De Simone Vineyards — Attraction in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Wow wow wow! We are NOTL locals (moved here from Toronto) and are wine lovers who have experienced the majority of the vineyards in the area.

One hot summer day, we had guests from TO in town and wanted to treat them to a wine slushy experience. Our go-to was closed for a private event and after Googling a little, we found an article sharing that De Simone offers these.

Unfamiliar with the name, we called and were pleasantly surprised by the friendly welcome over the phone. We decided to head on over and had such a nice greeting from the team working there. We expected to grab-and-go but they were so kind and offered us the patio where there was live music (great too btw).

They introduced us to the winery and since it was newer and previously not on out radar, we weren’t expecting much. But boy oh boy, the service, ambiance, quality of the wine, and entire experience was beyond 5-stars.

I am super picky about chardonnay and have tried several local varieties. I tried it thinking it would be mediocre only to quickly realize after the first sip that it is hands down one of the best chardonnays I’ve ever had.

On top of all this, the whole team here serves with pride and joy which is a reflection of the owner’s leadership who was cleaning the front windows as we arrived.

BEYOND IMPRESSED! I wish you all knew me because I don’t boast like this unless it’s warranted, and believe me - this is warranted.

Thanks De Simone for a wonderful summer...

A small facility producing around 1000 cases per year. What brings me back to this winery time and time again is the authenticity and passion of Vincenzo. He so clearly puts his heart and soul into every aspect of the winery. The wines are excellent, and have earned De Simone several medals at wine shows in their first year of business. While the entire portfolio is strong, I must mention a few standouts. The Riesling blends Escarpment and Niagara-on-the-Lake styles to create something familiar, unique, and wonderful. The Merlot is a smooth and sleek red with elegance and finesse. The Cabernet Franc is an aromatic powerhouse with a nose that goes on for days. And the Vidal Icewine has a concentration and intensity like few others in the region. What I find particularly fascinating is Vincenzo's winemaking approach that combines innovation and tradition. His work with Vidal as both a dessert wine and a quality table wine shows the versatility of the varietal in a way few others do around here. And some of the upcoming wines will certainly impress. In addition to fine wines, there are also preserves and sauces made by the family, locally sourced honey (with some coming from the winery's own hive), olive oil and balsamic, and several other products that will catch your eye and interest. Do yourself a favour and visit De Simone Vineyards on your next visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake. You'll be...

De Simone Vineyards exceeded every expectation and provided an unforgettable experience! From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with warmth and hospitality, setting the tone for an incredible day. The wines were absolutely top-tier—each pour revealed unique flavors and depth that showcased true craftsmanship. We also indulged in their charcuterie board, which was nothing short of perfection, featuring high-quality cheeses, cured meats, and fresh accompaniments that paired beautifully with the wines.

Vincenzo, the owner, went above and beyond to make the tasting personal and enjoyable. His passion for winemaking was contagious, and it felt like we were getting a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the heart of the winery. His stories, humor, and genuine kindness made the experience feel special.

De Simone Vineyards is hands down the best place to stop if you're in the area. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just looking for a cozy, friendly spot to unwind, this place has it all. We will definitely be back and highly recommend it to anyone who wants a top-notch...