewine has won consecutive gold medals; in true Portuguese fashion, De Sousa also crafts one of Niagara’s few port-style wines. The estate sits atop the Escarpment, surrounded by vineyards, gardens and shady groves— an ideal stop for a glass of wine and a snack.

WinemakersJohn De Sousa, Tom Green, Jason Roller, Scott McGregor

Winemakers’ choiceMeritage Reserve

Best LCBO brandDois Amigos red

Location3753 Quarry Road Beamsville L0R 1B2 905.563.7269 [email protected]

HoursMother’s Day–October 31 Daily 11 am–5 pm

Winter Saturday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

02 EASTDELL ESTATES WINERY 10FThe natural setting is integral to EastDell’s ambience: The VIEW Restaurant captures a vineyard panorama that includes Toronto’s distant skyline on the other side of Lake Ontario, while a hike through the winery’s five kilometres of trails—including portions of the famous Bruce Trail and 40 hectares of vineyard—provides a macro-look at the terroir. Under ownership by Diamond Estates, EastDell recorded its best-ever awards season in 2009, led by its signature 2007 Black Cab blend. Also top scoring are the 2007 Chardonnay and 2006 Cabernet Franc Reserve.

WinemakersScott McGregor, Tom Green, Jason Roller

Winemakers’ choiceMerlot Reserve

Best LCBO brandBlack Cab

Location4041 Locust Lane Beamsville L0R 1B2 905.563.9463 [email protected] eastdell.com

HoursWine boutique Mother’s Day–October 31 Daily 11 am–5 pm July–September Daily 11 am–7 pm

Winter Friday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

VIEW RestaurantYear-round Sunday Brunch Open seasonally for lunch and dinner; call for hours

Tour hoursSummer (starting Father’s Day)Daily 2 pm

Fall Weekends 2 pm

03 FEATHERSTONE WINERY& VINEYARD 15FDavid Johnson and Louise Engel have poured their hearts into this 20-hectare, eco-friendly estate tucked into the Escarpment in the Twenty Mile Bench appellation. Insecticide-free, the vineyard plants are trimmed by grazing sheep; grape-thieving starlings are warded o" by falcons that Engel has trained. Pristine, racy Riesling best captures the terroir, both in the Featherstone Black Sheep label and the 20-27 brand by assistant winemaker Kevin Panagapka. Sauvignon Blanc, rosé and Cabernet Franc—as well as Chardonnay aged in Canadian oak—round out the portfolio. The veranda wrapping the classic country farmhouse is one of the most tranquil spots in Niagara for a weekend lunch.

WinemakerDavid Johnson

Winemaker’s choiceBlack Sheep Riesling

Location3678 Victoria Avenue Vineland L0R 2C0 905.562.1949 featherstonewinery.ca

HoursApril–October Thursday–Monday 11 am–5:30 pm

November–December Friday–Sunday 11 am–5:30 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

04 FIELDING ESTATE WINERY 10FReflecting their Haliburton roots, the Fielding family has built a winery with charming, northern Ontario–lodge ambience—set high on the Beamsville Bench, against the wooded Escarpment. Since opening in 2005, Fielding’s success has come quickly, capped by a top-10 berth in the 2009 Canadian Wine Awards (which judged over 100 wineries). Winemaker Richie Roberts has produced head-turning 2007 reds, including a CWA Gold Medal Meritage and a Cuvée-winning Syrah. Vibrant, juicy, aromatic whites, like Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer and Riesling, are delicious every vintage. Fielding participates in many regional wine events, but a trip to the winery, summer or winter, is the best way to experience its complete range of small-production wines.

WinemakersRichie Roberts, Kristin Banders

Winemakers’ choiceRiesling

Location4020 Locust Lane Beamsville L0R 1B2 905.563.0668 1.888.778.7758 [email protected] fieldingwines.com

HoursMay–October Daily 10:30 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 10:30 am–5:30 pm

Tour hoursSummer Daily 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm

Year-round private tours by appointment

01 FLAT ROCK CELLARS 16FSince opening Flat Rock in 2005, Ed Madronich has injected fun and enthusiasm into both the wine and the winery experience. Expect o"-beat names like Twisted, Rusty Shed Chardonnay and Gravity Pinot Noir (all screw-capped). Theirs is not the typical wine tour; why not try a two-hour workshop called “In the Winemaker’s Boots” instead? Flat Rock’s 80 scenic acres of sloping vineyard, atop the Escarpment in the Twenty Mile Bench appellation, focus on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling and a splash of Gewürztraminer. The wines are marked by vibrancy and exuberance; Nadja’s Riesling is consistently awarded among Canada’s best, and the 2007 Chardonnay Reserve topped out at Cuvée.

WinemakerRoss Wise

Winemaker’s choiceThe Rusty Shed Chardonnay

Location2727 7th Avenue Jordan L0R 1S0 905.562.8994 [email protected] flatrockcellars.com

HoursApril–December Monday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–6 pm

January–March Monday–Friday 12 pm–5 pm

Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–6 pm

Tour hoursBy request

02 THE FOREIGN AFFAIR WINERY 15DFormer Ontario trade diplomat Len Crispino was greatly inspired by Amarone, fermented from dried (appassimento) grapes. He and his wife Marisa planted 40 acres in Vineland in 2001 and applied this Old World technique to a New World setting. Joined by Louis (their sibling), they applied 100% appassimento to Cabernet Franc, reminiscent of the iconic Quintarelli wines. The innovation was then extended to all of their reds (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir) as well as all of their whites. The proprietors have passionately positioned this boutique winery to a uniquely Canadian interpretation of appassimento. The “foreign a"air” continues in the winery tasting room, where guests are transported to the ceramic-tiled hearth of an Italian villa.

WinemakerAndrzej Lipinski

Location4890 Victoria Avenue North Vineland Station L0R 2E0 905.562.9898 1.800.262.7661 [email protected] foreignaffairwine.com

HoursMay–October Thursday–Monday 11 am–5 pm

Winter Visit website or call for information

Tour hoursBy appointment

03 THE GOOD EARTH VINEYARD AND WINERY 10DNicolette Novak has worked 12 years to create a haven for foodies and one of Niagara’s best culinary destinations: The Good Earth Cooking School. In the summer of 2010, she adds The Good Earth Winery to the lineup; first releases will be craft quantities of oaked Chardonnay, rosé, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and a dry and o"-dry Riesling. The tasting room promises a lighthearted approach, with “nibble-sized” food and wine pairings, and pouring by “Flight Attendants.” “Moveable Feast” baskets are also available for picnics on the bucolic 23-hectare property of orchards, vineyards, and vegetable and herb gardens.

WinemakerRoss Wise

Winemaker’s choiceOff-Dry Riesling

Location4556 Lincoln Avenue Beamsville L0R 1B3 905.563.6333 1.800.308.5124 [email protected]

HoursMay–October Daily 10:30 am–5:30 pm

November–April Friday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Please note that, on occasion, our winery and grounds may be closed for private events.

Tour hoursCulinary and wine-pairing tours by reservation; see website for details and availability

04 GREENLANE ESTATE WINERY 14DOpening in 2010, GreenLane Estate Winery is nestled between Lake Ontario and the Escarpment in the Lincoln Lakeshore appellation. With 10 hectares of mature vines dating from 1990, GreenLane follows the philosophy of “the higher the fewer,” embracing the art of winemaking through intensive personal methods. The winery is focused on the true passion of winemaking, producing and hand-harvesting fewer clusters of grapes. The resulting goal is to craft higher-quality wines—with exceptional flavour and texture profiles—from varietals that include Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

WinemakerDianne Smith

Winemaker’s choiceRiesling Icewine 2008

Location4679 Cherry Avenue Beamsville L0R 1B1 905.562.7207 [email protected] greenlanewinery.com

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursVisit website for times

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FOOTPRINTSI N T H E V I N E Y A R DIt’s been said that wine gets it’s character from the soil, it’s personality from the vintage, it’s quality from the influence of man. For more than two decades we have tended our family’s estate vineyards and we are proud to produce wines that are distinctly Short Hills Bench. – Paul, Matthew and Daniel Speck

1469 Pelham RoadSt. Catharines, Ontario

1-877-735-4267www.henryofpelham.com

client Henry of Pelham

client contact Paul Speck

docket # 4300

project/file name Wine Council Guide 2008

project specs. –

publication Wine Council Guide 2008

section —

ad size / col 1/2 page

run date(s) 2008

proj. mgr. Chris Alderson

designer Chris Alderson

date March 5, 2008

AND COMPANY AD SPECIFICATIONS WHERE APPLICABLEaldersonCommunications and Design

01 HARBOUR ESTATES WINERY 16EFive generations of the Mowat family have farmed in Niagara; the last two are responsible for Harbour Estates, which has been growing grapes and making wine since 1999. The vineyard is beautifully situated on the waterfront of Jordan Harbour’s east shore in the Creek Shores appellation. Ken Mowat makes a wide range of agreeably priced wines, with notable success for Riesling; the white Chardonnay–Vidal blend, Sunrise; and the red Cabernet–Merlot blend, Midnight. Summer events on the property include live music acts—this year’s Rock n’ Ribs Fest, in September, will feature classic Canadian rockers April Wine—a 10th anniversary party and the Great Grape Stomp.

WinemakerKen Mowat

Winemaker’s choiceRiesling

Best LCBO brandSunrise

Location4362 Jordan Road Jordan Station L0R 1S0 905.562.6279 [email protected] harbourestateswinery.com

HoursSummer Monday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday and holidays 12 pm–5 pm

Winter Daily 12 pm–5 pm

Tour hoursSelf-guided tour anytime during daily operating hours; guided tours reserved at guests’ convenience

02 HENRY OF PELHAM FAMILY ESTATE WINERY 20GFounded in 1988 by the Speck family, Henry of Pelham is a reliable name in Ontario wine. Brothers Paul, Matthew and Daniel Speck play up their “sibling rivalry” in popular white and red blends by the same name, but the portfolio runs much deeper. Winemaker Ron Giesbrecht knows his Niagara reds, having turned a hybrid grape called Baco Noir into a local icon, but the Riesling reserves (from maturing vines) and Chardonnays are also classics. Cuvée Catharine bubbly is quintessential Niagara; likewise, the Icewines are brilliant. A visit to the recently expanded winery is a Niagara history lesson. Picnic with local fare at the Coach House and Cheese Shoppe, and view works by local artists in the loft.

WinemakerRon Giesbrecht

Winemaker’s choiceCuvée Catharine Brut Rosé

Best LCBO brandBaco Noir

Location1469 Pelham Road St. Catharines L2R 6P7 905.684.8423 1.877.PELHAM.7 [email protected] henryofpelham.com

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 10 am–5 pm

Tour hoursSummer Daily 1:30 pm

Winter By request

03 HIDDEN BENCH VINEYARDSAND WINERY 10EOwner Harald Thiel’s uncompromising attention to detail has landed Hidden Bench in the Canadian Wine Awards’ top 10 every year since the winery opened in 2007—with Nuit Blanche named Canadian White Wine of the Year. This small, yet modern and sophisticated, estate winery is tucked away on Locust Lane in the Beamsville Bench appellation, essentially hidden by vines (the nearby, estate-owned Rosomel Vineyard site also provides top fruit). HB’s primary focus is to showcase the terroir of the Beamsville Bench through their award-winning Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling o"erings. Limited-edition rarities like Tête de Cuvée Chardonnay, and elegant Bordeaux blends La Brunante and Terroir Caché, can be purchased at the winery as well as at select restaurants. Fumé Blanc, Gewürztraminer and others complete the impressive lineup.

WinemakerMarlize Beyers

Winemaker’s choiceSingle Vineyard Riesling

Location4152 Locust Lane Beamsville L0R 1B0 905.563.8700 [email protected] hiddenbench.com

HoursApril–November Daily 10:30 am–5:30 pm

December–March Daily 10:30 am–6:00 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

04 KACABA VINEYARDS 15FIn 1997, Michael Kacaba embarked into the wine industry, preserving a piece of prime vineyard benchland from a developer’s bulldozer. Today, he is turning out multiple-award-winners at this environmentally sustainable winery. Winemaker John Tummon oversees a broad range of whites and reds, with ripe, elegant, full-bodied, vintage-based reds attracting a loyal following. The 2007 Syrah, from one of the oldest plantings in Canada, took Cuvée Gold and is the first Ontario red wine to be named Red Wine of the Year at the Canadian Wine Awards. The intimate, neo-Victorian winery is set at the end of a curved driveway lined with Canadian sugar maple, and a silver bridge crosses a ravine planted with Syrah, all o"ering a fine sense of the Niagara Escarpment Bench terroir, as well as a view of the Toronto skyline across Lake Ontario.

