The Wine Regions of Ontario
Niagara Peninsula
Sub-regions: Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Beamsville Bench
Notable Wines: Ice Wine, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling
Highlights: This is Ontario’s most famous wine region, renowned for its world-class Ice Wines and diverse selection of varietals. The Niagara Peninsula’s moderate climate and rich soils create perfect conditions for grape growing.
Prince Edward County
Sub-regions: Picton, Wellington, Bloomfield
Notable Wines: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling
Highlights: Known for its limestone-rich soil and cool climate, Prince Edward County offers a unique terroir that produces distinctive wines. The region has rapidly gained acclaim for its boutique wineries and artisanal approach.
Lake Erie North Shore
Sub-regions: Kingsville, Leamington, Colchester
Notable Wines: Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Chardonnay
Highlights: With a warmer climate influenced by Lake Erie, this region is known for its rich reds and robust whites. It offers a more temperate growing season and a range of diverse wine styles.
Niagara Escarpment
Sub-regions: Grimsby, Beamsville, Jordan
Notable Wines: Riesling, Pinot Noir, Merlot
Highlights: This sub-region of the Niagara Peninsula features a unique escarpment landscape that moderates temperatures and enhances the quality of the grapes. It’s known for its excellent terroir and high-quality wines.
South Coast (Ontario’s Southwestern Wine Region)
Sub-regions: Ridgetown, Tilbury, Chatham-Kent
Notable Wines: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Riesling
Highlights: This lesser-known region benefits from a warmer climate similar to Lake Erie North Shore, supporting the growth of a variety of grape types.
Georgian Bay
Sub-regions: Blue Mountain, Thornbury
Notable Wines: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling
Highlights: With its unique microclimate influenced by Georgian Bay, this area is emerging as a noteworthy wine region, focusing on cool-climate varietals and innovative wine styles.
The Twenty Valley
Sub-regions: Vineland, Jordan, Beamsville
Notable Wines: Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Highlights: Part of the Niagara Peninsula, the Twenty Valley is known for its spectacular views and fertile vineyards, producing a range of high-quality wines.
