Charlottetown, on Prince Edward Island, might be better known for its charming streets and seafood, but it’s also a surprisingly good spot for wine and spirits tours. Thanks to the island’s fertile lands and dedicated producers, you can explore everything from vineyards to distilleries, often with a view.
We particularly like the Central PEI Winery, Brewery, and Distillery Tasting Tour DE’ Force for its personalized experience and variety, or the Central PEI Winery, Apiary and Mead Tasting Tour if you’re keen on trying honey wines and visiting an apiary. Both offer a taste of PEI’s craftsmanship with the added bonus of hassle-free transportation and a local guide.
PEI’s wine scene might be smaller than in some regions, but it offers authentic, locally made drinks that tell a story. Whether you’re into wines, craft beers, or spirits, these tours give you an inside look at PEI’s burgeoning beverage scene—perfect for connoisseurs or curious newcomers alike.
Quick Overview
Our list includes two private tours, each lasting about five hours, that focus on different aspects of PEI’s alcohol production. One highlights wines, spirits, and beers, while the other explores honey, mead, and cider. Both tours are private, customizable, and include round-trip transportation from Charlottetown, making for an easy, relaxed experience.
For a detailed look, see Central PEI Winery, Brewery, and Distillery Tasting Tour DE’ Force and Central PEI Winery, Apiary and Mead Tasting Tour.
1. Central PEI Winery, Brewery, and Distillery Tasting Tour DE’ Force
At number one on our list is this private 5-hour tour that offers a comprehensive look at PEI’s spirits scene. The tour includes visits to five different spots, including a family-owned winery, a craft distillery, and a small brewery—each known for their unique approach to making wine, beer, and spirits.
The Matoss Winery & Distillery is notable for its family-run atmosphere and careful attention to the growing conditions that create PEI’s signature flavors. Learn more about this experience here.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized, hassle-free transport—your own driver in a comfortable vehicle means no worries about designated drivers or parking. The visits are concise but immersive, with tastings included at each stop, giving you a real sense of PEI’s craftsmanship.
The Barnone Brewery, with its rolling hills setting, offers a chance to sample small-batch beers and hop varieties, while the Deep Roots Distillery produces award-winning spirits from local ingredients. Plus, a stop at Canoe Cove Honey adds a sweet twist with honey and craft liqueurs.
This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience with a focus on quality and local flavor. The price reflects the private setup, making it a good deal for couples or small groups who want to sample PEI’s best.
Bottom line: If you want a tailored, leisurely tour with a variety of spirits and a taste of PEI’s family-run producers, this is your best bet.
2. Central PEI Winery, Apiary and Mead Tasting Tour
Coming in second, this private 5-hour tour emphasizes mead, cider, and honey. It’s an excellent choice if you’re interested in seeing PEI’s apiaries and cideries, along with tasting local honey wines.
The tour visits four unique spots, starting at the Island Honey Wine Company, where you can sample a variety of meads made on-site from local honey—think wildflower, lavender, and apple ciders. Check out the details here.
Next, you’ll visit the Riverdale Orchard, where a farm-hobby turned business produces hard cider from apples grown on PEI. You’ll also stop at Matos Winery, which is a family-run operation specializing in wines crafted from local grapes and fruit. The final visit is to Canoe Cove Honey, where you’re invited into the hives, and even dress in a bee suit if you want to see the bees up close.
What makes this tour appealing is its interactive nature—you get to visit working farms, see the bees, and even buy products directly from the producers. The tour is ideal for nature lovers and those curious about sustainable, farm-based beverages. It offers a personalized experience, with round-trip transport and plenty of opportunities for tasting and shopping.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in honey, cider, and a close-up look at PEI’s apiaries, this tour offers a delightful, hands-on day out.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and budget. The DE’ Force tour is better if you want a broad look at PEI’s spirits scene, including beer, spirits, and wine, and don’t mind spending a bit more for a private, all-included experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer honey, cider, and farm visits, the Apiary and Mead Tour offers a more rustic, interactive experience at a slightly lower cost.
For those on a tighter schedule, both tours are about five hours, and they include hotel pickup and drop-off, so you won’t have to worry about transportation. It’s worth booking early, especially in high season, to ensure your preferred date and group size.
Final Thoughts
Both tours offer a genuine taste of PEI’s local drinks and craftsmanship, with a focus on quality and authenticity. The private nature of each ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. If you’re a spirits enthusiast or someone curious about local honey and cider, these experiences will deepen your appreciation for PEI’s small but mighty beverage scene.
For those looking for a broad overview of the island’s spirits and wines, the DE’ Force tour is a top choice. Conversely, if you prefer farm-to-glass experiences and learning about bee products, the Apiary and Mead tour is perfect.
No matter which you pick, both tours promise a memorable, authentic peep into PEI’s drink-making traditions. Book early, and enjoy exploring the island’s small-scale producers—you’re in for a treat.