Explore the best wineries in PEC plus top breweries, cideries & distilleries. A complete guide to wineries in Prince Edward County you’ll love.
There’s something about Prince Edward County that just pairs well with a glass in hand. Maybe it’s the winding country roads lined with vineyards and wildflowers, or the way every winery, brewery, and cidery feels like it was made to be discovered slowly—one patio, one tasting flight at a time.
Only a couple of hours from Toronto, Ottawa, or Kingston, PEC is close enough for a weekend escape but far enough to feel like a proper getaway. The region has exploded in recent years with creative, small-batch producers who care deeply about what they make. Whether it’s a funky orange wine, a crisp apple cider made from local orchards, or a gin infused with wild-foraged botanicals, you can taste the County in every sip.
What makes it even better? Many of the top stops are just a short drive from each other, meaning you can explore a mix of the best wineries in PEC and still have time to swing by a brewery or two (with designated driver snacks, of course). It’s laid-back, beautiful, and full of personality, just like the drinks being poured.
Looking for more Ontario travel ideas? Check out my other blog posts for itineraries, hiking trails, and hidden gems across the province!
Let’s find the best wineries in Prince Edward County!
Wineries in Prince Edward County
If you’re planning a craft beverage tour of the County, you’ll definitely want to start with the wineries. From historic barns to vibrant tasting rooms, each spot has its own charm, and its own standout bottle. These are some of my favourite wineries in Prince Edward County, and each one offers something a little different, whether you’re into crisp whites, bold reds, or beautiful bubbly.
The Grange of Prince Edward
Tucked along Closson Road, The Grange feels like stepping into a quiet moment from a different era. Set in a beautifully restored 1826 barn and surrounded by 60 acres of vines, this winery is a County classic. It was founded by Caroline Granger and her father in 2001, and over the years, it helped shape the wine culture that PEC is now known for. After a brief quiet period, the winery has recently undergone a thoughtful revival—with a renewed focus on sustainable vineyard practices and truly expressive estate wines.
Try This: Estate Pinot Noir : This Pinot is a perfect introduction to the County’s limestone-driven terroir, it’s elegant, earthy, and just the right amount of bright cherry fruit. Sip it slowly on their picnic lawn, ideally with a local cheese box in hand.
Hinterland Wine Company
If bubbles are your love language, Hinterland is your happy place. Set in a converted dairy barn on Closson Road, this winery has become a sparkling wine trailblazer in Ontario. Owners Jonas Newman and Vicki Samaras started with still wines but quickly pivoted to focus exclusively on sparkling, and it’s paid off. Their methods range from traditional to ancestral (pét-nat), and each bottle has its own unique character.
Try This: Traditional Method Rosé : Made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, it’s refined, festive, and full of red berry notes. It’s the kind of bottle you want to toast with—even if you’re just celebrating Saturday afternoon.
Karlo Estates
Nestled in a historic 1805 barn along Danforth Road in Wellington, Karlo Estates is a trailblazer in Prince Edward County’s wine scene. As one of the world’s first certified vegan wineries, Karlo Estates combines traditional winemaking techniques with a commitment to sustainability and innovation. The winery is renowned for its warm hospitality, live music events, and a diverse portfolio of wines that cater to both classic and adventurous palates.
Try This: 2023 Three Witches : This intriguing white blend harmoniously combines Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling. The result is a dry, medium-bodied wine with vibrant notes of citrus, green apple, peach, and tropical fruits like papaya.
Three Dog Winery
Tucked away on a quiet stretch of road just outside Picton, Three Dog Winery is all about good wine, good vibes, and a seriously welcoming atmosphere. What started as a personal escape for owners John and Sacha quickly turned into one of the County’s most relaxed and friendly winery experiences. Think live music on the weekends, wood-fired pizza, and yoga in the vineyard, yes, really.
In the winter, they offer snowshoeing through the vineyard, yes, with a post-snowshoe tasting by the fire. I wrote all about it in this post on what to do in PEC in the winter.
Try This: Estate Cabernet Franc : Smooth, structured, and full of personality, just like the place itself. This Cabernet Franc is rich with notes of dark berries and a touch of spice, making it a great bottle to enjoy slowly as the sun starts to dip behind the vines.
