Guide to a Romantic Summer Weekend in Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County is such a magical place. It’s the perfect destination for a couples getaway. You get the peace and quiet of the country combined with all the culture and activities the County has to offer. No matter what you do it will be a great weekend with your significant other. But there are some particular places that will add that touch of romance to your trip. Find these special spots in my guide to a romantic summer weekend in Prince Edward County.

Friday

Start your romantic weekend sipping wine in the vineyard at Broken Stone Winery for their Cinq à Sept. From 5-7pm every Friday evening, Broken Stone’s Cinq à Sept offers a featured wine (or wine of your choice) by the glass with a local hors d’oeuvres pairing and live music. You can reserve your spot ahead here.

After a very enjoyable happy hour, it’s time for a beautiful sunset dinner. Head up to The Miller House restaurant at Lake on the Mountain Resort. The Miller House has one of the County’s most picturesque views. And it’s especially gorgeous at sunset! They don’t take reservations, but it is worth the wait. Once seated, order some tapas, sip a glass of local wine (or beer from their brewery!) and soak in that gorgeous view. Your getaway is off the a great start!

Saturday

Saturday morning you’re off to Bloomfield for a lovely traditional breakfast at The Saylor House Cafe. The Saylor House Cafe has the cutest patio where you can cozy up at a small table and enjoy your breakfast together under the trees with the pretty morning sounds of the birds. The cafe uses all local ingredients and makes the most delicious scratch-made baked goods! After breakfast take a stroll through the shops on Bloomfield, and maybe pick up something to remember your trip. There are a few antique shops close by.

Your daytime activities are going to start with a honey wine tasting on the mead terrace at Millefleurs. Millefleurs is a lavender farm and meadery just outside of Wellington on the shores of Lake Ontario. You can stroll through their lavender fields and then enjoy a honey wine tasting on the beautiful mead terrace. Celtic tradition has it that mead brings success, happiness and fertility to a marriage!

For lunch, enjoy THE BEST pizza in the County at TerraCello Winery. Tony, owner and head winemaker, makes his wood oven Neapolitan style pizzas using all fine imported Italian ingredients. Enjoy your pizza with a glass of TerraCella’s handcrafted natural wine on the outdoor patio nestled between the vines. The food, the wine and the atmosphere will seriously make you feel like you’ve been transported to Italy!

End your day with a wine tasting and stroll through the sculpture garden at Huff Estates Winery. They’re currently offering a flight of three wines for tasting on their patio overlooking the vineyards. I love the Huff Merlot, and of course their Rosés. After your tasting, visit the Huff Estates Oeno Gallery Sculpture Garden. Meander through the paths of the 4-acre garden and take in all of the impressive installations. The Oeno Sculpture Garden is one of those special County experiences.

Make a reservation ahead for dinner at East & Main Bistro in Wellington. Try to get a spot on the patio – it’s so cozy and intimate. Perfect for a romantic Saturday night dinner! East & Main serves fine dining and luxury comfort food favourites using local ingredients. The menu is seasonal and always changing, but the dishes are consistently delicious. They also have a very extensive wine list with lots of local PEC options.

If you’re up for it, and I highly encourage it, spend your evening at the drive-in theatre. The Mustang Drive-In is so much fun! Cozy up in your car and enjoy a double feature under the County stars. And the snack bar is open for all your favourite classic movie snacks. The Mustang is only open until September 5, so get there while you can!

Sunday

The last day of your romantic weekend is going to be a memorable one! First, pick-up a picnic lunch for two from the Agrarian Market in Picton. You can reserve ahead by emailing or calling. Then head up to Waupoos for brunch at the new Stella’s Eatery location. The menu is seasonal and filled with locally sourced and foraged ingredients. You may want to pick up a bottle of wine for your next adventure. After brunch, you’re off for a romantic sailing cruise with County Sailing Adventures! The private cruise departs from Waupoos Marina and sails the crystal clear waters of South Bay. You can anchor at Love’s Cove for swim and to enjoy your picnic lunch. Book ahead – there is still some availability for this summer. It’s the perfect experience to end your romantic summer weekend in Prince Edward County!

Cheers!~GDW

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How to Spend a Covid Safe Weekend in the Prince Edward County This Summer

Your accommodation is booked and face mask ready for a weekend in Prince Edward County this summer! There are so many things to do and see (and taste!) in the County, but which are going to be the most fun and most safe? The County is welcoming tourists with all the covid precautions in place, so be at ease that you’re in safe hands whatever you choose to do. There are, though, particular wineries that have extra large spaced out tasting areas; restaurants that are taking patio reservations; and outdoor activities that are less busy. With these kind of places in mind, I’ve put together an itinerary for how to spend a covid safe weekend in the Prince Edward County this summer.

