Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Château de Charmes
Another pioneer in Ontario winemaking is the Bosc family, owners of the
Château de
Charmes Winery
(1025 York Rd., St. Davids, 905/262-4219,
www.fromtheboscfamily.com
, 10am-6pm daily, tasting fee $10). The Bosc family cham-
pioned the exclusive cultivation of
vitis vinifera,
the European grape varieties known to
yield the finest wines. They were on the vanguard of agritourism and built the sprawling
Château des Charmes Winery and Visitors Centre. Tours are held daily ($10) in English,
French, and Japanese.
Peller Estates
On the outskirts of Niagara-on-the-Lake, just before you drive into the village, there's a
stunning estate surrounded by vineyards.
Peller Estates
(290 John St. E., NOTL, 905/
468-4678,
www.peller.com
,
10am-9pm Fri.-Sat., 10am-7pm Sun.-Thurs., tasting fee $7) is
a gorgeous winery with a first-class restaurant that should not be missed.
Upon entering the winery, a fireplace with comfortable couches greets you. The struc-
ture is spacious, yet warm and inviting. To the left is the wine boutique, where tastings are
available. To the right is the winery's restaurant, which has received Zagat's highest culin-
ary rating (Extraordinary). Tours are offered daily ($10); the cost is deducted from any pur-
chases made.
