+10 Amazing Wineries in Prince Edward County to Visit
Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring Prince Edward County countless times, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that this place is a dream for wine lovers. What started over 20 years ago with a few ambitious winemakers planting vines in the County’s limestone-rich soil has now flourished into one of Ontario’s most exciting wine regions. With over 40 wineries, it’s no wonder PEC has earned its designation as a Viticultural Area!
With over 40 wineries in Prince Edward County to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. Some, like Sandbanks Winery, are well-known favorites, while others, like Karlo Estates Winery (which happens to be vegan and my favourite!), offer something a little different. But what I love most about the County is that beyond the big names, there are plenty of hidden gem wineries waiting to be discovered.
Whether it’s your first visit or you’re coming back for more, PEC is the perfect place for a wine adventure. So, let me help you start planning your getaway—you’re in for a treat!
A Little about Wine in the County
Unlike Niagara, where warmer temperatures help grapes thrive, The County’s climate is much cooler—about five degrees chillier, thanks to its location surrounded by Lake Ontario. That means winemakers here have to get creative. Did you know many wineries in the County actually bury their vines in the winter to protect them from the cold? It’s just one of the many sustainable and innovative techniques that make this region stand out.
The cool climate also influences what’s grown here, with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir leading the way, alongside Pinot Gris and Cab Franc. But if you ask me, one of the biggest highlights of wine in Prince Edward County is its sparkling wine—this region is known for it, and for good reason!
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Karlo Estates Winery
Karlo Estates is one of the most unique wineries in Prince Edward County I’ve visited, and for good reason—it’s the world’s first certified vegan winery! A lot of people assume all wine is vegan since it’s made from grapes, but animal-based proteins are often used in the winemaking process. Karlo Estates does things differently, crafting their wines without any animal products.
Beyond the wine, the setting itself is unforgettable. Their bottle shop and bar are inside a beautifully restored 1805 dairy barn, giving it a warm, rustic charm. But the real hidden gem? The Speakeasy Wine Lounge. Tucked away inside, this space has serious Gatsby vibes, with exposed beams, a sleek bar, and plush red Victorian couches.
Karlo Estates embraces ‘old world’ winemaking techniques, and one of their most famous wines is Sextus—a rare blend of all six original Bordeaux varieties. Wine critics even call it the ‘unicorn’ of wine! As for my personal favorite from a couple of years ago, their Little Bug White, a refreshing citrus-forward wine named after their adorable resident cat.
Karlo Estates is more than just a winery—it’s an experience. Whether you’re there for the award-winning wines, the cozy atmosphere, or the fascinating history, it’s a spot that sticks with you long after your visit.
Highlights:
- vegan wine and local plant-based food
- Victorian speakeasy
Address: 561 Danforth Rd, Wellington, ON K0K 3L0
Closson Chase Winery
Closson Chase Winery is one of Prince Edward County’s original wineries, with some of the oldest vines in the region. Set in Hillier’s countryside, it spans over 30 acres and has been producing wine since the late 1990s.
Sustainability is a big focus here–which I LOVE! They use cover crop planting, rainwater collection, and a winemaking facility powered by geothermal technology and passive solar lighting. They’re also a certified vegan winery and recognized by Sustainable Winegrowing Ontario.
Best known for Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, their Chardonnay—blended from their South Clos and Churchside vineyards—was a standout for me.
The winery itself is as striking as its wines. The tasting room is in a purple-painted, century-old dairy barn, with a stained-glass feature leading to a garden overlooking the vineyards. Guests can enjoy tastings indoors or outside under shaded sails. Next to the barn, is their seasonal restaurant which offers a farm-to-table menu.
Closson Chase combines history, sustainability, and great wine—definitely worth an addition to your PEC wine tour.
