Prince Edward County, Ontario, is a top destination for wine lovers, offering over 40 wineries known for their sparkling wines, Chardonnays, and Pinot Noirs. Here’s how to plan your visit:
Key Highlights:
- Best Wineries to Visit: Try Closson Chase for French-style wines, Hinterland for sparkling options, and Norman Hardie for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
- Unique Experiences: Enjoy vegan wines at Karlo Estates, Italian-style offerings at TerraCello, or art and wine at Huff Estates.
- Transportation Options: Choose from public/private tours, bike rentals, or safe driver services.
- Where to Stay: Options range from boutique retreats like Fancie’s PEC to budget-friendly hotels in nearby Belleville.
Quick Tips:
- Visit 3-4 wineries per day for a relaxed experience.
- Book tastings and transportation in advance.
- Stay hydrated and take breaks between tastings.
- Wear comfortable shoes and avoid strong fragrances.
Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a casual visitor, Prince Edward County offers a mix of great wines, scenic views, and memorable experiences. Plan ahead to make the most of your trip!
A Charming Wine Tour in Prince Edward County
Finding the Best Wineries for You
Pick wineries that match your wine preferences to make your trip unforgettable. With over 40 wineries available, narrowing your choices based on your taste will help you enjoy the experience even more.
Popular Wineries and Their Specialties
Some wineries in the region stand out for their reputations and unique offerings. Hinterland Wine Company is celebrated for its sparkling wines, while Norman Hardie Winery excels in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay . Closson Chase Vineyards, with its iconic purple barn, produces Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Gris . Waupoos Estates Winery, the County’s first winery, offers stunning waterfront views, wine tastings, and an on-site restaurant and cider house .
Matching Wineries to Your Wine Style
Here are some wineries with specialized experiences to suit different tastes:
| Winery | Specialty | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Karlo Estates | Vegan wines | Plant-based charcuterie, historic barn, speakeasy lounge |
| TerraCello Winery | Italian style | Owner-led tours, Tuscan wood-oven pizza |
| Trail Estate Winery | Seasonal experiences | Winter fondue weekends, wine blending sessions |
| Huff Estates | Art and wine | Sculpture garden, art gallery, wood-fired pizza |
Planning Your Daily Winery Visits
Aim to visit three to four wineries per day to fully enjoy what each has to offer:
- Sandbanks Winery features multiple tasting bars and Saturday barrel room tastings .
- Casa-Dea Estates has a patio where you can play bocce ball .
- Three Dog Winery combines wine tasting with live music on weekends .
If you’re visiting in the winter, keep in mind that hours may be shorter . However, some wineries offer special events, like Trail Estate’s fondue weekends . For unique experiences, book ahead for activities like Trail Estate’s "Make Your Chardonnay" blending session or Waupoos Estates’ farm-to-table prix fixe meals .
Up next: Tips for navigating between these wineries efficiently.
Getting Around Between Wineries
Plan your transportation carefully to make the most of your winery visits. Safe and flexible options let you enjoy your tastings without worry.
Wine Tour Companies and Guides
Professional wine tour services make the experience easy and informative:
| Tour Type | Cost | What’s Included |
|---|---|---|
| Public Tours | $99.00 + HST per person | Tasting fees, transportation |
| Private Tours | Varies between providers | Custom itinerary, exclusive vehicle |
| Sip & Cycle Tour | $175.00 + HST per person | Bike rental, 4 winery stops, snacks |
"Hosted by Sommelier Ian Nicholls, you’ll obtain a wealth of knowledge about the wine-making process and revel in the deliciousness of County wines" .
Prefer a more personal experience? Dedicated safe driver services are another great option.
Choosing a Safe Driver
Prime Vines Limo offers hassle-free transportation, covering not just wineries but also restaurants, nightlife, and even lodging arrangements.