WinemakerJohn Tummon

Winemaker’s choiceSyrah

Best LCBO brandMeritage

Location3550 King Street Vineland L0R 2C0 905.562.5625 [email protected] kacaba.com

HoursApril–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–March Daily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment, or by chance during retail hours

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01 02 03 04

Niagara Escarpment & area

01 KITTLING RIDGE ESTATEWINES & SPIRITS 6DIn 1992, John Hall bought an existing facility and made local history by becoming Ontario’s only producer of wines and spirits. Today, Kittling Ridge remains the only place in Niagara wine country to taste wonderful wines and exceptional spirits. Sample their very popular Icewine & Brandy, a 25-time international award winner, or enjoy their limited edition, small-batch VQA Symmetry wines. Indulge yourself with their Eight Below Vodka, made with a touch of Icewine, or discover Forty Creek, Canada’s #1 best-tasting whisky. The winery/distillery o"ers tours and seminars, and is clearly visible and accessible from the QEW at Grimsby.

WinemakerJohn Hall

Winemaker’s choiceKittling Ridge Estates Icewine & Brandy

Best LCBO brandKittling Ridge Estates Icewine & Brandy

Location297 South Service Road Grimsby L3M 4E9 905.945.9225 ext. 27 1.800.694.6798 [email protected] kittlingridge.com

HoursMonday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday and holidays 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursJune–August Tuesday–Saturday 2 pm

Sunday and holidays 11 am

September Weekends only

Groups (10+) year-round by appointment

02 LEGENDS ESTATES WINERY 11DExperience the mesmerizing view of vineyards along the lakefront property, coupled with a selection of wine o"erings from the charming boutique. Best known for aromatic whites such as Diva, a Semillon–Sauvignon blend and 2008 Cuvée Gold winner, as well as big reds and unique varietals of Semillon and Malbec, this third-generation, family-owned estate is one stop not to be missed. A unique destination for weddings, special events and corporate functions, the family and sta" at Legends invite you to treat yourself to something out of the ordinary.

WinemakerSerge Papineau

Winemaker’s choiceMalbec

Best LCBO brandDIVA Semillon–Sauvignon Blanc

Location4888 Ontario Street North Beamsville L0R 1B3 905.563.6500 [email protected] legendsestates.com

HoursMonday–Saturday 10 am–5 pm

Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment; tour packages available

Tours and bus groups welcome

03 MAGNOTTA WINERY 11DNestled in Niagara’s wine region, Magnotta o"ers complimentary daily tours that take guests behind the scenes, where grapes from Magnotta’s own Niagara vineyards are crushed and pressed; the tour also includes a close-up look at the presses used to make Canada’s most award-winning Icewines. Magnotta is home to many innovative wines, including Enotrium, Canada’s first Amarone-inspired VQA red wine, for which grapes are naturally air dried at the winery’s Amarone-style wine-drying room. Shop for a wide range of items at the wine boutique, browse local and international works of art that have inspired the winery’s label designs, and sample wines at the welcoming tasting bar.

WinemakerMarco Zamuner

Winemaker’s choice2007 Merlot Limited Edition VQA

Best LCBO brandVidal Icewine Limited Edition

Location4701 Ontario Street Beamsville L0R 1B4 905.563.5313 1.800.461.9463 [email protected] magnotta.com

HoursMonday–Wednesday 9 am–6 pm

Thursday–Friday 9 am–7 pm

Saturday 9 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursDaily 2 pm

Large groups by reservation

04 MALIVOIRE WINE COMPANY 13EInnovation has been key to Martin Malivoire’s success since he purchased prime vineyard acreage on the Beamsville Bench in 1995, and opened his fascinating gravity-flow winery in an elaborately recycled Quonset hut in 1998. First focusing on varieties from northern France—Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminer—he then began the slow process of converting his 26-hectare vineyard to organic production; he also created a “serious” dry rosé, Ladybug, and a Musqué Spritz. Today, winemaker Shiraz Mottiar presides over a range of vibrant and polished wines, from inexpensive white and red blends to classy, single-vineyard Pinots and Chardonnays. Not to mention Old Vines Foch, which can be cellared for several years.

WinemakerShiraz Mottiar

Winemaker’s choiceMoira Chardonnay

Best LCBO brandMalivoire Red

Location4260 King Street East Beamsville L0R 1B0 905.563.9253 1.866.644.2244 [email protected] malivoire.com

HoursMonday–Friday 10 am–5 pm

Saturday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Extended hours in summer; check website

Tour hoursYear-round by appointment

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01 PUDDICOMBE ESTATEFARMS & WINERY 4DFor eight generations, the Puddicombe family has farmed west of Grimsby, joining the wine movement in the 1980s. Lindsay Puddicombe—a graduate of the University of Guelph and Niagara College—is the current winemaker, presiding over a full slate of whites, reds and fruit wines from 75 hectares. She’s responsible for crafting their popular Muscat and Colombard whites, varietals rarely seen in Niagara. A hive of family activity during the summer and fall seasons, the winery features a Kids Club, an orchard train ride, an outdoor museum of train cars, a general store and a bakery.

WinemakerLindsay Puddicombe

Winemaker’s choiceColombard Reserve

Best LCBO brandRiesling

Location1468 Highway 8 Winona L8E 5K9 905.643.1015 905.643.6882 [email protected] puddicombefarms.com

HoursJanuary–April Monday–Friday 9 am–5 pm

Saturday–Sunday 10 am–4 pm

May–December Daily 9 am–5 pm

Tour hoursSelf-guided agricultural estate tours Daily 9 am–4 pm

Guided tours by appointment (minimum of 10 people)

DID YOU KNOW?

IcewineWith hot summers and cold winters, Ontario is home to exceptional Icewine. Picked by hand at night (which prevents the grapes from thawing), then pressed while still frozen, the grapes produce a small quantity of highly concentrated—not to mention intensely flavoured and incredibly smooth—wine. Visit wine country in December and January for the Icewine harvest and festivals.

02 RIDGEPOINT WINES 14FFifteen years ago, chartered accountant Mauro Scarsellone and his sister, Anna Gottardo, grasped Niagara’s potential and began planting nine hectares of prime vineyard in the Twenty Mile Bench appellation, much of it with Pinot Noir, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Happily, he also planted an Italian variety called Nebbiolo, the red grape that makes Italy’s famous Barolo—it has since become Ridgepoint’s rare signature wine. Several white varieties round out the selection, with Riesling gathering accolades. A trip to the winery, and perhaps a light, casual Italian lunch at their on-site dining room and seasonal patio, is the best way to experience the wines.

WinemakerArthur Harder

Winemaker’s choicePinot Noir Reserve

Best LCBO brandCabernet Merlot

Location3900 Cherry Avenue Vineland L0R 2C0 905.562.8853 [email protected] ridgepointwines.com

HoursBoutique Wednesday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Restaurant Wednesday–Sunday 11:30 am–4 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment or by chance

03 ROCKWAY GLEN GOLF COURSE& ESTATE WINERY 19GThe only winery in Ontario with its very own 18-hole golf course and wine museum, Rockway Glen serves up its wines at the 19th hole, or when guests sit down for a dinner or a banquet at Windows on Rockway. This large winery operation, with 50 hectares under vine, features a large portfolio of Cabernet- and Merlot-based reds—and Riesling, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris—under the care of winemaker Stacie Domio. The winery is available for large events, such as weddings, conferences and concerts, and visitors can also pre-book golf/wine/dine packages.

WinemakerStacie Domio

Winemaker’s choice2006 Reserve Chardonnay

Location3290 Ninth Street St. Catharines L2R 6P7 905.641.5771 1.877.762.5929 [email protected] rockwayglen.com

HoursMay–October Daily 11 am–7 pm

Winter, visit website or call

Tour hoursMonday–Friday 11 am

Saturday By appointment

Sunday 12:30 pm–2:30 pm

Bus tours and corporate events welcome

01 MEGALOMANIAC (JOHN HOWARD CELLARS OF DISTINCTION) 14FThe Cellars of Megalomaniac sit on a 96-acre site of the Vineland Upper Bench. Locals argue that it is the highest vantage point on the Niagara Escarpment, with clear views of the Toronto and Niagara Falls skylines—a must-see for photographers. The unique underground Cellar allows guests a total tasting experience in the midst of a production and barrel- aging facility. Of note are the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot single varietals (all reds are aged in French oakfor at least 22 months). Niagara veteran Sue-Ann Sta" (proprietor of Sue-Ann Sta" Estate Winery in Jordan) is the wine-master and liaison to their sister property, Château la Confession in St. Emilion, Bordeaux.

WinemakerSue-Ann Staff

Winemaker’s choiceBigmouth Merlot

Best LCBO brandNarcissist Riesling

Location3930 Cherry Avenue Vineland, ON L0R 2C0 905.562.5155 or 1.888.MEGALO1 [email protected] megalomaniacwine.com

HoursMay–October Daily 12 pm–6 pm

November–April Weekends 11 am–5 pm

Weekdays by chance or appointment

02 MOUNTAIN ROAD WINE COMPANY 11FBack in 1983, Steve Kocsis first planted this dramatic Beamsville Bench site—family owned since 1958—but didn’t begin producing wine until 1999, giving his inaugural wines a head start in terms of richness and concentration. Sustainable agricultural practices and a longer aging process speak to a traditional focus; indeed, a visit to the winery is a glimpse into the aging potential of Niagara wines: the current vintage for reds is 2003. Steve’s son Richard and son-in-law Alberto round out the team creating the winery’s show-stopping Vidal Icewines (like the 2010 Cuvée Limited Edition winner 2004 vintage), plus rich Chardonnays, lively Rieslings and concentrated Cabernet-based reds.

WinemakerSteve Kocsis

Winemaker’s choice2006 Reserve Chardonnay

Location4016 Mountain Street Beamsville L0R 1B7 905.563.0745 [email protected] mountainroadwine.com

HoursMonday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday and holidays 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursSelf-guided tours during regular hours; guided tours by appointment

03 THE ORGANIZED CRIME WINERY 10EWhen Jan and Krystyna Tarasewicz opened their boutique winery in 2006 in the heart of the Beamsville Bench, they turned heads with the name on their label—and with the lively, fruit-focused wines in the bottle. Far from glorifying mobsters, the name stems from a now-humorous incident between feuding Mennonite families. You’ll have to visit the winery (or their whimsical website) for details. Consulting winemaker Andrzej Lipinski crafts whites and reds that catch a pure expression of their grapes, with 2008 Gewürztraminer and Riesling taking Silver Medals at the Canadian Wine Awards. Don’t miss the 2007 Chardonnay Reserve, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon.

WinemakerAndrzej Lipinski

Location4043 Mountainview Road Beamsville L0R 1B2 905.563.9802 [email protected]

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

(Tuesday and Wednesday by appointment or by chance)

04 PENINSULA RIDGEESTATES WINERY 9EWhen approaching Niagara wine country from the west, Peninsula Ridge beckons with its grand Ontario-gothic, red-brick Victorian—which houses the fine William D. Kitchen House restaurant, named for the original owner. Owners Norm Beal and Nancy McNally opened the winery in 2000, focusing on making racy Sauvignon Blancs, Chardonnays (especially unoaked Inox Chardonnay) and Bordeaux reds from 42 owned acres and neighbouring fruit on the Beamsville Bench. Rhône varieties, like Syrah (red) and Viognier (white), were later added to critical acclaim. In a beautifully restored barn, the tasting room and banquet space are among the grandest in Niagara. As are the great views across Lake Ontario.

