If you’re interested in learning more about wine, or if you want to expand the wine collection that you have right now, then this guide will help you to learn about the top red and white grapes that are grown in Ontario.
Best White Grape Varieties
Zesty and crisp. Here are some of the top white grapes grown in Ontario.
- Riesling
- Vidal
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Chardonnay
- Pinot Gris
Best Red Grape Varieties
Bright, bold and balanced. The top red grapes for Ontario are as follows:
- Cabernet Franc
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Merlot
- Baco Noir
- Pinot Noir
- Gamay
If you want to sample some of these top grapes, then lookout for some of the wines which are listed below. You won’t be disappointed.
What are the Best White Wines in Ontario?
Want to expand your white wine collection? Maybe you just want something special for when you host a family dinner. Either way, these are the top white wines you should be looking for.
Riesling
The king of white grapes. Riesling is a classic expression of white wine. It’s got an abundance of green apple with elderflower notes. The core is strong with minerality, making it a must for anyone who likes a crisp and flavourful white. Other Rieslings have notes of green apple and pear, which make them a touch sweeter without compromising the strong flavour profile.
Chardonnay
Chardonnays are bold and bursting with flavour. Citrus on the nose and a strong palette of red apple, pear and vanilla are all very common characteristics. Some have a greenish hue in the glass with silky and buttery notes that bring out the oak and natural apple undertones.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is known for having lemon yellow and gold highlights. You also have aromas of toasted oak and roasted nuts. Yellow plum notes often come through nicely at the end. More established Sauvignon Blanc wines are cellar-worthy, with a strong emphasis on fruity flavours. Very bright and aromatic. Others have strong apricot notes with tropical undertones, ideal for those who like their whites a touch sweeter.
Pinot Gris is an all-rounder and suited to the masses.
What are the Best Red Wines in Ontario?
Whether you’re a cellar collector or a casual drinker, these red wines are made to impress.
Pinot Noir
Some Pinot Noir’s wines have a red berry, fruity flavour with silky tannins. Others capture the magic of the soil, among with the personality of the year. The flavours change with the seasons, making it a stunning choice. Some wineries are able to capture flavours such as stewed cherries, baking spice and sarsaparilla.
Cabernet Franc
If you’d much rather go for something like the Cabernet Franc, then expect flavours such as peppercorn and currents. Others focus on raspberry, dark fruit and plum.
Gamay
Gamay is very popular with notes of black pepper, raspberry and chilli.
Other popular choices for red wines in Ontario include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Baco Noir.