When picking a service, think about:
- Whether you want a public or private tour
- If tasting fees are part of the package
- Pickup and drop-off convenience
- The company’s familiarity with local wineries
- Extras like restaurant reservations
Biking Between Wineries
Biking tours offer a fun, active way to explore Prince Edward County. Sandbanks Vacations’ Sip & Cycle Tour operates from Victoria Day weekend through Thanksgiving, covering 10-12 miles along the Millennium Trail and scenic country roads .
The tour includes stops at four wineries, bike rental, bottled water, light snacks, a guide, and a picturesque route. It’s a great way to combine exercise with wine tasting, especially during the warmer months of spring, summer, and fall.
Transportation Options While Staying at Fancie’s PEC
We have created an informative blog post that gives guests coming to Fancie’s PEC (and PEC in general) a better idea of transportation options in Prince Edward County. If you want a boots-on-the-ground take on your options for getting around PEC we suggest giving it a read!
Planning Your Day
Make the most of your PEC wine adventure by organizing your day thoughtfully.
Best Times to Visit
For the best experience, aim to visit wineries between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM. This ensures attentive service and a relaxed atmosphere for tastings. Groups, in particular, should plan to arrive early to keep things on schedule .
"Lighthall Vineyards accepts tour groups 7 days a week, with the latest arrival time being 4:45 pm to avoid feeling rushed" .
Once you’ve set your timing, don’t forget to plan your meals to pair perfectly with your wine stops.
Food and Wine Breaks
A well-timed meal break keeps your energy up for more tastings. Options range from the prix fixe dining experience at Waupoos Estate Winery to casual choices like sharable plates at wineries, local restaurants, or even a picnic .
After refueling, pace yourself to fully enjoy each winery visit.
Time Between Tastings
Dedicate 30–60 minutes per winery and leave at least an hour between stops. This gives you time to savor the wines, engage in meaningful conversations, take a stroll, or enjoy food pairings without feeling rushed .
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Wine Tasting Rules and Tips
With your itinerary ready, these tips will help you make the most of your wine tasting experience.
What to Do at Tastings
Once your day is planned, focus on refining your tasting approach to get the most out of every visit. Use the five S’s – Sight, Swirl, Smell, Sip, and Savor – to fully explore each wine . Always hold your glass by the stem to keep the wine at the right temperature and avoid smudging the glass, which can obscure its color .
When swirling, use gentle, circular motions to release the wine’s aromas. If you’re new to this, practice at home to feel more confident . Swirling not only enhances the aromas but also adds a touch of elegance to your tasting.
Here are some key etiquette tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid wearing perfumes or colognes, as strong scents can interfere with the tasting experience for everyone .
- Be attentive to the host’s presentation but avoid dominating their time.
- Respect others’ space at the tasting bar .
- Dress in "Wine Country chic" – smart casual attire that’s comfortable and polished .
Tasting vs. Drinking
Tasting is all about taking small sips to evaluate the wine’s flavor, aroma, and texture. Drinking, on the other hand, involves larger amounts for enjoyment. To keep your palate sharp and your mind clear, use the spitting technique during tastings. This approach helps you focus on the wine’s qualities and make thoughtful buying decisions.
Buying Wine After Tasting
Supporting wineries by purchasing their wines comes with some great perks:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Wine Club Membership | Enjoy complimentary tastings, discounts, and invitations to special events . |
| Shipping Options | Available to select provinces and regions, with an adult signature (19+) required upon delivery . |
| Will-Call Service | Place your order in advance and pick it up directly from the winery . |
Preparing for Your Wine Tour
Now that you’ve got your tasting techniques down, it’s time to get ready for your wine tour.
Water and Pacing
Keep yourself hydrated to maintain a clear palate. Bring a reusable water bottle and take short breaks between tastings to stay refreshed.