Friday

After you’ve arrived in the County and checked into your accommodation, head into Wellington to pick up take-out from La Condesa. They make delicious Mexican food – order to tuna tostada, you will not regret it! You can also pick up wine, beer and pre-made cocktails at the restaurant to enjoy alongside your tacos. And if your up for it, tequila freezies are available for dessert! Whatever you choose, make sure to call ahead to order and set-up a pick-up time. Then bring your La Condesa takeout to the Wellington Rotary Beach for a beautiful sunset dinner. The beach is free entry on weekdays.

Saturday

On Saturday morning, head back into Wellington. The earlier you go, the less busy it will be! Pick-up breakfast from Piccoilna Mercato or Hello Bonjour Cafe. Piccolina’s has all the Italian baked goods, but if you’re looking for something healthier choose from the many vegan and gluten free options at Hello Bonjour. Both have coffee! Bring your breakfast to the Wellington Park to eat overlooking Lake Ontario. The park has an amazing playground if you have kids, lots of picnic tables and access down to the water. Next to the park is the Wellington Farmers Market, which takes place every Saturday from 9am – 1pm. There are lots of local vendors to check out and lots of goodies to pick-up to enjoy later or take home.

Hopefully you’ve worked up an appetite, because it’s off to J.K. Fries for lunch. Jamie Kennedy and his team make the best fries! Everything is ordered outside the barn with lots of open space to enjoy your lunch in the most idyllic county setting. If you like poutine, trust me and order it – it’s unlike any poutine you’ve had before!

Now it’s time for some wine tasting! Start at Rosehall Run, who have a big outdoor tasting area overlooking the vineyard. You have to make a reservation for a tasting ahead of time, which means it won’t be too busy. Rosehall Run is known for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, so definitely make sure to taste those. And I absolutely love their Pixie Sparkling Rosé! Next up is the fun Sugarbush Vineyards, where you’ll find an expansive outdoor tasting area with lots of well spaced out tables. This was the first winery I ventured out to after the lockdown last year! Sugarbush has a large wine menu that will satisfy both the red and white wine lovers. Whichever tasting you choose, make sure to try my favourite, the Almost Red. And last but not least is a brewery! Finish off your tasting adventure at Slake Brewing. Slake Brewing is a new brewery to the County that offers some of the best tasting (and best looking!) summer beers. Their large outdoor drinking area also offers some of the best views in the County!

After a busy day I’m sure you will be ready for a nice dinner at Sand & Pearl. Sand & Pearl serves up delicious seafood, local fish dishes and a daily selection of oysters. Sand & Pearl is open til 8pm and reservations have to be made ahead. Enjoy your dinner at one of the picnic tables in their large outdoor dining area at the back of the restaurant. They’ll likely have a large bonfire going around dinner time!

Sunday

On Sunday, head into Consecon for breakfast at the Honey House Cafe. Get the breakfast sandwich, you will not regret it! Just up the street from Honey House Cafe is North Beach Provincial Park where you can spend the day relaxing at the beach. North Beach has everything you love about Sandbanks, but is typically way less busy. The park offers a sandy beach with beautiful turquoise water set in a sheltered cove from Lake Ontario. On it’s other side is a sand beach on North Bay, with lots of shallow water great for kids. To guarantee your spot into the beach, book your day-use permit up to 5 days in advance of your visit using the new provincial parks reservation system. On your way out of the County, Tabersnack is a great place to fuel up before your drive home. There are lots of food options at Tabersnack, but their traditional poutine is my favourite!

Cheers!~GDW

Wine of the Week: Pixie Petite Rosé Spritzer

The new Rosehall Run Pixie Petite Rosé Spritzer is the best wine from I can I’ve tasted. I’m obsessed! This isn’t too surprising since the Pixie Petite Rosé Spritzer is made from Rosehall Run’s popular pink bubbly, Pixie, a Vidal and Pinot Noir blend. Pop open a can of the Pixie Petite and you’ll taste a wine bursting with flavours of strawberry, peach and citrus with a pretty petite fizziness. Because the Pixie Petite is a spritzer there are some lovely added bonuses – only 150 calories, 7 grams of sugar and 5.5% alcohol. Absolutely perfect for beach days, outdoor adventures or hanging out in the backyard. And trust me when I tell you that the Pixie Petite should be paired with your favourite snack foods. I’ve been loving it alongside a big bowl of sea salt chips! You can find the Rosehall Run Pixie Petite Rosé Spritzer at the winery online shop and the LCBO for $3.95. An excellent price point for a premium wine spritzer locally grown and crafted in Prince Edward County, Ontario!

