Looking for some EPIC Inspiration? We’ve got you covered! EPIC Wineries (Essex Pelee Island Coast) was created in March 2012 and took over for the previously named SWOVA (Southwestern Ontario Vintners Association) which was initially established in 1993. EPIC’s main purpose is to promote and support the wine industry here in Essex – Pelee Island.
Another focus of EPIC is to organize special events that share our beautiful, unique region. It’s the perfect stay-cation for you to explore if you’re local or a great little road trip from much of Ontario.
That’s EPIC. So what’s LENS? LENS – Lake Erie North Shore, is the wine appellation in which you will find EPIC Wineries.
Lake Erie North Shore & the South Islands
At the same latitude as the Mediterranean, the Lake Erie North Shore Region is nestled along Lake Erie. This location provides a unique maritime climate in a continental region, with exceptional soil conditions, and longer sun hours and greater heat units than any other area in Canada. In fact, geographically speaking, this region is located as far south as northern California and the Tuscany region of Italy, and further south than the renowned Bordeaux and Burgundy wine regions of France.
As a result, grape growers in the Lake Erie North Shore and Pelee Island Designated Viticultural Areas grow some of the world’s finest vinifera and French hybrid wine grapes. These varieties continually and reliably produce award-winning, world-class wines, including naturally produced ice wines.
EPIC Wine Pass
Welcome to EPIC Wine Country and the passport to sip your way through 8 of Canada’s most southern wineries. Your tasting pass will guide you through the unique flavours and hospitality found in the Lake Erie North Shore and South Islands viticulture areas. Savour a flight of four wines from each winery and enjoy exclusive savings and offers throughout the year. Each pass is delivered instantly via text message or email and is valid for 365 days from purchase. No need to download an app because the pass is accessible on your phone wherever you go. In just seconds, your pass is in hand and you are ready for wine!
- Redeem tastings and discover EPIC Wineries with the touch of a button
- Valid for 1 year after purchase
- Valid for a wine flight (4 x 1oz) at each location (8)
- Exclusive offers and discounts
For all the details, visit EPIC Wineries Tasting Pass
EPIC Ideas
We’ve been honoured to host some new friends in our region who have captured their experiences to share with you. Check out their blogs for some epic inspiration.
Pelee Island, Your Adventure Awaits – Angie Taylor shares some of her favourite stops on both the mainland and Pelee Island in her blog.
Wine Lovers Getaway – The Curious Creature joins up with Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) for a fabulous escape in our EPIC region.
Whether you choose to visit our EPIC wine region for a day, weekend or longer, we look forward to welcoming you and sharing its beauty with you.
Cheers!
Pssttt… Don’t forget! While you’re here to sign up for our Birthday Club and receive a $20 Gift Voucher for your birthday!