Ontario wine regions – click to enlarge
The Ontario wine region in Canada primarily covers the southern part of the province. Wine production began here as early as 1811 when German immigrant Johann Schiller planted grape vines along the banks of the Credit River in Cooksville, approximately 20 km west of Toronto. This marked the beginning of viticulture in the region.
The modern winemaking chapter unfolded in 1974 when Inniskillin was granted the first new winery license since the Prohibition of 1916. This marked a pivotal moment, sparking a wave of new wineries that emerged within a few years. Today, Ontario is one of Canada’s most significant wine-producing regions.
The region has three designated Viticultural Areas (DVAs). Niagara Peninsula is perhaps the most renowned, known for its diverse microclimates and soil types, which are conducive to growing a variety of grape varietals. The regional appellations within the Niagara Peninsula include Niagara-on-the-Lake and the Niagara Escarpment, with a further ten sub-appellations.
Prince Edward County is situated on a picturesque peninsula in Lake Ontario and is a relatively newer wine region in Ontario. It has gained recognition for its cool-climate wines, particularly Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Lake Erie North Shore is located in southwestern Ontario along the northern shores of Lake Erie. It benefits from a moderate climate and fertile soils, producing a range of grape varietals, including Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Riesling.
Aside from wine, Ontario is also known for producing other agricultural products such as fruits (apples, strawberries, cherries), vegetables, maple syrup, and craft beer. Additionally, the province is home to various cultural attractions, natural wonders like Niagara Falls, and vibrant cities such as Toronto and Ottawa.
The Niagara Peninsula wine region is one of Canada’s most renowned wine-producing areas in southern Ontario, Canada. It’s known for its picturesque landscapes, moderate climate, and diverse range of vineyards.
Prince Edward County is situated on a peninsula jutting out into Lake Ontario, east of Kingston. Its unique location on the cool shores of Lake Ontario makes the region well-suited for cool climate varietals like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Lake Erie North Shore is one of Canada’s southernmost wine-producing areas, located in southwestern Ontario along the northern shore of Lake Erie. The region produces grapes that thrive in the sandy soils and benefit from the lake’s moderating influence.
