Badge of Awesome Communities invites you to share your favourite things to see and do in cool destinations around the world. We caught up with the folks from Georgian Hills Vineyeards — one of our featured attractions from Grey County, Ontario — to learn about what they have to offer.

What makes Georgian Hills Vineyards awesome?

Georgian Hills Vineyards: Georgian Hills Vineyards is the Blue Mountain area’s first vineyard and winery, and home of Ardiel Cider House. Our vision was to establish a sustainable winery and vineyards in Beaver Valley, with a long term goal to developing a successful wine industry in the Georgian Bay region. Our region has been recognized as an Emerging Wine Region by the Wine Council of Ontario. 

Our grapes come from the vines growing on the hills overlooking Georgian Bay. The region’s unique terroir of soil and climate influences our wine styles and flavours. With each vintage we create enjoyable wines which express where we come from.

Our vineyard focuses on the cool climate grape varieties of northern Europe that have proven to be hardy and make outstanding wine. Riesling, Chardonnay, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Gamay Noir, Pinot Noir, Baco Noir and Maréchal Foch are the 10 varietals we are proud to craft into a full range of locally grown white, rosé, red and dessert wines.

John Ardiel, one of our founding partners, is a 3rd generation apple grower here in the Beaver Valley. With 260 acres of heritage apples under his care, translating our wine making principles to crafting premium ciders that express tradition and place was natural. 

Our Tasting Room is open 7 days a week. Stop in to find the perfect local wine or cider for your taste and social plan. No reservations required to sample at our tasting bar! Take in the beautiful view of the vineyards, the surrounding hills and a glimpse of the Georgian Bay to the north. You’re welcome to stay a while. Pull up a seat to enjoy a platter of artisanal cheese and charcuterie, or make a reservation for one of our guided tours or tastings.

Visit the Georgian Hills Vineyards website to learn more!