Cheers!~GDW

Wine of the Week: Redtail 2020 Gamay Rosé

I am so excited for the Redtail 2020 Gamay Rosé! The 2019 Rosé was my favourite pink drink last year. As was it many others, because it sold out in record speed! The Redtail 2020 Gamay Rosé is just as delicious as last years vintage. This Ontario Rosé has big juicy flavours of strawberry, watermelon and maraschino cherry. Pair the Redtail 2020 Gamay Rosé with chicken tacos, shrimp vermicelli and spicy curry dishes. Or, as the winery suggests, enjoy this wine chilled at your favourite beach! Order the Gamay Rosé through the Redtail online wine shop for $17. And order now before it sells out again!

Cheers!~GDW

Wine of the Week: Traynor Ophelia Piquette ’20

I have another delicious low-alcohol wine for you! The 2020 Traynor Ophelia Piquette is only 7.2% alcohol, but packed with juicy flavour. Piquette is a low-alcohol wine made from grape pomace (left over grape skins, seeds and stems) and usually has a touch a fizz. It was traditionally enjoyed by French farmhands and vineyard workers, but has had quite the resurgence in popularity over the past few years! 2020 was the second year that Traynor Vineyard, in Prince Edward County, produced their Ophelia Piquette. This time around they added local apple cider, instead of water, and reduced the amount of sugar/acid added so that the wine is more concentrated. Traynor also used more red wine grapes, which gives the 2020 Ophelia Piquette it’s vibrant deep pink colour. Upon first sip of the Ophelia Piquette I knew it was going to become part of my regular wine rotation! This easy-drinking wine has bright flavours of raspberry, grapefruit and watermelon with a touch of funky earthiness. Order the Ophelia Piquette ’20 for $20.00 through the Traynor online wine shop.

Cheers!~GDW

Wine of the Week: Redtail County Crush

Let’s start 2021 off with the fun new wine from Redtail Vineyards, the County Crush! Made with a blend of Hubbs Creek field fruit, this wine is made naturally with nothing added or taken away. The County Crush may be tiny but it packs a big punch of juicy flavours like raspberry, strawberry and cherry. And don’t let that candied pink colour fool you, the County Crush is extra dry with a crisp light fizziness. It comes in a totally crushable (and fun!) tiny bottle that I recommend enjoying on a winter walk, around the campfire or in the hot tub. The County Crush is already 50% sold out, so get your hands on some bottles soon! You can purchase for $8 a bottle, or $96 for a 12-pack, through the Redtail bottle shop or online store. It’s also available at several restaurant bottle shops in PEC, Ottawa and Toronto. Here’s a full list of retailers where you can find the County Crush!

Prince Edward County – Bermuda, The Brake Room, The County Emporium, The Lark, and Stella’s Eatery.

Toronto – Boxcar Social, Happy Coffee and Wine, and GDL Brasserie.

Ottawa – Cantina GIA, Corner Peach, Dominion City, Gitanes Burger, North Market Almonte, and Red Apron.

Collingwood – Low Down Bar.

Cheers!~GDW

Wine of the Week: Loch Mór Cider Company Loyalist Spy

This week’s wine is actually a cider! I have to sneak one in from time to time. Especially during the cooler months when I really enjoy drinking cider. And especially when it comes from Loch Mór Cider Company. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, Loch Mór cider is my favourite! Loch Mór Cider Company is an award winning cidery located in Prince Edward County. They make dry, elegant and naturally sparkling ciders using local apples. I seriously did not know cider could taste this good before trying Loch Mór ciders! The Loyalist Spy Cider is one of my favourites and perfect for the holiday and winter seasons. Made with five local apple varietals, the Loyalist Spy cider is extra dry with gentle bubbles and bright flavours. It pairs perfectly with all the best winter dishes like creamy vegetable soups, pot pies and turkey dinner. This cider is also really nice with sweeter dishes like apple pie, cinnamon pastries and gingerbread treats. Like I said, a very enjoyable drink for the holiday and winter seasons! Get a bottle while you still can at the winery or the online shop.

Cheers!~GDW

Wine of the Week: Lacey Inox Unoaked Chardonnay

Make your dreams of a white Christmas come true with the Lacey Estates Winery Inox Chardonnay. This unoaked Chardonnay is the perfect winter white to have around for the holiday season. The Inox Chardonnay comes from Lacey Estates, a family run winery in Prince Edward County. They produce small batch high quality hand-crafted wines with character, like the Inox Chardonnay. This wine is extra dry and crisp with flavours of citrus, apricot and vanilla bean. It will pair really nicely with holiday favourites like seafood or fish dishes; chicken pot pie or turkey tourtiere; and linguini or risotto. Shop the Inox Chardonnay through the Lacey online store for $22.00. Cheers to a white wine Christmas!