WinemakerJamie Evans

Winemaker’s choiceWismer Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc

Best LCBO brandInox Chardonnay

Location5600 King Street West Beamsville L0R 1B0 905.563.0900 [email protected] peninsularidge.com

HoursJune–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–May Daily 10 am–5 pm

Tour hoursJune–October Daily 11:30 am

November–May By appointment

Private tours by appointment

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2Niagara Escarpment & area

01 ROSEWOOD ESTATESWINERY & MEADERY 10ERosewood opened in 2008, and recognition has been rapid thanks to the winemaking talents of Natalie Spytkowsky, an oenologist who has created award-winning Pinot Noir, eclectic Semillon–Sauvignon, Cuvée Award–winning Gewürztraminer and charming, o"-dry Riesling Süssreserve. Of course, the underlying buzz is the mead and honey-based wines. Owner Eugene Roman is an apiarist (bee-keeper) and, with Spytkowsky, has cross-pollinated the meads with interesting grape blends: very good Mon Cherie, Grande Reserve Ambrosia and Mead Royale. The modern winery and tasting room are set on the Beamsville Bench, a great place to picnic and unwind, while the adjoining gift shop waxes poetic with all things wine and honey.

WinemakerNatalie Spytkowsky

Winemaker’s choice2008 Natalie’s Süssreserve Riesling

Location4352 Mountainview Road Beamsville L0R 1B2 905.563.4383 1.866.633.3248 [email protected]

HoursJune–October Monday–Saturday 11 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–5 pm

November–May Thursday–Monday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

DID YOU KNOW?

Niagara by airOf the many ways to explore Ontario’s wine country, one of the most unusual is offered by Niagara Helicopters’ Heli-Wineries tours. On your specially chartered tour, swoop over the Niagara Escarpment, cruise over acres of vineyards and gently set down on the manicured lawns of several Niagara wineries for tours and tastings—in style.

02 ROYAL DEMARIA WINES 14EJoseph DeMaria entered the wine business in 1998, and soon after made a Vidal Icewine that went on to win several major awards. He has since focused exclusively on Niagara Icewine, and the awards—national and international—keep coming in, literally by the hundreds, including five consecutive Golds for his Chardonnay Icewine at the prestigious Chardonnay du Monde competition in Europe. His 2000 Chardonnay is claimed to be the most expensive in the world. He has produced 24 di"erent varietal Icewines, from grapes as innovative (for Icewine) as Muscat Ottonel, Gamay and Petit Verdot. Queen Elizabeth ordered six bottles for her 2002 visit to Canada.

WinemakerJoseph DeMaria

Winemaker’s choice2004 Pinot Noir Icewine

Best LCBO brandMuscat Ottonel Icewine

Location4551 Cherry Avenue Vineland L0R 1B0 905.228.2593 [email protected] royaldemaria.com

HoursBy appointment or by chance

April–October Monday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–5 pm

November–March Daily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursCall for details

03 TAWSE WINERY 14FBurgundy super-fan Moray Tawse is smitten with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir on the Twenty Mile Bench. In 2005, he opened a handsome, six-tier gravity-flow winery, with three barrel caves carved into the Escarpment. Adding neighbouring vineyards expanded his range to Riesling, Cabernet Franc and Merlot; under the guidance of Burgundy consulting oenologist Pascal Marchand and Niagara-trained winemaker Paul Pender, these vineyards are being converted to organic and biodynamic production. The Tawse label—along with the winery’s Sketches line—is one of the most sought-after brands in Ontario, with a bushel of awards a!rming its success. In 2009, Tawse placed a close second as Canada’s Winery of the Year at the Canadian Wine Awards.

WinemakersPaul Pender, Rene Van Ede, Joel Gfeller (with Pascal Marchand)

Winemakers’ choicePinot Noir

Location3955 Cherry Avenue Vineland L0R 2C0 905.562.9500 [email protected] tawsewinery.ca

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Monday–Friday 10 am–5 pm

Saturday–Sunday 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

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Niagara’s celebration of the harvest and world renowned Niagara wines comes to life with the Niagara New

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JANUARY 14 TO 30, 2011

For three weeks in January the Niagara region is transformed into a wintry wonderland, celebrating one of Canada’s most cherished products, Ontario Icewine. From Gala evening toasts to chestnut roasts, ornate ice bars and winery tours, the 16th annual Niagara Icewine Festival offers plenty for every taste. Join the celebration!

SEPTEMBER 17 TO 26, 2010Enjoy more than 100 events including winery tours and tastings, concerts, Niagara cuisine, wine seminars, live

entertainment and one of Canada’s largest street parades during the 59th Niagara Wine Festival.

NIAGARAWINEFESTIVAL.COM

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2Niagara Escarpment & area

Discover why Vineland Estates Winery is known as

Niagara’s Premiere Wine & Culinary Experience

1 888 846 3526 | www.vineland.com | 3620 Moyer Road, Vineland, Ontario L0R 2C0

Experience our Four-Diamond Award winning dining. All year round, for

luncheons and dinners. Imagine dining while

enjoying the stunning view of our vineyards and Lake Ontario in the distance.

Nestled between the Wine Boutique and the Restaurant is the Carriage House. With an unparalleled view of our vineyard and Lake Ontario, this is the perfect venue for

any elegant private occasion.

Visitors to the winery will find our full range of Vineland Estates wines at

The Wine Boutique, located in the 1877 historic barn. The

Boutique features Reserve, Vintage and Limited

Production wines.

the restaurantthe restaurant the carriage housethe carriage house the wine boutiquethe wine boutique

01 THIRTY BENCH WINE MAKERS 10EOne of the first true boutique wineries in Niagara, with vineyards first planted in 1980, Thirty Bench has hit full stride in the last few years with the focus on small lots of low-yield, handcrafted wines. The winery has earned numerous accolades, including two Cuvée Golds (2010) and two consecutive top-10 finishes at the Canadian Wine Awards. Single-block, old-vine Rieslings are the soul of Thirty Bench; equally fine reds and Chardonnays have also emerged since the 2005 vintage. A visit to the wood-clad winery, or joining their mailing list, is the best way to access the winery’s new and library wines.

WinemakerEmma Garner

Winemaker’s choiceSmall Lot Rieslings

Location4281 Mountainview Road Beamsville L0R 1B0 905.563.1698 [email protected] thirtybench.com

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursOne-on-one tastings; reservations highly recommended

DID YOU KNOW?

The Twenty Valley Wine Country RunIn its first year, 2009, the Twenty Valley Niagara Wine Country Run drew more than 1,140 runners and walkers to its route from Beamsville to Jordan. This year’s run, scheduled for June 12, 2010, offers a 4K, 10K, half-marathon and marathon, capped off by a unique finish-line celebration party, complete with live music, great food and, of course, fine wines from the Twenty Valley area.

02 VINELAND ESTATES WINERY 15FEstablished in 1984, Vineland has led Niagara for a generation, thanks to brothers Allan (president) and Brian (winemaker) Schmidt. It was the first to plant and promote Riesling in its St. Urbans Vineyard. In 1995, it launched a legendary Cabernet–Merlot, whose subsequent vintages took two golds last year. Vineland was also the first to o"er fine winery dining, set in an immaculately restored 19th-century farmhouse and a charming Carriage House. The vibrant winemaking—whether Riesling, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cab Franc or brilliant Icewine—has defined a Niagara style.

WinemakerBrian Schmidt

Winemaker’s choiceCabernet Franc

Best LCBO brandSemi-Dry Riesling

Location3620 Moyer Road Vineland L0R 2C0 905.562.7088 1.888.846.3526 [email protected] vineland.com

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 11 am–5 pm

RestaurantOpen year-round for lunch and dinner; Closed Mondays and Tuesdays in winter

Tour hoursMay–September Public tours daily 11 am, 3 pm

October–April Public tours on weekends 3 pm

03 WAYNE GRETZKY ESTATE WINERY 14FThe Great One established his No. 99 Estates to raise funds for the Wayne Gretzky Foundation, whichsupports numerous charities, including minor hockey programs for less-fortunate kids. In the new winery in Vineland, the winemaking team of Rob Power and Craig McDonald are beginning to draw accolades—multiple awards include a Cuvée win for No. 99 2007 Shiraz–Cabernet. Most popular varieties are produced, with the new Estate Series (launched in 2009) adding Pinot Noir and SauvignonBlanc. Rare Shiraz Icewine is also a hit. The Grille patio is a favourite weekend stop for hockey and wine fans alike.

WinemakersCraig McDonald, Rob Power

Winemakers’ choiceEstate Series Chardonnay

Best LCBO brandMerlot

Location3751 King Street Vineland L0R 2C0 905.562.4945 [email protected]

HoursSummer Monday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday and holidays 11 am–6 pm

Winter Monday–Saturday 10 am–5 pm

Sunday and holidays 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

030201

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Niagara- on-the-Lake

A charming winery neighbourhood

3

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01 20 BEES WINERY 27C20 Bees, launched in 2005 as a co-operative of 19 grape growers and one winemaker, is now the central production facility for the Diamond Estates group of wineries. Since joining the Diamond family, the winery’s focus has remained on less-expensive wines, marketed with a sense of fun. The latest releases, including Gewürztraminer and Cabernet–Merlot, are proving to be very good value indeed. A visit to the tasting room on Niagara Stone Road allows you to purchase other wines from Diamond Estates, including Dan Aykroyd, Lakeview Cellars and Sundance. Be sure to check out their plans for a state-of-the-art retail/hospitality centre, due to start construction in summer 2010.

WinemakersTom Green, Jason Roller, Scott McGregor

Winemakers’ choicePinot Grigio

Best LCBO brandCabernet Merlot

Location1067 Niagara Stone Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.685.5673 [email protected] 20bees.com

HoursJuly–September Daily 11 am–7 pm

October–June Daily 11 am–6 pm

02 CAROLINE CELLARS 30CThe Lakeit family—with a half-century of farming history behind them—opened Caroline Cellars with the 2000 vintage, and their winery tasting room in the Four Mile Creek appellation two years later. Rick Lakeit, Sr. and Jr., make a portfolio of great-value white and red varietal wines, award-winning fruit wines and Icewine, as well as the new, easy-drinking Momentum line of white and red blends. They have scored critical awards with their Gewürztraminer and Cabernet Franc. The charming winery has been designed to accommodate large events and weddings, both indoors and outdoors.

WinemakersRick Lakeit, Sr., Rick Lakeit, Jr.

Winemakers’ choiceCabernet Sauvignon

Best LCBO brandRiesling

Location1028 Line 2 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.8814 [email protected] carolinecellars.com

HoursMonday–Saturday 10 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–6 pm

Shortened winter hours

Tour hoursBy appointment or by chance during retail hours

03 CATTAIL CREEK ESTATE WINERY 28CThe Dyck family only began making wine in 2006, but with over 90 hectares of mature vineyard in the Four Mile Creek appellation, these growers can pick and bottle their best. Recent releases by new winemaker Colin Ferguson show a bright, clean style, although late harvest and Icewines have accumulated the most medals, including Cuvée Gold for the 2006 Barrel Fermented Vidal Icewine and a Canadian Wine Awards Silver for the 2007 Cabernet Franc Icewine. While these wines are beginning to break into Vintages, a visit to the winery is still the best way to taste the potential of the very large portfolio.

WinemakerColin Ferguson

Winemaker’s choicePinot Noir

Location1156 Concession 6 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.988.9463 [email protected] cattailcreek.ca

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 11 am–5 pm

04 CHÂTEAU DES CHARMES 28EThis family estate winery is set among 35 hectares of pristine vines in the St. David’s Bench sub-appellation. Founded in 1978 by Canadian wine-industry visionary Paul Bosc, the winery continues to innovate with pioneering viticultural research. All wines are craftedfrom grapes grown on their own vineyards using sustainable farming techniques. The portfolio includes solid, well-structured single-vineyard wines, artisanally produced rare and unique varieties, as well as bold reds built for aging—all available for tasting at the bar for a nominal fee. The Château is a wonderful setting for private events, concerts and customized group experiences.

