I’m going to count down my Top 10 Favourite Wineries to visit in Niagara over the next week and a half, but wanted to set the table with the near-misses to the list.

First off, this is an agonizingly difficult list to piece together. I have visited precious few Niagara region wineries where the experience wasn’t a positive one. And, truth be told, there are still some I’ve yet to experience—and many others I haven’t visited in some time.

What are the qualifying factors? Invariably, if I’m not impressed with their wines, the place is probably not making the list. Conversely, even when the wines have been outstanding, if the service has traditionally been lacking, or the price exorbitant, then they’re probably not making the list either.

So here are my “honourable mentions” that just missed this inaugural ranking:

• Vieni Estate  A couple lesser-known grapes including Aglianico at this Beamsville winery, as well as Italian-style grappas and spirits distilled from the many fruits of Ontario.
• Caroline Cellars  While the wines are solid, the staff and the food (including the fish & chips) at the Farmhouse Café are always wonderful at this charming boutique facility in Virgil.
• Foreign Affair Winery  Among the Ontario wineries specializing in Appassimento-style wines—both red and white. Service is always excellent. Try the Conspiracy, a Ripasso-style of Bordeaux grapes (chiefly Cab Franc and Cab Sauvignon) that provides great value for under $20. And seeing as it’s located just off the QEW, it’s a convenient last-minute stop in or out of wine country.
• Between the Lines  Increasingly known for their canned wines, including sparkling. And the Riesling tends to punch above its weight for the price. Look for the big red barn!
• Wayne Gretzky Estates  Just because it’s such a fun place to visit, with lots to see and do (including ice skating) and plenty of non-wine options (including whisky and beer).
• Honsberger Estate  A variety of farmyard animals wandering inside the fence, star winemaker Kelly Mason shining inside and out, and there are even rows dedicated to rosé. Lots to love here.
• Leaning Post  Pretty much everything that winemaker Ilya Senchuk and his wife Nadia produce is really good, the price points tend to be pretty reasonable and, given its Stoney Creek address, it’s a shorter drive for those coming from the GTA! I’m feeling guilty about leaving this one off the Top 10 list.
• Cave Spring Cellars  Some of the very best Rieslings in Canada, and Jordan’s a fun town! Incidentally, Cave Spring co-founder and CEO Len Pennachetti was recently appointed to the Order of Canada in recognition of his role in developing the Ontario wine industry and for fostering tourism in the Niagara region.
• Cornerstone Estate  A somewhat cozy little tasting room, but the owner Jerry and his daughter are absolutely a joy, and tasting fees tend to be pretty inexpensive. Some unique, occasionally funky wines, but don’t pass on the port!

  Check out all of TheLushLife.ca’s Top 10 Niagara Wineries:

  #1: Domaine Queylus

  #2. Creekside

  #3. Tawse

  #4. Kacaba

  #5. Southbrook

  #6. Vineland

  #7. Colaneri

  #8. Ravine

  #9. Back 10

  #10. Malivoire