Cheers!~GDW

Guide to a Festive Fall Weekend in Prince Edward County

There is no better place to be in the fall than Prince Edward County! This is my second fall season in the County and I would not want to be any where else in the world. The bright foliage, harvest foods, quaint towns and seasonal drinks all combine for a truly magical time of year. If you’re making a trip to the County to enjoy this beautiful season, here’s my guide to a festive fall weekend in PEC.

Friday

Your first stop on the way into the County is going to be Campbell’s Orchards. This local farm market has the most delicious baked goods that you can pick-up to enjoy throughout the weekend (get the apple bread, you will not regret it!). To get all the Stars Hallow feels, check-in to one of the many beautiful bed-and-breakfasts in Wellington or Bloomfield. For dinner, catch a gorgeous sunset over the Bay of Quinte on the patio at the Miller House. If you can’t make it up to Lake on the Mountain, Midtown Brewing in Wellington is a great alternative. Try their popular wood fired pizza and new fall Seasonal Ale!

Saturday

On Saturday morning, head into Picton for a stroll through town. Pick up a PSL from Miss Lily’s Café and meander along Main Street to check out all the wonderful local shops. You’re going to definitely want to browse through The Ye11ow Studio for handmade pottery; Luna Boutique for a new fall sweater; and Coriander Girl for some bespoke blooms. Nothing like shopping endorphins to kick-start your day! For a spooky add-on to your morning adventure, head over to the old St. Mary Magdalene Parish Cemetery at Macaulay Heritage Park.

Then it’s off the spend the afternoon enjoying all the local wine, beer and cider the County has to offer. Visit Gillingham Brewing Company first – they have a large outdoor seating area set-up around a cozy campfire overlooking an idyllic country scene. You can order lunch here which comes from one of my favourite restaurants in the County, The Marans. And you must order their new fall beer, the Oktoberfest style ES Märzen Lager. Next up is Loch Mór Cider Company, because you can’t have a festive fall weekend without cider! Enjoy a flight under the trees with a locally made Cornish pasty. End your day at Karlo Estates Winery with a walk through their beautiful property (great photo op at the old bridge!), a glass of Three Witches white wine and sunset over the vineyards. Karlo often has live music on the weekends, so check ahead to see if you can catch some local musical talent.

A festive fall day like this must conclude with a delicious autumnal dinner! This dinner can be found on the beautiful heated patio at East and Main Bistro in Wellington. Their menu has all the delicious fall favourites like beef Bourguinon, Pinot Noir braised lamb shank and roasted vegetable curry. Yum!

Sunday

Sunday is all about the autumn antiquing! But first, coffee. Grab some caffeine at Bloomfield Public Market and stroll down the very Stars Hallow’esk main street of Bloomfield. There are lots of cute shops to pop into while you make your way to the first antique store, Dead People’s Stuff. Believe it or not, you will be ready for lunch at this point (there are so many distractions in Bloomfield), so stop into Saylor House Café. They have a cute patio for outdoor dining and the best comfort food in town – I’m talking grilled cheese and tomato soup kind of comfort. Then hop in the car and you’re off to some of my favourite shops! Browse through County Traders, MacCool’s Re-use, The Local Store, and Koopmans (not open Sundays but if you’re doing this on another day, definitely check them out).

As your festive fall weekend in the PEC sadly comes to and end, make one more stop on your way out. If you’re heading west, stop at Tabersnack for a delicious poutine and local beer. If your direction is west, check out the beautiful views at Three Dog Winery while you enjoy a glass of wine and wood fired pizza. In this final moment of your trip, soak in the autumn magic of the County and reminisce on all the fun memories you’ve made during your festive fall weekend in PEC!

Cheers!~GDW

Wine of the Week: Stanners 2017 Reserve Chardonnay

Fall for me always begins the Tuesday after labour day. So I’m drinking up this last weekend of summer! And I’m doing that with the Stanners 2017 Reserve Chardonnay. Stanners Vineyard in Prince Edward County is a family winery that really knows how to do Chardonnay! The 2017 Reserve Chardonnay has big bright flavours of pear, citrus and orange blossom. The lovely acidity and minerality make it a perfect wine for pairing with your favourite summer dishes. Try the Stanners Reserve Chardonnay with some local pickerel, barbeque chicken or seafood pasta. You can purchase this Chardonnay through the Stanners online wine shop for $35. Cheers to the end of summer!

Cheers!~GDW