Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour

If you’re considering a day out that combines scenic views, local craftsmanship, and a chance to taste some of Ontario’s best wines and ciders, the Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour might just be the experience you’re looking for. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, the detailed info and glowing reviews paint a pretty inviting picture. It’s designed for those who appreciate good drinks, want to learn a bit about how they’re made, and enjoy spending a relaxing day exploring the countryside and vibrant local businesses.

What really caught my eye are the guided vineyard tour and the visit to a family-run cider orchard—both promise authentic, hands-on experiences that go beyond just sipping. Plus, the lunch of flatbread and wood oven pizza adds a tasty break to the day. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the transportation vehicle’s hard seats, which might be a bit uncomfortable if you’re sensitive or traveling with elderly folks.

This tour seems ideal for wine and cider enthusiasts, curious travelers wanting a relaxed yet educational outing, and those who enjoy sampling local artisanal products. It’s not a family-friendly event, but for adults looking to indulge in Ontario’s beverage scene, it could be just right.

Key Points

• In-depth local experience: Visit a tasting room, a vineyard, and a family-run orchard in one day.
• Learn as you go: The guided tours include insights on wine and cider making, especially focusing on sustainable and biodynamic practices.
• Tastings and pairings: Expect a variety of wine and cider samples, complemented by charcuterie, flatbread, and pizza.
• Scenic and authentic: Enjoy beautiful views along the Ottawa Valley while exploring small, passionate producers.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve now with the option to pay later.
• Ideal for adults: The tour is designed for those of legal drinking age and isn’t suitable for children or pregnant women.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Ottawa Wine and Cider Experience

Starting at the Buyers + Cellars Tasting Room in Ottawa, you’ll find yourself in a relaxed, eclectic space that boasts a large selection of hand-crafted wines. The atmosphere is one of discovery—here, you’ll sample various wines and enjoy some charcuterie. The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciated this intro, with one saying, “Our day was great! We went to three beautiful spots. I love that we could also purchase what we were tasting and more!”

What makes Buyers + Cellars particularly appealing is the chance to explore a collection curated by experienced professionals. It’s an ideal way to warm up your palate and get a sense of the local wine scene. The tasting here is straightforward but rich in variety, and the inclusion of charcuterie makes it a nice touch for savoring the wines.

Next, the tour takes you to KIN Vineyards in the Ottawa Valley. This isn’t just about tasting wine—this is about understanding a philosophy that emphasizes sustainability and biodynamic practices. If you’re curious about what makes Ontario wines special, this stop offers insights into the effort and care that go into the grapes. Visitors can expect to sample some signature wines and enjoy flatbread pairings, which make the experience more than just sipping—it’s about tasting the effort and philosophy behind each bottle.

According to reviews, the guide Sarah was a big highlight of the day, with travelers describing her as “fantastic,” “fun,” and “knowledgeable.” The ability to learn about biodynamic wine production adds a layer of appreciation for what you’re drinking and makes the experience more meaningful.

Finally, the tour wraps up at Farm Gate Cider and Orchard, a cozy, family-run spot where community and tradition are at the heart of everything. Here, you’ll tour the orchard, learn about the cider-making process, and sample six different ciders. The wood-oven pizza served during the tasting is a nice, satisfying touch that balances the fruity, sometimes tart, flavors of the ciders.

One of the standout features, as reflected in reviews, is the warmth and authenticity of the orchard—“a family-operated hotel where community is at the core.” It’s a genuine peek into small-scale, artisanal cider production, which can be a real treat if you’re interested in local food traditions.

What to Expect and Practical Details

The tour lasts about 7 hours, usually starting in the morning, and involves quite a bit of walking and standing, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The group is guided, and the tour is available in both English and French, making it accessible for a diverse range of travelers.

Transportation is part of the experience, but as some reviews note, the vehicle’s seats are quite firm. If you’re traveling with someone who has mobility issues or prefers plush seating, this might be a minor inconvenience. The tour guide wears a red shirt at the meeting point, which is at the Totem Pole at Ottawa’s Byward Market—a lively and central spot, easy to find.

The cost is $128 per person, which covers all tastings, the guided visits, the lunch, and the tour. Considering you’re visiting three different places, sampling a variety of drinks, and enjoying a substantial meal, this feels like fair value for a full day of laid-back learning and tasting. Plus, the flexibility to cancel 24 hours in advance or reserve without immediate payment adds peace of mind.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour the Most?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy wine and cider, and those who want a taste of local Ontario craftsmanship. It’s perfect if you love a leisurely, guided outing that combines education with tasting, and if you appreciate scenic drives through the Ottawa Valley.

It’s not suitable for children, pregnant women, or people with mobility impairments, given the walking involved and the alcohol focus. But if you’re a curious traveler eager to learn how these beverages are made and to support local, small producers, this tour offers a genuine and enjoyable way to spend a day.

Final Thoughts

The Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour offers a wonderful slice of Ontario’s artisanal beverage scene. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful scenery, and thoughtfully curated tastings, it’s a relaxed way to deepen your appreciation for local wines and ciders. The focus on sustainability and family-run operations adds authenticity that many travelers value.

While the transportation seats might not win awards for comfort, the overall experience—especially for those who love wine and cider—seems well worth it. It’s perfect for adult travelers looking for a full, educational, and delicious day out that highlights the region’s craftsmanship. If you’re in Ottawa and want to explore beyond the city, this tour provides a friendly, well-rounded introduction to some of Ontario’s best small producers.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is strictly for adults of legal drinking age. It’s not suitable for children or pregnant women.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy wine samples and charcuterie at Buyers + Cellars, learn about biodynamic wine practices at KIN Vineyards with wine and flatbread pairings, tour the Farm Gate Cider orchard, sample six ciders, and have wood-oven pizza.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 7 hours, typically in the morning, giving plenty of time to explore and enjoy each stop.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

Where does the tour meet?
Meet at the totem pole at Ottawa’s Byward Market. The guide wears a red shirt, making it easy to spot.

Is the transportation comfortable?
The vehicle offers a scenic ride, but some reviews mention the seats are quite firm, so plan accordingly if you’re sensitive to seating comfort.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and your ID. No smoking or outside alcohol is allowed during the tour.

If you’re after a relaxed day of tasting, learning, and connecting with Ontario’s local wine and cider producers, this tour does a good job of balancing education, scenery, and good company. Cheers to discovering something new and supporting small-scale artisans!

You can check availability for your dates here: