Malivoire Wine Company — Attraction in Lincoln

I was really excited when I first came across this winery—it looked super cute, and the staff were very friendly. I was looking for a venue to host a girls’ get-together the day before my wedding, and this seemed like the perfect spot. From the beginning, I was in touch with Caitlin, and I shared everything I was looking for: the event style, food options, cost, and general logistics. A few months before the event, my Maid of Honour and I visited to check out the space and try the wine. Caitlin was incredibly welcoming and took the time to walk us through everything. She mentioned that, weather permitting, we’d be out on the patio—and if not, we’d move inside (though the indoor space is mostly standing room with just a few tables).

We were really pleased after that visit and decided to book Malivoire for the event, keeping our fingers crossed for good weather (which luckily worked out, and we did enjoy the patio!).

Leading up to the day, communication via email and conversations with Caitlin were smooth and clear. However, the actual day of the event didn’t unfold quite as I had expected. When we arrived, my group and I stood near the entrance, unsure of what to do, and before we were even seated, the staff began taking our drink orders. It felt rushed and uncoordinated. I eventually asked for Caitlin, and another staff member said they would get her, but she never came out during the event. I was only told afterward that she had been in meetings. I wish that information had been shared with me earlier—it felt like a bit of a letdown not seeing or hearing from her after so much prior coordination.

Another issue was a discrepancy in the drink options. Caitlin had told me the girls could order whatever they liked—whether that was a flight, a glass of wine, or a non-alcoholic option. But when the server came to our table, she told us each person could only order one item. This was surprising and didn’t match what I’d been told. I privately brought this up with the server, expressing my concerns about how disorganized things felt. She assured me everything was organized, but I had to disagree—it didn’t feel that way at all, and unfortunately, that exchange left me a bit deflated for the rest of the event. It was disappointing to feel like not everyone was on the same page about expectations, especially after so much preparation.

One moment that really stood out (and not in a great way) was when I asked for water for the table. The server told me everyone could go get water themselves from a separate area outside. For a group of 14 people, that felt a bit unreasonable. At any other similar venue, water would typically be served to the table.

That said, one absolutely incredible part of the day was Mark from The Cheesy Guys, the food truck at Malivoire. He knocked it out of the park! The charcuterie board he put together was stunning and delicious—everything homemade, with help from his lovely wife. There was an amazing variety of cheeses, crackers, bread, fruits (fresh and dried), veggies, jams, and spreads. He even replenished the board throughout the event at no extra cost. I’d give Mark a full 5-star review. The almonds were my personal favourite—they had the most amazing homemade...

We experienced our first true Malivoire experience during the 2020 Ice Wine Festival, where my husband and I agreed that their 2018 Gewürztraminer Icewine was the best ice wine we tasted over our winery passport. Affectionately known at the winery as 'their liquid gold'. While there, we took advantage of their tasting room, sampling the Che Bello and the Gamay's. We left with a few bottles! Their customer service and attention to detail is fantastic, and it helps that you can pick up some cheese to accompany your wine right on site. A few months after our visit, we were left wanting more and the free shipping of 6+ bottles during COVID helped us in stocking up our wine fridge. I've recommended a stop at Malivoire to all friends and family heading to Niagara, or looking to purchase a bottle or two online. It's truly an underrated gem!

A few of our favourite bottles: The Che Bello ($17.95) Sparkling is a must try, especially at the under $20 price. Simple, light and refreshing. The Musque Spritz ($24.95) is another hit for the perfect summer backyard patio day at home during quarantine. Similar to the Che Bello, it's filled with unexpected deliciousness and is very light to the taste. Small Lot Gamay ($21.95) - I'm a big red fan and this hits all the notes. Stouck Viognier ($24.95) - Big fan of viognier and Niagara viognier is hard to find at the LCBO. Take advantage when at the winery to find this beauty. Hints of tangerine, pear and ginger...Mmm.

Highly recommend a visit! You won't be...

Following a disappointing experience at another nearby winery, I have to say—Malivoire Winery completely turned our afternoon around and deserves every bit of praise.

From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed—not just as guests, but as a family. The staff was incredibly friendly, attentive, and genuinely accommodating. I wish I had caught all of their names because everyone we interacted with was fantastic. The one person I do remember was (I believe) the hospitality manager—a kind brunette woman who went out of her way to ensure we felt comfortable after hearing about our earlier experience. Her kindness truly stood out and made a lasting impression on us.

The setting was beautiful, the atmosphere was relaxed, and the fact that children were not only welcomed but embraced made all the difference. It felt like a place where everyone—adults and children alike—could enjoy themselves without judgment or restriction.

The wine was exceptional, the venue was stunning, and the hospitality was second to none. As a local, I can confidently say we’ll be back—and we’ll be recommending Malivoire Winery to all our friends and family. It’s rare to find a place that gets everything right, but this one absolutely did.

Thank you to the entire Malivoire team for turning our day into something...