Highlights:
- vegan wine
- seasonal eatery
Address: 629 Closson Rd, Hillier, ON K0K 2J0
The Grange Winery
The Grange Winery in Hillier is a beautiful spot to experience Prince Edward County wine. As you drive in, you’re greeted by vines lining the driveway, leading to a stunning heritage barn from 1826. Inside, you’ll find the tasting room, bottle shop, and barrel cellar, all preserving the charm of the property’s history.
Originally owned by the Granger family, their legacy is woven throughout, including a heart-shaped stone hidden in the 30-foot fireplace.
Fun fact: the family’s daughter now runs Old Salt Cocktails, a mobile cocktail bar in The County!
The vineyard was planted in 2001, and today, The Grange is known for Burgundian-style wines. During my visit, I had a tasting with head winemaker Jonas Newman (also the owner of Hinterland Wine Company). My favorites were the County Chardonnay and the Lafontaine du Loop Rosé.
Beyond the wine, The Grange has a fantastic culinary team serving fresh, locally sourced dishes. The property also features walking trails—perfect for a stroll after a tasting. Their bottle shop is worth checking out too, with locally made items ideal for building a charcuterie board.
With great wine, food, and a beautiful setting, The Grange is a must-visit, especially if you’re looking for wineries in Prince Edward County with restaurants!
Highlights:
- vegan wine
- restaurant
Address: 990 Closson Rd, Hillier, ON K0K 2J0
Huff Estates Winery
Huff Estates Winery in Bloomfield is one of the largest and most popular places to visit in Prince Edward County. With a sprawling vineyard, a tasting room, and an onsite art gallery, it’s a fantastic spot to start a wine tour.
They offer a range of tastings, from casual sips on the patio to guided experiences. The Barrel Cellar Tasting is a standout, featuring a full tour, wine and cheese pairings, and a sample straight from the barrel. If you visit in the summer, don’t miss their wood-fired pizza available 7 days a week and live music on Sundays.
Huff Estates is also one of the few Prince Edward County wineries with accommodation. Their luxury inn, set right by the vineyard, offers stylish rooms with private patios—perfect for a wine-filled getaway.
Highlights:
- accommodations
- art gallery
- restaurant
Address: 2274 Prince Edward County Rd 1, Bloomfield, ON K0K 1G0
Rosehall Run Winery
Rosehall Run is one of the earliest wineries in the region. Founded in 2000 by Dan and Lynn Sullivan, they planted their first vines the following year, starting with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay—some of the oldest in The County.
Today, their 25-acre vineyard also grows Pinot Gris, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Muscat, and even Tempranillo, all farmed using sustainable practices.
The winery has a welcoming, laid-back California vibe –which I loved! Next to the custom wine barn you’ll find an outdoor patio with orange umbrellas, old wine barrels as tables, and vineyard views. Inside, the tasting room is bright and modern, featuring a bold mural by a local artist.
The shop is stocked with Rosehall’s fun named wines—like Stardust, Indigo and Pixie—which is their sparkling rose that I love! For something unique, try their Sauvignon Blanc, aged in French Acacia barrels for a light smoky, floral touch.
Guests can enjoy a wine flight or glass on the patio. And don’t forget to snap a photo with their vintage truck painted in the Pixie sparkling rosé branding—it’s a fun touch that makes Rosehall Run a must-visit!
Highlights:
- California vibe
- fun wine names
Address: 1243 Greer Rd, Prince Edward, ON K0K 3L0
Sandbanks Winery
Sandbanks Winery is one of the most popular wineries in the region, set along the scenic Lake Ontario shoreline. Known for its hybrid varietals like Baco Noir, it offers nearly 30 different wines, including exclusive bottles only available onsite.
There are a variety of wine tastings available, ranging from walk-in flights to a seated food & wine experience under pergolas with vineyard views. For a deeper dive, book a one-hour tour of the winery and cellar.
If you go, try their refreshing Piquette, perfect for summer, or the Summer Apple Wine, a crisp blend of Ontario apples and Sandbanks Summer White.