WinemakersPaul M. Bosc, Anna Maruggi

Winemakers’ choice2007 Equuleus Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard VQA St. David’s Bench

Best LCBO brandBrut Méthode Traditionnelle VQA, Niagara-on-the-Lake

Location1025 York Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1P0 905.262.4219 [email protected]

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursDaily 11 am, 3 pm (English) 11:15 am (Japanese) 12 pm (French)

Reservations not required

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01 COYOTE’S RUN ESTATE WINERY 29EIn a warm microclimate just below the St. David’s Bench, Coyote’s Run produces intensely flavoured, lively small-batch wines. The winery recently ranked in the top 20 at the Canadian Wine Awards, and has twice captured the top prize for Pinot Noir. Veteran winemaker David Sheppard focuses on crafting fine wines made from a number of varieties, including Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. Of particular interest are the Red and Black Paw Vineyard wines, which reflect the unique terroir of the two di!erent soils on the estate.

WinemakerDavid Sheppard

Winemaker’s choiceRed Paw Vineyard Pinot Noir

Best LCBO brandUnoaked Chardonnay

Location485 Concession 5 St. Davids L0S 1P0 905.682.8310 1.877.COYOTE.3 [email protected] coyotesrunwinery.com

HoursMay–November Daily 10 am–6 pm

December–April Daily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

02 FROGPOND FARM ORGANIC WINERY 31CNo winery o!ers a better window onto the world of organic winemaking than Frogpond Farm; with a belief that natural balances build stronger vines that can survive without chemical pesticides and herbicides, it’s Ontario’s first winery to produce certified-organic wine and the only one that produces organic wine exclusively. The winery also gets its electricity from a renewable energy source. Jens Gemmrich and Heike Koch opened the winery in 2001, focusing on a small range of solid, traditionally styled Cabernet–Merlot, Riesling and, more recently, Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc rosé, Gamay and Icewine.

WinemakerJens Gemmrich

Winemaker’s choiceCabernet Franc

Best LCBO brandRiesling

Location1385 Larkin Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0R 1J0 905.468.1079 1.877.989.0165 [email protected] frogpondfarm.ca

HoursMay–October Daily 11 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursSelf-guided farm tours during store hours

03 HILLEBRAND WINERY 28CFor over three decades, Hillebrand has anchored wine tourism in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The Hillebrand Winery Restaurant (and chef de cuisine Frank Dodd) and the Collector’s Boutique are ongoing draws, while a slate of special and seasonal events—such as the summer jazz and blues festivals, blending workshops, Icewine-grape harvesting and barrel-cellar dinners—keep the place hopping year-round. New Zealand–trained winemaker Darryl Brooker delivers true flavours from the a!ordable Artist Serieswines; the blended Trius Red, White and gold-medal-winning Brut sparkler; and the premium Showcase single-lot bottlings, which earned the winery a top-10 finish in the 2009 Canadian Wine Awards.

WinemakerDarryl Brooker

Winemaker’s choiceTrius Red

Best LCBO brandArtist Series Chardonnay

Location1249 Niagara Stone Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.7123 1.800.582.8412 [email protected] hillebrand.com

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

Extended summer hours

Tour hoursDaily; hourly, on the hour

04 THE ICE HOUSE 31DThis 12-hectare vineyard, planted along the Niagara Parkway, has had one purpose since 2005: to create the best and most innovative Icewine for the world. Founder and winemaker Jamie Macfarlane is right on track with the international success of Northern Ice: a trio of “toasting style” Icewines—Cabernet Sauvignon, Vidal and Vintner’s Reserve—each a Grand Gold winner at Europe’s Monde Selection competition. The winery, a refurbished 18th-century peach barn, welcomes visitors for year-round tours, tastings and Jamie’s newest Icewine innovations, including Icewine Slushies and Icewine Spirit. Group tours and corporate functions for up to 50 visitors are welcome, complete with seminars with Jamie, the world’s most experienced Icewine maker.

WinemakerJamie Macfarlane

Winemaker’s choice2005 Northern Ice

Best LCBO brandNorthern Ice Vidal Icewine

Location14778 Niagara Parkway Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.262.6161 [email protected] theicehouse.ca

HoursJune–October Tuesday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursPrivate tasting by appointment; buses welcome

04030201

W W W. N I AG A R AWO R L DW I N E TO U R S . C O M

905.468.1300800.680.7006

www.inkberrystudio.caGraphic Designer: Tarja BartonApproval Date: February 27, 2010

Client: Niagara Wine Tours Int.Contact: Carrie PattenPhone: 905.468.1300

Publication: 2010 Wine Council Guide AdAd size: w: 5.269” x h: 4.615”Colour info: cmykDue date: March 1, 2010

graphic design | technical i l lustration | botanical i l lustration | watercolour painting

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01 INNISKILLIN WINES 32CInniskillin was founded in 1975 by Donald Ziraldo and Karl Kaiser, introducing a new era for the Canadian wine industry and gaining international fame for putting Canada’s Icewine on the world map. Recent renovations include an Icewine Tasting Bar, a KitchenAid Demonstration Kitchen, and a Riedel Room. Chef David Penny hosts a hands-on Great Canadian Kitchen Party, as well as food and wine pairing experiences. Winemaker Bruce Nicholson has been earning top international awards for his VQA wines. Try his brilliant Icewines; Winemaker’s Series Chardonnay, Riesling and Pinot Noir; and top-tier Legacy Series Riesling and Cab Franc.

WinemakerBruce Nicholson

Winemaker’s choice2008 Inniskillin Montague Vineyard Chardonnay

Best LCBO brandInniskillin Vidal Icewine

Location1499 Line 3 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.2187 ext. 5400 1.888.466.4754 ext. 5400 [email protected] inniskillin.com

HoursMay–October Daily 9 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 9 am–5 pm

Tour hoursMay–October Daily Hourly, 10:30 am–4:30 pm

November–April Daily 10:30 am, 2:30 pm

02 JACKSON-TRIGGS NIAGARA ESTATE WINERY 30ANamed Best Canadian Winery 20 times, Jackson-Triggs’ state-of-the-art winery is an environmentally friendly showpiece. Chef David Penny leads events such as the popular “Savour the Sights” five-course wine and food experience set throughout the winery. The “Twilight in the Vineyard” amphitheatre summer concerts highlight top Canadian performers. Winemaker Marco Piccoli crafts award-winning VQA wines, including the Proprietors’ Grand Reserve Méthode Classique Sparkler, Meritage and Merlot; the Delaine Vineyard Syrah and Cabernet–Merlot, plus Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling.

WinemakerMarco Piccoli

Winemaker’s choiceProprietors’ Grand Reserve Merlot

Best LCBO brandProprietors’ Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon–Cabernet Franc

Location2145 Niagara Stone Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.4637 ext. 3 concierge desk [email protected]

HoursSummer Monday–Saturday 10:30 am–6:30 pm

Sunday 10:30 am–6:00 pm

Winter Daily 10:30 am–5:30 pm

Tour hoursSummer Hourly, on the half-hour 10:30 am–5:30 pm

Winter 10:30 am, 12:30 pm, 2:30 pm

03 JOSEPH’S ESTATE WINES 29BWhile Niagara-born Dr. Joseph Pohorly opened his own premium winery in 1996, his history in the industry goes back much further—he founded Newark Wines (which later became Hillebrand) in 1978. Today, with 10 hectares of prime orchard converted to vineyard, Joseph’s Estate Wines is racking up medals for Icewines in particular, and their port and sherry-styled wines are among the last remaining in Ontario. In addition, Pohorly has been researching and marketing the health benefits of grapeseed oil, a powerful antioxidant. Winery tours are a great way to hear about Niagara history, geography and winemaking.

WinemakersDr. Joseph Pohorly, Katherine Reid

Winemakers’ choice2008 Pinot Grigio

Location1811 Niagara Stone Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.1259 1.866.468.1259 [email protected]

HoursJune–October Daily 10 am–7 pm

November–May Daily 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursJune–October Daily 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm

04 KONZELMANN ESTATE WINERY 27AThe arrival of veteran German winemaker Herbert Konzelmann in 1984 gave the fledgling Niagara industry a boost in confidence and experience. A former peach orchard on the lakeside, planted with varietals like Riesling, Gewürztraminer and Chardonnay, produced its greatest fruit years later. Along with assistant winemaker Eric Pearson, Konzelmann has garnered prestigious national and international Icewine medals, including Canada’s only placement on the Wine Spectator’s Top 100 list (in 2008). Fruit-forward Pinot Blanc is a white specialty, along with soft Pinot Noir and Merlot reds. The top-end Winemaster’s Collection series is available only at the winery, a popular stop for friendly wine tours.

WinemakersHerbert Konzelmann, Eric Pearson

Winemakers’ choicePinot Noir

Best LCBO brandRiesling

Location1096 Lakeshore Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.935.2866 [email protected] konzelmann.ca

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Monday–Saturday 10 am–5 pm

Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursMay–September Daily 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm

01 LAILEY VINEYARD 31BAlongside the Niagara River and tucked o! the Niagara Parkway, the well-kept, herbicide-free, nine-hectare Lailey Vineyard has long been known for producing some of Niagara’s sturdiest, deepest reds, witnessed by an InterVin Gold award for the 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. Veteran winemaker Derek Barnett—a pioneer in using Canadian oak barrels—excels with Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling, made in a compact, complex style for enjoying at the table, and often benefiting from bottle aging. The small winery is an ideal stop for intimate tastings and special events.

WinemakerDerek Barnett

Winemaker’s choice2008 Syrah VQA Niagara River

Location15940 Niagara Parkway Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.0503 [email protected] laileyvineyard.com

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

DID YOU KNOW?

Wine-country cuisineOntario’s wine country is also home to great foods and great chefs. From freshly picked produce to artisanal cheese to meats and charcuterie, Ontario’s local bounty—and the regionally inspired cuisine of our restaurants, many of which are on site at the wineries— is an exceptional match with our local wines. See how unforgettably delicious “local” can be.

02 MALETA ESTATE WINERY 27EIn 2004, accomplished home winemaker and winemaking author Daniel Pambianchi bought the Maleta property, which enjoys a warm microclimate on the edge of St. David’s Bench. The operation focuses on Bordeaux reds and old-vine Riesling and Gamay, but Pambianchi’s interest in sparkling wine is also bearing fruit, winning a 2010 Cuvée Gold for Maleta’s 2007 Old Vines Dry Sparkling Wine. The 2006 sparkling won Ontario Wine Awards Gold in 2009. The range includes the moderately priced, humorously labelled Grape Brain series and the more upscale View brand, as well as the premium red Meritage label. A popular tour package includes a tasting of four wines, including sparkling wine, paired with local and international cheeses.

WinemakersArthur Harder, Michael Komar, Daniel Pambianchi

Winemakers’ choiceMeritage

Location450 Queenston Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.685.8486 [email protected] maletawinery.com

HoursMay–October Daily 10:30 am–5:30 pm

November–April Friday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Or by appointment

Tour hoursBy request

03 MARYNISSEN ESTATES WINERY 31CA grape grower since 1952, John Marynissen not only founded one of Ontario’s first small family wineries in 1990, he was also the first to plant Cabernet Sauvignon, a later-ripening red grape assumed to be incompatible with Niagara’s climate. His daughter Sandra has inherited his legacy of big Cabernet-based reds that remain at the heart of today’s portfolio. In the warm, dry 2007 vintage, several reds took Intervin awards, including more recently planted Syrah and Malbec; an All-Canada Gold for the 2007 unoaked Chardonnay proved that the portfolio is indeed well rounded. A visit to the winery and tasting room has very much a family feel.

WinemakersJeff Hundertmark, Sandra Marynissen

Winemakers’ choiceCabernet Merlot

Location1208 Concession 1, RR 6 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.7270 [email protected] marynissen.com

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 10 am–5 pm

Tour hoursGroup tours of 15 or more by appointment

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Toronto: 905-677-8083 Niagara: 905-374-8111

VisitNIAGARA’S WINERIESVisit

NIAGARA’S WINERIESDOOR-TO-DOOR FROM TORONTO & NIAGARA

SAVE 10% @ www.niagarawinerytours.com

Visit our neighbourhood of wineries surrounded by rolling vineyards, scenic drives, fresh country

cuisine, and countless ways to experience and enjoy wine. Here, no two wineries are alike – we each

have our own stories to tell. You’ll see this when you step up to our doors and you’ll

taste it when you sample our wines.

