After the previous day’s mixed experiences at the big, renowned vineyards, we decided to check out some of the more modest wineries. Yes, they were smaller and less glamorous but the intimacy and service more than made up for it.
Marynissen Estates Winery
Marynissen Estates is known for its small-lot, handcrafted wines and from the moment we stepped out of our car, we felt right at home. It was literally right at opening time and yet the staff greeted us with a smile and didn’t try to pressure us into a tasting. Both inside and outside seating are offered and since it was a lovely morning, we opted to do our tasting in the tent by the vineyards.
We kicked things off with a sparkling wine called Charmed. I’m usually not a fan of sparkling wines but I found this to be a bubbly peachy delight. Next was Lokaal White, a dry with apple notes that hard cider fans like us really appreciated. The Platinum Rose was quite complex with notes of cherry with the texture of a dry red. We ended with the Vidal Icewine, which was quite sweet and would be awesome poured over vanilla ice cream.
In addition to great wines and pretty grounds, Marynissen is one of the most dog-friendly wineries I’ve ever visited. Not only do they allow your furbabies inside the tasting room, they even offer a doggie tasting flight of biscuits, called the Pawfect Flight!
Bella Terra Vineyards
Our second stop of the day was Bella Terra Vineyards, who are celebrating their 50th anniversary of growing grapes in the Niagara-on-the-Lake region. Since it was still morning and quite pleasant temperature-wise, we elected just to chill out and read our Kindles on the front porch. My husband savored his glass of the Wild Ferment Riesling 2022, which was smooth and sweet. I, on the other hand, was talked into trying a “Canadian Mimosa”. It was unlike any Mimosa I’ve ever had – made with Bella Terra Sparkling Brut, Riesling Icewine, and frozen cranberries. Not only was it delicious, it was also entertaining - I got to witness the phenomenon known as the “jumping cranberries” firsthand. Here is the link to my Instagram so you can see it for yourself.
All we needed were omelets and it would’ve been the perfect brunch! Alas, Bella Terra doesn’t serve meals so we finished our beverages and moved on…
Caroline Cellars
For those who love a great bargain, this is the winery for you! Caroline Cellars has the most inexpensive tasting fees on the Niagara wine trail – and their wines rock! Our sommelier Suzanne took the time to learn our wine preferences and her suggestions were right on the money. While we really enjoyed everything we tasted, the standouts included the floral 2023 Gewurztraminer VQA, the crisp 2023 Vidal VQA, NV Farmer’s White with its melon notes, and the strawberry joy called NV Farmer’s Rose. After our tasting we enjoyed a tasty lunch on the porch. By now, the temperatures had risen and we were in the mood for hard cider so we decided to undertake an excursion to the Niagara Escarpment area…
Niagara Cider Company
Niagara Cider Company offers quality artisanal hard ciders made from the apples grown at their 12 acre orchard. Their tasting room is located right next to their parent company, Bench Brewing, and has a covered, dog-friendly patio. Switching to cider-mode, we secured a table and plunged in. First up was the Peach and Chardonnay Infused Apple Cider, which was crisp, fruity and really hit the spot in the now-sweltering heat. I can see why it’s their most popular cider. I also loved the carbonated Rose Gold Berry Soaked Cider but what really threw me for a loop was the Maple Whisky Oak Aged Cider. I’m not a fan of maple syrup and I don’t like whisky but something about that combination along with the cider just hit all the right notes for me. Yummy.
Thus ended our travels for the day, stay tuned for the tales of our 4th and final day on the Niagara wine trail!
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