Picture this: You’re sitting on a cozy terrace, basking in the warmth of the evening sun as it kisses the horizon. A gentle breeze whispers through the lush vineyards, carrying with it the tantalizing aroma of ripe grapes. In your hand, you hold a glass of exquisite wine, procured from an award-winning winery nestled right in the heart of Ontario. The elegant flavors of this nectar, expertly crafted from local grapes, dance on your palate, leaving you completely and utterly smitten.
Does this moment of bliss sound too good to be true? It doesn’t have to be! In fact, the enchanting world of Ontario VQA wines is awaiting your discovery, and we’re here to guide you on your journey to find the very best offerings of the 2023 vintage. From fragrant Riesling to bold Cabernet Sauvignon, your taste buds will embark on a wine country adventure like never before. So, get ready to sip, savor, and fall in love with the finest VQA wines that Ontario has to offer!
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1. Introduction to Ontario’s VQA Wine
Ontario is known for its vibrant grape and wine industry, which dates back to the 1800s. In 1988, the wineries in this region came together to create the Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA). This organization sets strict production standards and geographical appellations for the province’s wines, ensuring a high level of quality and authenticity. As a result, Ontario’s VQA wines have gained a reputation for their superb taste, unique characteristics, and diverse range of styles. In this article, we will explore some of the best VQA wines you should consider trying in 2023. [1][2]
2. Highlights of the 2023/24 Wine Country Ontario Travel Guide
New for 2023/24, the Wine Country Ontario Travel Guide offers a wealth of exciting experiences for wine aficionados and novices alike. Among the highlights are picturesque cycling routes winding through idyllic vineyards, charming villages, and of course, world-class wineries producing the region’s famous Burgundy wines. Must-visit destinations include Beaune, known for its wine tastings and historic cellars, and the breathtaking Côte-d’Or region, home to some of the most renowned wine producers. The guide also features an essential tour and wine tastings from Beaune and a trip to the historic Caves Patriarche. Wine enthusiasts can plan their visit around the best wineries in the region or take advantage of seasonal recommendations for the ultimate wine tasting experience. Explore the diverse and captivating landscape of Burgundy, as you sip on some of the finest wines in the world. [3][4]
3. Availability and accessibility of the Travel Guide
The 2023/24 Wine Country Ontario Travel Guide is now available to help you discover the best Ontario VQA wines. You can find the latest edition in the Early Summer Issue of LCBO’s Food & Drink Magazine within the GTA, or at over 400 LCBO stores across the province. The Guide is also available at participating Ontario VQA wineries and Ontario Tourism Information Centres. For those who prefer a paperless version, the interactive digital Guide can be accessed online, offering a more eco-friendly option for your wine exploration. [5][6]
4. Features of the digital version of the Guide
The digital version of the 2023/24 Wine Country Ontario Travel Guide provides wine enthusiasts with a comprehensive and interactive way to explore Ontario’s VQA wineries. This user-friendly edition, available online, lists over 150 VQA wineries and offers customizable features for planning the perfect wine country excursion. In addition, the mobile-friendly version incorporates convenient options for creating personalized itineraries, complete with wineries, restaurants, and accommodations. This innovative digital guide caters to eco-conscious users, as well as those looking for a seamless, paperless wine country experience. [7][8]
5. How to find the perfect VQA wine with the Wine Match tool
Finding the perfect VQA wine has never been easier with the Wine Match tool. This innovative feature allows wine enthusiasts to search for their ideal VQA wine by variety, style, price, and more. With over 800 wines to choose from, users can effortlessly navigate their way through the diverse selection of exceptional cool-climate wines that Ontario has to offer.
To explore and find your new favorite VQA wine or winery, simply visit the Wine Country Ontario website and use the Wine Match tool, ensuring that your next wine-tasting experience will be tailored to your exact preferences. [9][10]
6. Plan your wine country itinerary with the online trip planner
Planning a visit to Ontario’s VQA Wine Country has never been easier, thanks to the online trip planner. Simply select the region you’re interested in exploring, choose your favorite wineries, restaurants, and accommodations, and watch as your itinerary takes shape on the map. Zoom in or out to get a better view, and easily add or remove locations with the click of a button. And don’t forget, you can save or share your trip for future reference or to show off to friends – just make sure you’re logged in. Happy wine tasting! [11][12]
7. The role of Wine Marketing Association of Ontario in promoting VQA wines
The Wine Marketing Association of Ontario (WMAO) plays an essential role in promoting VQA wines by showcasing the authentic qualities that set them apart. Dedicated to supporting the vintners and emphasizing the unique character of wines made exclusively from 100% Ontario-grown grapes, WMAO helps shine a spotlight on local wine-growing regions. They not only promote the wines and wineries but also the complete experience of each destination, which includes local cuisines, year-round activities, and warm hospitality, contributing to a vibrant wine tourism industry in the region. [13][14]
8. New winery listing additions to the 2023/24 Travel Guide
The 2023/24 Wine Country Ontario Travel Guide is set to be the most comprehensive edition yet, featuring a staggering 150 Ontario VQA wineries. Among the many attractions, nine new VQA wineries are listed, showcasing the finest offerings from across the province.
These new additions include Quai du Vin Estate Winery and Shale Ridge Estate Winery from the Black Bank Hill region. Good Earth Winery & Vineyard, Niagara Custom Crush Studio, Redstone Winery, and Tawse Winery also make their debut in this guide.
Rounding out the new listings are AMO Wines and Dreas Wine Co., ensuring a rich and diverse selection for wine enthusiasts. With such an impressive lineup, there’s no doubt that the 2023/24 Travel Guide will serve as the ultimate resource for discovering the best Ontario VQA wines. So, whether you are a seasoned wine lover or a curious beginner, get ready to embark on a flavorful journey through Ontario’s picturesque wine country. [15][16]
9. Recommendations for the best Ontario wines to try in 2023
Discovering the finest Ontario VQA wines in 2023 should be an exciting adventure for both seasoned wine enthusiasts and novice explorers. One wine that should be on everyone’s list is the 2019 Henry of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Cabernet-Merlot VQA Short Hills Bench. This captivating blend of old-vine Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc boasts enticing aromas of poached blackberries, dried currants, and black cherries dipped in rich dark chocolate.
Another must-try sustainable wine from Ontario is the 2022 Southern Right Sauvignon Blanc from the Cape Coast of South Africa. This ethereal offering fills the glass with the delightful scent of ocean spray and wet stones, revealing notes of tangy grapefruit and invigorating lime as it unfolds on the palate.
Finally, for those seeking to explore new wineries, the 2023/24 Wine Country Ontario Travel Guide introduces nine new VQA winery listings, such as Quai du Vin Estate Winery, Shale Ridge Estate Winery, and Drea’s Wine Co. Be sure to visit these spots and many more to uncover your new favorite Ontario VQA wine in 2023. [17][18]
10. Serving suggestions for enjoying Ontario’s VQA wines.
As you plan your next wine-tasting experience, consider these helpful serving suggestions to fully enjoy the intoxicating flavors of Ontario’s VQA wines. Firstly, ensure you serve each wine at the appropriate temperature: chilled for whites and sparkling wines, and slightly cool for reds.
Pairing the wines with local, seasonal dishes not only delights the palate but also supports the region’s culinary scene. Don’t forget to invite your friends and family to share these exceptional wines, as they’re best enjoyed in good company. Lastly, remember to savor each sip, appreciating Ontario’s wine-making expertise and the enchanting landscape that inspires it. [19][20]
