News and updates highlighting onsite events, experiences, news from around Niagara and all things food and beverage.
June 24, 2024
Discover Niagara’s Best Wine Clubs
For yourself or as a gift, our selection of quarterly wine clubs gives you VIP access to the best VQA wines and exclusive perks.
Your delivery of wine is just the beginning! As a Wine Club member, you and up to 5 guests can enjoy incredible perks at our family of wineries, including Peller Estates, Trius Winery, Wayne Gretzky Estates and Thirty Bench Wine Makers.
myWineLife and No.99 Wine Club members and up to 5 guests receive twelve (12) complimentary tastings, annually at Peller Estates Winery, Trius Winery, and Wayne Gretzky Estates in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Future tastings are regular price. Save 50% at Thirty Bench Wine Makers in Beamsville.
Niagara Winemaker's and No.30 Wine Club members and up to 5 guests receive complimentary tastings at Peller Estates Winery, Trius Winery, Wayne Gretzky Estates, and Thirty Bench Wine Makers. Future tastings are regular price.
All Wine Club members receive discounts on tours and experiences, complimentary sparkling wine when dining at our estate restaurants, 10% off stays at Riverbend Inn from Sunday to Thursday, exclusive offers, and more!
Escape into the tranquility of Niagara-on-the-Lake's picturesque landscape with our exclusive Picnic Packages, expertly crafted by the chefs at Oaklands restaurant. Choose from four delightful packages, each designed to elevate your outdoor dining experience to new heights.
Offered Friday to Sunday.
Premium LITE Package ($60.00) includes: Savoursmith brand bag of chips Spiced Nuts Mixed Olives 1 Choice Bottle (choose between: Trius Brut, Peller Private Reserve Rosé, Thirty Bench Riesling, Wayne Gretzky Oak Aged Red) 2 souvenir glasses included
Deluxe LITE Package ($70.00) includes: Savoursmith brand bag of chips Spiced Nuts Mixed Olives 1 Premium Choice Bottle (choose between: Peller Estates Ice Cuvée, Thirty Bench Small Lot Rosé, Peller Estates Signature Series Sauvignon Blanc, Trius Distinction Baco Noir) 2 souvenir glasses included
Premium FULL Package ($85.00) includes: Cheeses & Cured Meats House Preserves, grainy mustard, pickled vegetables Baguette & Crackers Mixed Olives 1 Choice Bottle (choose between: Trius Brut, Peller Private Reserve Rosé, Thirty Bench Riesling, Wayne Gretzky Oak Aged Red) 2 souvenir glasses included
Deluxe FULL Package ($95.00) includes: Cheeses & Cured Meats House Preserves, grainy mustard, pickled vegetables Baguette & Crackers Mixed Olives 1 Premium Choice Bottle (choose between: Peller Estates Ice Cuvée, Thirty Bench Small Lot Rosé, Peller Estates Signature Series Sauvignon Blanc, Trius Distinction Baco Noir) 2 souvenir glasses included
Experience the ultimate picnic indulgence with our thoughtfully curated packages, perfect for a romantic outing or a leisurely day in Wine Country.
Additional Details: All orders must be placed in advance by 4:30 PM before the requested pick-up date. Package available for pick-up between 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM daily at Riverbend Inn & Vineyard.
Hotel guests can call our Riverbend Inn Concierge at 905-468-2270 to pre-order the package before their stay. Forms are also available in the guest room and must be completed and handed to Front Desk by 5:00 PM the day before the requested pick-up date.
Outside (non-hotel guests) can call our our Wine Country Concierge at 1-888-510-5537 to order.
The picnic cannot be enjoyed in the dining room or patio. Limited blankets for lawn seating are available. Bikes are available first come, first serve.
As a privileged member, you'll enjoy an array of perks not only at Riverbend but also across all our sister properties, including Peller Estates, Trius Winery, Wayne Gretzky Estates, and Thirty Bench Wine Makers. Revel in exclusive events designed just for you, creating memorable moments at every sip.
