Stonebridge Winery

Stonebridge Vineyards is a premium boutique winery in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. It expanded significantly in 2021 by taking over the historic Lailey Winery estate. This move gave the brand a physical tasting room along the scenic Niagara River Parkway.

The 40-acre estate focuses on low-yield, top-tier grapes like Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Led by winemakers Peter Gamble and Ann Sperling, the vineyard uses low-intervention, wild-fermentation techniques.

Stonebridge is famous for small-batch, single-vineyard releases and artisanal barrel-aged bottles. They patiently cellar their premium reds, whites, and sparkling wines before release.

Vins inclus ce mois-ci

July 2026

2-Bottle Red & White: 2023 Cabernet Franc (Pre-release), 2019 Chardonnay (Silver Medal, International Wine Challenge. Silver Medal, Ontario Wine Awards)
2-Bottle Red: 2023 Cabernet Franc, 2023 Merlot (Pre-release)
2-Bottle White: 2019 Chardonnay, 2021 Brut Premier (Silver Medal, Ontario Wine Awards. Commended, International Wine Challenge)
2-Bottle Rosé & Sparkling: 2021 Brut Premier, 2021 Blanc de Blanc Traditional Method (Pre-release)

3-Bottle Red & White: 2023 Cabernet Franc, 2023 Merlot, 2019 Chardonnay
3-Bottle Red: 2023 Cabernet Franc, 2023 Merlot, 2024 Syrah (Pre-release)
3-Bottle White: 2019 Chardonnay, 2021 Brut Premier, 2023 Chardonnay (Pre-release)

6-Bottle Red & White: 2023 Cabernet Franc, 2023 Merlot, 2021 Brut Premier, 2019 Chardonnay, 2024 Syrah, 2023 Chardonnay
6-Bottle Red: 2023 Cabernet Franc x2, 2023 Merlot x2, 2024 Syrah x2

2019 Chardonnay

Silver Medal, International Wine Challenge. Silver Medal, Ontario Wine Awards.
Tasting Notes by Leah Spooner

Name: 2019 Chardonnay
Geographical Indication: VQA Four Mile Creek
Vineyard: Stonebridge Vineyard
Varietal: Chardonnay
Alcohol: 13.8 % 

Style: A rich, mature Niagara Chardonnay showing the generosity of warm-vintage fruit alongside the freshness that defines the region's cool-climate character. Full-bodied and creamy, with layers of baked pineapple, yellow plum, toasted nuts and integrated oak, balanced by vibrant acidity that keeps the wine energetic and food-friendly.

Score: 93. Serve at 10–12°C. No lengthy decanting required. Drinking beautifully now and capable of evolving through 2030.

Description

Appearance: Deep gold.

Nose: Expressive aromas of baked pineapple, pecan, yellow plum and toffee, layered with subtle toast and warm baking spice.

Palate: Full-bodied and voluptuous, with a creamy texture carrying flavours of ripe tropical fruit, orchard plum, roasted nuts and well-integrated oak. A lively vein of acidity provides lift and structure, creating a harmonious, Mâconnais-inspired profile with impressive length and balance.

Serving Temperature: 10–12°C.

Drinking Window: Now through 2030.

Pairing

Starter: Warm crab and sweetcorn cakes with lemon aioli.
The wine's richness mirrors the sweetness of the crab while Niagara's natural acidity refreshes the palate. Following WSET principles, matching intensity and balancing richness creates a seamless pairing.

Cheese: Triple-cream Brie de Portneuf or a ripe Brie-style cheese.
The creamy texture complements the wine's mouthfeel, while acidity cuts through the richness and prevents the pairing from feeling heavy.

Main: Chicken Cordon Bleu with Gruyère and ham.
A classic match. The wine's oak and nutty notes echo the golden breadcrumb crust, while its acidity balances the richness of the cheese and butter-based elements.

Vegetarian: Wild mushroom and caramelized onion Alfredo pasta.
Earthy mushrooms amplify the wine's savoury, toasted nuances, while the creamy sauce harmonizes with the Chardonnay's texture and weight.

Dessert: Maple pecan bread pudding with vanilla crème fraîche.
The pecan notes in the wine create a flavour bridge to the dessert. Keeping sweetness moderate ensures the wine remains expressive and balanced.

