Looking for the best wineries in Essex County? You’re in the right place.
Exploring Ontario’s EPIC Wine Route is part tasting tour, part scenic day trip, and part “how is this not more famous?” moment. And staying at The Grove puts you right in the middle of it all — close to the vineyards, the lake, and your next favourite pour.
This is our go-to list. The places we send our guests. The ones we keep going back to.
Whether you’re here for a full wine weekend or just one very good afternoon, these wineries deliver.
Planning a wine country stay? Start with our Ontario wine country stays →
Welcome to EPIC Wine Country
The EPIC (Essex Pelee Island Coast) Wine Region is a celebrated wine destination located in the southernmost part of Ontario, Canada, along the picturesque shores of Lake Erie. This unique region, encompassing the communities of Essex, Pelee Island, and the surrounding coastal areas, is renowned for its ideal microclimate for viticulture. The moderating effects of Lake Erie create perfect conditions for growing high-quality grapes, contributing to the production of some of the finest wines in Ontario.
The EPIC Wine Region boasts a rich winemaking heritage that dates back to the 19th century, with over a dozen wineries offering a diverse array of varietals and tasting experiences. Visitors can immerse themselves in the scenic beauty of the vineyards, enjoy guided tours, and participate in wine tastings that highlight the region’s distinctive terroir. Beyond wine, the area is known for its warm hospitality, charming rural landscapes, and a thriving local food scene that perfectly complements the wine offerings.
Located in Kingsville and Colchester, The Grove puts you minutes from Essex County’s top wineries along the EPIC Wine Route. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a casual traveler looking to explore new flavors, the EPIC Wine Region promises an unforgettable experience. For those seeking more detailed information about the wineries, events, and activities in the area, be sure to visit the EPIC Wine Region’s official website.
Want to skip the driving? Check out our wine tour package →
Our Favourite Wineries on Lake Erie’s North Shore
The best wineries in Essex County include Oxley Estate Winery, Colchester Ridge Estate Winery (CREW), North 42, Sprucewood Shores, and Kingscoast Winery. Located along Ontario’s EPIC Wine Route, this region is one of Canada’s most underrated wine destinations.
Kingscoast Winery
New, polished, and already making waves. Kingscoast is the EPIC Wine Route’s most luxurious newcomer — where great wine meets beautifully designed spaces and just the right amount of “let’s linger here.”
It’s the kind of place that makes your wine weekend feel a little more elevated (without trying too hard). Definitely worth adding to your lineup.
Oxley Estate Winery
A must-visit in any season. Wander the grounds with a glass in hand, settle into the patio (hello, wood-burning fireplace), and don’t skip the food — it’s seriously good.
Colchester Ridge Estate Winery (CREW)
Freshly renovated with big front-and-back porch energy. Perfect for groups, but still cozy enough for a quieter tasting moment.
Muscedere Vineyards
Wood-fired pizza, award-winning wines, and yes—goats. A little off the beaten path, totally worth it. Bonus: kid-friendly and dangerously easy to linger.
Paglione Estate Winery
Italian vibes all year round. Great patio, cozy indoor space, and food worth planning around. Order the arancini. Trust us.
Cooper’s Hawk Vineyards
Wine for you, jungle gym for the kids. A win-win situation with great bites and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Viewpointe Estate Winery
The name says it all. Lake Erie views that steal the show—inside or out. Come for the wine, stay for the sunset.dows inside to take in the sights, or enjoy the grassy property outside on a sunny day!
Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery
Beach picnic energy. Grab a bottle, head to the private beachfront, and pretend you planned this level of relaxation.
North 42 Estate Winery
A little elevated, a little indulgent. The Bistro at 42 pairs seasonal dishes with beautiful vineyard views — perfect for a slower, “let’s stay awhile” stop.stro at 42 has chef-inspired creative seasonal dishes paired with their selection wines, with wonderful views of the winery grounds.
Vin Winery
Tucked in the woods and unapologetically cool. Neon lights, big patio, and a vibe that leans a little more “let’s hang” than “formal tasting.”
3 Perfect Winery Routes from The Grove
Not sure where to start? We’ve mapped out a few easy routes depending on your vibe. No spreadsheets required.
🍷 The “Do It Properly” Wine Day
A little elevated, a little indulgent—this is your slow, scenic, sip-everything kind of day.
–> Start at Oxley Estate Winery for a relaxed tasting and a walk through the grounds.
–> Head to North 42 Estate Winery for a proper lunch (trust us, you’ll want to stay awhile).
–> Finish at Kingscoast Winery for a more refined, end-of-day moment.
Best for: couples, celebrations, “let’s make a day of it”
☀️ The Laid-Back Lakeside Loop
Easy, breezy, and made for sunshine and spontaneous stops.
–> Kick things off at Sprucewood Shores Estate Winery (yes, there’s a beach).
–> Move on to Viewpointe Estate Winery for those classic Lake Erie views.
–> Wrap up at Colchester Ridge Estate Winery (CREW) for a relaxed patio hang – which often includes live music.
Best for: summer days, groups, not rushing anything
🍕 The Fun One (Wine, Food & Good Energy)
A little less structure, a little more “let’s just see where this goes.”
–> Start at Muscedere Vineyards for pizza, wine, and a wander.
–> Stop by Paglione Estate Winery for Italian bites, espresso martinis and gelato.
–> End at VIN Winery for a more playful, vibey finish.
Best for: friends, groups, food lovers, and anyone who says “one more stop” at least twice
Want to skip the driving and just enjoy the day? Want us to plan it for you? Explore our wine tour package →
Make It a Weekend 🍷
You could try to hit a few wineries in a day…
or you could do it properly.
Stay at The Grove, take your time, and turn it into a full wine country weekend — no rushing, no coordinating, no drawing straws for who drives.
Explore our Ontario wine country stays → or let us plan it for you with our wine tour package →