Why Join?
- Curated Selections: Receive carefully curated wines delivered to your doorstep, each a testament to the artistry of Niagara's winemaking.
- Sister Property Privileges: Unlock special privileges at all our sister properties, from tastings to discounts and beyond.
- Members-Only Events: Immerse yourself in our world with members-only events, offering an insider's view into the craftsmanship behind our wines.
Not a member? Join us for on March 22nd for An Evening in Italy, celebrating wine and culinary.
January 25, 2024
Heat Things Up This Icewine Season
As Icewine season kicks into high gear, Riverbend is adding even more cold-weather fun to Niagara’s liquid gold landscape. Here are just a few of the ways you can get into the sub-zero spirit with us this January.
Warm Up By A Riverbend Firepit
Our Oaklands Firepit Package blends a cozy firepit and a delicious beverage with tasty treats and an unbeatable winter vineyard view. Snack on Chef Andrew’s Honey Roasted Chicken Poutine and house-made Icewine s’mores as you raise a glass to winter on our Ainsley Terrace. Reserve your Firepit Package.
Power Up For A Day Of Touring With A Wine Country Breakfast
A piping hot mug of one of Riverbend’s delicious specialty coffees is sure to chase away any chill after a few hours spent enjoying Niagara-on-the-Lake’s sparkling Icewine Village. Reserve a table.
Join Chef Andrew MacNeil and Chef Jason Parsons for our Coach House Dinner Series events. Each month, you can enjoy a different themed four-course meal alongside carefully selected wine pairings in our cozy coach house. Each dinner is priced at $160 ++ or $150 ++ for Wine Club members.
We're rolling out the red carpet to honor our loyal Wine Club members with an unforgettable evening.
Savor a sumptuous, four-course meal, meticulously crafted by Chef Jason Parsons and his culinary team. Chef Parsons recently spent a few days in Paris and has brought the French inspiration back to Niagara for this dining event. Each course will be expertly paired with our finest wines, creating a symphony of flavors that will entice your taste buds. It will be a culinary journey through our vineyard's bountiful offerings, a showcase of our commitment to excellence in both winemaking and fine dining.
As you dine, you'll be enveloped in the romantic ambiance of our estate, making this evening a truly special experience. It's our way of saying thank you for your unwavering support, and we can't wait to celebrate you in style.
Chef Andrew MacNeil, drawing inspiration from his immersive experiences in Italy, leads the Oaklands’ culinary team to present an exquisite Italian-inspired four-course menu. Immerse yourself in the renowned flavours of Italy, celebrated globally for their richness and full-bodied essence. Each meticulously crafted dish reflects the authenticity and passion synonymous with Italian cuisine.
The Coach House provides an intimate and charming setting, enhancing the allure of this gastronomic adventure. Join us for an unforgettable evening of indulgence, where the spirit of Italy comes alive on your plate.
On April 19, head chef Andrew MacNeil will transport you to the heart of the Mediterranean with a Spanish-themed meal.
Immerse yourself in a meticulously crafted 4-course menu, each dish bursting with authentic Spanish flavours. Complementing this gastronomic adventure are expertly chosen wine pairings that enhance every bite. Let the historic charm of Oaklands and the scenic beauty of the vineyard provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable night.
Members of these Wine Clubs can enjoy 20% savings on mid-week stays and 10% savings on weekend stays throughout February. Use the promotion code WC20 when booking for February mid-week stays, when rates start as low as $191. Use the promotion code WC9 when booking for February weekend stays, when rates start as low as $278.
· Complimentary or special discounts on seated tastings
· Discounted pricing on tours and experiences
· 20% of accessories and clothing at wineries
· A complimentary glass of sparkling wine when dining at Trius Winery Restaurant and Peller Estates Winery Restaurants
Wine Club members are also invited to join us on February 23rd for an over-the-top Member’s Appreciation Dinner inside Riverbend’s cozy Coach House. Prepare to be celebrated in style over a four-course dining experience featuring four courses carefully chosen and prepared by Chef Andrew MacNeil and his culinary team, each expertly paired with our finest wines. Learn more and make your reservations soon.
