The best vineyards in Ontario worthy of a day trip

Wine tasting: one of the most indulgent pastimes of all time. Going on a vineyard tour is a glamorous adventure, but you’re far too busy to be jet-setting off to France or California at a moment’s notice. Not to worry, though, because some of the new world’s finest wines come from right here in Canada–specifically, Ontario. Treat yourself to nature, knowledge, and some of the best wines this country has to offer by visiting these outstanding vineyards.

Kin Vineyards – Carp

Kin Vineyards crafts an outstanding selection of wines, and they practice sustainable viticulture using organic and biodynamic approaches. With Kin Vineyards care, knowledge, and the unique terroir of the Ottawa Formation, they are producing some next level wines. Founded in 2014 and offering Pinot Noir and Chardonnay varieties, this is Ontario’s northernmost vineyard producing Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

This vineyard is located on the outskirts of Ottawa–the nation’s capital–so you’ve also got an variety of hotels and restaurants to visit, too. We recommend you buy a bottle of your favourite Kin wine and then head out to Rideau Canal for a picnic–or go for a skate if you’re there in the winter! The canal is the world’s longest skating rink.

https://kinvineyards.com/

Sandbanks Winery – Prince Edward County

Imagine a glorious summer day along the shores of Lake Ontario… Now add to that a vineyard tour and tasting a flight of wines, and you know why visiting the Sandbanks Winery is not to be missed. With a boutique, a barrel room, and a sizable outdoor picnic area there is sure to be something for everyone.

As an added point of interest, Sandbanks is also currently offering “Virtual Wine Tastings”! Order a range of wines in advance and have them delivered to your home; then jump online with a Sandbanks sommelier for a real education. A great option for the winter months. See their website for more details.

https://www.sandbankswinery.com/

Kacaba Vineyards and Winery – Vineland 

This small batch winery has proven time and again that their small batch packs big satisfaction. In the 2019 Competitive Season alone they won 11 awards including the gold from the Ontario Wine Awards for their 2016 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. The diverse geography of the Niagara Escarpment not only helps to produce award winning crops, but will delight visitors with the feeling of an oasis in an urban area.

https://www.kacaba.com/

Lighthall Vineyards – Prince Edward County

Back again in the beautiful Prince Edward County at the Lighthall Vineyards where traditional old-world techniques and methods are used in their small batch production. Aside from their world class wines, this vineyard also produces small batch, handmade cheeses! Partnering with a local sheep farmer, Lighthall receives milk weekly and produces a rotating variety of offerings. Enjoy the tasting room, meet the winemaker, and stroll around this beautiful estate.

https://www.lighthallvineyards.com/projects

Inniskillin Winery – Niagara On the Lake

Since 1974, Inniskillin has been a cornerstone of wine production in Southern Ontario, and their pioneering work with ice wines has been acclaimed far and wide. The harsh winters of the area may dampen our moods some months; but the weather is suddenly worth it when you taste one of these luxuriant dessert wines. With a list of awards as long as your arm, this vineyard has proven itself to be outstanding in its field. 

We recommend you hop in an RV and take a tour of the region during your visit. A picturesque region to enjoy for a weekend, you’ll want to head down during peach season, and grab a local sharp cheese; make yourself a rustic grazing platter to go with your sparking Vidal.

https://www.inniskillin.com/

So many vineyards, so close to home

You may have toured the vineyards before, but Ontario’s are picturesque while being close to home. There’s nothing like a day trip to clear the mind and bring about some inner zen. Once you’ve visited an Ontario vineyard, talked with the winemakers, and tasted the new vintages right where the grapes have grown, you’ll be transported back to the smell and taste of the fields every time you savour a glass at home.