Closson Chase Vineyards
One of the pioneers of winemaking in Prince Edward County, Closson Chase is easily recognizable thanks to its striking purple barn. Since planting their first vines in 1998, they’ve built a reputation for producing high-quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in a Burgundian style, with a focus on soil-driven expression and sustainability. The wines here are elegant, layered, and incredibly food-friendly.
Try This: The Brock Chardonnay : Expect a balanced wine with citrus, green apple, a touch of oak, and that unmistakable PEC minerality. If you’re only grabbing one bottle, make it this—it’s a County classic.
Traynor Family Vineyard
This small-batch, family-run winery brings a fresh, playful vibe to the County wine scene. Traynor Family Vineyard is known for its innovative approach—think pet-nats, piquettes, and orange wines made with minimal intervention. The patio is relaxed, the branding is fun, and the wines are anything but boring. It’s a great spot if you’re looking for something a little different and love trying experimental or natural wines.
What to try: Their wine slushy : refreshing, fun, and perfect for a hot summer day.
Rosehall Run Vineyards
One of the County’s founding wineries, Rosehall Run has been crafting estate-grown wines since 2000. Set on a picturesque property in Hillier, the winery is known for its elegant Pinot Noirs, refreshing whites, and a solid lineup of sparkling options. Their tasting room is welcoming and down-to-earth, with the option to sip outside overlooking the vines.
What to try: Pixie: this sparkling rosé is light, crisp, and easy to love.
Breweries & Cideries in Prince Edward County
While the wineries often steal the spotlight, Prince Edward County’s craft beer and cider scene is equally compelling. From hilltop breweries with panoramic views to historic cider houses nestled among orchards, these spots offer unique flavors and experiences that are well worth exploring.
Slake Brewing
Perched atop a limestone hill, Slake Brewing offers more than just exceptional beer, it’s a destination. The brewery’s modern architecture seamlessly blends with the natural landscape, providing stunning panoramic views of the County from its taproom and patio. Slake focuses on crafting clean, balanced, and easy-drinking ales and lagers, alongside special mixed-fermentation beers aged in oak barrels.
Try This: Swell IPA : A 6.5% ABV India Pale Ale that’s both juicy and refreshing, Swell IPA offers notes of tropical fruit and citrus, making it a perfect companion for a sunny afternoon on the patio.
Parsons Brewing Company
Family-owned and operated, Parsons Brewing Company is housed in heritage lumber buildings that were disassembled, moved, and repurposed as their brewery, bottle shop, and taproom. The brewery draws inspiration from the rich history and culture of the County, crafting beers that tell a story. Their expansive beer garden features alfresco dining with authentic cuisine, an unstructured playground for children, and a fledgling hop yard, creating a laid-back communal environment.
Try This: Dr. Parsons : An imperial stout aged in bourbon barrels and infused with flavors reminiscent of Dr. Pepper™, this robust beer offers a complex profile of spices and sweetness, perfect for those seeking something unique.
The County Cider Company
Established in 1995, The County Cider Company is a pioneer in the region’s cider-making tradition. Situated in Waupoos, the cidery is set among apple orchards and offers spectacular views of Prince Edward Bay. They grow over 16 varieties of heirloom and cider-specific apples, crafting a range of ciders that capture the essence of the County. Visitors can enjoy cider tastings, patio lunches from their wood-fired oven, and the welcoming atmosphere of this family-friendly destination.
Try This: Blackberry Peach Cider : A delightful blend of ripe blackberries and juicy peaches, this cider offers a balance of sweetness and tartness, making it a refreshing choice for any occasion.
Distilleries in Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County’s craft scene isn’t just about wine and beer, it’s also home to some exceptional distilleries that blend local ingredients with innovative techniques. Whether you’re a spirits connoisseur or just looking to enjoy a unique cocktail in a picturesque setting, these distilleries offer experiences that are both memorable and delicious.