Whether you’re gift shopping in Niagara-on-the-Lake, heading to the Shaw Festival for a holiday show, or touring the wine route to stock your cellar for a busy month of entertaining, a delicious meal at Oaklands Restaurant makes a wonderful addition to any December day.
Here are a few of our favourite ways to enhance your next meal with us:
Add Some Oysters
Join us at Oaklands Bar between 5–6 p.m. on Sundays and Mondays for Cinq à Six and enjoy six oysters with a selection of favourite fixings for only $15. You can add a glass of local sparkling wine for just $10. Make a reservation.
Celebrate Friday Eve
Stop by Oaklands Restaurant on a Thursday to take advantage of our incredible wine feature. All wines from the Andrew Peller portfolio are offered at half price! Book your table.
Score Exclusive Membership Perks
Be sure to let your server know if you’re a myWineLife, No.99 Wine & Cocktail Club, Niagara Winemaker’s Collection Club or No. 30 Wine Club member to enjoy a complimentary glass of sparkling wine with your meal. Not yet a member but interested in learning more about the many perks of membership or giving a membership as a gift? Learn more about our wine clubs.
Start The Day Off Right
Our breakfast, served daily from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., is a tasty way to fuel up for a day of holiday hustle and bustle in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Check out our breakfast menu.
Wrap Things Up In A Spirited Way
Swing by and sip one of our featured seasonal cocktails, like the delicious Plum Drop, a spicy Riverbend Whisky Caesar, or a Niagara Cherry Royale. Discover our fall cocktails.
Pick A Perfect Pairing
Our two-course and three-course wine pairing options make it easy to discover your next favourite Niagara wine, all from the comfort of our cozy dining room. We can't wait to welcome you to Riverbend Inn and Vineyard this holiday season. Reserve your table today.
November 14, 2023
Give the Gift of Wine Country: Unwrap Memories in Niagara
As the holiday season approaches, the hunt for that perfect gift becomes an annual tradition. This year, why not surprise your loved ones with the gift of Wine Country? Niagara-on-the-Lake, a region renowned for its scenic vineyards, delectable wines, and a rich culinary scene, offers an array of experiences waiting to be unwrapped. Whether it's a romantic getaway or a wine lover's dream, there's something for everyone. Here's why gifting experiences is the perfect choice, and how you can make it happen.
Unwrap Unforgettable Memories
Experiences are the gifts that keep on giving. They're the treasure troves of memories, providing your loved ones with moments to cherish long after the holidays have passed. With a gift of Wine Country, you're offering not just an object, but an adventure, a culinary journey, and a toast to the good times.
Riverbend Inn & Vineyard: A Cozy Getaway
For those looking to indulge in a relaxing getaway, Riverbend Inn & Vineyard offers a sanctuary in the heart of Wine Country. Our cozy inn, nestled amidst the vineyards, provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Surprise your loved one with an overnight stay or one of our exclusive packages, creating the backdrop for a romantic weekend, a soothing retreat, or a well-deserved break.
Wine Country: Beyond Expectations
Our sister properties - Peller Estates, Trius Winery, Wayne Gretzky Estates, and Thirty Bench Wine Makers - open doors to diverse experiences. Gift a wine lover a tour through sprawling vineyards, a wine tasting adventure, or a delectable dining experience at these renowned estates. Each sip, each bite, and each breathtaking view will become a cherished memory.
The Beauty of Choice: Gift Cards
Unsure of their preferences? No worries. We have gift cards available online and through our Wine Country Concierge team. These versatile tokens allow the recipient to craft their own Wine Country experience, whether it's an elegant dining affair, a wine-tasting escapade, or a rejuvenating retreat at Riverbend Inn & Vineyard. You provide the canvas; they paint the picture.
