The Best Wineries in Prince Edward County: Top Five Picks

Updated: 5/26/2021 | May 26, 2021

If you’re looking for the best wineries in Prince Edward County, I can help! As a local Canadian, Prince Edward County (PEC) is no stranger to me. I’d say we’ve gotten to know each other pretty well over the past few years.

A day trip to this gorgeous wine county to go winery hopping is the perfect way to see the region and get your day drinking on! Prince Edward County is known for one thing – and that’s its abundance of wineries. Every turn you take is home to yet another winery – no complaints here. The options are in fact endless, with plenty of enjoyable wine tours, freshly baked pizzas, expert connoisseurs, and friendly staff – you can’t go wrong.

PEC is home to over 35 wineries and has made a real name for itself within Canada. The region is most well known for its Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, so be sure to try those wines in particular.

I have no shame in admitting that come summer, I like to frequent Prince Edward County – especially since it’s only about a 2 hour trip from downtown Toronto. With that being said, I found these five wineries below to be my favorites and wanted to share them with you for your wine exploring needs.

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The Best Wineries in Prince Edward County

Sandbanks Winery

Sandbanks Winery is one of the wineries in Prince Edward County that offers a tasting room, barrel room, large outdoor picnic area, and tasting bars to satisfy all your wine needs.

I might be biased but I think one of the best wineries in Prince Edward County by far, has got to be Sandbanks. You might be familiar with Sandbanks wines as they are sold at the local LCBO, but the winery still warrants a visit. If you want to try a wide selection of wines with some exclusive options which are only available at the winery + some helpful tips from the staff – start here.

I’m not sure if we paid for more than one wine tasting or the friendly staff just kept pouring and we felt it rude to say no to good wine. Needless to say, we had a great time. This Prince Edward County winery has a substantial selection of wines, paired with accommodating staff. We ended up purchasing a few bottles that were not only well priced but also native to the winery (we got the good, good).

I would easily go back here and probably even consider a wine tour. Anyone that sneaks us more wine than we paid for is a friend of ours.

Location: 17598 Loyalist Pkwy (Hwy 33), Wellington, Prince Edward County, ON K0K 3L0

TerraCello Winery

TerraCello Winery in Prince Edward County is a cute, rustic little spot that is known for crafting fine natural wines and authentic Neapolitan pizza. The freshly baked pizzas will take you straight to Italy. We inhaled a Calabrese pizza, which had Italian salami, mozza sauce, green olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Then washed it down with a tasting of three different wines. We found this winery to be a small intimate space, with a homely feel.

The owner Tony was extremely friendly and sat down to chat with us. I’d say this is definitely a great place to satisfy your hunger and learn a thing or two about good wine. Tony creates from his heart and you can see this in the way he sets up shop + greets wine tourists.

Location: 2436 Prince Edward County Rd 1, Bloomfield, ON K0K 1G0

Closson Chase Vineyards

It was love at first sight. You’ll know you’ve made it to this winery, once you see the iconic purple barn. Talk about a unique little space. These humans got it right. After my mini, Instagram photoshoot – I made my way into the barn and was greeted by the staff, who walked us through the barn, into a beautiful seating area, surrounded by flowers. 

Closson Chase opened its doors in 1998 and is one of the oldest vineyards in PEC. With quality-driven wine using centuries-old European traditions and sustainable techniques to create their grapes, they have this wine tasting business down pat. 

We kicked back a few glasses of wine from their tasting menu and then took in the relaxing ambiance, which almost had me snoozing. Eventually, we decided to make space for newcomers – and exited gracefully by taking a handful more pictures. In terms of ooh factor + ambiance – this winery takes the cake.

Located: 629 Closson Road, Hillier, Ontario K0K 2J0

Hinterland Wine Company

Hinterland Wine Company has rustic-boho vibes written all over it and I was sure to soak it all in. This Prince Edward County winery picked a niche and decided to hunker down to master the art of deliciously refreshing sparkling wine. With three types of sparkling wines to taste on the large plot of land or inside their barn, we weren’t in a hurry to leave.

