Ottawa might be better known for its historic sites and vibrant arts scene, but it’s also a surprisingly good launchpad for wine and cider lovers. The region’s unique blend of local vineyards, family-run cideries, and scenic countryside makes it a top spot for tasting Ontario’s finest beverages. Among the offerings, I particularly enjoyed the full-day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour — it’s a well-organized, small-group experience that combines tastings with fascinating regional stories. If you’re keen to explore Ottawa’s local drinks without the hassle of driving, this trip offers excellent value and plenty of variety, with three distinct stops and a tasty included lunch.
For travelers wanting a more comprehensive look at Ottawa’s wine and cider scene, the Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour provides a relaxed yet educational day, with a visit to a vineyard in the Ottawa Valley and a family-run cider orchard. It’s a good pick if you want to learn about sustainable winemaking practices while sampling a variety of local products. Alternatively, the Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour combines the charm of Ottawa’s tasting room scene with visits to a nearby vineyard and cider farm, making it ideal for those who appreciate a mix of urban and rural experiences.
Quick Overview
This list covers a range of wine and cider tours in Ottawa, from full-day excursions with guided transport (Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour) to more intimate, educational experiences (Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour) and versatile full-day trips (Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour). Each offers a distinct way to enjoy the region’s beverages, with varying focus on food, scenery, and learning.
1. Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau
At number one, this full-day tour is perfect if you want to sample a variety of local wines and ciders, meet the producers, and enjoy a hassle-free experience. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Ottawa or Gatineau, which means no worry about driving or parking. You’ll visit three distinct locations: Domaine de Pontiac Village, a family-run winery with a vintage car museum; Little Red Wagon Winery, where you enjoy five tastings and a cheese and charcuterie board; and Cidrerie Coronation Hall, housed in a historic dance hall with delicious cider and apple treats.
What makes this tour stand out is its mix of educational encounters and relaxing tastings. The guide shares stories about the region’s history, adding depth to each sip. The included tasty lunch, snacks, and local products make it a full sensory experience. With a 5.0-star rating from 71 reviews, travelers consistently praise the friendly guides and the authentic, off-the-beaten-path vibe. It’s especially suited for those wanting a comprehensive day of tasting with minimal planning.
Bottom Line: If you want a well-organized, friendly experience that combines scenic stops, regional stories, and a variety of wines and ciders, this tour is a top choice.
2. Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour
Coming in at number two, this seven-hour tour explores Ottawa’s vibrant local wine and cider scene. You’ll visit a tasting room, a vineyard in the Ottawa Valley, and a family-run cider orchard, all in one day. One of its key attractions is the guided vineyard tour, allowing you to see how wines are made firsthand and taste fresh products directly from the source.
The tour’s highlight is the variety of tastings paired with a delicious lunch featuring flatbread and wood oven pizza. The focus on sustainable and biodynamic wineries appeals to eco-conscious travelers. The reviews are excellent, with a 4.9/5 rating from 14 reviews, noting that visitors love the mix of educational content and relaxed atmosphere.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want an interactive experience that combines learning about wine and cider production with great food. It’s also a good pick for those interested in supporting small, family-run businesses in the Ottawa Valley. The price point offers good value for a full day of tastings and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: For a laid-back yet informative day with a focus on local, sustainable products, this tour offers a balanced and tasty experience.
3. Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour
Finally, at number three, this seven-hour tour offers a blend of urban wine tasting and rural visits in the Ottawa Valley. Starting at the Buyers + Cellars Tasting Room in Ottawa, you sample an eclectic variety of wines crafted by local artisans. The tour then moves to KIN Vineyards, renowned for its sustainable and biodynamic approach, where you get a two-hour guided visit and tastings.
The last stop is Farmgate Cider, a family-run orchard where you tour the farm and sample their handcrafted ciders. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive introduction to the region’s beverage scene without sacrificing authenticity or depth. The reviews are glowing, with a perfect 5-star rating from just 1 review, highlighting the warm hospitality and variety of flavors.
This tour is best suited for travelers interested in urban and rural contrasts or those who want a deliberate, educational experience that emphasizes local craftsmanship. The inclusion of a visit to a boutique tasting room makes it slightly more boutique than the other options.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a full-day experience that covers both the city’s best tasting rooms and scenic vineyards, this tour offers a well-rounded option.
$132.21 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Ottawa Wine Tour
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you want to spend on each experience. The Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour offers the most variety and a relaxed pace, great for those who want it all in one day. If you prefer a more educational focus and like the idea of supporting small wineries with a guided vineyard visit, the Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour is a better fit.
For travelers who want to combine urban tastings with rural visits, the Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour provides a great balance, especially if you’re interested in sustainable practices and boutique producers. Think about your travel style: do you want a guided, all-in-one experience or a more laid-back, educational day? Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons in spring and fall, when the scenery is stunning and demand is high.
To sum it up, Ottawa offers diverse options for wine and cider enthusiasts. Whether you’re after a comprehensive day of tasting and learning, a focused visit to a vineyard, or a relaxed exploration of local products, there’s a tour for you. The Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour is perfect for those looking for variety and comfort, while the other two options suit visitors who want a deeper understanding of regional wine and cider production. Whichever you choose, these tours promise authentic experiences and memorable sips—so don’t wait too long to reserve your spot.