Two weeks ago, I attended the first ever Élevage: PEC Winter Wine Festival in Prince Edward County, Ontario. Over the course of the weekend, 22 producers of wine and cider could be tasted across 7 different venues. Each venue also hosted a local chef to showcase the excellent culinary scene that highlights the history of Prince Edward County’s survival techniques for their long, desolate winters.

This was an incredible event that allows tourists and wine lovers easy access to several of Prince Edward County’s producers at once, which otherwise may be difficult given the distance between them. After this weekend, I’m convinced that the two-day event is the best way to explore the true essence of the County’s best all in one place!

“Directly translating to “raise up”, élevage refers to the aging process wines go through between fermentation and bottling. In Prince Edward County, this typically coincides with the quiet winter months. Élevage: PEC Winter Wine Festival is a celebration of wine in all its stages, through all seasons.”- PECWines.com

Day 1

• Rosehall Run Vineyards hosted Morandin Wines, Stanners Vineyard, and Sandbanks Winery, with chef Chavis Maracle

• Casa-Dea Estates Winery hosted Hillier Creek Estates and Three Dog Winery, with chef Rachel Bies

• Loch Mór Cider Company hosted Trail Estate Winery and Sugarbush Vineyards with chef Rebecca Hunt

• Karlo Estates hosted Keint-he Winery and Gravel Hill Vineyards with vegan food pairings by Karlo Estates

Day 2

• Huff Estates Winery hosted Lighthall Vineyards and The County Cider Company with chefs Leah Marshall Hannon and Lee Arden Lewis

• Closson Chase Vineyards hosted Broken Stone Winery and Hubbs Creek Vineyard with chef Nicole Maracle

• Grange of Prince Edward hosted Lacey Estates and Hinterland Wine Company with chefs Nathan Thomas and Matt DeMille
  

Overall, the Élevage: PEC Winter Wine Festival was filled with continuous, delicious OMG moments! I’m already excited for next year’s event which will be held on Family Day weekend. So, mark your calendars and get your tickets asap…I have a feeling they’ll sell out quickly!