Visit our website for wine-themed itineraries, updates on our upcoming touring events, contests and more.

Communications and Design

project manager Chris Alderson

designer Lynn Maceira

date March 11, 2010

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01 MIKE WEIR WINECanada’s most famous golfer entered the wine business in 2005, out of a personal love of wine and a desire to raise money for the Mike Weir Foundation, which funds children’s charities across the country. In a few short years, his label has become one of the leading VQA brands at the LCBO. On the Niagara Parkway, a showpiece winery, hospitality centre and gallery of Mike Weir’s golfing memorabilia is also in the works. The award-winning wine is made in conjunction with Château des Charmes, drawing on its 150 hectares to create a focused range of mid-priced varietals, including balanced Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc whites, Pinot Noir and Cabernet–Merlot reds, and Icewine.

WinemakersPaul Bosc Sr., Anna Maruggi

Winemakers’ choiceChardonnay

Best LCBO brandCabernet Merlot

LocationWinery facility opening in Niagara in 2011 1.888.934.7444 [email protected] mikeweirwine.com

HoursWinery opening 2011

02 NIAGARA COLLEGE TEACHING WINERY 26FCanada’s only commercial teaching winery has a new campus, o"cially opened by Prince Charles in November 2009. Conveniently located just o! the QEW at Highway 55, the building doubles as a Wine Visitor + Education Centre. Veteran winemaker/professor Terence Van Rooyen oversees the students and the sourcing of grape varieties from the adjacent vineyard (in St. David’s Bench) and elsewhere. The broad portfolio of intensely flavoured wines is topped by premium Dean’s List labels, including Cuvée Gold 2007 Pinot Noir, excellent 2007 Meritage and 2008 Cabernet Franc Icewine. On your visit, don’t miss the college’s great retail garden nursery, and dine at the Culinary Institute Restaurant.

WinemakerTerence Van Rooyen

Winemaker’s choiceDean’s List Meritage 2007

Location135 Taylor Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.641.2252 ext. 4070 [email protected]

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursSaturday–Sunday 2 pm

03 PALATINE HILLS ESTATE WINERY 27AWhile John and Barbara Neufeld have grown grapes on their large, 95-hectare Niagara Lakeshore property for over 30 years, they only ventured into the wine business at the turn of the century. Their inaugural 2003 Icewine put Palatine Hills on the map, winning Wine of the Year at the Ontario Wine Awards. Today, they are poised to double their production, creating approachably priced Reserve and Estate wines. Newly hired winemaker Je! Innes takes on a portfolio of traditional Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot-based reds, unoaked Chardonnay, Riesling, a peer-acknowledged Gewürztraminer and Icewine.

WinemakerJeff Innes

Winemaker’s choice2007 Merlot

Location911 Lakeshore Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.646.9617 [email protected]

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursBy request

04 PELLER ESTATES WINERY 31BAndrew Peller was one of the founding fathers of Ontario wine; today, his namesake wine company, the province’s second-largest, remains a family-owned enterprise—focused around the grand winery, showpiece barrel cellar and gracious Peller Estates Winery Restaurant (helmed by chef Jason Parsons). Food and wine pairing themes are mainstays in the chock-full seminar and event calendar. Peller’s full range of Private Reserve whites, reds and sweet wines by winemaker Lawrence Buhler are always rich and approachable, while the Signature Series features age-worthy reds, award-winning Icewines and the unique Ice Cuvée sparklers, sweetened with a touch of Icewine.

WinemakerLawrence Buhler

Winemaker’s choiceSparkling Ice Cuvée Rosé

Best LCBO brandFamily Series Cabernet Merlot

Location290 John Street East Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.4678 1.888.673.5537 [email protected] peller.com

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm Extended summer hours

Tour hoursDaily; hourly, on the half-hour

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01 PILLITTERI ESTATES WINERY 29BFounded by Gary Pillitteri in 1993, and sourcing grapes from several family vineyards, Pillitteri is now Canada’s largest estate producer of Icewine, exporting to 28 countries. The winery’s string of Icewine hits from obscure varieties in Canada, such as Sangiovese and Semillon, have earned the bragging rights of international awards such as the Civart Trophy in Bordeaux, France, and, most recently, the prestigious E!ervescents du Monde competition in Burgundy, France. Pillitteri’s young and innovative Aussie winemaker Marc Bradshaw crafts fresh Riesling and Pinot Grigio, as well as deep, age-worthy Cabernet and Merlot. Don’t miss the barrel cellar, which holds the world’s longest concrete table and showcases suspended, stainless steel chairs.

WinemakerDr. Marc Phillip Bradshaw

Winemaker’s choiceVidal Icewine

Best LCBO brandGewürztraminer/Riesling Fusion

Location1696 Niagara Stone Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.3147 [email protected] pillitteri.com

HoursMay 15–October 15 Daily 10 am–8 pm

October 16–May 14 Daily 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursDaily 12 pm, 2 pm

02 PONDVIEW ESTATE WINERY 29CThe newest winery in the Four Mile Creek appellation is a quaint, family-owned winery operated by Lou and Adriana Puglisi and backed by three generations of grape growing—Lou’s father and grandfather were winemakers in Italy. Not surprisingly, PondView has a Mediterranean ambience, which includes antipasto and cheese platters at the tasting bar or on the patio. All wines are made from estate-grown grapes, including Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Grigio and Cabernet. The winery may be new, but the family has been growing grapes here since the 1970s—in fact, Lou was named the 2008 Grape King: a Ministry of Agriculture award for the finest vineyard operator in Ontario.

WinemakerFred DiProfio

Winemaker’s choiceBarrel-Fermented, Barrel-Aged Chardonnay

Location925 Line 2 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.0777 [email protected] pondviewwinery.com

HoursMonday–Friday 10 am–6 pm

Saturday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Light fare on patio (seasonal)

Tour hoursBy appointment; groups welcome

03 RAVINE VINEYARD 29ENiagara’s newest showpiece is an eight-hectare, certified-organic vineyard on the old Lowrey farm, which lies on an ancient Niagara River bed. Renowned Niagara winemaker Peter Gamble and newcomer Shauna White fashion elegant, layered and complex premium wines, with a focus on Merlot, Cabernet, Chardonnay and Riesling. The winery is fronted by an historic early-19th-century house reconstructed on the property (an intriguing tale), while Chefs Paul Harber and Collin Goodine at the adjacent Deli and Bakery dish out light meals with a focus on local and organic ingredients; the retail store o!ers wood-fired stone-oven breads, fine cheese and decadent pastries.

WinemakersShauna White, Peter Gamble

Winemakers’ choiceMerlot 2007

Best LCBO brandChardonnay

Location1366 York Road St. Davids L0S 1P0 905.262.VINE (8463) [email protected] ravinevineyard.com

HoursDaily 11 am–6 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

04 REIF ESTATE WINERY 32COne of Niagara-on-the-Lake’s founding-family wineries, Reif opened in 1982, after founder Ewald Reif planted its vineyards in 1977; the property was later acquired by nephew Klaus W. Reif. Today, the large 50-hectare site produces a complete range of varietals, including Vidal Icewine, a perennial medal winner. Premium “first growth” reds from the oldest vines are turning heads as well. The winery boasts one of the most sophisticated, educational tasting- room experiences in Niagara, complete with themed flights, blind tastings, food pairings and a new sensory wine garden. The neighbouring Victorian mansion is a splendid setting for weddings and other catered functions.

WinemakersRoberto DiDomenico, Klaus W. Reif

Winemakers’ choiceMeritage

Best LCBO brandChardonnay Sauvignon Blanc

Location15608 Niagara Parkway, RR 1 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.WINE [email protected] reifwinery.com

HoursApril–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–March Daily 10 am–5 pm

Tour hoursMay–October Daily 11:30 am, 1:30 pm

No reservation required

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01 RIVERVIEW CELLARS ESTATE WINERY 32CSam and Lina Pillitteri began converting their Niagara River orchard to vineyard in the early ’90s, opening Riverview in 2000. Today, Riverview’s vineyard, winemaking and retailing remains very much a family e!ort. The portfolio centres on characterful Gewürztraminer and Angelina’s Reserve Chardonnay among whites, and Bordeaux-style reds, like the very good 2007 Cabernet Franc. The 2007 Cabernet Icewine has enjoyed gold-medal accolades at home and abroad. Enjoy the range at the tasting bar or with a cheese plate on the outdoor patio.

WinemakerAngela Kasimos

Winemaker’s choice2007 Cabernet Franc

Location15376 Niagara Parkway Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.262.0636 [email protected] riverviewcellars.com

HoursApril–June Daily 10 am–6 pm

July–August Daily 10 am–7 pm

September–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–March Daily 10 am–5 pm

Tour hoursMay–October Public tours daily 1 pm

02 SOUTHBROOK VINEYARDS 26DIn 2008, Southbrook moved from a dairy barn and farm market north of Toronto to its new vineyard and LEED Gold–certified architectural showpiece in the heart of Niagara. Regardless of location, owners Bill and Marilyn Redelmeier have always strived for complex, age-worthy Chardonnays and Cab–Merlot blends, and manage inventories so that many older vintages are still available under the Triomphe and Poetica labels. Under the direction of winemaker Ann Sperling, Southbrook has become Canada’s first Demeter-certified biodynamic winery, supplementing its organic certification. Watch the flock of sheep graze in the vine rows, try great fruit wines like Framboise, and savour homemade stone-oven pizza on the winery patio.

WinemakerAnn Sperling

Winemaker’s choicePoetica Cabernet Merlot

Best LCBO brandCabernet Merlot Shiraz

Location581 Niagara Stone Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 1.888.581.1581 [email protected] southbrook.com

HoursMonday–Saturday 10 am–5 pm

Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Open until 6 pm in the summer

03 STONECHURCH VINEYARDS 26BThe Hunse family began farming in the Niagara Lakeshore more than half a century ago. In 1990, the family established Stonechurch Vineyards. Stonechurch is now producing reds and whites under veteran winemaker Ray Cornell, whose Syrah and Quintet scored big in the 2009 Ontario Wine Awards. The setting at Stonechurch is pastoral and tranquil, an ideal place to slow down and sip soft aromatic whites, such as the winery’s Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.

WinemakerRay Cornell

Winemaker’s choiceRiesling

Best LCBO brandCabernet Sauvignon

Location1242 Irvine Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.935.3535 [email protected] stonechurch.com

HoursMay 1–October 15 Daily 10 am–6 pm

October 16–April 30 Daily 10 am–5 pm

Tour hoursComplimentary, self-guided vineyard trail tour open daily; private tastings by request

04 STRATUS 30BOne of the most dramatic and innovative wineries in Niagara, and the first to be LEED certified, Stratus opened in 2005 with the intent of assembling one premium blended white and one red from multiple varietals grown on the sustainably farmed 22-hectare property. Bordeaux-trained Niagara veteran J-L Grouxmakes a range of limited-production, premium single-varietal reds (the 2007 Merlot is a standout), whites (likewise for the 2007 Chardonnay) and stunning Icewines—most are available only at the winery. Themed food and wine seminars are often featured in the contemporary tasting rooms and outdoor terrace.

WinemakerJ–L Groux

Winemaker’s choiceStratus Red

Location2059 Niagara Stone Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.1806 [email protected] stratuswines.com

HoursMay–December Daily 11 am–5 pm

January–April Wednesday–Sunday 12 pm–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

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01 STREWN WINERY 28AIn 1997, Joe Will and Jane Langdon converted a sprawling fruit cannery into a winery and education centre that o!ers one of Niagara’s most in-depth visitor experiences, including the Wine Country Cooking School, winemaker dinners at the Terroir La Cachette restaurant, and daily tastings. From 10 hectares of Niagara Lakeshore grapes, Joe crafts structured, age-worthy, Bordeaux-style, Cabernet-based reds; his whites include Pinot Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer. Long-lived Vidal Icewine receives frequent awards. The portfolio includes the more a!ordable Two Vines brand, premium varietals, single-vineyard Terroir selections and Collectors wines, many available only at the winery.

WinemakerJoe Will

Winemaker’s choiceStrewn Three

Best LCBO brandRogue’s Lot

Location1339 Lakeshore Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.1229 [email protected] strewnwinery.com

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

Tour hoursDaily 11:30 am

DID YOU KNOW?

