Wineries and distilleries are a unique location for your next photoshoot. They are in a category totally of their own. With such distinct characteristics and photo opportunities, these locations create such a captivating photo experience.
Most Southern Ontario wineries are located in the Niagara region while some others are in the Whitchurch-Stouffville area and Prince Edward County. Each offers a unique representation of their brand along with long lines of vineyards and vibrant greenery. Over the years, many have also invested in their properties in order to attract more business and foot traffic. Adding features such as ponds, gazebos, patios, and restaurants as well as services such as wine tours and overnight facilities, each winery strives to tell its own unique story.
One of a winery’s best assets is its wine cellars. The underground area where barrels of wine are stored is such an inviting indoor photo area for creative and dramatic images.
To organize a photo session at one of these locations, you will need to arrange it ahead of time with the winery and may need to obtain a photography permit.
These wineries are increasingly a popular location for engagement sessions and even intimate weddings. It is large enough to host an event but still small enough to be able to customize the experience for each client. These are also a great location for family photos. There is an abundance of space on the properties for the kids to wander freely while still being easily supervised.
While their final products may be similar, distilleries actually offer are far different setting for your photoshoot. Most of the appeal comes from the actual building as opposed to the grounds of the vineyard. The inside decor is a focus along with the business of packaging the spirits and the experience of tastings too. A distillery might be more tailored towards clients looking for an intimate modern-urban look. Distilleries have been utilized for intimate weddings and one-of-a-kind, creative engagement sessions. These spaces do not really lend themselves well to family photos. Photography permits are required at all of these locations.
In the end, all of these locations help to complement and enhance your overall photo session experience. Nevertheless, they are not the most important part of your photo session. You and your family are. With this in mind, to assist my repeat and future clients, or truthfully any visitor on this site, I have compiled a list of over 20+ wineries and distilleries locations that I have personally worked in. Most of these locations are in Southern Ontario and the Greater Toronto Area as this is the base of my past photography experience. The list is frequently updated as my clients continue to explore new locations.
All photography locations are listed in 6 major groups based on their feel, characteristics, main key points, and what each location can offer.In each location write-up, I’ve included: An image that was taken at this location by me personally, key points that I have found each site can offer, a link to a blog from a full photo session at that location, who would benefit most from the area, the photography location’s official website for you to further explore, and a Google Maps link to access it directly. In the end, I have listed a handful of wineries and distilleries photography locations that are on my “bucket list” to photograph in the near future.
WINERIES AND DISTILLERIES
TWO SISTERS VINEYARDS, NIAGARA ON THE LAKE
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, estate is located at the northern tip of the Niagara River sub-appellation bordered by the Niagara River to the East and Lake Ontario to the North, the river’s flow creates air convection currents which create moderate temperatures and draw cold air away from vineyards and into the river gorge, to the north, breezes from Lake Ontario provide a reliable and widely distributed moderating effect on temperatures throughout the seasons, perfectly kept gardens, well maintained grass and access area, access to the wine filed, access to the wine cellar, restaurant access, photography permit require. Perfect for couples and weddings.
To see a full session at this wineries and distilleries location click here.
CREEKSIDE ESTATE WINERY, LINCOLN
Key Points: Easy access, large free parking, the winery, located in Jordan, Ontario, has become a wine lover’s destination, located slightly off the beaten path, but still in the heart of Niagara wine country, Creekside Estate Winery opened in 1997, the Winery is run by a passionate (some say fanatical) group of industry veterans who have decades of experience in their respective fields. The team of self-described cork dorks love what they do, and have fun doing it, the winery is decidedly non-conformist; dogs are welcome, the BBQ’s always ready, early successes spurred further investment in the vineyard and cellar, large grassed areas, low cost photography permit, pets friendly, cellar access as a indoor option. Perfect for families, couples and weddings.
To see a full session at this wineries and distilleries location click here.
GALLUCCI WINERY, WHITCHURCH – STOUFFVILLE
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, gazebo, pond, access to the vineyard fields, perfectly kept gardens, well maintained grass and access areas, fountain, elevated wooden deck for vineyard overlook, low cost photography permit, situated just 30 minutes north of downtown Toronto, unlikely gem of a winery located in Stouffville Ontario, a family-owned and operated business, offers a variety of wines for every wine lover’s palate. No indoor availability. Perfect for families, couples and weddings.
To see a full session at this wineries and distilleries location click here.
