Ontario wine country comes alive in spring and summer, offering more than just world-class wines. Whether you’re a casual taster or a seasoned oenophile, the Niagara Peninsula, Prince Edward County, and Lake Erie North Shore invite you to explore a tapestry of experiences that pair perfectly with sunshine and fresh air. Here’s how to make the most of the warmer months in Ontario’s picturesque wine regions.
As the vines awaken and the countryside blooms, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of rolling vineyards, flowering orchards, and sun-drenched patios. The pace is leisurely, the hospitality is warm, and the atmosphere is rich with the aromas of barrel-aged reds and fresh, floral whites. From intimate boutique wineries to sprawling estates, each stop offers a unique story—and a perfect pour to match the season.
1. Go Beyond the Tasting Room
Sure, sipping a chilled Riesling or a bold Baco Noir in a scenic tasting room is a must—but many wineries elevate the experience with curated tastings. Try a guided vineyard walk with wine and food pairings at wineries like Southbrook Organic Vineyards or Hinterland Wine Company, where you’ll learn how soil and climate influence flavour. For something hands-on, sign up for a blending workshop at Peller Estates or The Grange of Prince Edward and craft your own custom cuvée.
2. Enjoy Al Fresco Dining Among the Vines
Warm weather brings out the best in wine country cuisine. Many wineries offer outdoor dining experiences surrounded by rows of grapes. Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake is known for its farm-to-table menu featuring locally grown produce, paired with their signature Merlots and Chardonnays. In Prince Edward County, Norman Hardie Winery serves wood-fired pizzas on a sunny patio overlooking the vines.
3. Cycle the Wine Trails
Pedal your way through wine country on dedicated bike trails, stopping at tasting rooms along the way. The Niagara River Recreation Trail and the Prince Edward County Millennium Trail offer scenic routes that are both beginner-friendly and rewarding. Book a guided cycling tour or rent a bike and plan your own route, with stops at wineries like Reif Estate, Sandbanks Estate, and Colaneri Estate Winery.
4. Visit Seasonal Events & Festivals
Spring and summer bring a bounty of events celebrating wine, food, and local culture. The Niagara Homegrown Wine Festival in June features tastings, live music, and outdoor markets. In Prince Edward County, the Terroir Festival celebrates local winemakers and chefs. Don’t miss Sip & Sizzle weekends in May, where wineries offer BBQ-inspired pairings and exclusive sips.
5. Picnic with a View
Many wineries now offer picnic packages featuring curated charcuterie boards, fresh-baked goods, and of course, a bottle of wine. Bring a blanket and settle in at 13th Street Winery or Featherstone Estate, where you can enjoy panoramic views of vineyards under the sun. Some even host sunset picnics and outdoor movie nights in the summer.
6. Discover Art, Nature & Wine
Ontario wine country is also a hub for art and nature lovers. Explore the sculpture garden at 13th Street Winery, take in the lavender fields at Bonnieheath Estate, or hike through the lush conservation areas near Tawse Winery. It’s a refreshing reminder that wine country is about more than just wine—though there’s plenty of that too.
Raise a Glass to the Season
From rolling hills and vineyard patios to events that celebrate the land and its bounty, Ontario wine country is bursting with spring and summer experiences. Whether you’re in it for the tastings, the views, or the fresh-air adventures, there’s no better time to explore the grape-growing heart of the province.
