13 Generations of Excellence: Why Reif Estate Winery is a Niagara Must-Visit

Ansley Chapman • June 24, 2025

Explore the story, taste the vintage, and experience the events that make Reif a cornerstone of Niagara wine country.


There’s no better way to experience the charm of Niagara than by sipping world-class wine under the shade of a vineyard tent, savoring dishes fresh from a garden-side kitchen, and unwinding at a cozy local retreat. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a girls’ getaway, or a foodie-fueled road trip, Niagara offers it all—and Reif Estate Winery is a must on your itinerary.



🍇 Reif Estate Winery: 350 Years of Winemaking Tradition


Located in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Reif Estate Winery brings 13 generations of winemaking heritage from Germany to Canadian soil. Since settling in Niagara, the Reif family has cultivated a reputation for quality, not quantity—producing award-winning wines based on the character of each vintage rather than following a fixed recipe year after year. Owner, Klaus Reif (pictured here) is regarded as one of the best Icewine producers worldwide. He is one of the founding winemakers in Niagara-on-the-lake, and has earned great respect within the winemaking community, particularly for his work with Icewine.


With 113 acres of vineyards and approximately 70,000 cases produced annually, Reif is one of the region’s largest and most respected estate wineries. But what truly sets them apart is their thoughtful, experience-driven approach to wine.



🌿 New Additions: Tents, Tastings & Garden-Fresh Cuisine


In 2025, Reif Estate added a new event tent, ideal for intimate gatherings, tastings, and celebrations surrounded by vineyard views. It’s a great addition to their already immersive experiences, including a seasonal outdoor kitchen nestled within their Sensory Garden (open May to October). Here, guests can enjoy fresh, wine-paired plates made with locally sourced ingredients—a true farm-to-glass experience.


From classic varietals like Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon to standout Icewines, each bottle is crafted with care and intention. No two years are alike at Reif, and that’s exactly how they like it.


🥂 What to Try at Reif


  • Grand Reserve Vidal Icewine- One of the first Canadian Icewines was produced on this very property. Today, Reif’s Vidal Icewine remains a flagship offering—crafted from select grapes harvested from their oldest 12-acre block of Vidal vines, planted in 1981. This Icewine is very highly acclaimed, consistently receives 90+ point scores and medals, and has even been awarded “Best Dessert Wine in the World” on two separate occasions. It's no surprise it's one of their top-selling products.


“Icewine was invented in Germany but perfected in Niagara.” - Klaus Reif


  • Vinea- Vinea, Latin for vine, is a small batch premium grape based liqueur with bright flavours of blackberry, strawberry and cherry with red licorice notes. Cabernet Sauvignon is fortified with brandy and then blended with their secret ingredients to create a one-of-a-kind 'spirit' of the vine. 


  • ‘The Magician’ SHIRAZ PINOT  - A part of “The Tarot” collection, expect silky tannins and dark berry fruit on this well-structured wine to create a long smooth finish. A balanced acidity interplays with black pepper, spice, black cherry, blackberry and chocolate notes.


  • White Meritage- This classic white blend is brought back by popular demand.  A blend of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Semillon, the wine was fermented over a 10 day period and further aging was done in stainless steel prior to blending.


Don’t miss a guided tasting flight on their picturesque patio, or better yet, book a private experience for a more in-depth tour of the winery’s story and cellar.




🌿 Seasonal Sensory Delights


From May to October, Reif’s Sensory Garden becomes the heart of the estate. Their outdoor kitchen offers garden-fresh, wine-paired dishes in a casual yet elegant atmosphere—perfect for a long lunch or laid-back tasting session. This immersive space is designed to engage all five senses, offering a full-bodied encounter with the estate and its wines.


🥂 Tasting Rooms with Character


Reif Estate offers a variety of tasting experiences across multiple elegant spaces:

  • The Grand Tasting Room: Spacious and bright, ideal for walk-in tastings and groups.

  • The Fireside Room: A beautifully appointed room featuring a private table with 13 elegant chairs and a fireplace—perfect for private tastings, celebrations, or corporate events.

  • Sensory Garden Patio: Open seasonally for garden-side tastings paired with dishes from the outdoor kitchen.

Private Tasting Experiences: Ideal for those looking for a more in-depth exploration of Reif’s history, winemaking approach, and premium labels.




🎉 Events That Raise a Glass


Reif Estate Winery isn’t just for sipping—it’s a full calendar destination. Throughout the year, the winery hosts a variety of events that make every season worth visiting, including:

  • Vineyard Tours & Tastings

  • Winemaker’s Dinners

  • Live Music & Patio Nights

  • Seasonal Food & Wine Pairing Events

  • Icewine Celebrations (January)

  • Holiday Open Houses & Harvest Festivals

  • Corporate Retreats & Private Celebrations under their newly added vineyard tent

Whether you're celebrating a milestone, planning a date night, or just looking for an afternoon escape, there's likely an event at Reif that pairs perfectly with your plans.


Visit Reif Today


Go for a tasting, tour, or fun event happening at Reif Estates Winery, today!


More information here



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