5 must-visit wineries to check out near Toronto

Please note: As of June 30, Ontario has entered Step 2 of its phased reopening plan. While restrictions have been relaxed, if you go out, maintain physical distancing guidelines and wear a mask.

Touring the vineyards, taste testing different wines, and rows of grapes growing as far as the eye can see. If you’re looking for something fun to do on a hot summer day, look no further than visiting some of the most beautiful local wineries that Ontario has to offer.

Here are five of the best wineries near Toronto that you need to visit.

Peller Estates Winery and Restaurant

Where: 290 John Street E, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

When: 10 am – 9 pm daily

Visit the award-winning Peller Estates Winery and Restaurant just a short drive from the GTA. Relax for a few hours while touring the vineyard, or stop by their modern restaurant that serves up tons of farm-to-table goodness that you don’t want to miss!

Right now, the vineyard and restaurant are both open daily. Dining on the patio and outdoor tours can be booked online.

Windrush Estate Winery

Where: 3100 Concession Road 3, Palgrave, Ontario

When: Wednesday to Sunday 12 pm – 4 pm, Closed Monday and Tuesday

About an hour’s drive from the GTA, Windrush Estate Winery has 69 acres of breathtaking views, along with tons of delicious local wines to enjoy. Spend the afternoon touring the grounds and then head to one of the many hiking trails around the vineyard. At the moment, Windrush is offering reservations by telephone and email, or stop by to visit their winery store and take home a few bottles to enjoy.

Norman Hardie Winery and Vineyard

Where: 1152 Greer Road, Wellington, Ontario

When: 10 am – 6 pm daily

Time for a summer road trip! If you don’t mind a bit of a drive to Prince Edward County, be sure to check out Norman Hardie Winery and Vineyard. The winery recently reopened its doors, along with its tasting bars and sprawling outdoor patio where guests can dine on Neapolitan-style pizza straight from the outdoor wood-burning oven.

Rockway Vineyards

Where: 3290 9th Street, St Catharines, Ontario

When: 11 am – 6 pm daily

Come for the wine, stay for the golf, delicious food and beautiful views! There are more than 16 acres to marvel at, and the wine boutique is open daily at Rockway Vineyards. Tastings are by appointment only and need to be reserved. Be sure to call ahead.

Lakeview Wine Co.

Where: 1067 Niagara Stone Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

When: 11 am – 7 pm daily

Also located at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Lakeview Wine Co. offers the best-selling Ontario wines that you just need to taste for yourself! Right now, you can book a vineyard tour online with up to four guests, or stop by their outdoor seating area to sip on a few wines by the glass.