Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County, known locally as The County, sits at the eastern end of Lake Ontario, south of Belleville. It is Ontario's northernmost appellation and became a recognised appellation of origin under Ontario's VQA system in 2007. Its boundaries include the County, Amherst Island and a narrow strip of land to the north. Lake Ontario and southwesterly breezes across the Bay of Quinte temper the cool growing season, though winter cold and spring and autumn frost remain major concerns. Growers may bury vines for winter protection. Broken limestone lies beneath stony soils filled with rock and shale fragments. The ground warms early in spring and lets winter meltwater drain away. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Cabernet Franc are common varieties. Chardonnay ranges from barrel-aged to unoaked, fermented with the grape skins and sparkling styles. White wines can show floral or herbal notes with balanced acidity. Pinot Noir can have a mineral finish, while County reds tend toward lighter body, higher acidity and lower alcohol. On a label, VQA Prince Edward County identifies grapes from this appellation. VQA Ontario is the broader designation.