TRIUS WINERY, NIAGARA ON THE LAKE
Key Points: Easy access, large free parking, over 27 years Trius Red, a Bordeaux blend-inspired wine produced by Hillebrand Winery, enter the international wine scene when it became the first-ever Canadian vintage to be recognized as the Best Red Wine in the World, iconic,Inspired, innovative, large grassed areas, low cost photography permit, access to the vineyard field, outdoor cellar view, raised platform for overlooking the vineyards, dining area for intimate shot, the all-new Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery and Distillery right next door and Peller Estates Winery is a short, scenic 15-minute drive away. Perfect for couples and weddings.
To see more at this wineries and distilleries location click here.
DISTILLERY DISTRICT, TORONTO
Key Points: Easy access, pay parking, the pedestrian-only Distillery District, set in quaint 19th century buildings that once housed a large whiskey distillery, draws crowds to its cobblestone streets lined with hip indie restaurants, bars and boutiques, art lovers come for the galleries, outdoor sculptures and dance, music and stage performances at the area’s several theatres, in December, the annual Toronto Christmas Market takes over the streets, small group of visionary developers dream was to provide a place where creativity would flourish and passion would be aroused – where artists, artisans, entrepreneurs and businesspeople could rub shoulders and inspire each other, they restore the 47 buildings known as the Gooderham & Worts Distillery, what you will find is a dramatic fusion of old and new, an inspired blend of Victorian Industrial architecture and stunning 21st century design and creativity, the result is an internationally acclaimed village of one-of-a-kind stores, shops, galleries, studios, restaurants, cafes, theatres and more, low cost photography permit. No indoor availability. Perfect for couples and weddings.
To see a full session at this wineries and distilleries location click here.
WILLIBALD FARM DISTILLERY, BREWERY, AYR
Key Points: Easy access, large free parking, lake distillery outdoors and stone options, large grassed areas, great entry view, with mixed backgrounds in environmental science and engineering, the three twenty-somethings wanted to do something new, something different, something out of the box, and now, they are the proud founders of Willibald Farm Distillery, a gin distillery in Ayr, after two years of construction on the van der Heyden’s existing farm, and investments from friends and family they open 2017, “If we can create a reason to get people out here and have them experience it, then we can really get people on board with what we’re trying to do.” low cost photography permit, Perfect for couples and weddings.
To see more at this wineries and distilleries location click here.
LEGENDS ESTATES WINERY, BEAMSVILLE
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, perfectly kept gardens, well maintained grass and access areas, located on 30 acres of Vineyard, a breathtaking setting for any event, located in the heart of Niagara wine country, Legends Estates Winery offers breathtaking waterfront views amongst acres of vineyard, the property offers a base for unique varietals such as Malbec, Petit verdot, and Semillon, wheelchair accessible, pets friendly, picnicking, seasonal patio, moderate traffic, low cost photography permit, city skyline view. No indoor availability. Perfect for large groups, couples and weddings.
Photo credit: Yaymaker.
WILLOW SPRINGS WINERY, STOUFFVILLE
Key Points: Easy access, large free parking, pond view and access, located in the Oak Ridges Moraine, access to the vineyard, willow tree rimmed pond or our grounds in front of the winery complex, Willow Springs Winery offers two indoor and outdoor spaces, the outdoor Vineyard Marquee site can host up to 350 guests, the indoor Wine Maker’s Pavilion is an intimate setting perfect for up to 140 guests, large grassed areas, low cost photography permit. Perfect for large families, couples and weddings
Photo credit: Willow Springs Winery.
PILLITTERI ESTATES WINERY, NIAGARA ON THE LAKE
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, since arriving in Niagara on the Lake in 1948, the Pillitteri family has been committed to creating a legacy for generations to follow now, over six decades later, Pillitteri Estates Winery proudly continues a family tradition of viticulture and winemaking excellence, with three generations actively involved with winery’s operations, proud to produce one of nature’s most exquisite gifts — Icewine, harvest of the Icewine grapes occurs when temperatures have reached -8*C or colder, perfectly kept gardens, well maintained grass and access areas, BarrelHead’s pizza patio is open on Thursday – Sunday weekly, low cost photography permit. Perfect for large groups, couples and weddings.
Photo credit: BnadBNiagara.
13TH STREET WINERY, ST. CATHARINES
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, chic boutique winery on 60 acres, featuring local art & vineyard tours, plus a bakery & tasting bar, 13th Street Winery, founded in 1998, originally started by four amateur winemaker friends the winery was purchased in 2008 by the current owners, 13th Street Winery evolved from a desire to create exceptional wines that reflect the unique terroir of Niagara, while also providing a place for guests to congregate and escape; to relax and discover; and to experience and learn, the Farmhouse, offers you private, luxurious accommodations in our recently renovated contemporary farmhouse, set amongst the vineyards, Vineyard Cottage, contemporary wine country retreat for up to 8 guests, here is a list of estate vineyards, large grassed areas, low cost photography permit, pets friendly. Perfect for families, couples and weddings.
