The Niagara Peninsula is recognized globally as an outstanding wine producing region. With complex glacial soils and a climate similar to that of Burgundy, the Loire Valley, Oregon and New Zealand, the region is ideal for growing grapes.
Niagara is located between 41-degrees and 44-degrees north latitude. Niagara is on the same latitudinal band as Provence and Langeudoc-Roussillon (France), Chianti Classico (Italy), Rioja (Spain), Oregon (USA), Mendocino Valley (Calif., USA) and Yakima Valley (Washington, USA). Wines grown in such temperate climates can produce superior fruit, with more complexity and intense flavours than in warmer climates.
Niagara temperatures are similar to those of Bordeaux and Burgundy in France. The moderating effects of Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment create an area of moderate temperatures during spring and summer growing seasons. Its rich, fertile soils and unique micro-climate are suitable for growing Vitis vinifera grapes, making Niagara a prime grape-growing region.
The Niagara Escarpment acts as a large reflector of breezes rolling off Lake Ontario, re-directing them back toward the lake and through the vineyards below. Active air flow prevents cold air from settling into low-lying areas and early freezing. In spring, this effect delays the development of grape buds, protecting them from late spring frosts. In the fall, the escarpment effect protects the grapes from early fall frosts, extending the growing season.
The Niagara Peninsula is the largest viticulture area in Canada, accounting for almost three-quarters of Canada’s grape-growing volume. Ten unique growing areas or sub-appellations within the Niagara Peninsula have been identified including areas on the plains close to Lake Ontario and the bench lands of the Niagara Escarpment. In addition to sub-appellations, two "super-appellations" have been created to regulate the use of widely recognized names: Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Escarpment. Approximately 75 % of Ontario’s VQA wineries are located in the Niagara Peninsula.