Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour

Imagine spending a day exploring Ottawa’s vibrant wine and cider culture without the hassle of planning or driving. For $132.21 per person, you’ll hop from a cozy city tasting room to a biodynamic vineyard in the Ottawa Valley, and finally to a family-operated cider orchard. The tour runs about seven hours, starting at 10:30 am, and promises a relaxed, informative experience — perfect for lovers of local drinks and authentic stories behind each sip.

Two things we particularly like about this tour: first, the careful selection of stops that balance city charm with countryside authenticity; and second, the inclusion of lunch during the vineyard visit, making it a well-rounded, value-packed experience. The only thing to consider is that it’s designed for those over 19, so no kids or teenagers can join, which is standard but worth noting if you’re traveling with family. If you enjoy tasting local wines and ciders while learning about the process in a relaxed setting, this tour is a great choice.

This experience suits anyone curious about Ontario’s wine and cider scene, especially those who want a taste of local craftsmanship paired with friendly, family-owned operations. It’s also ideal for visitors who appreciate sustainability and biodynamic farming practices, as those are highlighted at the vineyard.

Key Points

• Diverse Stops: Combines city, rural vineyard, and orchard visits for a well-rounded experience.
• Authentic Family-Run Places: Focus on small-scale, community-oriented operations.
• Educational and Tasty: Learn about wine and cider production while sampling a variety of products.
• Lunch Included: Enjoy a meal during the vineyard visit, adding value and comfort.
• Group Size: Limited to 40 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Accessibility: Near public transit and parking available for convenience.

A Detailed Look at Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour

The Opening Stop: Ottawa’s Buyers + Cellars Tasting Room

Starting in downtown Ottawa at the Buyers + Cellars Tasting Room, you’ll find a charming retreat in the city’s heart. This spot boasts a large, eclectic portfolio of hand-crafted wines carefully curated by knowledgeable staff. It’s the perfect introduction to local wine culture, offering an opportunity to sample a variety of styles before heading out into the countryside.

What we love here is the personalized attention you receive; the tasting room’s relaxed atmosphere invites questions, making the experience informative yet casual. The free admission means you can enjoy it without any upfront cost, setting a friendly tone for the day.

The Ottawa Valley Vineyard: KIN Vineyards

Next, you’ll head to KIN Vineyards in the Ottawa Valley — approximately a two-hour journey from the city. This winery is well-regarded for its sustainable and biodynamic practices, emphasizing environmentally friendly farming. It’s one of Ontario’s most celebrated wineries, and for good reason.

During your visit, you’ll learn about the effort and dedication that go into creating these wines, which can be quite inspiring. The winery offers a lunch and learn experience, allowing you to enjoy a meal that complements the wines while gaining insights into the production process. The tasting here is included, giving you a chance to sample some of Ontario’s finest wines crafted with care.

A reviewer mentions that the pizza tasted excellent during the lunch, and the tastings were very tasty, emphasizing the quality and thoughtfulness that go into this part of the tour.

The Family-Run Cider Orchard: Farmgate Cider

The final stop takes you to Farmgate Cider and Orchard, a cozy, family-operated business that puts community and tradition at the forefront. Here, you’ll tour the orchard and learn about cider-making from a team that treats cider as both an art and a daily pleasure.

Expect a warm, friendly atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to sample freshly made ciders and explore the orchard’s bounty. The tour of the orchard and cider tastings make this a hands-on, authentic experience you’ll remember.

The Logistics: Timing and Practicalities

The tour begins promptly at 10:30 am at the Totem Pole of Canada on George Street, making it easy to find and access by public transit or parking. The duration of around 7 hours means plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

While parking is available at the Indigo Market Parking Garage for a fee, many travelers will appreciate the proximity to public transit options. The tour is designed for adults over 19, and groups are capped at 40, ensuring a personable environment.

The Experience: What Travelers Say

One enthusiastic reviewer, Stephen, called the tour “fun and learning about grapes and apple cider”, praising the lunch with the wines and cider, and describing the tastings as “very tasty.” The positive feedback highlights the balance of education and enjoyment that makes this tour stand out.

The Value of the Tour

At $132.21, the price includes transportation, tastings, lunch, and expert insights, making it a cost-effective way to explore Ontario’s wine and cider scene. The fact that it’s booked on average 148 days in advance indicates its popularity and the desire for a well-organized, authentic experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a wine or cider lover looking for a day trip with a personal touch, this tour fits the bill perfectly. It’s especially suited for those interested in sustainable farming and family-run businesses, and for travelers who enjoy a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. It’s also a good pick for visitors wanting to combine taste, education, and scenic views without the hassle of planning a self-guided trip.

FAQs

Is there an age restriction for this tour?
Yes, you must be over 19 to participate, as it involves tastings of alcohol.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 10:30 am.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation between stops, tastings at each location, and a meal during the vineyard visit.

Are the tastings free?
Yes, tastings are included in the tour fee at the vineyard and orchard; the initial city stop has free admission.

Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available at the Indigo Market Parking Garage for a fee, and the tour is near public transportation.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 40 travelers, ensuring a friendly and manageable experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How far is the vineyard from Ottawa?
It’s about a two-hour drive, making it a scenic trip into the Ottawa Valley.

What makes the vineyard special?
KIN Vineyards is known for its sustainable, biodynamic approach and high-quality wines.

What can I expect at the cider orchard?
A warm, family-run environment where you can tour the orchard and taste freshly made ciders.

Final Thoughts

Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour offers a thoughtfully curated day that balances city charm with rural authenticity, all centered around tasting some of Ontario’s best wines and ciders. You’ll enjoy a mix of educational moments, delicious drinks, and friendly, family-operated businesses. The inclusion of lunch and small-group atmosphere add to the overall value, making it an appealing choice for those looking to indulge in local flavors without overextending their budget or time.

This tour is best suited for curious wine and cider enthusiasts who appreciate intimate, authentic experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just looking to explore local drinks in a relaxed setting, you’re likely to find plenty to enjoy here.

Experience the blend of city and countryside, taste the passion behind Ontario’s wine and cider production, and take home new favorites from this memorable day out.