Canada/Ontario: Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Niagara Wine Country Doesn't Hibernate in Winter
The vineyards may be dormant under a winter frost, but Niagara, Canada, just north of Niagara Falls on the shores of Lake Ontario, remains a hot destination. From the wine and food to the people, places and events, there is no shortage of itinerary items in this picturesque region. Marcel Morgenstern, a Sommelier and Director of Sales at PondView Estate Winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, says the strength of the U.S. dollar offers exceptional value, offering this list of places to go and things to do:- The local scenery. Whether at the iconic Niagara Falls, along the scenic Niagara Parkway, in historic Niagara-on-the-Lake, or in a vineyard, the local landscape is truly unique.
- The B&Bs. While the major hotel chains dot the Niagara Falls skyline, a stay in a quaint bed and breakfast can add to the allure of your trip – quiet, cozy, comfortable and relaxing.
- The food. Niagara College has a culinary school that supplies the talent in the area’s restaurants, bistros, hotels and wineries. The focus is on local food, and it is fantastic.
- The wine. This is, after all, wine country. Niagara’s landscape is dotted with more than 100 wineries, most of them independently crafting wines that are on par with anything you’ll find from around the world. And don’t miss trying some of Canada’s own Icewine, the rich, sweet dessert wine for which it’s known worldwide.
- The breweries. Building on the success of the wineries, Niagara is home to a burgeoning craft beer culture. In Niagara-on-the-Lake alone you’ll find Oast House Brewers, Silversmith Brewing and the Niagara College Teaching Brewery.
- The events. Niagara is transformed into a winter wonderland during the Niagara Icewine Festival on January 31st. On every weekend in February, the wineries of Niagara-on-the-Lake are hosting Days of Wine and Chocolate, allowing people to explore the decadently sweet and savoury art of wine and chocolate pairing.
For more info, go to Niagaraonthelake.com
