Canada, Ontario is renowned for its impressive wine production and hosts some of the finest vineyards in the world. Located east of the Rocky Mountains, Ontario holds the crown as the largest wine-producing region in Canada. The cool climate of this region enables the cultivation of a wide array of grapes, yielding a variety of wines with unique tastes and vibrant flavours.
Ontario's vineyards lie near the Southern Coast, which is divided into three primary appellations: Niagara Peninsula, Lake Erie North Shore, and Prince Edward County. Each region boasts a distinct micro-climate that shapes the characteristics of their respective wines.
The Niagara Peninsula, thanks to its location, sandwiched between Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment, prospers through elongated growing seasons, encouraging the production of world-class ice wines. Ice wine, made from frozen grapes, is famed for this region - a sweet, tantalising dessert wine enjoyed the world over.
Meanwhile, Prince Edward County’s limestone-laden soils closely mimic the terroir of the renowned Burgundy region in France, leading to the successful thriving of cool-climate grape variety like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Many Canadian wineries of this region have indeed been applauded for their extraordinary Chardonnays at global wine competitions.
Lake Erie North Shore, blessed with the warmest climatic conditions in Ontario, is celebrated for its delicious, full-bodied reds and lively, fruity whites.
The regional wines often exhibit a beautiful balance of aromatic intensity and refreshing acidity. In terms of red wines, the merlot, cabernet franc and pinot noir varietals tend to be popular. On the white wine side, the chardonnay, riesling, and vidal grapes are often highlights.
Ontario’s rich and diverse wine landscape is certainly something to be savoured. This Canadian region has wholeheartedly embraced the art of winemaking, producing exquisite selections that consistently delight both local and international connoisseurs.
Buy Ontario wine below.