Festivals throughout the yearWine country has festivals for all seasons. In the west, the Shores of Erie International Wine Festivalfeatures music, food and wine. In Niagara, celebrate with the popular Niagara New Vintage Festival, Niagara Wine Festival and Niagara Icewine Festival; special-event “discovery passes”offer great savings on winery activities. In the east, Prince Edward County’s Taste! festival celebrates regional cuisine.

02 SUNNYBROOK FARM ESTATE WINERY 29ABorn and raised in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Gerald Goertz has carried on with tender-fruit farming—peaches, cherries, plums, pears and apples—despite the steady influx of vineyards. After a deep freeze wiped out the fruit on his 17-hectare Niagara Lakeshore farm, he and his wife Vivien opened a winery. Since 1993, they have delighted thousands of tasting-room visitors with humorous anecdotes and a large range of fruit and berry wines—unfortified, unoaked and 100% from the fruit named on the bottle (with no grape wine added). The collection includes Chocolate Embrace, iced fruit wines and Ironwood Hard Cider, all available exclusively at the winery and online.

WinemakerGerald Goertz

Winemaker’s choiceChocolate Embrace

Location1425 Lakeshore Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.1122 [email protected]

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 10 am–5 pm

03 VIGNOBLE RANCOURT WINERY 29BLionel Rancourt virtually hand-built this small, innovative family winery—a tranquil oasis of French country charm just o! busy Highway 55—but, sadly, he passed away upon its completion. Veteran winemaker Jean-Pierre Colas has come aboard to direct the production, which focuses on complex, age-worthy, Bordeaux-style Merlot and Cabernet, and aromatic Riesling and Chardonnay. Blends include Noble Blanc and Noble Rouge. The winery’s fine upstairs room is a great venue for special tastings and events; the property also o!ers an adjoining bed and breakfast.

WinemakerJean-Pierre Colas

Winemaker’s choiceNoble Rouge

Location1829 Concession 4 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 905.468.2882 [email protected]

HoursMay–October Daily 10 am–6 pm

November–April Daily 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

Slow Food

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Toronto & York Region

Experience wine country

in the city

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4Toronto & York Region

01 MAGNOTTA WINERY 36CAn architectural triumph, Magnotta’s flagship winery boasts an opulent retail store and wine boutique, two complimentary tasting bars, an awards room and an extensive collection of original art, including works by Canadian Group of Seven artists A.Y. Jackson and A. Lismer, which have inspired the winery’s label designs. In complimentary daily tours, guests walk through the production and bottling facilities and then descend into the underground working cellar, where vintages age in barrels and the cooper tools give a glimpse into the ancient art of barrel making. One of Canada’s largest producers of award-winning Icewine, Magnotta is renowned for its Sparkling Ice™, the world’s first sparkling Icewine.

WinemakerPeter Rotar

Winemaker’s choice2007 Vidal Icewine Niagara Peninsula Limited Edition VQA

Best LCBO brandVidal Icewine Limited Edition

Location271 Chrislea Road Vaughan L4L 8N6 905.738.9463 1.800.461.9463 [email protected] magnotta.com

HoursMonday–Friday 9 am–9 pm

Saturday 8:30 am–6 pm

Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursDaily 2 pm

Large groups by reservation

DID YOU KNOW?

Cool-climate winesAll Ontario growing regions are considered “cool climate,” producing a style of wine that is gaining international attention. In our climate, grapes need the entire season to ripen fully; the vine’s roots pull minerals from the soil for a longer time, and yield fewer grape bunches. The resulting wine tends to have more complexity, elegance and food-friendliness—and reflects a more accurate “sense of place”—than one grown in a climate with a hotter, shorter season.

02 MILAN WINERIES INC. 35CAlberto Milan’s family winemaking roots go back 100 years to Veneto, Italy, an area famous for the sparkling white, Prosecco. Prosecco is just one of many styles and varieties made at this winery in northwest Toronto, where production focuses on bag-in-box wines, as part of a commitment to o!ering wine at reasonable prices. The new Prosecco Club loyalty rewards program furthers that objective. The tasting room and retail store, o!ering a wide range of gift items, is the only place to purchase whites, reds, and sparkling and sweet wines from Milan’s extensive portfolio.

WinemakerAlberto Milan

Winemaker’s choiceProsecco Tranquillo

Location6811 Steeles Avenue West Toronto M9V 4R9 416.740.2005 1.800.218.7052 [email protected] milanwineries.com

HoursMonday–Wednesday 9 am–6 pm

Thursday–Friday 9 am–7 pm

Saturday 9 am–5 pm

September 1–December 31 Sunday 10 am–4 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

03 WILLOW SPRINGS WINERY 39AIn 2001, Mario and Julie Testa opened a winery on the Oak Ridges Moraine in Stou!ville, northeast of Toronto. This location surprised many at the time, but has since become a popular destination. Hybrid grape varieties like Baco Noir, Maréchal Foch and Seyval Blanc flourish in the four-hectare vineyard; they are augmented by vinifera varieties purchased in Niagara, creating a full range of whites and reds. The 2007 reds are notable successes, while Moraine Red and White showcase the local terroir. The wineryhosts weddings and corporate functions, and the gift shop o!ers not only wine and food, but also local artisans’ creations.

WinemakersMario Testa, Jorge Almeida

Winemakers’ choiceTesta Limited Reserve Merlot

Best LCBO brandBaco Noir

Location5572 Bethesda Road Stouffville L4A 7X3 905.642.9463 [email protected] willowspringswinery.ca

HoursMonday–Saturday 11 am–6 pm

Sunday 12 pm–5 pm

Tour hoursBy request

Did you knowYork Region’s wines

and beers are world-renowned?

From award-winning fruit winesand quality lagers, to premium VQA wines, York Region offers flavours

that will excite your palate.

Order your free 2010 Explore York Region Discovery Guide today

1.888.448.0000 | yorktourism.com

Growing world-class wines

905.688.0990 | www.grapegrowersofontario.com

Grape Growers of Ontario is the official organization that represents over 600 grape growers. We invite you to discover Ontario’s vibrant viticulture areas, where world-class wines are born.

L AKE ERIE NORTH SHORE & PELEE ISL AND With 800 acres of vines between the mainland and island, these two areas enjoy the moderating effect of Lake Erie which allows for the longest growing season of Ontario’s wine regions.

NIAGARA PENINSUL A The largest Viticultural area in Ontario boasts 13,600 acres of vines. The moderating effect of Lakes Ontario and Erie and the protective infl uence of the Niagara Escarpment make this area suitable for Vitis vinifera grapes.

PRINCE EDWARD COUNT Y The newest Viticultural area in Ontario thrives with moderating air from Lake Ontario allowing the growth of quality grapes with over 500 acres of vines.

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Prince Edward County & area

Where “local” is a way of life

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01 BLACK PRINCE WINERY 7GBlack Prince opened in 2003, based on a four-hectare Picton vineyard that grows Chardonnay, Cab Franc and some hybrids. Under Winemaker Terence Van Rooyen’s guidance, GM and co-founder Geo! Webb purchases other County fruit for a range that expands to Pinot Noir, Riesling and Melon de Bourgogne. In 2009, Webb launched Chardonnay Terroir—the first County wine aged in County-grown and coopered oak barrels, and a follow-up to a gold medal for the 2007 Chardonnay Reserve. Look for Cab Franc Terroir to be released in 2010. Black Prince has also helped others by making wines for start-up labels.

WinemakersTerence Van Rooyen, Geoff Webb

Winemakers’ choiceBlack Prince Chardonnay

Best LCBO brandBlack Prince Cabernet Franc

Location13370 Loyalist Parkway Highway 33, Picton K0K 2T0 613.476.4888 1.866.470.9463 [email protected] blackprincewinery.com

HoursJune–December Daily 11 am–6 pm

Hours reduced in the off-season

Tour hoursBy appointment

DID YOU KNOW?

Wine country is closer than you thinkBy car, Lake Erie North Shore (and the Pelee Island ferry) is only four hours from Toronto and 30 minutes from Detroit. Niagara is only 60 to 90 minutes from Toronto and 30 minutes from Buffalo. Prince Edward County is only 2.5 hours from Toronto, three hours from Ottawa and four hours from Montreal. Toronto and Buffalo airports also host daily flights from many US cities.

02 CASA-DEA ESTATES WINERY 5GFormerly known as Carmela, this small, picturesque property was the first winery on Greer Road (near Hillier), now one of the County’s main wine streets. The 33-acre vineyard was planted through the early part of the last decade to grow Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc. New winemaker Paul Battilana took the helm, finishing the 2008s and making the 2009s, which included the addition of sparkling wine to the lineup. The Cucina Italiana is open for casual lunches and dinners during the summer, doubling as a wedding and event space. The wine shop often features local artwork.

WinemakerPaul Battilana

Winemaker’s choiceCD Bianco

Location1186 Greer Road Wellington K0K 3L0 613.399.3939 [email protected]

HoursDaily 11 am–6 pm

Tour hoursDaily 2 pm

03 CLOSSON CHASE 6GViticulturalist and winemaker Deborah Paskus was among the first to plant in the County’s tough limestone soils, founding Closson Chase in a big purple barn in 2000. But it would take almost a decade to boost her organically farmed acreage to 13 hectares and open a small, modern winery nearby, supplementing production with labels from prime Niagara sites. Paskus is essentially a Chardonnay specialist, making bold, layered, rich Chardonnays; long-aged in barrels, they aim at Burgundy’s top whites. Low-yield, and equally complex, Pinot Noir is the red partner, with small amounts of rosé and unoaked (sans chêne) Chardonnay. The barn is now the tasting room, with local-art space adjoining an engaging organic garden.

WinemakerDeborah Paskus

Winemaker’s choiceChardonnay

Location629 Closson Road Hillier K0K 2J0 613.399.1418 [email protected] clossonchase.com

HoursApril 15–November 30 Monday–Thursday 11 am–5 pm

Friday–Sunday 10 am–6 pm

December 1–April 14 Weekdays by appointment

Saturday & Sunday 11 am–5 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment

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5 Prince Edward County & area 5Prince Edward County & area

01 THE GRANGE OF PRINCE EDWARDVINEYARDS & ESTATE WINERY 5GThe County’s largest vineyard and winery is also one of the most popular for visitors and photographers: In an idyllic pastoral setting, a grand Loyalist barn houses the tasting room and barrel cellar. Robert Granger and daughter Caroline began planting grapes in 2001, increasing production to 20 hectares by 2009. Taut, mineral-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gamay, Cab Franc and Pinot Gris anchor the Trumpour’s Mill line, with the first, layered Grange of Prince Edward premium wines released in 2007. In 2009 came their first—and exciting—sparkling, Brut. Light meals, art shows and picnics by the millpond are all part of the engaging ambience.

WinemakerJeff Innes

Winemaker’s choice2007 Trumpour’s Mill Estate Bottled Pinot Noir

Location990 Closson Road Hillier K0K 2J0 613.399.1048 1.866.792.7712 [email protected]

HoursMay–October Daily 11 am–5 pm

November–April Daily 12 pm–4 pm

Tour hoursMay–October Daily 3 pm

November–May By appointment

More experiential private and group tours available by reservation

DID YOU KNOW?

Soil compositionFor fine wine grapes, rich, fertile soil is not the first choice. Instead, winemakers look for less-fertile soils with a mix of minerals—from glacial, sedimentary and fossilized deposits. The right soil will limit the grape production of the vines (yielding more-concentrated flavours) and lend the grapes a range of unique flavour characteristics from the minerals themselves.

02 HUFF ESTATES WINERY 6GIn 2004, County-born Lanny Hu! opened his modest, modern winery at a crossroads in the centre of the County; he installed a young French winemaker named Frédéric Picard, who began crafting refined, elegant Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling and Merlot-based reds from vineyards in South Bay, nearer Lake Ontario. Accolades came quickly, as did expansion. The fine Inn at Hu! Estate opened in 2006, followed by the popular Oeno (art) Gallery in 2009. The patio is a great place for light meals and occasional concerts. In 2008, Hu! launched the County’s first traditional-method sparkling wine, a style with a great future in the County.