What to Bring and Wear
When visiting wine country, aim for a mix of style and practicality. Here’s what you’ll need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
| Category | Essential Items | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Clothing | Dark-colored layers, light jacket | Hides spills and adjusts to changing weather |
| Footwear | Comfortable flats or sneakers | Ideal for walking on vineyard terrain |
| Accessories | Crossbody bag, sunhat, sunscreen | Keeps your hands free and protects you from the sun |
| Avoid | Strong fragrances, high heels | Prevents interference with tasting and ensures safety |
Booking Your Tastings
With nearly 40 wineries to choose from, make your reservations early, especially during the busy season (May–October). When booking, check if food options or special tasting experiences are available .
Where to Stay: Fancie’s PEC and Local Options
Fancie’s PEC Features
Fancie’s PEC is a boutique waterfront retreat that combines convenience with a relaxed atmosphere. This family-owned property features four guest suites spread across one acre overlooking the Bay of Quinte. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 48 Google reviews, it’s clear that guests appreciate its well-thought-out amenities and peaceful setting.
Staying here adds comfort and ease to your wine tour experience.
| Amenity Type | Highlights | Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Outdoor | Waterfront access, stone patio, firepit, and deck with BBQ | Perfect for unwinding after a day of wine tasting |
| Indoor | Fully equipped guest kitchen and laundry facilities | Great for extended stays |
| Room | Private ensuites, smart TVs, coffee stations | Combines hotel-like luxury with homey touches |
| Location | 20–25 minutes from Huff Estates Winery | Convenient base for exploring nearby wineries |
Fancie’s PEC also offers whole-home bookings for groups of up to 18 people, making it ideal for wine tour groups or family getaways. Its location, slightly removed from the busier wine country areas, provides a quiet retreat after a day of exploring.
If this isn’t quite what you’re looking for, there are plenty of other local options to consider.
Local Places to Stay
Prince Edward County has a variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences:
High-End Choices:
- Huff Estates Inn & Winery: Features deluxe rooms with vineyard views and a Winemaker’s Suite with a wrap-around patio .
- The June Motel: Offers trendy, Instagram-worthy rooms with a 9.6/10 guest rating .
- Merrill House: Known for its charm and a strong 9.4/10 rating .
Boutique Stays:
- The Ferg: A restored 1840s farmhouse in Picton, close to shops and restaurants. It boasts gourmet kitchens and heated bathroom floors .
- The Village Suites: Located in downtown Wellington, these themed suites (like The Loft and The Vineyard) cater to wine lovers .
For those on a tighter budget, Belleville is a nearby alternative. Hotels like Country Inn & Suites start at $87 per night and maintain a solid 9.0/10 rating . Booking in December often yields the best deals across all accommodations but reduces the amount of options for visiting wineries.
Conclusion
Planning your first wine tour in Prince Edward County can be straightforward with the right guidance, and we hope you were able to get some helpful information from our blog! In conclusion to everything above:
Helpful Planning Tips:
- Download offline maps since cell service can be spotty in certain areas of The County.
- Visit popular wineries as soon as they open (usually around 11 AM) to beat the crowds.
- Limit yourself to one reservation per day for a relaxed schedule.
- Share tastings with your group – it’s budget-friendly and allows designated drivers to sample responsibly.
These tips, paired with an understanding of your preferences and the itineraries mentioned earlier, help create a smooth experience.
Transportation Options: Consider booking local door-to-door tour services. They not only handle logistics but also provide insider tips, so you can focus on enjoying the wines. If you’re driving yourself, plan your route geographically to make the most of your time.
Once your travel details are sorted, add some personal touches to make the day even better. Fancie’s PEC can offer support for our guests to find a suitable transportation option for your group.
Make It Special: Bring a picnic with local goodies to complement your tastings. Many wineries offer seasonal food options like charcuterie boards or pizzas, but having snacks ensures you’re always prepared.
Whether you choose a peaceful waterfront stay at Fancie’s PEC or accommodations closer to the wine trail, your thoughtful preparation sets the stage for a memorable wine tour. Stay hydrated, keep an open mind, and explore the diverse wines the region has to offer – Prince Edward County’s unique terroir means even lesser-known wineries can surprise you with outstanding vintages.