Let Our Wine Country Concierge Team Assist
Our dedicated Wine Country Concierge team is here to help you build the perfect gift itinerary. They're your holiday gift elves, ready to assist you in creating a tailored experience that aligns with your recipient's interests and desires. Whether it's a surprise proposal or a fun-filled family escape, we'll make it seamless. LIVE chat via myWineCountry.com or call them at 1-888-510-5537.
Holiday Magic in Niagara
This holiday season, add a touch of Niagara magic to your gift-giving. Embrace the joy of unwrapping memories, and create moments your loved ones will cherish. From Riverbend Inn & Vineyard's charming accommodations to the splendid experiences at our sister properties, your gift will be a gateway to the enchanting world of Wine Country. Give the gift of Wine Country and celebrate the holidays with a clink of glasses and hearts filled with warmth.
September 16, 2023
May We Suggest A Fall Cocktail?
Whether enjoyed with a vineyard view while wrapped up in a cozy scarf on our Ansley Sparkling Terrace or sipped at our cozy Oaklands Bar, our fall cocktail lineup invites guests to slow down and sink into the beauty of autumn in Niagara. Fall favourites like our Warm Pear Cider, Salted Caramel Martini, and Spiked London Fog are sure to chase away any evening chill!
If you can’t make it to Niagara this fall, shake up this suggestion for a fall cocktail with a distinctive Icewine addition that will give you a taste of harvest season in Niagara.
Autumn Sunset
Ingredients: 1.5 oz Bacardi White Rum 1 oz Peller Cabernet Franc Icewine .5 oz Lemon Juice .5 oz Grand Marnier Amareno Cherries
Instructions: Drop one Amareno cherry and a bit of the cherry syrup into the bottom of a coupe glass. To a cocktail shaker with ice, add all ingredients. Shake and strain over the cherry and syrup.
Reserve your table at Oaklands Restaurant for one of Niagara’s most incredible vineyard views and watch all the harvest happenings with a delicious cocktail in hand before enjoying a meal from Chef Andrew MacNeil’s delicious fall menu.
Another Fun Way to Try a New Fall Cocktail
Reserve your seats early for Wayne Gretzky Estates’ newWhen Worlds Collide: A Culinary, Cocktail, and Wine Fusion Dinner Series. Each event includes a welcome reception, a five-course tasting menu with wine and cocktail pairings, and some friendly competition for good measure. Watch as an expert Mixologist melds wine, spirits and local flavours into a signature cocktail. Savour a carefully curated five-course tasting menu in the Barrel Cellar, casting a vote for your favourite pairings from each course. Reserve your spot today for the first dinner of the series on October 13th.
August 24, 2023
Your Harvest Headquarters
September brings all sorts of harvest happenings to Niagara, including end-of-summer celebrations, the Niagara Wine Festival, and a wide assortment of engaging winery experiences. Set on the edge of a vineyard, just a stone’s throw from world-class wineries, Riverbend Inn offers our guests a front-row seat to Niagara’s autumn excitement! Here are some fun activity options to add to your September stay.
Our talented Oaklands Restaurant Chef Andrew MacNeil and Peller Estates Executive Chef Jason Parsons are putting the finishing touches on a sumptuous three-course tasting menu showcasing Niagara’s seasonal bounty for an unforgettable family-style sunset feast on Friday, September 8th. The experience includes a sparkling wine reception and hand-selected VQA wines paired with each course. Reserve your space.
From the Discovery Pass touring program, which offers passport holders exclusive wine and food pairings at their choice of six Niagara wineries, to the incomparable atmosphere at the Montebello Park Wine and Culinary Village, the Niagara Wine Festival brings three weekends of wine-themed fun across Niagara from September 8th through September 24th. Learn more.
For wine lovers looking to take their Niagara knowledge to the next level, our myWineCountry Tour offers an unforgettable journey through the vineyards and tasting rooms of some of Niagara’s most celebrated wineries, including Peller Estates, Trius Winery, and Wayne Gretzky Estates.