WinemakerFrédéric Picard

Winemaker’s choiceSouth Bay Chardonnay

Location2274 County Road 1 Bloomfield K0K 1G0 613.393.5802 [email protected] huffestates.com

HoursDaily 10 am–6 pm

Summer Friday and Saturday until 8 pm

Tour hoursBy appointment or by chance

03 NORMAN HARDIE WINERY AND VINEYARD 5GFormer Toronto sommelier and globe-trotting Pinot Noir winemaker Norman Hardie landed in the County in 2004, opening a small, functional winery and barrel cellar that is actually embedded in the limestone bedrock. His six-hectare vineyard is all about low-yield Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, with some surprisingly good Pinot Gris and Melon de Bourgogne as well. He also makes Niagara editions: In 2007, he combined Niagara and County grapes in a Pinot called Cuvee L. Hardie is a hyper-attentive, yet naturalist, winemaker, striving for taut, complex, mineral-driven (often idiosyncratic) wines. He and his winery sta! love to explain it in great detail—so this visit is for wine lovers.

WinemakerNorman Hardie

Winemaker’s choiceCounty Pinot Noir

Best LCBO brandCounty Pinot Noir

Location1152 Greer Road Wellington K0K 3L0 613.399.5297 [email protected] normanhardie.com

HoursMay 15–December 24 Daily 11 am–6 pm

Winter Visit website or call for information

Tour hoursBy request; groups of 10 or more by appointment

01 OAK HEIGHTS ESTATE WINERY 2FO! the beaten path—and halfway to the sky, it seems— sits a small, tasteful winery boasting a great view over its vineyard and pond to the Northumberland Hills beyond. Owner Ian Fraser decided to plant vines on his getaway property, against all opinion that winters would be too cold. He started with winter-hardy hybrids, later adding Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. The jewel is a fine, small tasting bar and restaurant, which serves very local Northumberland cuisine. But you can also take a picnic lunch down to the banks of the pond. Don’t forget your camera.

Winemaker’s choiceOak Height Signature Blends

Location337 Covert Hill Road, RR 1 Warkworth K0K 3K0 705.924.9625 1.866.625.6051 [email protected] oakheights.ca

HoursMay 15–October 31 Wednesday–Sunday 11 am–5 pm

For special events, visit website

Tour hoursIndividual and group tours by reservation

02 ROSEHALL RUN 5GLast year, Rosehall Run 2007 Pinot Noir Rosehall Vineyard became the first-ever Prince Edward County wine to take a Canadian Wine Awards Gold Medal for Pinot Noir, the County’s signature grape. It’s been a rapid ascent for Dan Sullivan, who began planting the 10-hectare site in 2001: Increasing production required a new winery facility, and a large barrel cellar was added in 2008. Elegant, approachable Pinot Noir and Chardonnay remain the prime focus (Rosehall makes a special Pinot Noir and Chardonnay for renowned chef Jamie Kennedy).Cabernet Franc has also been a success, along with blended Sullyzwicker Red, White and Rosé.

WinemakerDan Sullivan

Winemaker’s choice2007 Pinot Noir Rosehall Vineyard

Best LCBO brandChardonnay Sur Lie

Location1243 Greer Road Wellington K0K 3L0 613.399.1183 1.888.399.1183 [email protected] rosehallrun.com

HoursMay–October Daily 11 am–6 pm

November–April By appointment

Tour hoursComplimentary guided tours

Summer Saturday–Sunday Hourly

Group tours available by reservation

03 SANDBANKS ESTATE WINERY 5GNamed for the County’s landmark sand dunes, Sandbanks Estate Winery is located on the historic Loyalist Parkway. This 2.5-hectare vineyard and winery overlooks the picturesque shores of Lake Ontario. In 2000, owner and winemaker Catherine Langlois planted Riesling, Cabernet Franc and the French hybrids Maréchal Foch and Vidal. The largest planting is her now-signature Baco Noir. While her award-winning Riesling and Cabernet Franc show charm and class, it’s her Baco and Foch Reserve that have earned a loyal following. Sandbanks celebrates its 10th anniversary with a new wine boutique, contemporary art gallery and tasting room, along with a season packed with lively events.

WinemakerCatherine Langlois

Winemaker’s choiceCabernet Franc

Best LCBO brandBaco Noir

Location17598 Loyalist Parkway Wellington K0K 3L0 613.399.1839 [email protected]

HoursMay–December Daily 10 am–6 pm

February–April Saturday–Sunday 10:30 am–5 pm

Tour hoursSelf-guided or by appointment

04 WAUPOOS ESTATES WINERY 8GEd Neuser and Rita Kaimins are the pioneers of the Prince Edward County wine industry, planting a vineyard in the 1990s on orchard land beside Lake Ontario. They then opened the County’s first winery in 2001. Later came a gazebo-styled restaurant, popular for summer dining, weddings and special events. The whites, reds and sweet wines are based on hybrids and vinifera. Baco Noir consistently wins awards, and the fragrant white Geisenheim is always popular. Vidal Icewine and Maple Ice provide a sweet ending.

WinemakerAmy Mumby

Winemaker’s choiceRiesling 2008

Location3016 County Road 8 Picton K0K 2T0 613.476.8338 [email protected] waupooswinery.com

HoursMay 15–October 15 Daily 10:30 am–6 pm

Winter Visit website or call for information

Restaurant open from mid-May to mid-October Reservations highly recommended

Tour hoursBy appointment

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Where to stay, dine & playLake Erie North Shore & Pelee IslandToursLatitude 42Wine-Tours-Culinary 1.888.981.8281 or 519.981.8281 Latitude 42 North Wine Country www.latitude42tours.com [email protected] the experience of Lake Erie North Shore! Unique wine and culinary experiences. Custom group events. Van and cycling tours, dining, accommodations.

Pelee Island Wine Pavilion1.800.597.3533 or 519.724.2469 20 East West Road Pelee Island N0R 1M0 www.peleeisland.com [email protected] our wine pavilion, enjoy a barbecue lunch where we are the host, and you are the cook.

Shores of Erie International Wine Festival519.730.1001 PO Box 211 Amherstburg N9V 2Z4 www.soewinefestival.com [email protected] to the tastes! Fine wine, cuisine, live entertainment, celebrity chefs, beautiful waterfront venue. Fort Malden NHSC. September 9–12, 2010.

Niagara Niagara accommodationsAtherton House Bed and Breakfast1.877.562.8902 or 905.562.8902 4265 Twenty-First Street Vineland L0R 2E0 www.athertonhousebb.com [email protected] setting. Affordable rates. Family-friendly. Great breakfasts. Knowledgeable and helpful hosts.

Black Walnut Manor1.800.859.4786 or 905.562.8675 4255 Victoria Avenue Vineland L0R 2E0 www.blackwalnutmanor.com [email protected] chic wine-country B&B with a lovely pool, gourmet food, private decks and luxury ensuites & exclusive getaway packages.

Bonnybank Bed and Breakfast and Wine and Nature Tours1.888.889.8296 or 905.562.3746 RR 1, Jordan L0R 2E0 www.bbcanada.com/bonnybank [email protected] Tudor country home (1919) on Twenty Mile Creek. Carolinian trees, birds, organic gardens. Winter wonderland. Niagara nature tours: wine, culinary, garden, history and nature adventures with local experts, as seen on Canadian Geographic and Discovery Channel.

Bullfrog Pond Bed and Breakfast905.562.1232 3801 Cherry Avenue Vineland L0R 2C0 www.bullfrogpond.com [email protected] acre of quiet luxury in wine country. Within walking distance of many wineries, including Vineland Estates Winery.

Choice Hotels1.800.4CHOICE www.choicehotelsontario.caAsk for the Ontario winery guide rate (LONT10) and save 10% on your next stay.

Doubletree Fallsview Resort & Spa by Hilton—Niagara Falls905.358.3817 6039 Fallsview Boulevard Niagara Falls L2G 3V6 www.niagarafallsdoubletree.com [email protected] architecture and 224 guest rooms and suites. Regional cuisine, AVEDA day spa, Niagara Falls and casino nearby.

The Heron’s Nest Cabin at EastDell Estates Winery905.563.9463 4041 Locust Lane Beamsville L0R 1B2 www.eastdell.com [email protected] on the water’s edge, this tranquil, loft-style retreat features a gas fireplace, compact kitchenette and Jacuzzi tub. Reserve May–October.

The Inn at Lock Seven1.877.465.6257 or 905.227.6177 24 Chapel Street South Thorold L2V 2C6 www.innatlock7.com [email protected] in the heart of Niagara’s wine region. All guest rooms overlook the Welland Canal lift locks.

Inn on the Twenty1.800.701.8074 or 905.562.5336 3845 Main Street Jordan L0R 1S0 www.innonthetwenty.com [email protected] in winery village. Fireplaces, Jacuzzis, art and antiques. Private gardens. Full spa services. Full dining in celebrated restaurant. Winery on site.

Jordan House905.562.9591 3751 Main Street Jordan L0R 1S0 www.jordanhouse.ca [email protected] affordable and modern choice in Jordan. Fourteen rooms have queen beds, flat-screen TVs. Relaxed grill and pub.

Merlot House Bed & Breakfast1.866.828.0137 or 905.468.7509 619 King Street Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.merlothouse.ca [email protected] hospitality, refined cuisine. Luxurious suites, each with private bath, fireplace, TV.

Niagara-on-the-Lake Bed & Breakfast Association1.866.855.0123 PO Box 1228 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.niagarabedandbreakfasts.com [email protected] from over 175 distinctive bed and breakfast homes, cottages and country inns with our easy-to-use online booking system.

Ontario’s Finest Inns & Spas1.800.340.4667 or 519.887.8383 www.ontariosfinest.ca [email protected] distinct character and quality in accommodations, spa and culinary experiences.

Vinifera, The Inn on Winery Row905.309.8873 245 Main Street East Grimsby L3M 1P5 www.viniferainn.ca [email protected] 1846 historical inn on the Niagara Wine Route. Weddings, four ensuite rooms, pool. Step back in time for a relaxing, memorable stay.

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Lake Land Meats1.800.665.3547 or 905.688.4570 1226 St. Paul Street West St. Catharines L2R 6P7 www.lakelandmeats.com [email protected], naturally grown game meats, traditional meats, eggs, CSA, seasonal produce. Summer weekend barbecues.

LCBO1.800.ONT.LCBO (1.800.668.5226) 55 Lake Shore Boulevard East Toronto M5E 1A4 www.lcbo.com [email protected] LCBO is a proud supporter of Ontario wines, and we remind our customers to please drink responsibly.

Ontario Wine Society416.921.9798 www.ontariowinesociety.com [email protected], diverse and fun events, tastings, dinners and trips featuring Ontario wines as well as those from around the world. The only wine club devoted to the pleasures of Ontario wines and the wineries that produce them.

Twenty Valley Tourism Association905.562.3636 3720 19th Street, Unit 1 Jordan L0R 1S0 www.twentyvalley.ca [email protected] over 30 wineries, restaurants, cozy B&Bs & shops that embody our friendly sophistication. Voted a top-10 destination by enRoute magazine.

Wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lakewww.wineriesofniagaraonthelake.comNestled below the Niagara Escarpment, between the shores of Lake Ontario and the Niagara River, you will find the 22 distinctive wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Travel this picturesque area to tour our winery boutiques, taste award- winning wines and savour Niagara wine-country dining. Touring festivals, concerts and other special events are hosted throughout the year.

Niagara shopping and culinary adventuresThe Good Earth Food and Wine Co.1.800.308.5124 or 905.563.7856 4556 Lincoln Avenue Beamsville L0R 1B3 www.goodearthfoodandwine.com [email protected] classes, private events, picnics, patio, weddings and much more!

Niagara Grape and Wine Festival 905.688.0212 8 Church Street, Suite 100 St. Catharines L2R 3B3 www.niagarawinefestival.com [email protected] Niagara during our three seasonal festivals: the Niagara Icewine Festival in January, the Niagara New Vintage Festival in June and the Niagara Wine Festival in September. See our website for complete details.

Niagara Helicopters Limited1.800.281.8034 or 905.357.5672 3731 Victoria Avenue Niagara Falls L2E 6V5 www.niagarahelicopters.com [email protected] aerial views of Niagara Falls and the surrounding region.

