Central PEI Winery, Apiary and Mead Tasting Tour

Central PEI Winery, Apiary, and Mead Tasting Tour offers a charming introduction to PEI’s vibrant local beverage scene. Priced at just over $360 for a group of up to three, this half-day private experience packs in visits to a meadery, family-run winery, craft cider farm, and apiary—all within five hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide and with convenient pickup from Charlottetown, it’s perfect for those eager to taste PEI’s distinctive drinks while enjoying personalized attention.

One of the best aspects of this tour is the diversity of tasting experiences—from sweet meads made with wildflower honey and lavender to crisp, locally crafted cider, and finally, the chance to get up close and personal with bees at the apiary. We also appreciate the flexibility of a private tour, which allows the guide to tailor the experience slightly to your interests. Plus, the round-trip transportation simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying centrally in Charlottetown.

A potential consideration is the cost—at over $360 for a small group, it’s a premium experience, but for many, the quality, intimacy, and variety justify the price. Also, since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather might mean a reschedule or full refund, so planning accordingly is wise. It’s best suited for adults interested in local food and drink, nature, and small, family-run businesses who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences.

This tour appeals most to travelers wanting a personalized, relaxed social experience that combines tasting, learning, and a touch of farm life. If you enjoy discovering regional specialties and prefer a custom, intimate atmosphere, this is a good fit.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour ensures tailored visits and attention.
• Diverse Tastings: Meads, ciders, wines, and bee products showcase PEI’s craft.
• Convenient Pickup: Round-trip transport from Charlottetown hotels simplifies logistics.
• Authentic Engagement: Visit family-run farms and even visit bee hives in a suit.
• Time-Managed: Around 5 hours, perfect for a half-day outing.
• Weather Sensitive: Cancellations possible if weather disrupts outdoor visits.

Exploring the Central PEI Winery, Apiary, and Mead Tasting Tour

This tour is a well-rounded introduction to Prince Edward Island’s local beverage craftsmanship. It’s designed for those who want to sample, learn, and perhaps bring home a bit of PEI’s flavor. We found that the balance of educational stops and tasting opportunities makes for an engaging journey, especially if you enjoy discovering how local drinks are made.

The tour starts with pickup from your Charlottetown hotel, which is a real bonus—no need to worry about driving or parking. The comfortable vehicle with Wi-Fi is a nice touch, allowing you to relax and catch up on travel plans or photos en route. The guide’s friendly demeanor and knowledge help create a personal atmosphere that’s both informal and informative.

Island Honey Wine Company: Sweet Beginnings

Your first stop is the Island Honey Wine Company. Opened in July 2017, this spot offers a selection of meads crafted on site. We loved the way they incorporate local ingredients like wildflower honey, lavender, and Haskap berries. The sweet nectar and apple cider tastings provide a delightful start, especially if you’ve never tried mead before. The scenery of rolling hills adds to the charm, making it a peaceful introduction to PEI’s farm-to-glass philosophy.

One of the highlights is the opportunity to learn about the process of mead-making—a craft that’s been around for centuries but is experiencing a renaissance. Visitors have appreciated the informative explanations and the chance to sample unique flavors. With free admission, it offers a relaxed pace to start your day.

Riverdale Orchard: Cider with a View

Next, you’ll visit the Riverdale Orchard, where Anne and Alex Jamieson have turned their hobby into a family business making hard apple cider. We particularly liked how passionate they are about their craft. The orchard setting is picturesque, and the cider tasting is a highlight—especially for cider lovers. You might find the flavors crisp, refreshing, and a true reflection of PEI’s apple growing tradition.

This stop offers a chance to see how local apples are transformed into a popular beverage. The owners’ personal stories add a warm, small-town feel to the experience, making it more than just a tasting.

Matos Winery & Distillery: Family-Run Passion

The Matos Winery & Vineyards presents another layer of local flavor. Opened in 2007, it’s a family-owned operation that has spent years perfecting their vineyard. We appreciated the dedication and research Jim Matos put into establishing the vineyard suited to PEI’s climate. The tasting here might include local wines and spirits, giving insight into how PEI’s terroir influences their products.

Because it’s a family-run business, visitors often comment on the warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a good opportunity to learn about the challenges and rewards of growing grapes in this northern climate.

Canoe Cove Honey: Bee Hives and Sweet Products

Your final stop is at Canoe Cove Honey, where you’re invited to dress in a bee suit and visit the hives. With over 200 hives, this apiary offers a hands-on experience that’s both educational and memorable. We loved the spectacle of observing the bees and learning about their vital role in pollination and honey production.

The opportunity to buy bee products—honey, beeswax, and propolis—is a nice takeaway, and the view of Northumberland Strait from the apiary adds an extra layer of scenic beauty. This stop is especially appealing if you’re curious about sustainable farming and beekeeping.

Practical Details That Matter

This tour’s duration of about five hours makes it manageable without feeling rushed. The small group size (up to three people) allows for a more intimate experience, and the private nature means the guide can focus on your interests. The cost of $360.02 might seem high, but it includes visits to four distinct producers, tastings, and the personalized attention you get.

The weather can impact outdoor visits, particularly the apiary, so it’s wise to check the forecast. If weather disrupts the experience, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, which provides some peace of mind. The mobile ticket and flexible cancellation policy add to the convenience.

This tour is best suited for adults who appreciate quality local beverages and are interested in small-scale, family-run businesses. It’s perfect for foodies, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, educational day immersed in PEI’s craft culture.

The Sum Up

For those seeking a personalized and flavorful introduction to PEI’s local drinks, this tour offers a well-curated experience. You’ll visit a variety of producers—each with its own story—and taste products that highlight the island’s agricultural bounty. The chance to visit bee hives and learn about honey production adds a memorable, hands-on element that many travelers find enriching.

While the price might be a consideration for some, the quality of the visits, the diverse tastings, and the small-group intimacy deliver great value for those looking for a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at PEI’s beverage scene. It’s a charming, laid-back way to spend half a day and enjoy some of the best local flavors.

If you’re someone who loves discovering regional specialties and wants a personalized, engaging experience that combines education with tasting, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suited for adults interested in sustainable farming and authentic small-business stories, or anyone eager to explore PEI’s unique terroir through its drinks.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
Since the experience involves tastings of alcoholic beverages and visits to farms and hives, it’s best suited for adults. Non-drinkers might find the focus on alcohol less appealing, but the apiary visit could be interesting if they’re curious about bees and honey.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers visits to four different producers, tastings of mead, cider, wine, and honey products, and the transportation from Charlottetown. The tour is private, so expect personal attention.

How long does each stop last?
Each stop is approximately 30 minutes, giving enough time to explore and taste without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, there is some flexibility to focus more on certain aspects, such as wine or honey, depending on your interests.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if the weather makes outdoor visits impossible. You’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip pickup from your Charlottetown hotel is included, making it convenient and stress-free.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to visit the bee hives and walk around farms.

How many people can join this tour?
It’s designed for groups of up to three people, offering a very personalized experience.

This well-balanced, engaging tour is a fantastic way to taste PEI’s local beverages while gaining insight into the island’s small-scale producers. With its combination of education, authentic farm visits, and delicious samples, it’s a memorable choice for any adult traveler eager to explore PEI’s flavors.