Wild Lot Farm Distillery
Set on 35 acres of untamed farmland in Picton, Wild Lot Farm Distillery is a testament to creativity and sustainability. Owners turned a dilapidated property into a vibrant destination, featuring a state-of-the-art distillation facility housed in a converted tractor shed and a restored century-old dairy barn that serves as a tasting room and event space . Their commitment to local ingredients is evident in their range of small-batch spirits and ready-to-drink cocktails, which include unique flavors like peach white tea and pear chai. The distillery’s expansive patio backs onto a wild grass meadow, providing a serene backdrop for enjoying their cocktails.
Try This: Pear Chai Vodka Soda : A refreshing blend that combines the sweetness of pear with the warm spices of chai, this vodka soda is perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon.
Bare Bones Distillery
Located on Closson Road in Hillier, Bare Bones Distillery is a micro-distillery that prides itself on producing exceptional vodka and gin in 400L batches . Their cozy cocktail lounge offers a welcoming atmosphere where visitors can enjoy handcrafted cocktails made with ingredients sourced from their farm. The distillery’s menu features a variety of creative cocktails, including seasonal offerings like their PEC Lavender Martini, which uses lavender from the nearby PEC Lavender Farm. In addition to their spirits, Bare Bones hosts events such as acoustic open mic afternoons, adding a lively community vibe to the experience
Try This: PEC Lavender Martini : A delicate and aromatic cocktail that showcases the floral notes of local lavender, balanced perfectly with their house-made vodka or gin.
Suggested Route for a Day (or Weekend) of Sipping in Prince Edward County
With so many incredible places to drink in Prince Edward County, it helps to have a plan, especially if you’re hoping to visit multiple stops in one day. Here’s a suggested route that keeps things convenient and scenic, and gives you a well-rounded taste of the County’s wine, beer, cider, and spirits scene.
Start your day:
- Closson Chase Vineyards – Begin with a crisp glass of Chardonnay and a peaceful walk around the vineyard.
- The Grange of Prince Edward – Just down the road, enjoy a laid-back tasting in a historic barn setting.
- Hinterland Wine Company – Swing by for some bubbles and a quick snack on their patio.
- Bare Bones Distillery – Finish with a Lavender Martini or house gin cocktail at this cozy Closson Road lounge.
Lunch Stop:
- Parsons Brewing Co. in Picton, A perfect midway point. Enjoy a casual lunch with one of their signature beers in the beer garden.
Afternoon adventures:
- Slake Brewing – Head up to this hilltop brewery for stunning views and a refreshing pint of Swell IPA.
- County Cider Company – Make your way to Waupoos for cider flights with lake views. Bonus: their patio is one of the best in the County.
End your day with a spirited twist:
- Wild Lot Distillery – Grab a ready-to-drink cocktail and relax by the wildflower meadow.
A Few Tips for the Route:
- Plan for 4–5 stops max in a day to really enjoy each location.
- Book tastings ahead of time, especially on weekends.
- If you’re driving, designate a driver or consider local tour companies or shuttle services.
- Bring a cooler if you plan to buy bottles to take home, they’ll stay fresh for the ride.
Don’t Want to Drive? Try Westy Wine Tours
If you’d rather sip without stressing about the drive, Westy Wine Tours is the way to go. They offer curated wine tours around Prince Edward County in a retro Volkswagen van, yes, it’s as cute as it sounds. It’s a fun, laid-back way to visit multiple wineries in one day, especially if you’re new to the area or just want someone else to take care of the planning and navigating. Plus, their local guides know all the best hidden gems.
Why we love it: You get to enjoy the full wine experience, no DD duties required.
Looking for more PEC tips? Check out my guides on where to stay and where to eat while you’re in the County.
Final Thoughts : the best wineries in Prince Edward County
Prince Edward County may be small, but its craft beverage scene is mighty. Whether you’re sipping a crisp Chardonnay in a purple barn, tasting cider overlooking the lake, or toasting with a lavender martini, every stop tells a story, and every glass feels like a little celebration.
So, build your route, gather your crew (or go solo, you adventurous legend), and take your time discovering the County’s best wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries. Just don’t forget to bring home a bottle or two—you’ll want a little taste of PEC waiting for you after the trip.