Additional Notes

This mature Niagara Chardonnay showcases how well top-quality cool-climate Chardonnay can age. Seven years on, it retains remarkable freshness while developing layers of toasted nuts, baked fruit and savoury complexity. Ideal for autumn and winter entertaining, holiday dinners, or a relaxed cottage weekend where richer comfort foods are on the menu. Its combination of ripe fruit, oak integration and vibrant acidity makes it exceptionally versatile at the table, particularly with creamy, buttery and roasted dishes. The wine's acidity acts as a counterpoint to richness, a key WSET pairing principle that helps maintain freshness throughout a meal.

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2023 Cabernet Franc 

Pre-release.
Tasting Notes by Tony Aspler

Name: 2023 Cabernet Franc
Geographical Indication: VQA Niagara Peninsula
Vineyard: Stonebridge Vineyard
Varietal: Cabernet Franc
Alcohol: 13.5%

Style: A refined Niagara Cabernet Franc that highlights the variety's natural elegance and aromatic complexity. Bright plum and blueberry fruit are framed by cedar, spice and beautifully integrated oak, while fresh acidity and polished tannins create a wine of balance, finesse and remarkable drinkability. Classic cool-climate Cabernet Franc with both immediate appeal and short-term cellaring potential.

Quality Score: 92. Serve at 16–18°C. Decant for 30–45 minutes before serving. Can be enjoyed now but will reward a year or two of cellaring.

Description

Appearance: Ruby red.

Nose: An inviting bouquet of cedar, baking spice and ripe plum, layered with subtle floral notes and hints of dark berries.

Palate: Dry and elegant, showcasing flavours of plum and blueberry supported by well-integrated oak and fine-grained tannins. Fresh acidity provides lift and structure, while the wine's seamless balance and supple texture create a polished, expressive mouthfeel. The finish is long, savoury and refined.

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C.

Drinking Window: Now through 2030.

Pairing

Starter: Duck confit crostini with cherry compote and thyme.
The wine's bright acidity balances the richness of the duck, while the plum and blueberry notes create a natural flavour bridge with the fruit accompaniment. Following WSET principles, matching flavour intensity and balancing richness enhances both wine and food.

Cheese: Aged Ontario Gouda or Clothbound Cheddar.
These firm, savoury cheeses complement the wine's cedar and spice notes while allowing its elegant fruit character to remain centre stage.

Main: Herb-crusted rack of lamb with rosemary roasted potatoes.
A classic Cabernet Franc pairing. The wine's savoury complexity and fine tannins complement the richness of the lamb, while its acidity refreshes the palate throughout the meal.

Vegetarian: Lentil and mushroom Wellington with red wine shallot sauce.
Earthy mushrooms and lentils amplify the wine's savoury character, while the flaky pastry and rich filling provide enough weight to match the wine's structure and depth.

Dessert: Plum and almond galette with lightly whipped mascarpone.
The wine's ripe plum flavours connect beautifully with the fruit in the dessert, while the restrained sweetness allows the wine's elegance and balance to remain intact.

Additional Notes

Cabernet Franc is one of Niagara's signature red varieties, benefiting from the region's long, warm autumns that allow for gradual ripening while preserving freshness and aromatic complexity. This example captures the variety's hallmark balance of ripe fruit, savoury spice and vibrant acidity, resulting in a wine that feels both sophisticated and approachable.

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2021 Brut Premier

Silver Medal, Ontario Wine Awards. Commended, International Wine Challenge.
Tasting Notes by Tony Aspler

Name: 2021 Brut Premier
Geographical Indication: VQA Ontario
Vineyard: Stonebridge Vineyard
Varietal: Chardonnay
Alcohol: 12.5%

Style: A classic Niagara sparkling wine that showcases crisp orchard fruit, bright citrus and subtle autolytic complexity. Dry, refreshing and elegant, with fine bubbles, vibrant acidity and a lingering apple-and-lemon finish. Equally enjoyable as an aperitif or alongside seafood-focused dishes.

Quality Score: 90. Serve well chilled at 6–8°C. No decanting required. Enjoy now through 2029.

Description

Appearance: Pale straw with an active mousse of fine, persistent bubbles.

Nose: Fresh aromas of baked bread, crisp apple and citrus, accented by delicate hints of honey.

Palate: Medium-bodied and dry, delivering flavours of green apple, lemon and orchard fruit supported by subtle brioche notes. Bright Niagara acidity and a lively mousse create freshness and precision, while a touch of honey adds depth. The finish is long, clean and driven by lemon and green apple character.

Serving Temperature: 6–8°C.

Drinking Window: Now through 2029.