Walk through the vineyard to Peller Estates for an informative one-hour experience that will teach you all about Niagara’s proud history of grape growing. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a mimosa made with local ingredients, three premium wine samples and a tasty snack to help fuel your stroll through the vines.
Enjoy Chef Frank Dodd’s incredible culinary creations paired with exquisite Trius wines in this all-new fall experience. Savour four sensational kitchen snacks, like Hewitt’s Farm Whipped Goat’s Cheese with Icewine Beet Jam and Blushing Strawberry Macarons, alongside sips from some of the very best bottles at Trius Winery.
Book your fall getaway now and experience Niagara as the community comes together to celebrate autumn’s arrival.
August 23, 2023
Experience the Vibrant Spirit of Fall in Niagara-on-the-Lake
As summer bids farewell, Niagara-on-the-Lake will soon awaken in a blaze of autumn colors, beckoning visitors to revel in the splendor of the season. At Riverbend Inn & Vineyard, we invite you to join us for a spectacular fall getaway filled with unforgettable events and cherished moments.
Immerse yourself in the world of wine during the much-anticipated Niagara Wine Festival. Set amidst the picturesque backdrop of Niagara Wine Country, this celebration of viticulture showcases the finest wines crafted by our local vineyards. Indulge in wine tastings, vineyard tours, and delectable food pairings that exemplify the region's culinary prowess. Experience the passion and artistry behind winemaking as you sample a diverse selection of wines, each with its own distinct character.
Fall in Niagara-on-the-Lake is not just about wine—it's a season of cultural richness. Explore the charming streets of the town, where boutique shops, art galleries, and antique stores beckon with hidden treasures. Immerse yourself in history by visiting the town's historic sites and landmarks, transporting yourself to a bygone era.
The Shaw Festival sets the stage for captivating theater performances during the fall season. Lose yourself in the magic of live performances as talented actors bring timeless classics and contemporary works to life. From poignant dramas to side-splitting comedies, the Shaw Festival offers a diverse array of productions that will leave you spellbound.
Embrace the beauty of nature as you traverse the scenic hiking trails and parks that surround Niagara-on-the-Lake. Witness the breathtaking transformation of vineyards and orchards as they paint the landscape with hues of gold and crimson. Take a leisurely bike ride along the idyllic Niagara Parkway or enjoy a serene horse-drawn carriage tour through the enchanting countryside.
At Riverbend Inn & Vineyard, we invite you to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of fall in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Experience the fusion of nature, culture, and culinary delights that make this season truly magical. Whether you're savoring the region's finest wines, attending captivating theater performances, or exploring the breathtaking scenery, fall in love with the charm and elegance of our historic inn.
Book your unforgettable fall getaway at Riverbend Inn & Vineyard and create cherished memories in the heart of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Delight in the symphony of colors, the warmth of the local community, and the enchantment that pervades the air during this special time of year. Let the spirit of fall embrace you as you indulge in the abundant pleasures that await.
July 14, 2023
Ansley Sparkling Terrace Secrets
If you’ve visited us at Riverbend during the summer season, there’s a very good chance you’ve already experienced the pure bliss of soaking up one of Niagara’s most picturesque vineyard views. The Ansley Sparkling Terrace, however, offers so much more than just a pretty view! Here are a few insider secrets to keep in mind for your next visit.
Secret #1: A One-Stop Shop For Niagara’s Best Bubbles
Why drive from winery to winery in search of Niagara’s most celebrated sparkling wines when you can sip an award-winning selection on one picture-perfect patio? Current choices on our sparkling menu include Trius Brut Rosé, Peller Estates Signature Series Ice Cuvée, and 13th Steet Winery’s Grand Cuvée Blanc de Noir, 2016.
