Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour

If you’re considering a day out in Ottawa that mixes local flavors with some lovely scenery, the Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour might just be worth a look. From what I’ve gathered, this tour offers a laid-back yet engaging experience—perfect for those who want to taste some of Ontario’s best wines and ciders without the fuss of planning it all themselves.

Two things that really stand out about this tour are its diverse stops—from a cozy tasting room right in the city to a biodynamic vineyard in the Ottawa Valley, and finally a family-operated cider orchard. Plus, it includes a lunch and tastings at each stop, which means you’re not just nibbling on snacks but really sampling the craft.

One possible thing to keep in mind is that it’s a 7-hour tour, so it’s on the longer side, which might be a consideration if you’re not used to full-day outings. Also, since it involves wine and cider tastings, the tour is only for those over 19, so no kids or teenagers.

This tour seems best suited for adults who appreciate good wine and cider, enjoy learning about local producers, and want a relaxed yet informative experience. If that sounds like your kind of day, it could be a great choice.

Key Points

• Diverse stops: from city tasting room to rural vineyard and family orchard
• Includes lunch: a good way to balance tastings with a meal
• Educational aspect: learn about biodynamic farming and cider making
• Flexible group size: max 40 travelers, making it intimate enough
• Booking in advance: often reserved 148 days ahead, so plan early
• Age restriction: only for those over 19

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour packs a lot into roughly seven hours, giving you a genuine taste of Ottawa’s local wine and cider scene without feeling rushed. It kicks off at the Totem Pole of Canada at 10:30 am, making it convenient for those staying downtown or nearby.

First stop: Ottawa’s Buyers + Cellars Tasting Room

The tour begins in the heart of Ottawa at this cozy yet eclectic spot. It’s described as a “unique hideaway,” and from what we can tell, it offers a large and varied selection of hand-crafted wines. The emphasis here is on quality and variety, meaning you’ll likely get to sample different styles, possibly from small producers or local favorites. Since the tasting is free, it’s more about the experience than the cost—plus, it’s a good way to get a feel for the local wine culture without any pressure.

Second stop: KIN Vineyards

Next, the group heads to the Ottawa Valley to visit KIN Vineyards, which is known for its sustainable and biodynamic approach. This is a highlight for anyone interested in environmentally conscious farming and wine production. The two-hour visit includes a tasting of their wines, likely complemented by a chance to learn about the effort it takes to produce high-quality, eco-friendly wine.

From a review standpoint, the lunch and extra learning session at KIN was especially appreciated, with one reviewer mentioning that the pizza tasted excellent and the experience was “great.” So, it’s not just about tasting but also about understanding the process behind these wines.

Final stop: Farmgate Cider and Orchard

The last part of the day is spent at a family-operated cider orchard, which adds a warm, community-oriented touch. You’ll tour the orchard, learn about cider production, and enjoy tastings of local, handcrafted cider. The setting likely offers a more relaxed, rustic vibe, perfect for winding down the day.

This stop also includes a chance to see the orchard—a real treat if you’re into local agriculture and want to see where the apples come from. The review highlights that this family-run spot is all about community and community values, making it a heartfelt conclusion to your day.

What Really Works Well

Based on reviews and the experience described, the excellent selection of wines and ciders is a major plus. One reviewer summed it up simply: “The cider were very tasty as well!” It seems that the quality and variety of drinks are genuinely impressive, making it worth the price of $132.21 per person.

Plus, the inclusion of lunch is a big win. It’s not just a snack, but a full meal that complements the tastings—making the day feel well-rounded. The pizza at KIN Vineyards, in particular, appears to have delighted many.

Another attractive feature is the educational element—learning about biodynamic vineyards and cider orchards adds depth to the experience. For those interested in sustainability and craft production, this adds value beyond just sipping drinks.

Group and logistics

The tour keeps the group size manageable, with a maximum of 40 travelers, which is nice for having a more personal experience. The tour is also convenient for those with transportation needs, with parking available but also near public transit.

Booking and flexibility

Most travelers book about 148 days in advance—which suggests it’s in high demand—and the free cancellation policy offers some peace of mind if plans change.

The Not-So-Great Bits

While this tour hits many high notes, there are a few considerations. For one, it’s a long day—around 7 hours—which might be tiring for some. If you’re not used to extended wine tastings or don’t want to spend most of the day sitting or traveling, this could feel a bit much.

Plus, since it’s focused on adults over 19, it’s not suitable for families or those traveling with minors. If you’re looking for a family-friendly experience, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

Lastly, the tour involves travel time between locations, so it’s more about the experience of visiting each stop than just relaxing at one venue. If you prefer a more leisurely, less structured outing, some might find this itinerary a little packed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy wine and cider, are interested in learning about local producers and sustainable farming methods, and appreciate a relaxed but informative day. If you like trying a variety of drinks and are keen on good food—like the well-reviewed pizza—this tour could hit the spot.

It also appeals to those who like a bit of education along the way, especially if you’re interested in how biodynamic vineyards and family-run orchards operate. Since the tour involves walking through orchards and vineyards, being comfortable on your feet for a bit is helpful.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that combines tastings, learning, and good food. The quality of the drinks and the friendly, community-focused stops make it stand out. It’s especially appealing if you’re a wine or cider enthusiast or simply curious about local beverages and sustainable farming practices.

If you’re after a full-day outing that’s both fun and educational, and you don’t mind spending a bit longer exploring, this could be a fantastic choice. Just remember to pace yourself, especially with tastings, and perhaps save some room for the delicious food you’ll likely enjoy along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
No, since the tour is only for those over 19, and it focuses on wine and cider tastings, it’s not ideal for non-drinkers.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel, tastings, and lunch.

Does the tour include transportation between stops?
You’ll travel between the tasting room, vineyard, and orchard, but the details about the transportation type aren’t specified—it’s part of the scheduled experience, so expect some time in transit.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, parking is available at the Indigo Market Parking Garage for a fee.

What should I bring?
Bring a valid ID (over 19), comfortable shoes for walking, and perhaps a small bag for any purchases.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, which gives you some flexibility.

If this sounds like your kind of day, booking ahead is wise given its popularity. It’s a genuine way to experience Ottawa’s local beverage scene, and those who love a good drink and a bit of learning will likely find it well worth the price.