Redstone Winery & Restaurant
Redstone Winery & Restaurant is renowned for producing high-quality wines in the Niagara Escarpment wine region. Redstone Winery & Restaurant is located in Beamsville, Ontario.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE WINE REGION OF ONTARIO?
Ontario’s wine regions benefit from a unique combination of a moderate climate and diverse geographical features. The Niagara Escarpment and other geographic features also create diverse growing conditions, which is ideal for cultivating different grape varieties. Ontario has focused on growing a wide range of grape varieties, including both classic European varieties and hybrids that are better suited to the local climate. Varieties such as Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir thrive in the region, producing high-quality wines. The wine industry in Ontario has benefited from research and innovation, with organizations like the Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) providing scientific support and studies tailored to the specific needs of the region’s winemakers.
Ontario’s lakes have a moderating effect on the local climate and the vineyards near the lakeshores experience milder temperatures compared to more inland areas. The moderating effect protects vineyards from extreme cold, reducing the risk of frost damage and its impact on grape yields. During summer the cool breezes from the lakes help to temper the heat and help Riesling and Chardonnay. Lakes also have a role in enriching the soils of the surrounding areas.
The soil in Ontario has a high concentration of limestone. Limestone soils tend to have good drainage properties, which can prevent waterlogging and ensure that grapevines don’t suffer from excessive moisture. This controlled water supply can help maintain the balance between vine vigor and grape production. Limestone contains essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can be beneficial for the vine’s health. It can also help regulate the availability of certain nutrients, which might contribute to the specific flavors and aromas in the grapes. Limestone soils typically have a higher pH, which can influence the acidity of the grapes.
ONTARIO’S APPELLATIONS
Ontario’s appellations are geographically defined areas with unique soil and climate conditions that influence the characteristics of the wines produced there.
Niagara Peninsula: This is the largest and most well-known wine region in Ontario, located near the famous Niagara Falls. It is known for its diverse range of wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Icewine.
Prince Edward County: Situated on the northern shore of Lake Ontario, this region benefits from a cooler climate, making it suitable for growing grape varieties like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, as well as some aromatic whites.
Lake Erie North Shore: Located in the southernmost part of Ontario, along the northern shore of Lake Erie, this region is known for its robust red wines and Icewine production.
Niagara Escarpment: This appellation is situated along the Niagara Escarpment, a unique geological formation. The region is known for producing high-quality Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and Chardonnay wines.
Twenty Valley: Also known as the Twenty Mile Bench, this sub-appellation is part of the Niagara Peninsula region. It is recognized for its excellent Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Beamsville Bench: Another sub-appellation of the Niagara Peninsula, the Beamsville Bench is known for its diverse range of wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
Creek Shores: This appellation is located along the southeastern shore of Lake Ontario, known for producing wines from grape varieties like Riesling and Pinot Noir.
Lincoln Lakeshore: Situated along the southern shore of Lake Ontario, this region is recognized for its exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines.
Redstone Winery & Restaurant
Redstone Winery & Restaurant is a popular destination in the heart of Niagara wine country in Ontario, Canada. It’s renowned for its picturesque setting amidst vineyards and its dedication to producing high-quality wines.
Redstone Winery focuses on crafting premium wines using sustainable farming practices. Their vineyards are meticulously managed to produce grapes of exceptional quality, which are then skillfully transformed into a diverse range of wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and more.
Redstone Winery is also home to a fine dining restaurant that offers a farm-to-table culinary experience. The restaurant features seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients sourced from nearby farms and artisan producers. Diners can enjoy exquisite dishes paired with Redstone’s wines, creating a harmonious dining experience that celebrates the best of Niagara’s food and wine culture.
Restaurant Experience
It is Mother’s Day weekend and I am heading to Redstone Winery & Restaurant for lunch. The restaurant is famous for offering a taste of the region’s bounty in a beautiful and welcoming setting.
We are welcomed by a friendly hostess and are seated.
I head to the bar and ask the gentleman what is his top pick for white wine. He brings four glasses to our table to taste. Two are with the 2020 Tawse Riesling and the other with the rose. All three of us decide to go with the Riesling. It turns out the gentleman is none other than Rafael Aparicio, the restaurant manager.
Mackie our amazing server brings the wine. The 2020 Tawse Riesling won the platinum medal at the 2023 National Wine Awards. I can get the fragrance of lime, peach, and apple and it finishes on the tongue of a ripe apple.
Jean orders the Baby Gem Salad for the starter and for the main course the Cremini Mushroom & Blue Cheese Pizza.
An amazing take on Ceasar Salad. Brioche croutons, Caesar dressing, double-smoked bacon, and white anchovy make this the best Ceasar Salad the three of us have ever tasted.
A delectable mix of garlic confit, blue cheese, and rosemary honey. The perfect marriage of salt and sweet.
I ordered the poached leek & apple salad and the roasted cauliflower pizza.
What a beautiful plate. Michelin 3*. The leeks are enticing and melt in the mouth. The savory blue cheese goes well with the apple and quail eggs.
An exquisite pizza with a confit of garlic, spicy Spanish sausage, salsa verde, and Parmigiano cheese.
Debbie orders the braised beef short rib, Bourguignon.
The rib is accompanied by pommes purée, pearl onions, double-smoked bacon, roasted mushrooms, and red wine jus. The rib melts in your mouth and is heavenly and luscious.
The food surpasses all our expectations. It’s time for dessert. We go with the vanilla creme brulee. The lemon shortbread with rosemary takes the dessert to another level.
I am super pleased with the service, the food, the wine, and the dessert.
The restaurant was super busy so I will give it extra points:
The hostess was smiling and friendly
The bussers were happy and smiling
Mackie changed our cutlery for the main course
The washrooms were clean
The table, cutlery, glasses, and linen were impeccable.
I would strongly recommend a visit to this amazing restaurant.
Winery Experiences
If you are visiting just to taste wine then please read this guide on how to enjoy your trip.
Redstone offers yoga in the vineyard, live music, lawn games, vineyard tours, and tasting.
The Terrace is a lovely patio to sip a glass and see the vineyard.
Overall, Redstone Winery & Restaurant is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts and food lovers. It is located at 4245 King Street, Beamsville, Ontario.
