b'THE CORKBOARD|SUMMER 2023O N TA R I O I S F O R O E N O P H I L E S : W I N E T I M E I N N I AG A R A A N D T H E CO U N T Y Although Ontario wine country is in constant change and expansion mode,subregions in the area akin to the Burgundian appellation approach.the provinces big three regions include the Niagara Peninsula, Prince The distinct terroir of these smaller areas has also played a role in theEdward County and Lake Erie North Shore, with the first of those three region becoming internationally recognized for its award-winning wines.being the countrys largest. Cool-climate Niagara is home to various Although there are some 40 varietals grown in Niagara, Riesling,ambitious winemakers such as Thomas Bachelder (Bachelder Wines Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc capture countlessand Le Clos Jordanne, among others) who are striving to define distinct kudos both at home and abroad.The Niagara Peninsula is also famous for its Icewines, some of which are considered the best in the world. Wine lovers take note: While a warm-weather trip to the vineyards is always a good idea, and the region is packed with delightful hotels, inns and B&Bs, consider a winter escape, too. The annual Niagara Icewine Festival spans several weekends in January and features a jam-packed itinerary from gala-going to Icewine sipping under the stars.Travel to the provinces southern-most tip and discover the region of North Shore Lake Erie, which offers winemakers the longest and one of the warmest growing seasons in Ontario. Of special note: The area is home to one sub-appellationSouth Islands and the bird-lovers paradise of Pelee Island.On Pelee Island, travellers can visit the countrys first commercial winery, Vin Villa, which was founded in 1866 and which introduced the worldto North American wines at the Exposition Universelle or Worlds Fair of 1878 in Paris.If vineyard hopping in Ontario, make time for a day trip or weekend in Prince Edward Country. Its home to a growing number of vineyardsincluding Sandbanks Winery, where the specialty is high-quality Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Riesling and Baco Noir. The County which its affectionately known, has become a hotspot for those seeking a destination that melds culture and cuisine with a relaxed, small-town vibe. Beyond the beauty of the vines, youll also find exceptional boutique hotels and inns, historic landmarks, scenic countryside and a white sand beach to rival the Caribbean. CaNadiaN WiNE, COasT TO COasT|16'