Photo credit: 13th Street Winery.
FOUR FATHERS BREWING CO., CAMBRIDGE
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, this story starts in 2009 in small town Ontario, with four hockey dads and their four hockey sons, Artist, entrepreneur, corporate exec and maverick, they gathered around a shared love of the hand crafted and authentic, and a vision of producing high quality craft beers that could combine artistry and accessibility, the IV Loft at Four Fathers, has been transformed into a unique, trendsetting venue that can compliment any decor, in addition to the Loft, Four Fathers Brewing Company will be adding an outdoor ceremony and reception space mid-summer 2021, the Speed River and beautiful Hespeler Village provide a stunning backdrop for a wedding in any season. Perfect for families, large groups, couples and weddings.
Photo credit: Doors Open Ontario.
DESCENDANTS BREWERY, KITCHENER
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, Descendants was the dream of Robin Molloy, an Irish transplant who arrived in Kitchener in 1990, Robin moved to Berlin, Germany with his partner Lee in 2012 to study to become a Certified Brewmaster at the VLB, upon returning to Kitchener-Waterloo, they began to develop the brewery now known as Descendants, and open the doors in April 2016, located in Kitchener, Ontario, Descendants Beer & Beverage Co. is a spacious venue that specializes in hosting great weddings and special events in its industrial style event space, centrally located in the Waterloo Region, Descendants is a creative space that will be the perfect backdrop for a fun and festive wedding or any other occasion, the facilities found at this venue include a semi-private versatile area, which has a capacity for up to 80 seated guests, if you prefer, you also have the option of hiring the entire brewery that has 4000 sq.ft., to easily accommodate a larger wedding reception of up to 135 seated guests. Perfect for couples and weddings.
Photo credit: Biz Bash..
FIXED GEAR BREWING CO., GUELPH
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, locally-owned brewery and canteen with three locations in the city of Guelph, Ontario, each presents an industrial-chic setting in which to host a hip celebration of love across indoor and outdoor spaces, they are an ideal choice for beer-loving couples who want to host a modern wedding with a fun twist, the venues are conveniently located in or near downtown, with multiple accommodation options nearby, the brewery venue spaces feature a range of modern design touches that echo their industrial backgrounds, they boast high-ceilings which create a sense of space, complemented by exposed brickwork which gives them a raw edge. The Alma St venue is ideal for events of up to 50 guests spread across its indoor and outdoor spaces. The venue’s central room, the Tank Room, can accommodate a seated event for 25 close friends and family, there is also an expansive patio, The Canteen venue is bright and welcoming with space for a 75-person seated dinner or 100 stand-up reception, decorated with string lighting, and offer wood-fired brick oven pizza, the third venue it’s at the Elma Rd. Perfect for beer lovers, couples and weddings.
Photo credit: Hop Happy.
GRANITE BREWERY, TORONTO
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, family run, independent craft brewery, brewpub and beer store, craft beer brewery-turned wedding venue, originally built in 1985, it is one of Canada’s oldest microbreweries guided by craft beer pioneers, the Keefe family, it still possesses much of its original and classic decor, giving it a truly rustic aesthetic, at The Granite Brewery & Tied House, couples can make use of two spacious outdoor patios, both provide an idyllic setting for an enchanting wedding ceremony, inside, events can be held in the library, a dining room that includes a cosy fireplace, and a bar, the venue has a guest capacity that ranges from 80 to 120 people, the courtyard patio provides a great location for photos in the warmer months. The Main Dinning Room + snug can seat up to 120 guests, ideal for weddings and larger groups, The Snug is an enclosed space off the main dining room, this room is great for work lunches and gatherings of groups up to 25 people, The Library is a bright and spacious private section at the front of the restaurant, this room can accommodate up to 30 guests and is a great space for intimate birthday parties. Perfect for families, couples and weddings.
Photo credit: Eventctive.
HONSBERGER ESTATES WINERY, JORDAN
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, lovely winery located in Jordan Station, Ontario which specializes in providing soon-to-be-married couples with the ideal backdrop for their wedding, if you are planning a rustic or country-style wedding, this is a great choice of venue, the scenery and hospitality services at this 110-year old Victorian Estate are unbeatable, making your big day an unforgettable event, this winery venue offers a romantic setting among it’s vineyards and includes 4 facilities which give you the opportunity to have indoor as well as covered or uncovered outdoor settings. It has a capacity for 100 to 150 guests, Small Barn and Large Barn opens with seasonally inspired menu, photography permit required. Perfect for families, large groups, couples and weddings.