The Prince Edward County wines crafted by Hinterland are made using three different methods: the Charmat method, the Traditional method, and the Ancestral method. Each method has a unique way of fermenting the grapes to create the perfect bubbles for sparkling wine.

Hinterland is a winery that truly speaks to your bubbly needs + the easy-going staff will be sure to help you find the perfect bottle for the road.

Located: 1258 Closson Road RR#1 Hillier, Ontario, K0K 2J0. 

Huff Estates Winery

Huff Estates Winery in Prince Edward County has an inn, winery, shop, restaurant, gallery, and membership options to have premium bottles delivered to your door. They’ve got all the bases covered. 

Head to Huff Estates for a delectable wood-fired pizza and pair it with a glass of Pino Noir or Chardonnay (I’d be so bold to pick both). After you’ve completed your tasting(s), take in the views of their on-site art at Oeno Gallery, and walk through their sculpture garden.

Huff Estates have a lovely view of their vineyard + delivers on customer enjoyment and satisfaction.

Located: 2274 Prince Edward County Rd 1, Bloomfield, ON K0K 1G0   

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Prince Edward County known for?

Prince Edward County is known for their wineries 35+ wineries, the magnificent sandbanks provincial park, and enticing summer festivals.

How far is Toronto from Prince Edward County?

Prince Edward County is a little over 200 km East of Toronto and is about a 2-hour drive from the Downtown core.

What are the best wineries in Prince Edward County? 

I’ve done my best to answer this question above but to summarize, in my opinion, the best wineries to visit in Prince Edward County are Sandbanks, TerraCello, Closson Chase, Hinterland, and Huff Estates.

How do I spend a day in Prince Edward County?

I would suggest you start at the wineries and end at the wineries. You won’t run out of things to do, eat or drink for a weekday or weekend getaway. If you’re looking for other ways to spend your day in PEC, then head out to witness one of their summer festivals, go on a bike adventure, or ask a local for suggestions for other ways to enjoy your time. 

How do you wine tour in Prince Edward County?

There are self-guided wine tours, half-day tours, full day tours and bike wine tours in Prince Edward County. You have plenty of choices available to you. Check out the visit PEC website for more details.

Are Prince Edward County Wineries open in the winter?

Yes, many wineries remain open through the winter months but with shortened hours – so be sure to check their website before making any trips to the region.

What is the best area to stay in Prince Edward County?

When you’re visiting the region, try to stay in Belleville, Wellington, or Picton. Whether you frequent the area or you’re a first timer – below are some wonderful accommodations in and around Prince Edward County.

Drake Devonshire located in Wellington is a sight for sore eyes. The lovely boutique hotel offers up waterfront views, an indulgent brunch menu and beautifully decorated rooms. I haven’t been able to get a booking here as it fills up quick, however I’ve managed to enjoy the waterfront views with a meal.  

The June Motel is a hip boutique hotel located in Picton. They have yoga classes, wine o’clock and some special packages tailored to fit your needs.

The Waring House is another hotel located in Picton. This number is a charming 19^th century stone farmhouse with great pub food and live music some nights of the week.  

The Montrose Inn located in Belleville has dainty rooms with a candlelit breakfast. The 1916 mansion with it’s traditional rooms will transport you back in time.

The Lakeside Motel is a minimalist-chic accommodation with a laidback vibe and is located in Wellington. This hotel provides access to a private beach area and includes a shared swimming pool.

Whether you’re taking a day trip or your due for a weekend getaway in Prince Edward County, there’s nothing quite like relaxing with a glass of wine. I hope this list of the best wineries in Prince Edward County helps you plan your adventure and if you have any questions or concerns – feel free to connect with me. Happy sipping! 

I traveled the route above to visit 5 of the best wineries in Prince Edward County. Feel free to access this route via google maps for your travels.

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There are a ton of wineries in Prince Edward County, so whichever you choose to visit – let us know in the comments below.