Pairing

Starter: Freshly shucked oysters with cucumber mignonette.
A textbook sparkling wine pairing. The wine's high acidity and mineral freshness enhance the oyster's briny character while cleansing the palate. Following WSET principles, acidity and effervescence work particularly well with delicate seafood.

Cheese: Riopelle de l'Isle Triple Cream (Quebec) or a young Brie-style cheese.
The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the wine's crisp acidity and fine mousse, creating balance and elegance.

Main: Cedar-planked Atlantic salmon with lemon herb butter.
The wine's citrus and apple notes complement the salmon's richness, while its acidity refreshes the palate and lifts the buttery elements.

Vegetarian: Asparagus and pea risotto with lemon zest and Parmesan.
The creamy risotto mirrors the wine's texture while bright lemon and green vegetable flavours resonate with its fresh citrus and orchard fruit profile.

Dessert: Apple galette with crème fraîche.
A lightly sweet dessert allows the wine's green apple and honey notes to shine without overwhelming its dry style. The pastry's buttery richness also echoes the wine's subtle bready character.

Additional Notes

Stonebridge Brut Premier is a versatile cool-climate sparkling wine that reflects Niagara-on-the-Lake's ability to produce wines with freshness, precision and charm. Its combination of crisp apple fruit, citrus brightness and subtle autolytic complexity makes it a natural choice for celebrations, holiday gatherings and warm-weather entertaining.

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2023 Merlot

Pre-release.
Tasting Notes by Leah Spooner

Name: 2023 Merlot
Geographical Indication: VQA Four Mile Creek
Vineyard: Stonebridge Vineyard
Varietal: Merlot
Alcohol: 14.5%

Style: A vibrant, cool-climate Niagara Merlot that balances juicy red and black fruit with earthy complexity and polished oak influence. Medium- to full-bodied, with supple tannins, refreshing acidity and a long, savoury finish. Approachable in its youth yet structured enough to reward several years in bottle.

Quality Score: 92. Serve at 16–18°C. Decant for 30 minutes. Enjoy now through 2031.

Description

Appearance: Ruby red.

Nose: An inviting and complex bouquet of pot pourri, violets, milk chocolate, black earth and wild mushroom, layered with subtle oak spice.

Palate: Soft, melt-in-your-mouth tannins carry juicy flavours of cranberry, black raspberry and vanilla across the palate. A lively current of acidity brings freshness and lift, while oak and earthy undertones add depth and structure. The finish is long, balanced and expressive.

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C.

Drinking Window: Now through 2031.

Pairing

Starter: Roasted tomato and burrata crostini with basil.
The wine's bright acidity complements the tomato's natural tanginess, while the creamy burrata softens the wine's tannins. Following WSET principles, matching acidity levels helps both wine and food feel balanced.

Cheese: Ontario Gouda or aged Tomme-style cheese.
Nutty, semi-firm cheeses complement the Merlot's earthy notes and subtle oak influence without overwhelming its elegant fruit profile.

Main: Bacon cheeseburgers with caramelized onions and smoky barbecue glaze.
The wine's juicy fruit and soft tannins pair beautifully with grilled beef, while its acidity refreshes the palate between rich, savoury bites.

Vegetarian: Wild mushroom and lentil ragu over pappardelle.
Earthy mushrooms amplify the wine's forest-floor character, while the richness of the dish harmonizes with the Merlot's supple texture and savoury depth.

Dessert: Dark chocolate and raspberry tart.
Milk chocolate notes in the wine create a flavour bridge, while raspberry accents mirror the wine's vibrant berry fruit. Keeping sweetness moderate allows the wine to remain expressive.

Additional Notes

This small-batch Merlot showcases Niagara's ability to produce reds with both freshness and complexity. Unlike warmer-climate examples that can lean heavily toward ripe black fruit, this wine retains a lively acidity that brings energy and versatility at the table. The combination of floral aromatics, earthy undertones and polished tannins makes it particularly suited to autumn and winter meals, casual pizza nights, barbecue gatherings and charcuterie-focused entertaining. As the wine develops over the next several years, expect the savoury mushroom and earth notes to become even more pronounced while the fruit remains supported by Niagara's signature cool-climate freshness.

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2021 Blanc de Blanc Traditional Method

Pre-release.
Tasting Notes by Leah Spooner

Name: 2021 Blanc de Blanc Traditional Method
Geographical Indication: VQA Four Mile Creek
Vineyard: Stonebridge Vineyard
Varietal: 100% Chardonnay
Alcohol: 12.5%

Style: A sophisticated Niagara Traditional Method sparkling wine that combines vibrant cool-climate Chardonnay fruit with the complexity gained from extended lees aging. Elegant and dry, with fine mousse, crisp acidity and layers of orchard fruit, brioche, toasted nuts and minerality. Equally suited to aperitif service or a celebratory meal.