The bubbles at our bar offer endless inspiration for our expert mixologists! Sip on the Sparkling Icewine Cocktail, a harmonious blend of Peller Estates Cabernet Franc Icewine, Trius Brut, and a luscious Amareno Cherry. Try the refreshing Sweet Pear Fizz, featuring Spirit in Niagara Pear Eau De Vie, pear nectar, and Trius Brut. Indulge in the Empress 75, a captivating concoction of Empress Gin, zesty lemon juice, and Trius Brut.
Secret #3: Just The Right Bites To Pair With Your Bubbly
From briny oysters on the half shell to citrusy marinated olives and succulent shrimp cocktail, our culinary team has created a carefully curated menu of shareable plates that will elevate your sparkling wine experience to an all-new level.
Secret #4: An Homage To Our History
Our Sparkling Terrace is named after the Ansley sisters, whose visionary spirit continues to inspire. In 1927, the sisters transformed this very property into a school for young boys with disabilities, creating a nurturing environment for their mental and social development. The warmth and love these dedicated women shared with those in their care echoes through time.
Plan A Sparkling Summer Stop
Whether you’re spending the night at Riverbend Inn, joining us for a relaxed meal or stopping by for a drink, discover the secrets of the Ansley Sparkling Terrace for yourself during your next visit to Niagara-on-the-Lake.
P.S. Follow us on social media for exclusive updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the Ansley Sparkling Terrace @RiverbendInnNOTL.
June 7, 2023
Bring On Lunch
As the thermometer rises with the onset of summer, a leisurely lunch on the Riverbend patio is a great way to enjoy an outdoor meal before the mid-day heat hits. Our culinary team prides itself on having a lunch option for every palate and personality.
For Crack-of-Dawn Diners
For those who just can’t wait until mid-morning for their first meal of the day, Riverbend’s Oaklands Restaurant begins serving its breakfast menu at 8:30 am. Fuel up with our Wine Country Breakfast, which includes your preferred style of farm eggs, hash browned potato, sourdough toast and your choice of sausage, streaky bacon or marinated tofu.
For Sweet-Treat Seekers
Our Brioche French Toast is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth, thanks to a generous topping of Icewine-macerated berries, maple syrup and vanilla Chantilly cream.
For Spirited Sippers
Any time after 9 am, our Oaklands Restaurant serving staff will be pleased to bring you a Mimosa made with Trius Brut or Peller Estates Ice Cuvée or a savoury Riverbend Caesar. We also offer decadent specialty coffees and teas showcasing a range of spirits and liqueurs from Wayne Gretzky Estates.
For The Sleep-In Set
Breakfast ends at 10:30 am, but lunch begins at 11:30 am and there are several selections on our lunch menu, like oysters on the half shell, shrimp cocktail, mushrooms on toast and our decadent Pacific Crab Cake Benny, that are ideal for diners looking for a later-morning or early-afternoon brunch.
Niagara Cherry Linzer Tart with Brown Butter Ice Cream
Rossco's Linzer Dough Ingredients 1 lb softened butter 5 hard-boiled egg yolks, sieved ½ cup + 1 tbsp ground almonds ½ cup + 1 tbsp icing sugar 2 tbsp dark rum 3 ¾ cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1 tsp salt 2 tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground nutmeg
Niagara Cherry Jam Ingredients 3 cups Niagara cherries, pitted and sliced in half 2 cups granulated sugar 4 tsp fresh lemon juice
To make the jam, combine all ingredients in a stainless saucepan and mash the cherries with the back of a spoon. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 30 minutes. Set aside to cool.
In a stand mixer, whip the butter, egg yolks, almonds, icing sugar, and rum together until cohesive, light, and fluffy. Sift the dry ingredients and then slowly fold into the whipped mixture, incorporating fully. Divide the dough into two batches and chill slightly. Once chilled, roll between two pieces of parchment paper until ¼ inch thick. Line tart molds with the dough and fill with cooled fruit jam (raspberry is traditional if you don’t want to use cherry). Lattice the top of the tarts with strips of dough. Bake 350°F until golden brown and serve with a scoop of Brown Butter Ice Cream.
