Keint-He Winery: A Burgundian Winery

Prince Edward County

Prince Edward County (PEC) is located 220 km east of Toronto. It is just south of Belleville. The ground is atypical with many valleys and the foundation is limestone. The cracked limestone base and the stony soils allow bilge in the spring, take in all the water which allows the vines to go deep in the Indian summer and yields a flavor that is potent, rich, full-bodied and robust. The breeze from Lake Ontario gives maximum benefit to the vineyards of PEC.

As you exit the 401 and go south towards PEC, it is an amazing escape from the boring monotony of the 401. You are transformed into the countryside lined with unique vineyards in a succulent canvas of agrarian serenity.

Welcome to my series on vineyards in PEC. Before you head out to a vineyard please read this guide on how to enjoy your trip. In this series, I will cover the following vineyards: Harwood, Casa-Dea, Rosehall Run, Norman Hardie, By Chadsey’s Cairns and Kent He.

Keint-He Winery & Vineyards

Keint-he is the French take on the word Quinte (Bay of Quinte region).

The focus of Keint-he is to follow in the footsteps of the vineyards in Burgundy. The vineyards at Keint-he were chosen based on geography, the glare of the sun and the type of soil. These slight, ingenious characteristics create a unique grape.

The Big Lake Vineyard planted in 2007 is located at the winery and takes advantage of the airflow from Lake Ontario. At this vineyard Melone de Bourgogne, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are grown.

The Little Creek Vineyard planted in 1997 consists exclusively of Pinot Noir.

The Foxtail Vineyards were planted in 1999 and consists of Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, St. Laurent, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier.

The Pinot Noir produced here has a cosmopolitan tone to it because of the perfect mix of the Burgundian approach with the County climate. The high-density planting and the work with hand results in a balanced wine.

The sun-soaked patio faces the lake and you get snacks. Just sit here for a while and try one of their great Pinot Noirs.

Top Recommendation

Keint-He 2015 ‘Portage’ Pinot Noir

The definition of Pinot Noir from PEC. A Medium body, robust wine good with a nice BBQ.

I am really fascinated by the label. Canoes in a Fog, Lake Superior is painted by Canadian artist, Frances Anne Hopkins (1838-1919).

Keint-he Winery & Vineyards is located at 49 Hubbs Creek Road in Wellington, Ontario.