The world’s prime wine-producing regions are located between the 30th and 50th parallels of latitude in both hemispheres.

Situated at roughly the north 43 degree latitude places Ontario’s Niagara region in the geographic centre of winemaking excellence.

Fertile, complex soil conditions and a unique climate are the winning combination for growing grapes and producing quality cool-climate Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc, as well as delightful rosé, sparkling wine and Icewine.

The Niagara Peninsula features two distinct appellations, or grape-growing areas, to explore.

Most wineries offer tasting opportunities and a variety of tours of the vineyard and wine-making facilities. Some also include food options, from flight pairing snacks to full-service dining rooms and restaurants. Round out your visit to Niagara’s wine region by staying overnight at a vineyard.

Wine Country Ontario is a great source for even more detail as you plan your visit. And consider customizing a guided half or full-day winery tour with a local specialist.

Niagara Escarpment and area

The band of lush land between Stoney Creek and St. Catherines is home to well over 50 wineries and scenic vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see.

Bounded by Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment, this area includes the wine-rich Beamsville Bench, Twenty Mile Bench and Short Hills Bench. Here are some of the highlights to get you started.
Hidden Bench Estate Winery for award-winning wine

Guests love the Chardonnay and Rose, as well as the attentive and down-to-earth service and the stunning setting at this organic winery estate that has been acquiring national and international awards including the prestigious ‘Best in Show’ 2021 Decanter World Wine Awards. 

Tawse Winery for organic and eco-forward

Elements of this eco-conscious winery include a multi-level gravity-flow system, a wetland bio-filter and geothermal, energy-efficient technology. Voted Canadian winery of the year several times, proving their terroir-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other varietals are equally impressive.

Featherstone Estate Winery & Vineyards for dog lovers

From the delicious wines and seasonal cheese, deli and hummus nosh boxes served on the verandah, there are a lot of reasons to love this picturesque and eco-conscious winery.

Here’s one more: The Muddy Paws Wine Festival each July welcomes good dogs and dog lovers for wine, food and tail-wagging fun in partnership with Vineland Estates Winery. 

Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery for gourmet dining and fine wines

Six generations of winemakers have built Henry of Pelham into one of Ontario’s premier wineries, turning some of the first vineyards planted in Canada into reliable producers of fine wines.

Niagara Escarpment and area vineyard accommodations Cave Spring Vineyard and Inn on the Twenty for wine, dine and spa

Specializing in sensational Riesling, Cave Springs Vineyard is located across the road from the upscale Inn on the Twenty, an elegant hotel, restaurant and spa. Alternatively, you can book the Estate House at Cave Spring, a Victorian-style farmhouse set on the Beamsville Bench to maximize views of Lake Ontario and vineyard vistas.

Niagara-On-The-Lake and area

From the Welland Canal east to the Niagara River and the shores of Lake Ontario south to St. David’s and Queenston, the town of Niagara-on-the-Lake is the heart of the region’s second appellation in the top corner of the Niagara Peninsula.

Home to over 38 wineries, there is a great deal of wine and wine-related activities to discover.
Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery and Distillery for a toast to the great one

After retirement, hockey great Wayne Gretzky decided to open up his own winery and distillery just seven kilometres outside Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The estate produces wine, beer and spirits and remains open year-round, and naturally also features an ice-skating rink in the winter. Take a tour, sip wine or brews under the patio heater, watch skaters on the ice rink, take a cocktail class or enjoy a tasting flight. 

 Peller Estate Winery and Restaurant for immersive wine and dining

Peller Estates Winery has been creating beautiful wines for more than 50 years. And in that time has also developed some of the region’s most immersive wine and culinary experiences.

Executive Chef Jason Parsons and winemaker Katie Dickieson work together to curate complimentary food and wine pairings at the Winery Restaurant and the Barrel House Grill.

Guests are also invited to visit the 10Below Icewine Lounge, an igloo-like structure built from 13,607 kilograms of ice. Peller Estates offers tours, including a three-sample offering and the Greatest Winery Tour, as well as a visit to the underground barrel cellar. Reservations are recommended. 

Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery for farm-to-table goodness

Ravine Vineyard is an inviting, 14-hectare organic winery in St. David’s Bench. The unassuming family farm is comfortable, down-to-earth and welcomes guests with tours through the vineyards and wine rooms, tastings and an authentic farm-to-table dining experience.

Niagara-On-The-Lake and area vineyard accommodations Riverbend Inn and Vineyard for a room with a view

Housed in a glamorous Georgian mansion on seven hectares of vineyards with manicured lawns and stunning gardens, Riverbend Inn and Vineyard is the perfect location for a wine lover’s home base. The beautiful inn welcomes guests into their elegant rooms, a fine dining experience at the restaurant and delectable wines at the Riverbend Antique Bar.