Have a favourite spot I missed? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for new places to add to the list.
Looking for more Ontario travel ideas? Check out my other blog posts for itineraries, hiking trails, and hidden gems across the province!
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I’ll be honest, Peterborough wasn’t on my radar for a long time. It’s one of those places you drive past on your way to a cottage, always meaning to stop, never quite doing it. 🌿
Then I actually stopped.
And now I keep going back.
There’s something about this part of Ontario that feels like it hasn’t been packaged for tourists yet. A small city with a real downtown, surrounded by lakes and forests and history that goes back thousands of years.
Scroll through and I’ll show you exactly how I’d spend a first visit, from the first coffee of the morning to the sunset that completely blew me away!
Some of it will surprise you. Some of it will make you hungry. And at least one slide is going to make you say « wait, that exists in Ontario?! » 🙌
Save this before your next road trip north, you’re going to want it.
👇 Have you ever been to Peterborough? I’ll be back in that area in the Fall so tell me what I missed?
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#Peterborough #Kawarthas #OntarioTravel #ExploreOntario #VisitOntario
I’ve driven this loop more times than I can count and every single time I find something new to love about it.
It starts just outside Ottawa and winds through some of the most underrated corners of Eastern Ontario.
The thing about this road trip is that it doesn’t ask much of you. You don’t need to plan weeks in advance or drive for hours to feel like you’ve actually gotten away. You just need a long weekend, a full tank of gas, and a willingness to slow down.
I’ve been piecing this route together for years, adding stops, swapping others out, finding the spots that are worth the detour and the ones that aren’t. This is the version I keep coming back to. The one I send to friends when they ask where to go. The one that made me fall in love with Eastern Ontario all over again.
Every stop is in the reel. Save this and start planning.
Have you done any of these stops before? Drop the ones you’ve been to below 👇
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#ottawa #ottawatravel #ottawaweekend #easternontario #ontarioroadtrip
Ottawa has this quiet superpower that most people overlook. Within two hours, you can be walking along a UNESCO canal, standing on a lookout over a lake, or eating the best pizza of your life on a patio beside a waterfall.
And yet somehow, most people spend their weekends doing the same thing in the city when all of this is sitting right outside their door.
Scroll through to see my list of nine day trips, all under two hours from Ottawa. One of them might end up becoming your new regular.
Which one is going on your list first? Drop the name below 👇
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#exploreontario #ontariotravel #ottawaweekend #daytrip #ontariogetaway
I almost didn’t go to Kincardine. It kept coming up in conversations; someone would mention it in passing, or I’d see a photo of that lighthouse at golden hour and think “I should go there sometime.” And then I’d forget about it and plan something else instead.
I finally went last Summer. And I’ve been thinking about it ever since.
There’s something about this town that’s hard to explain. It’s not trying to be anything other than what it is, a small lakeside town with Scottish roots, a lighthouse that’s been standing since 1880, beaches that face west so every single evening turns into something worth stopping for, and a community that genuinely seems to love where it lives.
The full guide is in the reel : where to start your morning, which lighthouse to visit, where to eat, where to stay, and the one sunset experience that I genuinely was not prepared for.
Kincardine is about two and a half hours from Toronto and one hour from Kitchener, so save this for your summer planning. 🔖
Have you been to Kincardine before?
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#kincardine #exploreontario #ontariotravel #lakehuron #brucecounty
Ontario has a short summer. Like, genuinely short. And every year I watch September arrive and think about all the things I meant to do and didn’t.
So this year I’m doing things differently. I made a list.
It has hikes that will make you question whether you’re still in Canada. A tradition that has been going on since 1996 that most Ontarians have never witnessed. A beach that books up so fast it’ll make your head spin. A helicopter ride that changes the way you see this province. And a few experiences that are so specific to Ontario that you could only find them here.
All of them are worth making time for before the leaves turn and you’re back in your winter coat wondering where summer went.
Swipe through and be honest with yourself about how many you’ve actually done?
Drop a number below, how many have you checked off? And which one are you adding first? 👇
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#ontariobucketlist #ontariosummer #exploreontario #ontariotravel #ontariohiking