Tourism Niagara-on-the-Lake905.468.1950 26 Queen Street (lower level) Court House Building Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.niagaraonthelake.com [email protected] source of information. Accommodations-booking service, tickets to all events, maps and guides.

Twenty Valley Niagara Wine Country Run905.949.1910 ext. 301 Discover wine country like never before! June 12, 2010, join us for Canada’s premier wine run! For details, visit www.winecountryrun.com or [email protected].

Treadwell Farm to Table Cuisine61 Lakeport Road St. Catharines L2N 4P6 905.934.9797 www.treadwellcuisine.com [email protected]“Any serious exploration of Niagara cuisine starts here.” –James Chatto, Toronto Life

The VIEW Restaurant at EastDell Estates Winery905.563.9463 4041 Locust Lane Beamsville L0R 2C0 www.eastdell.com [email protected] wine-country dining with stunning views. Lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Summer patio dining. Groups welcome. Reduced winter hours.

Willow Cakes and Pastries905.468.2745 242 Mary Street, PO Box 940 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.willowcakes.ca [email protected] bakery café offering bread, decadent desserts, and fine coffee and tea, as well as light lunch.

Windows on Rockway Restaurant905.641.1300 3290 Ninth Street Louth St. Catharines L2R 6P7 www.rockwayglen.com [email protected] casual fine-dining restaurant, open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner. While you dine, enjoy panoramic views of our golf course and surrounding vineyards. Groups welcome. Private banquet facilities.

Niagara tourismBike Train1.866.333.4491 or 416.338.5083 www.biketrain.ca [email protected] the Train—Bring Your Bike! Bike Train offers cycling holidays by train from Toronto to Windsor/Essex County, Niagara and North Bay. Get active, travel local and cycle Ontario this summer.

City of St. Catharines Tourism1.888.558.8820 or 905.688.5601 ext. 1731 50 Church Street St. Catharines L2R 7C2 www.tourismstcatharines.ca [email protected] exciting Niagara accommodation packages, visit www.visitstcatharines.ca.

Gateway Niagara Information Centre1.800.263.2988 or 905.945.5444 424 South Service Road Grimsby L3M 5A5 www.tourismniagara.com [email protected] source for regional info. Reserve rooms. Buy attraction tickets, wine passports, brochures, maps. Travel counsellor assistance. Open year-round.

Inn on the Twenty Restaurant and Wine Bar905.562.7313 3836 Main Street Jordan L0R 1S0 www.innonthetwenty.com [email protected] wine-country cuisine. VQA Niagara wines and full bar. Casual elegance imbues restaurant. Three private rooms. Sunny outdoor terrace.

Niagara Culinary Institute Dining Room, Niagara College905.641.2252 ext. 4619 135 Taylor Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.niagaracollege.ca/diningOpen year-round. Also home of the Wine Visitor + Education Centre and Niagara College Teaching Winery.

Ravine Vineyard Deli & Bakery905.262.8463 1366 York Road St. Davids L0S 1P0 www.ravinevineyard.com [email protected] café overlooking the vineyard. Features wood-oven breads, fine cheeses and gourmet lunches.

The Restaurant @ Vineland Estates Winery1.888.846.3526 ext. 33 or 905.562.7088 ext. 33 3620 Moyer Road Vineland L0R 2C0 www.vineland.com [email protected] Four Diamond gourmet cuisine, monthly dining events, premium wines, exemplary service, picturesque view.

Spice of Life Restaurant and Wine Bar/Catering Services905.937.9027 12 Lock Street Old Port Dalhousie St. Catharines L2N 5B5 www.niagaraspiceoflife.com [email protected] serve flavours—not fire! Lunch, dinner, English tea. Menu for everyone: vegetarian, gluten-free, vegan. Wheelchair accessible. Accepting tours and buses.

Stone Road Grille905.468.3474 238 Mary Street, Garrison Plaza Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.stoneroadgrille.com [email protected] fine dining featuring house-made, artisanal creations from Chef Ryan Crawford. 100% VQA Niagara wine list. The place where locals dine. Reservations recommended.

Terroir La Cachette Restaurant & Wine Bar (at Strewn Winery)905.468.1222 1339 Lakeshore Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.lacachette.com [email protected] regional cuisine in warm, contemporary winery setting. Lunch and dinner. Terrace. Groups welcome.

Vintage Hotels (Prince of Wales, Queen’s Landing, Pillar and Post)1.888.669.5566 or 905.468.2195 48 John Street Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.vintage-hotels.com [email protected] Four Diamond hotels featuring award-winning cuisine, wine lists and vinotherapy spa treatments.

WeatherPine Inn1.877.342.4374 or 905.468.5154 493 Regent Street Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.weatherpine.com [email protected] country inn. Five rooms, each with private entrance, bath, phone, fridge, TV, central air, full breakfast.

White Oaks Resort & Spa1.800.263.5766 or 905.688.2550 253 Taylor Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.whiteoaksresort.com [email protected] Diamond, Five Star resort with world-class spa. Amazing, award- winning LIV Restaurant.

Niagara diningAbout Thyme Bistro905.562.3457 3457 King Street Vineland L0R 2C0 www.aboutthymebistro.com [email protected] bistro offers affordable fine dining. Patio. Great local wine, people and cuisine. BYOW licence.

Casa Mia Ristorante905.356.5410 3518 Portage Road Niagara Falls L2J 2K4 www.casamiaristorante.com [email protected] Luciana and Claudio welcome guests to enjoy authentic Italian dishes at sleek urban trattoria in Niagara Falls wine region. Private rooms, underground wine cellar, live entertainment, complimentary shuttle to and from hotels and wedding chapels.

The Dining Room at Ridgepoint905.562.8853 3900 Cherry Avenue Vineland L0R 2C0 www.ridgepointwines.com [email protected] casual dining in our quaint dining room and seasonal patio. Italian-inspired cuisine and exceptional wine.

Henry of Pelham’s Coach House Café1.877.735.4267 or 905.684.8423 1469 Pelham Road St. Catharines L2R 6P7 www.henryofpelham.com [email protected] elegance in a country setting. Lunch daily and a selection of fine Canadian cheeses. Open five days a week, Thursday to Monday (June–October), 11:30 am–5 pm.

Ontario restaurants go localCongratulations to our VQA Restaurant Award of Excellence recipients, who make a point of offering their guests the very best VQA Ontario wines. To view the list of all award-winning restaurants, visit winesofontario.ca/VQAwinners. Or, better yet, make a reservation and experience a bottle first-hand—you’re sure to get to know a new favourite.

Look for VQA Ontario on the bottle. It tells you that the wine is made from 100% Ontario-grown grapes.

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Toronto & York RegionTourismYork Region Tourism1.888.448.0000 or 1.877.464.9675 17250 Yonge Street Newmarket L3Y 6Z1 www.yorktourism.com [email protected] wineries & two breweries. Tours, events, fruit & VQA wines, ale and lager. Call for a “Discovery Guide.”

ShoppingRosehill Wine Cellars Inc.1.888.253.6807 or 416.285.6604 339 Olivewood Road Etobicoke M8Z 2Z6 www.rosehillwinecellars.com [email protected] and builders of custom wine cellars and wine racking. Full range of wine-storage equipment, including cabinets, cooling units, racks and wine accessories.

Prince Edward County & areaAccommodationsAccommodation Association of Prince Edward County (AAPEC)1.800.640.4717 or 613.476.2421 116 Main Street Picton K0K 2T0 www.thecounty.travel [email protected] all your accommodation needs: inns, B & Bs, cottages, resorts. Online availability at www.thecounty.travel.

Devonshire, Inn on the Lake1.800.544.9937 or 613.399.1851 24 Wharf Street, Box 119 Wellington K0K 3L0 www.devonshire-inn.com [email protected] the shore of Lake Ontario. Beautiful rooms, crashing waves, fantastic fare. Savour local wines.

Merrill Inn1.866.567.5969 or 613.476.7451 343 Main Street Picton K0K 2T0 www.merrillinn.com [email protected] historic inn and renowned restaurant. Winner of Wine Spectator Award and Member of Ontario’s Finest Inns.

Niagara Airbus Inc.1.800.268.8111 or 905.374.9000 8626 Lundy’s Lane Niagara Falls L2H 1H4 www.niagaraairbus.com [email protected] door-to-door winery tours. Groups, corporate events and custom tours. Open 24 hours.

Niagara Wine Tours International1.800.680.7006 or 905.468.1300 92 Picton Street, PO Box 1205 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.niagaraworldwinetours.com [email protected], guided daily bicycle tours to Niagara wineries. Daily lunch, afternoon and dinner luxury-vehicle tours with expert guides. Unique custom corporate and group cycle and coach events. VIA Rail and other transportation from GTA.

Zoom Leisure Bicycle Rentals & Winery Tours1.866.811.6993 or 905.468.2366 431 Mississauga Street, PO Box 8 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 6289 Fallsview Boulevard Niagara Falls L2G 3V7 www.zoomleisure.com [email protected] start at $20, wine tours at $69. Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Falls locations. Delivery available.

Niagara theatreShaw Festival1.800.511.7429 or 905.468.2172 10 Queen’s Parade Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.shawfest.com [email protected] theatre in the heart of Niagara wine country. Ten plays in four theatres from April to October.

AssociationsGrape Growers of Ontario905.688.0990 PO Box 100 Vineland Station L0R 2E0 www.grapegrowersofontario.com [email protected] are the advocate for all processing grape growers in Ontario, working on their behalf to ensure their grape- growing needs are met.

Upper Canada Cheese905.562.9730 4159 Jordan Road Jordan Station L0R 1S0 www.uppercanadacheese.com [email protected] our cheeses using the rich milk of the Guernsey cow, we are proud to revive a cheese-making tradition that goes back to the early beginnings of our nation.

Wine Country Cooking School (at Strewn Winery)905.468.8304 1339 Lakeshore Road, RR 3 Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.winecountrycooking.com [email protected] vacations and cooking classes at Canada’s first winery cooking school. Corporate entertainment and team-building programs.

WineryToHome.com150 Consumers Road, Suite 114 Toronto M2J 1P9 www.winerytohome.comAs Canada’s largest VQA marketplace (over 475 wines), we sell expert-selected wine online. WINE of the MONTH CLUB ships different wines from different wineries, as well as different Canadian artisanal cheeses, each month.

Niagara toursCrush on Niagara Wine Tours1.866.408.WINE or 905.562.3373 PO Box 816 Beamsville L0R 1B0 www.crushtours.com [email protected] guided van tours to Niagara’s wineries. Fresh ideas for corporate and social groups. Wine-tour getaway packages at Crush’s own Harvest Cottage on the Wine Route.

Grape and Wine Niagara Tours1.866.562.9449 or 905.562.9449 758 Niagara Stone Road Niagara-on-the-Lake L0S 1J0 www.grapeandwinetours.com [email protected] afternoon, lunch and dinner wine tours. Pickup in Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake and Vineland. Special events and customer group tours by coach. VIA Rail packages departing and returning to Toronto.

Copyright 2010 Wine Council of Ontario.The Wine Council of Ontario would like to thank the Government of Ontario for its ongoing support of this organization, and of Ontario’s wine industry in general.This guide has been compiled for the benefit of travellers to Ontario’s wine-country destinations. We hope that the listed services will enhance your wine-country experience. Please note, however, that the Wine Council of Ontario cannot be held responsible for the actions, claims or policies of any of its advertisers, including the wineries listed in this guide. Hours of operation, products, vintages and services are subject to change without notice. Be sure to call ahead to confirm your travel details.The Wine Council of Ontario is a trade association that represents the majority of grape-based wineries in Ontario. We are also responsible for marketing “Wines of Ontario.” Our goal is to promote the sale of Ontario wine, with a specific focus on our premium Ontario VQA wines.For more information on Ontario wines, please visit winesofontario.ca or vqaontario.com.

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Whether you’re looking for a day trip or a weekend escape, in summer or winter, Ontario’s wine country offers unique destinations and unforgettable experiences. Meet our dedicated winemakers, sample our great wines and regional cuisine, and be pampered by our warm hospitality.

Your adventure starts here.

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Explore and discover, any time of year

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