"Ontario is by far the most important wine growing province in Canada, with approximately 6200 hectares and 90 wineries. The Niagara Peninsula is regarded worldwide as an exceptional wine growing region with excellent, mineral soils and climatic conditions similar to great regions such as Burgundy, the Loire Valley, Oregon and New Zealand. Nestled between Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, the Niagara Peninsula benefits from the moderating influence of the lakes with cool spring temperatures, hot summers and a long autumn, providing ideal growing conditions for viticulture. The Niagara Peninsula is by far the largest viticultural area in Canada with approximately 5670 hectares under vine. At the same time it is also the largest cultivation area for Ice wine. The areas under vine extend between Hamilton in the west and the Niagara Falls in the east as well as on the southern shore of Lake Ontario. Viticulture is a success story here. That is why new vineyards are still being developed, even northwestward towards Toronto. The Niagara Peninsula is divided into the following appellations: Lake Erie North Shore - The region is the oldest with commercial viticulture in Canada. The region is geographically at the same elevation as Northern California and Bordeaux. Fertile soils, hot summers and cool lake breezes provide ideal conditions for viticulture. Area under vine is about 200 ha. Pelee Island - This small island in Lake Erie is Canada's southernmost land mass and offers a long, frost-free season. The isolated island location also benefits wine, as the waters of Lake Erie contribute to the significantly mild temperatures, especially during the autumn. Area under cultivation is approximately 200 acres. Prince Edward County - Ontario's newest growing region has a similar growing season to the Niagara region, but slightly colder winters. Located on the north shore of Lake Ontario, the 190 ha of vineyards on this peninsula benefit from the balancing effect of the microclimate provided by the lake."
