Petite Nation Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau

A Delightful Day in Petite Nation: Exploring Quebec’s Wine and Cider Scene from Ottawa and Gatineau

If you’re craving a full day of tasting local wines and ciders without the hassle of driving, the Petite Nation Wine & Cider Tour offers an excellent escape just a short trip from Ottawa and Gatineau. For around $128, you’ll enjoy a carefully curated itinerary that visits over ten stops, including boutique wineries, cider mills, and a farm-to-table lunch—all in a cozy group limited to 14 travelers. Guides like Jacob and Geneviève make this adventure informative and fun, giving you insider insight into the region’s burgeoning agritourism scene.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances structured tasting experiences with authentic encounters—meeting passionate growers, sampling amazing local products, and savoring a delicious wood-fired pizza lunch. Plus, the hassle-free pickup from Ottawa and Gatineau means you can relax and focus on the fun. One thing to keep in mind: since the tour is weather-dependent, poor conditions could mean rescheduling or a refund.

This tour is ideal for wine and cider enthusiasts eager to learn about Quebec’s terroir, small-group travelers who want a personal experience, and anyone looking for a relaxed day exploring local food producers. If you enjoy meeting passionate artisans and trying a variety of beverages in a friendly setting, this day trip is right up your alley.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Tastings: Over 15 tastings of wine and cider, with refill options at most stops.
• Authentic Local Experience: Visit boutique wineries and cider mills, meet passionate producers.
• Good Value: Includes a locally sourced lunch, snacks, transportation, and guided commentary.
• Small-Group Atmosphere: Limited to 14 travelers ensures personalized attention.
• Convenient Pickup: Free pick-up from Ottawa and Gatineau adds to the stress-free experience.
• Weather Policy: Cancellations due to bad weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Discovering the Charm of Petite Nation

The Petite Nation region is a true hidden gem for wine and cider lovers. The tour kicks off at Domaine Mont-Vezeau, where you’ll spend around two hours exploring the winery. Here, you’ll likely enjoy a minimum of seven tastings paired with a lunch that includes wood-fired pizza, making it a perfect way to start. The winery’s cozy atmosphere combined with the chance to sample a variety of wines—perhaps even some unique local varieties—creates a memorable first impression.

Next, you’ll visit Domaine de Lheure Juste, known for its orange wine, a style that’s gaining popularity for its tannic, full-bodied profile. The one-hour stop offers three tastings, giving you a chance to appreciate this distinctive wine and learn about its production. The guide’s insights here help demystify the process and highlight what makes this region’s wines special.

The cider stop at Verger Croque-Pomme is a highlight. With five tastings, you’ll get to sample a variety of craft ciders and other farm-made products. Many reviewers mention how much they enjoyed this stop, with one reviewer noting they became a “new convert to ciders.” This part of the day is particularly fun for those interested in exploring beyond wine, or for cider enthusiasts eager to discover new flavors.

Throughout the day, the guides like Jacob and Geneviève are praised for their entertaining and informative commentary, making the tasting experience both educational and engaging. Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, which adds a lot to the relaxed, small-group atmosphere.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Domaine Mont-Vezeau (2 hours)

This first stop offers a comprehensive introduction to the region’s wine culture. The winery’s welcoming vibe makes it easy to ask questions and learn about the different varietals. The inclusion of at least seven tastings ensures you get a broad overview of their offerings, from reds to whites, and possibly some surprises. The lunch, which features wood-fired pizza, complements the tastings perfectly—serving as a satisfying break amid the tasting journey.

Domaine de Lheure Juste (1 hour)

At this picturesque winery, the highlight is the orange wine, a style made with skin contact during fermentation, resulting in a unique, tannic flavor profile. The three tastings here give you ample opportunity to compare different styles and discuss the wine with your guide. The guide’s explanations about the winemaking process help make this stop both educational and delicious.

Verger Croque-Pomme (1 hour)

This cider mill is a real treat. With five tastings, you’ll sample different types of craft ciders, from dry to sweet, and learn about the cider-making process. The products here extend beyond cider—expect to find other farm-made treats, making it a great spot to pick up a local souvenir or two. Guests often mention how much they enjoyed this stop, with a sense that it’s both fun and authentic.

The Rest of the Day

While the above are the main stops, the tour includes more than ten locations, making each visit feel special. The comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, guided commentary, and personal attention ensure that you’re well cared for throughout the day.

Authentic Experiences in a Beautiful Setting

The region’s scenic landscapes add to the charm of this tour. Expect to see rolling vineyards, quaint farm buildings, and possibly some charming local farms. The guides make an effort to share stories about the people behind the products, which adds depth to the tasting experience.

Since the tour is limited to 14 people, it maintains a friendly, intimate feel. This is perfect for travelers who want to avoid large, commercialized tours and instead connect with local producers and fellow enthusiasts. The small size also means you’ll get plenty of opportunities to ask questions and engage with your guides.

Practical Details and Considerations

The price of $128 includes tastings, the farm-to-table lunch, snacks, transportation, and a guide. This makes it quite good value, especially considering the quality of the experiences and the local, fresh lunch. The pickup from Ottawa and Gatineau is a real bonus, removing the stress of organizing transport.

The tour operates at 11:00 a.m., starting with the first winery visit. Since it’s weather-dependent, it’s worth noting that cancellations due to poor weather are fully refundable or rescheduled. The tour’s duration is roughly 8 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

The Petite Nation Wine & Cider Tour offers a well-balanced, authentic experience for those interested in exploring Quebec’s newest wine and cider scene. The combination of knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and delicious local products makes it a worthwhile day trip. The inclusion of a farm-to-table lunch and the small-group setting elevate this beyond a simple tasting tour—it’s a chance to connect with the region’s passionate producers and learn about their craft.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates well-curated experiences with a personal touch, or if you’re curious about trying different styles of wine and cider, this tour will likely surpass your expectations.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 11:00 a.m. and including visits to multiple stops with ample tasting and dining time.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers tastings of wine and cider (at least 15), a locally sourced lunch (wood-fired pizza), snacks, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and guided commentary.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, especially since groups are small (maximum 14). It’s ideal for those who enjoy tasting local beverages and learning about food production.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll receive a full refund or can reschedule.

Where do I meet the tour?
Pickup is offered from select hotels in Ottawa and Gatineau, making it easy to join without extra planning.

Can I customize the experience?
While the itinerary is fixed, your guides are knowledgeable and friendly, so feel free to ask questions or share your interests during the stops.

How many tastings are there?
Guests typically enjoy around 20 to 25 tastings—more than the minimum advertised—plus refills at most stops.

What’s the main highlight of the tour?
Many say the cider stop or the chance to try orange wine at Domaine de Lheure Juste are standouts.

Is there transportation included?
Yes, transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle from Ottawa and Gatineau, adding to the convenience.

In summary, the Petite Nation Wine & Cider Tour is a fantastic way to spend a relaxed, informative day exploring Quebec’s vibrant local beverage scene. Its intimate setting and focus on authentic producers make it perfect for those who want a genuine taste of the region’s terroir—whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious about Quebec’s emerging wine and cider culture.