Dog-friendly with a picnic area and dog park, it’s a great spot to sip, relax, and soak in the County vibes!
Highlights:
- dog friendly
- seasonal food truck
Address: 17598 Loyalist Pkwy, Wellington, ON K0K 3L0
Keint-He Winery
Keint-He Winery in Wellington is a must-visit for Pinot Noir lovers, with 26 acres of vines and some of the oldest Pinot vines in Prince Edward County. Their Portage Pinot Noir was a standout for me!
The bottle shop is stocked with their award-winning wines and local eats, while the walls feature art by Francis Ann Hopkins, known for painting Canadian landscapes. Below, their underground barrel cellar uses geothermal energy to maintain perfect aging conditions—home to the biggest wine barrel I’ve ever seen!
Enjoy a flight of four wines inside or outside overlooking the vineyard and Lake Ontario. The friendly staff make choosing wines easy, and their Friday night market and live music events add extra charm. Follow them on Instagram for upcoming events!
Highlights:
- pinot Noirs
- scenic views
Address: 49 Hubbs Creek Rd, Wellington, ON K0K 3L0
More Great Wineries in Prince Edward County
TerraCello Winery
For a slice of Tuscany in Ontario, TerraCello Winery is a must-visit. This hidden gem has a vine-covered patio, vineyard views, and a beautifully restored barn. And don’t leave without trying one of Tony’s famous fresh Italian pizzas—the perfect pairing with their wine!
Waupoos Estates Winery
Waupoos Estates is the oldest winery in Prince Edward County, with vines dating back to 1993. Set on a beautiful 100-acre waterfront estate, it’s perfect for a tasting or tour. Along with award-winning wines, you’ll find lush gardens, a chocolate shop, and a restaurant—a perfect spot to sip and unwind!
Three Dog Winery
Three Dog Winery is one of the best Picton wineries. Named after the original owner’s three dogs, it produces Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Baco Noir, and Pinot Gris. Enjoy a tasting indoors or on the patio, and don’t miss their cheese plates, charcuterie boards, or seasonal pizza kitchen—a perfect pairing with their wines!
Hinterland Wine Company
Hinterland Wine is a gem for sparkling wine lovers in Prince Edward County. They offer a range of tastings, from classic sparkling to Prosecco-inspired flights. My favorite? The Pretty in Pink tasting—a bubbly dream!
Tips for Planning a Prince Edward County Wine Tour
After several trips to the County, I’ve picked up some key tips to make your wine tour smooth and enjoyable!
Where to Stay
Surprisingly, the best place to stay for a PEC wine tour is Belleville. I’ve stayed in plenty of places in The County, but they can be pricey, but Belleville offers budget-friendly options and is just a short drive away. I stayed at the Holiday Inn Express, which had comfy rooms, free hot breakfast, great coffee, and an indoor pool—perfect after a long day of wine tasting.
Book a Wine Tour
The best way to explore without worrying about driving is booking a tour. PEC Wine Tours offers both private and public tours year-round, covering transportation and tastings. Their drivers also share great local insights, making the experience even better.
Plan for Food
Wineries with restaurants make the experience even more enjoyable. Huff Estates serves amazing wood-fired pizza, while The Grange offers a seasonal farm-to-table menu. Many wineries also have charcuterie boards—perfect for pairing with your tasting. If you prefer a meal before your tastings, there are plenty of great restaurants in Picton and Wellington.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is ideal for patio tastings, cycling, and beach visits. But if you prefer fewer crowds and a behind-the-scenes look at winemaking, fall is the perfect time—grape harvest is in full swing!
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Whether you’re planning a trip to Picton and looking for things to do in the area or looking for a unique destination in Ontario, Prince Edward County is rich in possibilities. With unique wineries, adorable small towns, and an incredible food scene, it’s the perfect place for a getaway!
Disclaimer: This post was created in partnership with Bay of Quinte Tourism. While I was paid for my time, all opinions are my own.
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