Wine & Cheese Afternoon Wine Tours in NOTL

If you’re headed to Niagara-on-the-Lake and love good wine, you might have come across the Wine & Cheese Afternoon Wine Tours offered by Grape and Wine Niagara Tours Inc. While we haven’t joined this tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed description paint a pretty appealing picture. It’s designed as an easy, enjoyable way to explore some of the best vineyards in the area without rushing, all while learning about wine in a friendly, laid-back setting.

What really catches our eye? First, the knowledgeable guides who add a personal touch and share stories that bring each winery to life. Second, the variety of wines and the cheese pairing—a thoughtful touch that elevates the tasting experience. Of course, as with any experience, there are things to consider, like the fact that it’s not wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for children under 18. But overall, this tour seems like a wonderful fit for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a relaxed day in wine country without the fuss.

If you love discovering new wines, enjoy good company, and appreciate a mix of education and leisure, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s perfect for those who want a bit of everything—tastings, scenery, and stories—packed into a manageable afternoon. Now, let’s take a closer look at what makes this experience tick.

• Expert-guided experience: Knowledgeable guides provide insight into the winemaking process and stories about each vineyard.
• Variety of tastings: Visit three award-winning wineries, sampling reds, whites, and sweet wines.
• Cheeseboard pairing: Enjoy a thoughtfully curated cheeseboard with charcuterie at one of the stops.
• Relaxed pace: The tour offers a leisurely day with no rushing, perfect for savoring each moment.
• Pickups included: Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off from Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake.
• Value for the price: For $122, you get multiple tastings, guidance, transportation, and a memorable experience.

What the Tour Offers

This one-day afternoon tour is tailored for groups of at least two guests—making it a good choice for couples or friends traveling together. Priced at $122 per person, it’s a reasonably priced way to enjoy a curated wine experience without the hassle of planning individual visits.

The tour includes visits to three distinct wineries, each known for their award-winning wines. You’ll get to observe the wine-making process—possibly from the crush to the barrel room—offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into how your favorite wines are crafted. Each winery provides 3-4 wine samples, about 1 oz each, totaling roughly 10-12 oz of wine per person—an ample amount for tasting and savoring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect

While the exact timing isn’t explicitly detailed, we know that the tour runs for about one day with pickups arranged from your hotel or accommodation in Niagara Falls or Niagara-on-the-Lake. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during transit, and the driver/guide will be your host, sharing stories and insights along the way.

The stops are at cottage-style, lesser-known wineries—a potential highlight for those tired of the more commercial spots. These hidden gems often offer a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for conversations and discovering new favorites.

Tasting and Food Pairings

One standout feature is the cheeseboard pairing with charcuterie at one of the wineries. This not only complements the wines but also allows you to indulge in some tasty bites, making the experience more memorable. The guided tastings are designed to be fun and educational—your guide will help you refine your palate, recognize different notes, and understand the nuances of each wine.

Why the Guides Matter

Multiple reviews praise guides like Melissa and Sierra for their knowledge, storytelling, and attentiveness. One reviewer even called Melissa “amazing,” highlighting her ability to weave in stories about Niagara-on-the-Lake and to make everyone feel taken care of. Having a guide who is personable and knowledgeable can significantly enhance the experience, making it both educational and enjoyable.

Practicalities and Considerations

The included pickup and drop-off mean you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics, especially if you’re staying in Niagara Falls. However, it’s worth noting that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t suitable for children under 18, so plan accordingly.

The cancelation policy is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This adds a bit of reassurance if your plans are still in flux.

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What’s Noteworthy

While the tour offers a relaxed, guided experience, it’s important to know that the sampling size is about 1 oz per glass, so don’t expect to get drunk—it’s about savoring and learning, not heavy drinking. Also, as the review from Latisha mentions, the day is “like stepping into a romantic movie,” emphasizing the experience’s charm more than its party vibe.

The Real-World Value

For the $122 ticket, you’re getting multiple tastings, expert guidance, transportation, and a cheese pairing—a package that offers good value, especially considering the personalized attention and the chance to visit award-winning wineries. If you’re someone who enjoys wine, appreciates learning more about it, and prefers a relaxed pace, this tour probably hits the right notes.

This experience suits wine enthusiasts eager to explore Niagara’s vineyards without the stress of planning. It’s ideal if you’re after a leisurely afternoon with plenty of tastings and storytelling, especially if you want to avoid overly commercialized wine tours. It’s also great for couples or small groups who enjoy a bit of luxury, good conversation, and a scenic drive through grape country.

However, if you’re wheelchair user, or traveling with children under 18, this might not be the best fit. Also, keep in mind that the tour focuses on wine and cheese, so if you’re looking for a more active or diverse experience beyond tastings, you may want to explore other options.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, as it involves wine tasting.

Are the wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, all tasting fees are included in your ticket price, so no surprise extra charges.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, and the vehicle is air-conditioned for comfort.

How many wineries will we visit?
You’ll visit three different wineries, each offering 3-4 wine samples.

What types of wines will I taste?
You’ll sample a variety of reds, whites, and sweet wines—enough to get a good sense of Niagara’s offerings.

How much wine will I taste in total?
Expect about 10-12 oz of wine throughout the tour, which is plenty for tasting and enjoying.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, which makes last-minute planning easier.

Is this tour good for a romantic date?
Many reviews hint at a romantic vibe—especially with the scenic drive and intimate vineyard stops—making it a lovely choice for couples.

The Wine & Cheese Afternoon Wine Tours in NOTL from Grape and Wine Niagara Tours Inc. seem like a lovely way to spend a laid-back afternoon exploring Niagara’s wine scene. It’s especially suited for those who love wine, enjoy a quiet pace, and appreciate good storytelling. The combination of visiting three different wineries, sampling a range of wines, and enjoying a cheese pairing offers a well-rounded experience that balances education and relaxation.

While it’s not designed for those with mobility issues or children, the tour’s focus on intimate vineyard visits and guided tastings can make for a memorable, enjoyable day. You’re paying a fair price for an experience that feels personalized and relaxed—perfect for savoring the moment, not rushing through it.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or just looking for a peaceful escape into wine country, this tour offers a comfortable and enjoyable way to do it. Just remember to sit back, sip slowly, and enjoy the stories and flavors along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here: