When you hear Niagara, the first thought tends to be the iconic Niagara Falls. But I am here to show you that there is much more to this region than the majestic Falls. Actually, just a short 30 min drive away there is a totally different side to Niagara that is very much worth exploring. I am talking about Niagara Wine Country Trail and the beautiful Peller Estates. The area is reminiscent of the early Napa Valley and filled with vineyards for as long as the eye can see.

Since I did not have much time to visit I had to select just one winery to give me a taste of what the wine country region had to offer. I called several prominent vineyards in the area to ensure that all members of my party would enjoy the experience. And after speaking with Peller Estates my choice became clear. Peller Estates is family friendly and caters to everyone including the younger members of our group. I think the reason they are so family friendly is because the winery itself is a family owned business so they understand how important family is. Our family enjoyed the experience so much that I wanted to share it with you.

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Finding the estate is easy and there is plenty of free parking.  During the busy season reservations are strongly encouraged if you want to participate in one of their many tours or if you want to dine in their restaurant.  But since we were visiting during the off-season we had no problems walking in and getting signed up on the spot for the upcoming tour.

First Tasting

After registering and paying the fee for the 2 adults (children are free) we took a seat in the beautiful lobby to wait for the tour to start.  As soon as everyone was gathered we were escorted to the terrace where the first sampling was going to take place. Our host talked a little about the history of the Estate and the wine making business before speaking briefly about the wine we were about to sample.

This first sample was of a delicious sparkling wine from their signature series. The Ice Cuvee which is made with handpicked Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes was perfectly crisp and refreshing. Had some fruity notes of apricot and hints of apple and honey with a finishing refreshing grapefruit finish.  It was the perfect way of starting our sampling and left me with a desire to taste some more.   The kids were not forgotten and they were given their own tasting glass with a nice sample of their home made white grape juice.

Next we moved to the vineyards, and got to walk through the vines and learn about how they are maintained and the hand picking process. We also learned about the different instruments used to ensure the grapes are picked at the exact ripeness and the proper amount of sugar needed to produce each type of wine.

Second Tasting

Sample number two was fresh 2015 vintage Private Reserve Sauvignon Blanc. This wine has distinct grapefruit and honeydew notes and a smooth easy to drink finish.

I am not normally a Sauvignon Blanc drinker but I enjoyed this refreshing easy to drink wine as much as the rest of the group did. Some even had second servings.

Our girls had their second glass of grape juice which I must say was really good and a big hit.  It really helped them feel as they were part of the group.

Third Tasting

For our third tasting we moved into the Cellars where we were presented with a pairing sample of chocolate with 2015 Vintage Private Reserve Pinot Noir.

It was fun to learn how the oak barrels were stained to have the beautiful finish we could see. And to taste the wine on its own and then paired with the dark chocolate provided.

It was a smooth wine, elegant and easy to drink and I loved how well it paired with the chocolate.

Fourth Tasting

For the grand finale and our last tasting of the day we headed to the 10 below Ice room.  We were outfitted with parkas and gloves before learning more about what makes Ice wine so special.  If you have never tried Ice wine then you are in for a treat.

Ice wine is a dessert wine and therefore a sweet ending to the tour.  We learned how complex the process is. The grapes are hand harvested and pressed frozen. One drop of pure extract is taken from each grape.  Then the fermentation is done at the very cool temperature of 15 degrees. This is to preserve the freshness and taste before aging the wine in stainless steel.

The wine was exquisite but very sweet and no more than 1 or 2 oz are needed.  The experience of the Ice room was unique and fun and a perfect way to end the tour.

And click here for more ideas on what to do in Niagara.

 

Conclusion and Important Information on Peller Estates

Peller Estates is a top choice when visiting the Niagara Region. So if you intend to visit here is some information you will need:

Address:

Peller Estates Winery & Restaurant

290 John Street East

Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON

Canada L0S 1J0

 

Phone numbers:

Ph: 905-468-4678

Toll free: 1-888-673-5537

 

Hours:

Open daily Sunday – Thursday between 10AM and 7PM

Friday and Saturday 10AM to 9PM

Summer hours extended to 9PM daily

 

For other wineries in the area you can check out this website. 

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Have you been to Niagara’s wine region? What is your favorite winery? Please leave your comment below or get social with me on Facebook or Instagram.