Golf-South.net, your link to the Traveling Golfer.

Niagara-on-the-Lake is really at the epicenter for wine in Niagara. Nowhere else in the region, perhaps Canada, are there so many recognizable and quality wineries to choose from in such close proximity. Whether biking, on a tour bus or driving your own car (with a designated driver, of course) you are never far from a great glass of wine.

Here's a good cross-section of the some of the more popular wineries in Niagara-on-the-Lake and reviews of some favorite wines.

Paul Bosc Sr.

Chateau des Charmes

This classic winery was founded by Paul Bosc Sr. and is still owned and operated by the family. It has a breath-taking view of St. David's Bench vineyard from the back porch looking toward the Niagara Escarpment.

The stately manor at Chateau des Charmes makes for a warm welcome. Inside the Chateau is one of Niagara's largest tasting facilities and completely renovated retail store.

You could spend hours tasting the delicious wines made at this estate. But a couple you should include in your tasting are:

The Chateau des Charmes Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard Equuleus. This is Chateau des Charmes' flagship red, a Bordeaux-style red blend with heavenly aromas of currants, blackberry and oak spices. The richness of this wine is unbelievable, the flavours bold and lush.

Chateau Des Charmes Chardonnay Musque. This is made from a unique clone of chardonnay pioneered by founder Paul Bosc. Grapefruit, citrus, lychee nut and honeysuckle aromas. It's full-bodied and rich on the palate — think New Zealand sauvignon blanc meets spicy Alsatian gewurztraminer ... all that and a scoop of white pepper for good measure. You've got to try it to believe it.

Web: www.chateaudescharmes.com

Hillebrand Showcase Riesling

Hillebrand

Hillebrand offers an exciting well-rounded experience. Aside from great wines to taste, Hillebrand is home to one of Niagara's finest restaurants — the Hillebrand Winery Restaurant with executive chef Frank Dodd. The restaurant has just recently undergone a remarkable renovation. Another highlight of this winery is the tasting room and retail store.

Hillebrand has a complete wine program with plenty to choose from. I'm a big fan of the Rieslings and Chardonnays. Here are two to try:

Hillebrand Showcase Riesling. Riesling is the one grape that Niagara does best. This is completely dry (no sweetness) in a nice, crisp style with mineral, citrus notes and bright acidity.

Hillebrand Showcase Unfiltered Chardonnay. A tasty chardonnay with pear-apple notes wrapped around sweet and toasty vanilla oak.

Web: www.hillebrand.com

Hillebrand Showcase Riesling

Inniskillin

Inniskillin is a world-famous winery and long associated with the finest icewines in the world.
Inniskillin offers a country wine experience with a self-guided tour, tastings and shopping. The old restored barn was inspired by the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright. Most of the facilities have undergone a renovation in the past year.

Inniskillin makes a vast selection of VQA wines, all delicious, but you cannot visit there without trying a flight of what made Niagara famous — its icewines.

I'm a big fan of Inniskillin's Riesling Icewine with its honey sweet flavours of lemon, peach and apricot. One sip of these sweet treats and you are a fan for life. Also try the Cabernet Franc Icewine with more red berry flavours.

Website: www.inniskillin.com