When you think of Canadian wine, your mind probably jumps to British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley or Ontario’s Niagara region. But there’s a lesser-known gem just waiting to be discovered: Ottawa.
That’s right — the nation’s capital is surrounded by a growing number of artisanal wineries and cideries, particularly in the nearby Pontiac region of the Outaouais. With rich soil, a cool climate perfect for hardy grape varietals and apples, and a community of passionate producers, this region is proving that you don’t have to travel far for a world-class wine and cider experience.
The Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour: A Hidden Gem
To showcase this emerging scene, we’ve created the Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour — a day-long adventure that takes you deep into the scenic backroads of western Quebec for a true taste of terroir. This curated experience includes visits to three handpicked stops: two family-run wineries and one charming cider mill, all located less than 70 minutes from downtown Ottawa.
Here’s what you can expect:
🍷 11 Generous Tastings of Local Wine & Cider
This isn’t your typical sip-and-spit tour. At each stop, you’ll enjoy generous pours of carefully crafted local wines and ciders — from crisp whites and bold reds to refreshing rosés and ciders. Each tasting is paired with stories and insight from the passionate people behind the bottles.
🍎 Meet the Makers
We go beyond the tasting room. At every stop, you’ll enjoy private tours led by the owners themselves. These aren’t just business operators — they’re vintners, farmers, and artisans who are building a new wine identity for Quebec’s Outaouais region. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at their production methods, vineyards, and philosophies. All in a fun and friendly setting.
🥂 A Full Locally Inspired Lunch
This tour also includes lots of delicious local foods, including a full cheese and charcuterie board, a slice of apple pie, and ice cream.
🚐 Worry-Free Transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau
Let us take care of the logistics. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, so all you have to do is relax and enjoy the ride — and the wine!
Why This Region Deserves More Attention
The Pontiac is a lush, under-the-radar area filled with rolling hills, historic farms, and passionate producers. The climate here lends itself to robust, cool-climate varietals, and the cider scene is thriving thanks to abundant local apple orchards. Unlike busier wine regions, the vibe here is unpretentious, welcoming, and authentic — no crowds, no rush, just a slow and scenic experience.
Plus, with the rise of climate-conscious travel and a growing interest in supporting small-scale producers, now’s the perfect time to explore what’s growing just outside Ottawa.
Discover a New Side of Wine Country
If you’re looking for a unique day trip that combines wine, food, scenery, and story, the Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour is a perfect choice. It’s a chance to experience an emerging wine destination before everyone else catches on — and to support the passionate people who are putting the Pontiac on the wine map.
Ready to sip your way through the Pontiac?
Book your Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour now and discover why Ottawa might just be Canada’s best-kept wine secret.
