Between lakes Ontario and Erie lies Canada’s most important wine appellation, The Niagara Peninsula. Famous for its Falls, it is the eponymous Niagara River and the height of its escarpment that truly define this appellation. Vineyards are doubly-blessed by Lake Ontario’s off-shore breezes as they rebound off the escarpment. This maintains a constant airflow which helps to contain frost and maximises the lake’s warming effects.

Roughly 85% of Ontario’s VQA wineries are located in the peninsula. In terms of varieties that flourish here, the region has striking similarities to Burgundy, producing (amongst others) excellent quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. 

Warmer areas can also boast Merlot, Cab. Sauvignon and Malbec, as well as certain varieties from the Northern Rhône likeViogner and Syrah. The peninsula has a long growing season which favours the production of excellent Rieslings, and internationally acclaimed Late Harvest wines and Icewine.