Our Signature Varieties

Origin, Quality, Authenticity

More than just a stamp on a bottle, VQA Ontario sets standards to maintain the integrity of authenticity for locally grown Ontario wine – that’s proudly 100% from here. At VQA, they’re appellation obsessed.

Origin

To help you understand the unique characteristics of Ontario wines, every VQA wine label shows where the grapes are grown – just look for the appellation name between the VQA letters on the label.

Quality

VQA enforces winemaking standards and label integrity through a rigorous certification program that you can trust. When you see VQA on the bottle, you’ll know that it’s passed intensive testing to ensure the highest of wine standards.

Authenticity

Every VQA wine is crafted from 100% Ontario-grown grapes, so you can feel confident and proud that it’s an authentic local wine.

Our Signature Varieties

Ontario produces most of the international varieties that you know and love – but every region has its favourites. Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc and Gamay Noir each bring Ontario’s unique wine story to life by reflecting the place it is grown. Ontario also produces stunning examples of Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

CHARDONNAY

Ontario’s cool climate produces world class Chardonnay, bar none. • Flavours: Apple, pear & peach • Unoaked styles are fresh; oaked styles are richer; sparkling wine made with Chardonnay is classic

RIESLING

Quintessentially fresh, crisp & aromatic, Riesling is considered to be one of the world’s greatest white wines. • Flavours: Citrus, peach & green apple • Ontario has a wide range of styles from dry to off-dry to sweet

PINOT NOIR

Ontario Pinot Noir is sheer elegance and this noble grape expresses the different terroir of Ontario perfectly. • Flavours: Cherry, raspberry & earthiness • Light to medium-bodied & food-friendly

CABERNET FRANC

The aristocratic parent of Cabernet Sauvignon is the soul of Ontario’s reds. • Flavours: Raspberry, chocolate & spice • Medium to full-bodied, bright acidity & silky tannins

GAMAY NOIR

Fruity, floral & earthy, Gamay has been described as the “next big thing” in Ontario. • Flavours: Cherry, blackberry & violet • Bright acidity, easy drinking & flavourful