Join us on the County Cruise: Winery Edition as we explore the top wineries in the Lake Erie North Shore region and enjoy the rich flavors and beautiful scenery. Cruising through Essex County, Ontario’s picturesque landscapes is a delightful experience, especially for wine enthusiasts. Essex County wine country is home to some of the finest wineries in Ontario, offering a variety of wines that cater to every palate.

Top Wineries in Essex County

1. Pelee Island Winery

Pelee Island Winery is one of the most renowned and long-standing wineries in the region. Known for its award-winning wines, this winery offers guided tours, wine tastings, and a beautiful vineyard to explore. Don’t miss their signature Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. They offer tours that showcase the wine making process to showcase their state of the art facilities as well a highlighting the historical context of the region’s viticulture.

 

2. Colio Estate Wines

Colio Estate Wines has been producing high-quality wines for over 40 years. Their tasting room is a perfect place to sample a variety of wines, including their popular Lily Sparkling and Reserve Merlot. The winery’s welcoming atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxing afternoon.

 

 

3. Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery

Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery is a family-owned winery offering a stunning lakeside setting. Their wines, such as the Cabernet Franc and Lady in Red, are a must-try. The winery also hosts events and weddings, providing a perfect backdrop for any celebration.

 

 

 

4. Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards

Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards is dedicated to producing high-quality, eco-friendly wines. Their sustainable practices and excellent wines, such as the Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon, make them a standout. Enjoy a meal at their on-site restaurant for a complete experience.

 

 

 

5. Oxley Estate Winery

Oxley Estate Winery offers a cozy, rustic atmosphere and a variety of delightful wines. Their Sauvignon Blanc and Merlot are particularly popular. The winery’s dining patio is a perfect spot to enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the scenic views and enjoying their locally inspired menu selections.

 

 

 

6. Muscedere Vineyards

Muscedere Vineyards is known for its handcrafted, premium wines. With a strong focus on traditional techniques, their wines like the Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir are exceptional. The vineyard’s pizza oven adds a unique culinary touch to the visit.

 

7. North 42 Degrees Estate Winery

North 42 Degrees Estate Winery combines the art of winemaking with the science of viticulture. Their award-winning wines, such as the Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon, reflect the unique terroir of the region. The winery’s Bistro 42 offers a delightful dining experience.

 

 

 

8. Viewpointe Estate Winery

Viewpointe Estate Winery offers breathtaking views of Lake Erie alongside its exquisite wines. Known for their Gewürztraminer and Cabernet Franc, this winery provides a serene setting for tastings and events. Their culinary offerings complement the wine experience perfectly.

 

 

 

9. Paglione Estate Winery

Paglione Estate Winery brings an authentic Italian touch to Essex County. Their handcrafted wines, such as the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, are made with love and tradition. The winery’s pizza and pasta dishes are a hit among visitors.

 

 

 

10. CREW (Colchester Ridge Estate Winery)

Colchester Ridge Estate Winery, or CREW, is a boutique winery known for its premium wines and personalized service. Their Cabernet Sauvignon and Meritage blends are particularly noteworthy. The winery’s setting is perfect for intimate gatherings and tastings.

 

11. Vin Winery

Vin Winery is the most recently introduced to Essex County wine country and offers a unique blend of traditional and innovative winemaking techniques. Known for their exquisite Riesling and Syrah, Vin Winery provides a modern tasting room and beautiful vineyard views.

 

Visitor Tips

 

1. 1. Plan Ahead: Check each winery’s hours and make reservations if necessary, especially on weekends. Enhance your wine-tasting experience with the EPIC Tasting Pass. This pass offers exclusive access to tastings at multiple wineries in the Essex Pelee Island Coast (EPIC) region, providing great value and a seamless wine tour experience.

1. 1. Make it a Multi-day Adventure: With so many wineries to explore, you can’t expect to try them all in one day. Plan to visit 3-4 wineries in one day so that you can immerse yourself in the full experience that each location has to offer.

1. 1. Designate a Driver: Ensure you have a designated driver or arrange for transportation to enjoy your winery tour safely. Reach out to theconcierge@dreambnbhospitality.com for recommendations on tour and shuttle services.

1. 1. Stay Nourished & Hydrated: Drink plenty of water between tastings to stay hydrated and enjoy the delicious culinary offerings at many of the wineries.

1. 1. Try Something New: Don’t hesitate to try different wines and ask the staff for recommendations.

Ready to embark on a wine-tasting adventure?

If a scenic drive through Essex County with the wind on your wine-flushed cheeks and frequent stops for wine tasting and delicious culinary creations is what you’re looking for then head to dreambnbhospitality.com to book your stay at one of our nearby Dream BNB properties. We offer some of the most premier luxury vacation homes in the heart of Essex County wine country with top-notch amenities, including waterfront properties with beach access, hydrotherapy spas, saltwater pools, chef’s kitchen and MORE. Gather a group of wine enthusiast and enjoy the best that Essex County has to offer. Before you book be sure to check out The Concierge page on our website for ways to enhance your stay, as well as our Insider’s Guide To Renting a Lakefront Cottage on Lake Erie’s North Shore and other County Cruise posts on our blog for more local experiences.

*Credit for all photos to TWEPIEssex