Cottage Country Wine Tasting
Daytrippers heading to or from cottage country this summer can add wine tasting to their itinerary at five fan-favourite wineries across central Ontario. Not only are these destinations famous for their wine and cider selections, their food offerings aim to please. From merlot to chardonnay, and pasta to charcuterie, the possibilities are endless – and delicious.
By Sarah Frank
Topping the list is Kawartha Country Wines, located along County Road 36 in Buckhorn.
With more than 45 wine and cider varieties, a complimentary sampling bar and gourmet preserves to browse through, this winery is sure to satisfy both the wine buffs and foodies alike. The tasting room itself is a sight to behold, housed in a pioneer log cabin constructed in 1866 and a board and batton house constructed in 1889. The buildings were moved to the property and restored onsite. An orchard and two giant Inukshuks also call the winery home, providing a truly unique and Canadian experience for guests.
Try a glass of their Sparkling Strawberry Rhubarb or pick up a bottle of their Garlic Infused Cooking Wine. Back in the gift shop, pick up a jar of Blueberry Habanero Jam.
Insider Tip: Stop in on a Saturday or Sunday to snag a wood-fired, stone cooked pizza.
Next up is Villa Conti Oak Heights Estate Winery and Restaurant along Covert Hill Road in Warkworth.
The 100-acre estate boasts 35 acres of vines, a rustic Italian farm-to-table restaurant and scenic pond views. The picturesque winery and restaurant is the brain-child of Bambina Giannitti and Tommaso Conti. Both born in Italy, the two share a passion for wine, food and recreating a true rural Italian experience.
Try a glass of their house-made Cabernet Franc and settle in for a hand-made pasta dish.
Insider Tip: Leave some time to visit with the farm residents, including cows, sheep, goats, horses, lamas, pigs and ducks.
Next, head south to Rolling Grape Vineyard on County Road 2 in Bailieboro.
Winemaker Jonathan Drew is a second-generation farmer who faced scepticism when he started planting grapes in the rolling hills of Bailieboro. While the area isn’t known as prime wine country, Drew persisted and has grown his operation to include more than 12 acres of vines. Charcuterie options feature local meat and produce as well as home-grown offerings. With a pet-friendly patio, the winery is the perfect afternoon pit-stop.
Try a glass of the Marquette, their signature red. Be sure to ask for their charcuterie-style brunch board if you’re visiting on a Sunday.
Insider Tip: Check out the winery’s Facebook page to stay updated on various live music events.
Hosting a special event? Let Cheeky Duck Vineyard out of Lakefield pour the drinks.
This 5-acre vineyard has devised a way to let nature lend a helping hand in the winemaking process – and the results are delicious. From the Indian Runner Ducks who eat the pests off the plants to the South Down Sheep who graze the vineyard’s cover crop, this operation puts sustainability at the forefront of its operation. Luckily, their mobile bar is available to help make your next special event memorable. Their catering service provides a fully-stocked bar and takes care of everything from arrival drinks, to table wine, to a celebratory fizz. Cheeky Duck also provides food catering for events of all types and sizes, offering up charcuterie, wood-fired pizzas and wood-fired crumbles and cobblers for dessert.
Insider Tip: If you’re not sure a mobile bar is right for your next event, have a chat with their in-house client assistant and executive chef to see how they can help.
Finish off your wine tour at the Potter Settlement Artisan Winery just north of Tweed.
With a rich history in its community, this 10-acre vineyard marries old world charm with modern techniques. Through organic farming and with the help of solar and geothermal energy, this family-run vineyard is producing a selection of award-winning wines. Those interested in learning more about the process and the family behind the vineyard are invited to join a tour, which includes a tasting led by Potter Settlement founder Sandor Johnson. Availability is offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Try a glass of the 2020 Pinot Noir Rose, known for its Jolly Rancher-like flavour.
Insider Tip: Check out the winery’s Facebook page to follow their award-winning journey.
