If you’re new to wine-speak, the term “appellation” simply means name, or designation. It’s commonly applied in wine growing regions to clearly identify the grape’s region of origin. When you’re renowned for making terroir wines - wines that fully express the grape and the vineyard - it’s important that the birthplace be noted. This is why we take it very seriously. You see, not only do we want you to know that our wines are made in Niagara-on-the-Lake, we want you to know exactly where in Niagara-on-the-Lake your wine was conceived.
Within the designated viticultural (grape-growing) area known as the Niagara Peninsula, Niagara-on-the-Lake has been classified by VQA Ontario (Vintners Quality Alliance Ontario) as a distinct area. We’re bordered by the Niagara Escarpment, Lake Ontario and the Niagara River and our wineries share a climate moderated by the unique relationship between the Escarpment and Lake Ontario. Yet, across this expanse of fertile land our wineries are differentiated by geology, soils, elevation, and even variations in temperature and precipitation that create unique conditions for the production of grapes and wine.
A recent comprehensive study revealed four distinct growing areas, or sub-appellations, within Niagara-on-the-Lake. The official designations are:
Niagara River
Niagara Lakeshore
Four Mile Creek
St. David’s Bench
The wineries: Peller Estates Winery, Lailey Vineyard, Reif Estate Winery, and Inniskillin Winery.
The picturesque Niagara Parkway winds along this narrow band that borders the Niagara River. Vines dig deep into the well drained sandy soils and air currents from the river moderate temperatures and help protect vineyards from damaging spring or fall frosts. The reddish-hued soils also tend to warm earlier in the spring. Tender grape varieties thrive. Click here for touring itinerary
The wineries: Stonechurch Winery, Palatine Hills, Konzelmann Estate Winery, Stratus, Strewn Winery & Cooking School, Sunnybrook Farm Estate Winery
From the Welland Canal towards the historic town of Niagara-on-the Lake lush vineyards border the shores of Lake Ontario. The land gently slopes and vineyards and orchards receive abundant sunlight. Temperatures are moderated by lake breezes, and light sandy and silt soils provide good drainage. Grapes and fruit produce full-bodied, flavourful wines. Click here for touring itinerary
The wineries: Cattail Creek, Coyote’s Run Estate Winery, Hillebrand Winery, Pillitteri Estates Winery, Joseph’s Estate Wines, Jackson-Triggs, Marynissen Estates, Southbrook
This is the largest of the four sub-appellations in Niagara-on-the-Lake. It lies below the Escarpment, slightly inland, and stretches into an expansive flat, fertile plain. Red shale soils contain silt and clay, retaining water well. Days are warm, with lots of sunshine, and nights are cool. Conditions are optimal for growing many premium grape varieties. Click here for touring itinerary
The wineries: Château des Charmes, Maleta, Niagara College Teaching Winery, Ravine Vineyard
The topography is varied in this area that was carved by glaciers to form a natural bench below the Escarpment. The region follows along the Escarpment from the Niagara River to Beechwood Road and vineyards are planted on gentle slopes to allow for good drainage in the silty clay soils. The escarpment location helps vineyards warm early in the spring and provides frost protection. Throughout the growing season vineyards located in the upper bench receive steady moisture from ground water.
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Source for information on the sub-appellations courtesy of VQA Ontario and Dr. Tony Shaw, Brock University.
Dr. Shaw’s complete report is available by request at www.vqaontario.com
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