Ottawa might be better known for its political history and Parliament Hill, but it’s also a surprisingly good spot for wine and cider tours.
The city’s proximity to Ontario’s wine country, combined with local cideries, means you don’t have to travel far for a taste of the region’s best products. We especially like the Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour for its comprehensive experience and relaxed pace.
It offers a deep dive into Pontiac’s family-run wineries and cider mills, with plenty of tastings and engaging stories about the region.
Plus, the small-group format means more personal attention and a chance to really connect with the producers. If you want an all-in-one day with smooth transport, insight, and great food, this tour is a winner.
For those seeking a more local, hands-on feel, the Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour shines for its focus on Ottawa Valley vineyards and family-run cider orchards. It combines a guided vineyard visit with tastings and a delicious lunch, perfect for travelers who want to learn about winemaking and cider production in a scenic setting.
Finally, the Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour offers a balanced mix of Ottawa-based tastings, a biodynamic vineyard, and a cozy cider farm, ideal for those looking for a well-rounded day with a touch of sustainability.
Quick Overview
The list below features three top-rated wine and cider tours around Ottawa:
– The comprehensive Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour, known for its family-run wineries and cideries.
– The Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour, focusing on Ottawa Valley vineyards and orchards with a relaxed pace.
– The Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour, blending Ottawa tastings with a biodynamic vineyard and a charming cider farm.
1. Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau
This full-day Pontiac wine and cider tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Pontiac’s family-run wineries and cider mills. It’s designed for those who want to sample high-quality local products without the hassle of driving. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Ottawa or Gatineau, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.
The itinerary features three distinctive stops: Domaine de Pontiac Village, where you’ll try three wines and explore a vintage car museum; Little Red Wagon Winery, offering five wine tastings paired with a cheese and charcuterie board; and Cidrerie Coronation Hall, housed in a historic dance hall, with tastings of hard, hopped, and sweet ciders alongside apple pie or crumble.
What sets this tour apart is its emphasis on regional authenticity, with visits to family-run operations and a detailed look at the region’s cultural history. Plus, the included lunch and snacks mean you won’t leave hungry.
Rated 5/5 by previous participants, it’s praised for its friendly guide, engaging stops, and the ability to taste a variety of products without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for wine and cider enthusiasts who want to learn and enjoy in a relaxed, small-group setting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full day of diverse tastings, storytelling, and easy logistics, making it a top pick in Ottawa.
2. Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour
This Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour offers a taste of Ottawa Valley’s vineyards and cider orchards with a focus on local production. It’s slightly more intimate, with a smaller group, and includes visits to a vineyard and a family-run cider farm. It’s a good choice for those who want to combine wine and cider tasting while enjoying scenic views and learning about the local winemaking process.
The tour features a guided visit to a vineyard where you’ll learn about sustainable and biodynamic techniques—a rare focus that appeals to environmentally conscious travelers. You’ll sample a variety of regional wines and ciders, complemented by a flatbread and wood oven pizza lunch that emphasizes local ingredients.
The visit to a family-operated cider orchard offers insight into cider-making traditions, with tastings that highlight the orchard’s craftsmanship.
Most reviewers appreciate the educational aspect, especially the opportunity to see how local wines and ciders are made. The tour runs about 7 hours, making it a manageable but enriching experience. The emphasis on local voices and small-scale production makes this tour especially suitable for curious travelers wanting a more personalized, farm-to-glass experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting to explore Ottawa’s local wine and cider scene in a relaxed, informative setting—all with a tasty lunch included.
3. Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour
Our third choice, Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour, balances city-based and rural tastings in a full-day itinerary. It begins at the Buyers + Cellars Tasting Room in Ottawa, which offers a curated selection of handcrafted wines. This stop is great for those who want to kick off their day with a variety of unique wines without leaving the city.
Next, the tour moves to KIN Vineyards in Ottawa Valley, renowned for its sustainable and biodynamic practices. You’ll learn about the effort involved in producing high-quality wines in Ontario and enjoy a two-hour vineyard visit and tastings. The final stop is Farmgate Cider, a family-run orchard where you’ll tour the farm and sample ciders in a cozy setting.
Rated 5/5 based on limited reviews, this tour appeals to those who want a more urban experience combined with rural tastings, and a focus on eco-friendly practices. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a balanced experience with a mix of city charm and rural authenticity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want to combine Ottawa’s urban wine scene with rural vineyard visits, especially if you’re interested in sustainability and small producers.
How to Choose Your Ottawa Wine Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests and how much you want to explore. If you’re after a comprehensive day with multiple tastings and a focus on regional culture, the Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour offers excellent value and variety.
Looking for a more local, farm-to-glass experience? The Ottawa: Local Wine and Cider Tour has an intimate, laid-back vibe, perfect for learning about sustainable practices.
Meanwhile, if you prefer a blend of city and countryside with an eco-conscious twist, Ottawa’s Wine and Cider Tour provides a balanced itinerary with a touch of city flavor.
Think about your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you’re more interested in learning about production or simply enjoying tastings. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular tours.
Ottawa offers a surprisingly diverse selection of wine and cider experiences that cater to all tastes. Whether you prefer a full-day adventure through Pontiac’s wineries, a scenic local vineyard tour, or a balanced mix of city and rural tastings, these options are sure to satisfy.
For a relaxed, educational, and delicious escape, any of these tours will make your trip memorable. Just remember to book ahead—these tours fill up quickly, especially in good weather.