Brown Butter Ice Cream 1 L 35% cream 1 cup sugar 12 egg yolks 2 vanilla beans, split lengthwise ½ cup browned butter
Simmer cream with split vanilla beans. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar and egg yolks until you reach the ribbon stage. Temper the warm cream into egg mixture and return to clean, non-reactive saucepan. Bring to a boil and then fold in browned butter. Strain and chill overnight before spinning in an ice cream maker. Freeze until ready to serve.
March 23, 2023
Discover Niagara’s Top Patios
Our four Niagara estates and Riverbend Inn & Vineyard feature a handful of incredible patios that serve up everything from sharing plates to lobster linguine. It’s time to kick back and relax with a glass of wine or hand crafted cocktail in hand and enjoy the vineyard views. With so many amazing patio options, the hardest part of planning an afternoon escape can be deciding which one to choose. This helpful roundup makes it easier to choose the right patio for your next Niagara escape. And don’t forget, an afternoon of hopping from one patio to the next is always encouraged! Peller Estates is a quick bike ride from Riverbend Inn and there’s a walking trail between Trius and Wayne Gretzky Estates to make scenic strolling a breeze!
The Whisky Bar Patio at Wayne Gretzky Estates
The Vibe: Happy hour doesn’t get more Canadian than this expansive patio that offers the perfect perch for taking in everything that’s going on at The Great One’s estate.
Insider Tip: Pair one of our beverages with Chef Desharnais’ casual comfort foods that proudly showcase the region’s farm-to-table flavours.
The Vibe: Fresh air on your face, Chef Parsons’ freshly picked garden veggies turned into magical dishes on your plate, a meal on this patio is pure farm-to-table elegance.
Insider Tip: If you’re a Wine Club member, don’t forget to show your membership card for a complimentary glass of sparkling wine. That’s just one of the many perks you can enjoy at our estates!
The Vibe: The best spot to soak up the sun or watch the best sunsets in Niagara. Enjoy VQA sparkling wines, cocktails, and small sharable plates. The perfect pre or post-dinner spot or afternoon pick me up.
Insider Tip: Select a fancy sparkling cocktail to sip in the sunshine.
The Vibe: While not a patio, per se, the rolling lawn at Thirty Bench is an ideal place to relax at a picnic table with a glass of wine in hand and soak in the spectacular Lake Ontario view.
Insider Tip: Pick up a charcuterie box from inside the winery for a tasty selection of snacks to enjoy with your wine.
Crepes and Icewine Cherries with Brown Butter Ice Cream
Chef Ross Midgley, Riverbend Inn
Brown Butter Ice Cream 1 L 35% cream 1 cup sugar 12 egg yolks 2 vanilla beans, split lengthwise 1/2 cup butter
In a sauce pan, heat 1/2 cup butter over medium heat. Once melted, keep swirling the pan; the butter will start to foam and you’ll see the colour turn light brown. Once it has browned it will have a nutty aroma. Set aside to cool.
In a sauce pot, simmer cream with split vanilla beans. In a glass or steel bowl, whisk sugar and egg yolks to ribbon stage. Temper the warm cream into egg mixture, starting with a small splash to warm up the eggs, then adding the rest of the cream. Return to a clean, non-reactive saucepan and bring to a boil. Fold in browned butter and mix well. Strain the mixture into a bowl and chill overnight before spinning in an ice cream machine.
In a non-reactive pot, slowly reduce Icewine and cherries until most of the liquid is absorbed. Allow to cool. Any left-over liquid should be reserved to sauce the crepes.
Crepes 6 eggs 2 cups all purpose flour ¼ cup granulated sugar 2 tbsp butter, melted 600 ml 10% cream 50 ml Gran Marnier
Mix all ingredients and whisk to consistency. Allow crepe batter to sit over night and then make thin crepes the following day, layering between parchment paper until ready to fill with cherries.