Wineries and distilleries locations photo credit: Honsberger Estate.
ROCKWAY VINEYARDS, ST. CATHARINE’S
Key Points: Easy access, large free parking, combining the best of Golf, Wine, and Culinary in the Niagara Peninsula, Rockway Vineyards is neatly nestled on The Twenty-Mile Bench of the Niagara Escarpment, one of the great premium grape growing regions of the world, this appellation elicits comparisons to the wine regions of Burgundy and New Zealand for both beauty and wine quality, limestone-rich soils and ideal growing conditions have helped us produce world class wines., unique wedding venue offering both a golf course and vineyard all in one, The Banquet Room is adorned with wrap-around windows letting the breathtaking views set the scene for the day, include a beautiful ceremony location, complete with gardens, a marble gazebo, and lovely views, the reception facilities are spacious, have plenty of room for dining and dancing, and can accommodate up to 200 guests, photography permit required. Perfect for large families, couples and weddings.
Photo credit: Niagara Falls Hotels.
THE SPICE FACTORY, HAMILTON
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, located in the heart of downtown Hamilton, built in 1889 and restored in 2016, the Spice Factory is an urban venue for people to create special moments, three- floors of expansive great halls and exposed brick, create the perfect building for a wedding ceremony and reception with a historic flare, Spice Factory is also a stylish place for a birthday or an anniversary parties, the three story building and attached patio is a unique urban landmark, building of wood, brick and metal, each floor and room provide a unique ambience and many opportunities, industrial dream reception in Cilantro Room, with its exposed brick, concrete bar area, original tin ceiling and hardwood floors, numerous large windows deliver natural light for those special photos, spills out onto our enclosed patio with two cement fire pits, the mix on The Patio of cedar wood, stone and fire can enhance an outdoor ceremony, or provide a quiet place, The Black Pepper Studio on the second floor can serve many roles: dressed up for a intimate candlelit ceremony for your vows; a place for a dramatic black-box dinner reception; or, after dinner in the Cilantro Room a fun space for your evening dance party, The Mustard Seed Loft, the third floor Loft is a blank canvas – high ceilings, open space, natural light, The Sage Room Bridal Suite with its large windows and floor-to-ceiling warm exposed brick provides the perfect location for those cherished photos and wedding preparations, The Nutmeg Nook-Grooms Suite with its large windows and floor-to-ceiling warm exposed brick provides the perfect location for those cherished photos and wedding preparations. Perfect for families, large groups, couples and weddings.
Wineries and distilleries locations photo credit: Eventective.
CELLAR 52
Key Points: Easy access, large free parking, the highly sought after historic and fully renovated wedding & event venue in the village of St. Jacob’s, Ontario, the renovated building was actually an old lodging hotel built in 1852 (hence, Cellar 52), located a quick walk to the riverside and nestled into the heart of one of the oldest villages in South Western Ontario, full of charm, whether you’re planning the wedding of your dreams or your next corporate event, from our white washed, California style elegance, the rustic coach house bar, fireplaces, patio & riverside ceremony options, class & culture or vintage & trendy chic, there is space for 150+ and areas for smaller gatherings ,stunning oversized bridal suite and groom suite offer great space to prepare, The Denison Sunroom is available for bridal brunches photos and just a place to reflect. Perfect for large families, couples and weddings.
Wineries and distilleries locations photo credit: The Wedding Ring.
PELLER ESTATES WINERY, NIAGARA ON THE LAKE
Key Points: Easy access, free parking, the Peller Estates team takes great pride in having operated for four generations as a family-owned Canadian company. It’s a legacy that reminds us that above all else, family matters, while dining at Peller is always a memorable experience, themed dining events take things to a whole new degree of delicious luxury, dine amongst the barrels during one of our intimate Barrel Cellar Dinners, Peller Estates Winery Restaurant has earned a reputation as a must-savour experience in Niagara Wine Country, well maintained grass and access areas, photography permit required. Perfect for families, large groups, couples and weddings.
Wineries and distilleries locations photo credit: Peller Estate.
WAYNE GRETZKY ESTATES, NIAGARA ON THE LAKE
Key Points: Easy access, large free parking, as a young child, Wayne Gretzky watched in fascination as his grandfather picked and pressed his own grapes, carefully tended his collection of wooden barrels and bottled his own wine, decades later, inspired by family tradition and motivated by his unfaltering commitment to hard work and achieving excellence, Wayne set his sights on making his own great Canadian wine, large wooden part at the entrance for photos, access to the vineyards, large grassed areas, row no photography permit. Perfect for large families, couples and weddings.
Wineries and distilleries locations photo credit: Wayne Gretzky Estates.
