My Surprising Visit To Del-Gatto Estates Vineyard and Winery
Located: 3609 County Rd 8, Picton, ON
Phone: (613) 476-8198
Del-Gatto Estates is an Italian family-owned winery that specializes in crafting hybrid grape varieties into an authentic feeling of Italy in every bottle.
The vines are planted, handpicked, and crafted into award-winning wines under the Bella Vigne label.
Let me share my experience with Del-Gatto Estates and what makes it different.
Main Features
- Small Tasting Room
- Large outside seating area
- Unique Wine
- Live music in the summer
- Sustainably Farmed
- Pet Friendly
History of Del-Gatto Estates in Prince Edward County
This winery began as a family project in 2002, when wine maker Pasquale (Pat) Del-Gatto purchased his first parcels of land for viticultural purposes, beginning on what would eventually become the 74 acres of prime vineyards located in the county.
In the years that followed, the name Del Gatto became known for consistently producing high-quality wines, while also replacing traditional grape varietals with lesser-known heritage grapes.
Their Grape Variety
What makes Del-Gatto wines different? It’s all about the grapes!
- Geisenheim (GM322)
- St. Croix
- Leon Millot
- Marquette
- Petit Pearl
- Baco Noir
- Frontenac Noir
- Frontenac Gris
- L’acadie
- Pinotage ( Ontario’s first commercial planting)
Today, Del-Gatto is recognized as one of Prince Edward County’s leading brands, offering visitors and wine enthusiasts an exceptional experience with their exclusive lineup of some amazing vintages.
Award Winning Wines
They specialize in creating small batches of ultra-premium wines using traditional methods with an emphasis on quality control.
2019 Leon Millot – The only growers of this variety in Prince Edward County. Full-bodied, dark fruit on the palate.
2020 Cider Verde – An interesting wine-cider spritzer of County Cider Company cider and early harvested Geisenheim from our vineyard. Fresh apple, great minerality, hints of apricot & lemon.
2020 Frontenac Noir – A hybrid grape that produces an aromatic medium to full-bodied red.
2020 Marquette – This full-bodied, dry red wine is well structured, and balanced tannins with notes of dark berries on the mid and end palate and a peppery finish.
2020 Petite Pearl – Full-bodied dry red has flavors of ripe dark fruit, smoke, and leather thanks to the chestnut barrel aging, with soft mid-mouth tannins.
2020 Pinot Grigio VQA Ontario – Fruity taste and slight honey finish.
2020 Pinot Noir VQA PEC – Dry red. County minerality comes through in this young Pinot along with ripe red fruit. Sweet spice finish.
2020 Riesling VQA Ontario – Green apple, grapefruit, and orange blossom on the nose.
2021 Amici White Vermouth – Savoury notes of rosemary, sage, and oregano.
2021 Blushing Peacock – Strawberry and raspberry on the nose, with tart blood orange on the finish.
2021 Giacomo’s Select Baco – Grown onsite. Un-oaked, steel barrel aged. Full-bodied, dry. Black currant and cherry notes.
2021 Quattro – medium-bodied, fruity nose, dark berries on the palate with a slightly peppery finish.
2021 Vidal VQA Ontario – Aromas of wildflowers and pear. Bright fruit, crisp citrus, and well-balanced acidity.
Bella Luna Sparkling VQA Ontario – Vidal-Chardonnay blend is fruity and dry. Light as a feather and perfect for any occasion.
In 2019 they were also awarded Best Winery at the Prince Edward County Wine Awards for Small Production Wineries.
Our Wine Tastings
Entering the small tasting room it was cozy as there was a couple ahead of us.
We paid 5$ for 3 wine tastings.
This attention to detail results in complex aromas and flavors that can only be achieved through careful crafting from start to finish.
Other Wineries in The Area
- Amanda’s Vineyards
- The Cape Vineyards
- Waupoos Estates Winery & Restaurant
- The County Cider Company – Not a winery but great cider, food, and view.
My Last Thoughts
In my opinion, this place is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion meets craftsmanship.
There are many winemakers in Prince Edward County that produce fantastic vintages. One of these is Del-Gatto, which is located through Waupoos with a view of Lake Ontario.
The vineyards at Del-Gatto are some of the most beautiful in the area and the wine produced here is definitely worth a try.
If you haven’t been here, I highly recommend it – you won’t be disappointed!
Some truly unique and delicious wines capture the essence of Prince Edward County’s terroir like no other winery can!
Whether you’re looking for an everyday wine or something special for a special occasion, Del-Gatto Estates has something for everyone!
Might see you there this summer!
