Fall in Ontario wine country means harvest is in full swing. The vineyards are buzzing as winemakers and their teams bring in this season’s grapes, working long days to bring the vintage to life.
There’s something special about wine country at harvest: crisp mornings, changing leaves and the energy of a region coming alive.
We caught up with three Ontario winemakers to find out what they love most about fall, and where they eat, shop and recharge when they’re not in the vineyard.
Matt Smith, Cloudsley Cellars, Niagara Benchlands
What’s a hidden gem to visit in Niagara that isn’t a winery?
For me its Trust Beer Bar. Great tacos and a great craft beer selection.
What do you love most about harvest season in the Niagara Benchlands?
When you walk outside you can smell ripe grapes. There’s nothing like it.
What’s your favourite local market or shop in Niagara?
It’s the Farmers Market in downtown St. Catharines. There are great farmers with local produce, artisanal bread and pastries. It has all the fresh stuff you want throughout the season.
What’s your go-to Ontario fall food and VQA wine pairing?
This is a no brainer for me: mushroom risotto paired with a local Pinot Noir. It’s hearty and delicious.
Sum up Niagara Benchlands in three words. Go!
Diverse. Beautiful. Welcoming.
Andrew Rytwinski, Three Dog Winery, Prince Edward County
What’s your favourite thing about harvest time in Prince Edward County and why?
The beautiful colours, the excitement, the cool weather.
What’s a must-try food in Prince Edward County, and which Ontario VQA wine pairs best with it?
Buffalo chicken wings from the Picton Golf & Country Club, paired with a nice VQA Riesling.
Best non-winery hidden gem in Prince Edward County?
The Outpost by Gillingham Brewing Company in Picton.
What’s a favourite local experience visitors should try in Prince Edward County?
Disc Golf at Black Prince Winery.
Sum up Prince Edward County in three words. Go!
Cool. Crispy. Exciting.
Allison Findlay, Niagara College Teaching Winery, Niagara-on-the-Lake
What’s a hidden gem to visit in Niagara that isn’t a winery?
Café Pique-Nique and The Tangerine Tortoise. I almost hate sharing because selfishly I want all the world’s best croissants and pizza to myself, but the owners are the most spectacular people and deserve all the accolades and guests possible!
What’s it like teaching the next generation of winemakers at Niagara College?
It is so inspiring and refuels my passion for our industry every single year. They begin at the same time the grapes come in so it’s a crazy time of blank slates and new opportunities. The most rewarding part is being able to put myself in their boots and help them where they are, versus where they think they “should” be by now. We all begin somewhere and I am so proud to be part of the start of someone’s amazing future.
Oh, and the hugs from my past students and the stories of what they are up to now never get old!
What’s your favourite thing about harvest time in Niagara-on-the-Lake and why?
The energy. It’s just hundreds of people who are singularly focused on getting the perfect pick to make the best wine possible. No one goes into harvest with a blasé mentality. We all may be exhausted by the end, but getting your boots into the vineyard with a warm cup of coffee as the sun rises for an early morning pick is exhilarating. I love knowing I share that same experience with my colleagues in the region.
What’s a must-try food in Niagara-on-the-Lake, and which Ontario VQA wine pairs best with it?
Must-try food in Niagara is sourdough from Itty Bitty Farm stand. It’s made from a 26-year-old starter and has the softest, most perfect inside, with the perfect amount of crunch on the outside. Set me up with that, a little butter and some Niagara College Blanc de Blancs and you have yourself a perfect meal.
Sum up Niagara-on-the-Lake in three words. Go!
Gorgeous. Talented. Welcoming.
Planning a fall getaway to Ontario wine country? Make a day of it. Explore the vineyards, stop in at a winery, take in the changing colours and raise a glass of VQA wine to the people and places that make the region worth the visit.
