Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County... have you heard of it being a wine region?

What makes a good wine region? That in it self is a paradox, for in essence there are no good or bad wine regions specifically, simply regions that produce wine. For unlike the famous Einstein dictum God Does Not Play Dice, the production of wine is very much a shot in the sky depending on so many different variables. Hardly a wine snob, and certainly no connoisseur, wine is very much left to individual taste. My taste though acquired by me and good for me is not some one else. So it is best that the individual make his own determination. Now it is not that so called experts do not have their justifiable say in the matter of selection, it is only that personal taste is alas personal taste.

Ontario's newest wine region, Prince Edward County, the province's fourth is a unique setting unlike any other where else. A post millennium gift to the world of wine, less than a decade ago nary a vine was being cultivated. Ontario's only island county, produced by the dredging of a l9th century waterway effectively separating a rich eco-system from the mainland. Rich and diverse soil exists over limestone providing the impetus for a rich agricultural foundation. All manner of crops are grown in the county with grapes finally being planted less than a decade ago. This in viticulture in its mere infancy and so one has to reserve judgment on the quality. Already some distinction has been achieved in the county's brief history. The much desired Pinot Noir has been produced as has a wide range of varietals from Rose through quite competent dry whites and even ice wine.

However these wines are mere children in a world of very adult vintages. Much has been said about what wines, what vintages, what varietals are best? For me it all depends, where I am and what I feel like. The county certainly has no shortage of variety.

Located South of Belleville within a few hours drive of Toronto, The American border in the west another hour plus away, the eastern American point of entry a similar distance away it is more than accessible by all modes of transport. The County is more than just wine it is about living life to fullness in a very tranquil and ever changing setting. A year round destination with an abundance of superior accommodation from the elaborate Inns and Spas, to the simple but by no means superior to most Bed and Breakfast venues.

All variety of restaurants dot the county from fine dining to good old home cooking. The calendar year is doted by a variety of festivals and celebrations. The county is about health and wellness and fitness. A fledgling body-in-motion, celebration-of-health industry has surfaced. Bike trips are a long established tradition, with runners also hitting the many picturesque country roads in search of that fabled high. More esoteric health and fitness pursuits also are available including yoga among others. Spas and retreats have surfaced to both pamper and test the individual making the county a rather brilliant vacation retreat.

What is the Terroir?

Many different things to many different people, but in essence it is a sense of time and space reflected in the glass, the product of a single growing season, the product of many unique natural elements and the touch of man. In the county the limestone soil, a subtle combination of minerals, plus a happy marriage of water, produce a symphony of characteristics leading to wines of unique complexity and naturally concentrated flavours.

It is about the steady breeze drying the grapes. The intense sunlight leading optimum ripening. Cool nights slowing ripening adding maturity layering the flavours. Low yields, picked by hand, embraced, unbruised and imparted with the vintner's individual touch.

Cold winter months allowing the vintners and vines to rest while their labour of love ages in oak barrels. This is the reality of the county and of its wine and its producers.

There are fourteen wineries operating in the county with new one planned and of course a flourishing cottage industry if the undeclared. Each adds its own distinct mix to the over all blend. Many of the venues offer one day or multi-day tour packages in conjunction with local Inns and Hotels. All are priced within reason, can be booked before arrival or even after wood. Trips now are being run in conjunction with local wine groups from urban centres. The county may be young in wine years but very old and professional in approach. I have found in my experience of visiting and living in wine producing areas that like life it is not about the destination but rather the trip. Keep that in mind when you visit the county or other regions. Savour each step, each experience, each taste, worrying not where you are going but where you have been.

- By Mike Acton

Also, to win a 2-night stay, send us your winery reviews, or complete a monthly poll. And don't forget to find out what your wine personality is.

To be educated on the wine terms prior to your trip to the wine spa, make sure you familiarize yourself with wine facts.

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