To assemble Lay one crepe down, fill with Icewine cherries and roll. Serve with a scoop of brown butter ice cream and cherry liquid drizzled on top.
November 17, 2022
Riverbend is the Inn in Niagara
“It’s history, luxury and magical location is why the Riverbend Inn & Vineyard is the toast of Niagara’s wine region.”
Embrace the Canadian winter chill in Niagara Wine Country! Join us at the estates for holiday shopping and gifting services, cozy up by the fireplace during a romantic escape at Riverbend Inn, or enjoy the Icewine festival in both downtown Niagara-on-the-Lake and Jordan. There’s always something going on in Wine Country.
Visit myWineCountry.com or call our Wine Country Concierge at 1-888-510-5537 to plan your escape today.
The Rink at Wayne Gretzky Estates
Whether you’re a pro (like Wayne Gretzky), or lacing up for the first time in many years, visit the backyard rink at Wayne Gretzky Estates from mid-December to March. You can sip on a craft cocktail, chilled brew, glass of wine or spiked hot chocolate, and savour the winter food menu at The Whisky Bar Patio. The patio is heated to keep you comfortable during your meal. You’ll won’t want to miss Chef Desharnais’ two new winter menu items: a delicious shaved beef panini and ‘snowshoes’ (a crispy fried pastry with chocolate and cinnamon sugar).
Visit myWineCountry.com to learn more about our Community Skate Days, Date Night package, and DJ Nights on Saturdays.
Feature Rink Cocktail – The Rusty Skate
1.5 oz No.99 Red Cask Whisky 1 oz Wayne Gretzky Estates Old Fashioned simple syrup 1 oz Wayne Gretzky Estates Cherry Hibiscus simple syrup ¾ oz lemon juice
Niagara Icewine Festival
This month-long celebration in January offers a variety of different experiences for wine and food lovers. Purchase a discovery pass online at niagarawinefestival.com and enjoy several wine and food pairings along the wine route in both Niagara-on-the-Lake and Twenty Valley. You can also stroll through downtown Jordan Village and old town Niagara-on-the-Lake on the weekends to enjoy entertainment, wine, and food, attend the annual Icewine Gala at the Fallsview Casino, or an Icewine dinner at Peller Estates and Trius Winery.
Snowshoeing at Thirty Bench
If there’s snow on the ground on Saturday and Sunday, head to Thirty Bench in Beamsville for a snowshoe trek through the vineyard. You’ll be outfitted with equipment and coached on snowshoeing tips and tricks by an expert guide as you make your way through the snow-covered vineyard. You’ll also be treated to an outdoor tasting of Thirty Bench wines and a warm fireside snack to wrap up the experience. If Mother Nature doesn’t bring us enough snow, we’ll enjoy a winter hike in the vineyard.
This is an incredibly popular experience and reservations are required. Book online at myWineCountry.com.
Winter Lounge at Peller Estates
Join us at Peller Estates on weekends from November to March for a Winter Lounge experience. This experience includes a seat for up to 5 guests around one of our firepits. Enjoy a glass of wine or our signature hot beverage in a souvenir glass/mug and Icewine marshmallow handmade by Chef Jason Parsons.
Romantic Retreat at Riverbend Inn
Stay with us at The Riverbend Inn & Vineyard this winter. Enjoy an intimate escape in one of our 21 uniquely designed guestrooms and suites, with surroundings of grandeur, magnificent amenities and service. Warm yourself in front of the fireplace and enjoy the scenic beauty from your window. Enjoy a delicious meal at The Oaklands restaurant prepared by Chef Ross Midgley and his culinary team. The Inn offers guests a complimentary tasting at neighbouring winery, Peller Estates, snowshoes for winter walks through the vineyards, and cozy outdoor firepits with wonderful vineyard views.
*Winter experiences are subject to change. Reservations are highly recommended. Visit myWineCountry.com or call our Wine Country Concierge at 1-888-510-5537 for more information.
