With spring finally here and summer just around the corner, it’s time to find something to look forward to. For me, there is nothing like a staycation in Niagara wine country. Niagara is part of the VQA Region and produces a variety of award-winning wines. I believe many of us in Ontario tend to forget that we have world class wine region right in our own backyard!
Unfortunately, our local retailers like the LCBO and the Wine Rack don’t often carry a large selection of locally produced wines, so I’m always finding ways to discover new wines in the region. Each winery is incredibly unique and captures a completely different feel and vibe. That’s why today I am sharing my short list of favourite Niagara wineries that are worthwhile adding to your list on your next road trip or day trip in the region!
Trius
Firstly, let’s look at Trius. If you’re a fan of Rosé, you need to add Trius to your next visit to Niagara wineries. If you’re looking for a fun and girly wine touring experience, you need to book the Sparkling House Experience at Trius! A renewed bubbly pink wonderland, Trius has lots of instragram-worthy photo opportunities. Fun fact, Trius is home to one of Canada’s largest underground sparkling cellar.
Trius offers a wine club experience called “myWineLife” that is customizable for members to have access to wines from Trius, Peller Estates, Wayne Gretzky Estates and Thirty Bench. All deliveries will be made right to your door. For more information on their wine club, follow this link.
Ps. If you have the chance, try to catch a classic films screening in the vineyard at Trius this summer!
A Must Taste: Trius Brut Rosé
Ferox
Secondly, we have Ferox. Known for their innovative and bold wines, Ferox pushes wine industry boundaries in combining innovation with tradition. Ferox offers a unique California-vibe experience right here in the Niagara region. Located on Concession 4 Road, Ferox’s winery patio is the best in the region. Opt to do a tasting on their patio and enjoy the tranquility and beauty of their vineyards.
Ferox offers three unique membership tiers to meet your wine needs. Most importantly for all membership levels, the bottles are shipped to your door quarterly. Additionally, the membership includes the opportunity to enroll in their Ferox Wine Tasting Academy, complimentary tastings, exclusive members only wine menu and special events, complimentary tastings and many more! For more information on their wine club, visit their link here.
P.S. Ferox was recently named Canada Prestige Award Winner for “Winery of the Year”.
A Must Taste: 2017 Sauvignon Blanc
Palatine Hills Estate Winery
Finally we have Palatine Hills. It is not your typical winery, and their Rambler Run video proves it! A family owned winery that began in 2003 on the founding principle of winemaking begins in the vineyard. Stop by Palatine Hills if you’re interested in an off the beaten path, relaxed and down to earth experience. Above all, they are preachers of kick back hospitality. You can stop in to their “rest spot” at Ramblers Supply Co. to shop their unique gear and supply and to taste and enjoy their wines and ciders on their open-air patio.
Additionally, as part of the Harvest Hosts, visitors and travelers can RV camp overnight at Palatine Hills for a unique experience. For more information, you can book through Harvest Hosts here.
In addition to that, you can opt to join their Ramblers Club and receive two bottles of wine (and more!) delivered to your home every two months. More details about their wine club can be found here. This winery is truly the gift that keeps on giving.
A Must Taste: 1812 Red
Rooted in unique history, 1812 Red is a liquid salute to resolving differences and coming together. To learn more about the story behind the name of 1812, click here.
So there you go, my list of Niagara winery favourites! Please let me know if you do check them out how you liked them. As always if you have any questions please feel free to write them below in the comments. We love hearing from our readers.
If you’re looking for some more wine tasting ideas Rachel has put together this wine tasting guide for any occasion. I’m sure you’ll find something that will suit your fancy, there is truly something for everyone!