Quality Score: 93. Serve well chilled at 6–8°C in a tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass. No decanting required.Enjoy now through 2030.

Description

Appearance: Medium gold with a fine, persistent mousse.

Nose: Aromas of red apple, rhubarb and almond layered with hints of brioche, honey and toasted walnut from extended lees aging.

Palate: Crafted from 100% Chardonnay grown at the Stonebridge Vineyard, this Traditional Method sparkling wine delivers bright red apple and orchard fruit flavours supported by notes of toasted walnut, brioche and honey. Thirty-nine months on lees have contributed remarkable depth and savoury autolytic complexity, while Niagara's hallmark acidity and mineral backbone provide precision and energy through a long, persistent finish.

Serving Temperature: 6–8°C.

Drinking Window: Now through 2030.

Pairing

Starter: Crispy crab cakes with lemon aioli.
The wine's high acidity and fine mousse refresh the palate between bites, while the sweet crab echoes the wine's ripe apple fruit. Following WSET principles, acidity balances richness and enhances freshness.

Cheese: Fresh burrata with olive oil, flaky sea salt and grilled sourdough.
The creamy texture of burrata contrasts beautifully with the wine's vibrant acidity and persistent bubbles, while subtle dairy sweetness complements the brioche notes developed during lees aging.

Main: Butter-poached lobster tail with herb beurre blanc.
A luxurious pairing where the wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the butter sauce, while autolytic brioche notes mirror the sweetness and delicacy of the lobster.

Vegetarian: Wild mushroom and Gruyère tart with thyme.
The savoury, nutty character from lees aging finds a natural partner in roasted mushrooms and aged cheese, creating a harmonious flavour bridge.

Dessert: Apple and almond galette with lightly whipped crème fraîche.
The red apple and almond notes in the wine connect directly with the dessert while keeping sweetness restrained enough to preserve the wine's freshness and complexity.

Additional Notes

This Blanc de Blancs demonstrates the growing excellence of Ontario sparkling wine. Extended lees aging has added layers of brioche, toasted nuts and savoury complexity while preserving the bright acidity and mineral precision that Niagara Chardonnay is known for. The result is a sparkling wine that comfortably bridges the gap between aperitif and dining table, pairing beautifully with everything from seafood and fried chicken to creamy cheeses and elegant vegetarian dishes. Ideal for holiday entertaining, summer celebrations, and festive gatherings where versatility is key. The combination of acidity, mousse and autolytic richness makes it particularly effective with rich, fatty foods—a classic WSET pairing principle that allows both wine and food to shine.

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2023 Chardonnay

Pre-release.
Tasting Notes by Tony Aspler

Name: 2023 Chardonnay
Geographical Indication: VQA Beamsville Bench
Vineyard: Stonebridge Vineyard
Varietal: Chardonnay
Alcohol: 12.5%

Style: A beautifully composed Niagara Chardonnay that marries generous orchard fruit with refined oak influence. Full-bodied and creamy yet energized by cool-climate freshness, this is a seamless, elegant Chardonnay with depth, balance and impressive length. Equally suited to special occasions and elevated comfort-food dining.

Quality Score: 93. Serve at 10–12°C. Allow 15–20 minutes in the glass before serving to fully reveal its layered aromatics. Enjoy now through 2032.

Description

Appearance: White gold.

Nose: An inviting bouquet of toasted apple, ripe pear and subtle oak spice, with hints of vanilla and warm pastry.

Palate: Full-bodied and dry with richly extracted apple and pear flavours framed by a creamy texture. Beautifully integrated oak contributes depth and complexity without overshadowing the fruit. Niagara's natural acidity maintains freshness and structure, carrying the wine through a long, polished and harmonious finish.

Serving Temperature: 10–12°C.

Drinking Window: Now through 2032.

Pairing

Starter: Crab and corn chowder with fresh chives.
The wine's creamy texture mirrors the richness of the chowder, while its acidity keeps the pairing lively and balanced. Following WSET principles, matching weight and balancing richness creates harmony.

Cheese: Comté or aged Gruyère.
These nutty, savoury cheeses complement the Chardonnay's oak-derived complexity and creamy mouthfeel while allowing its fruit character to shine.

Main: Herb-roasted chicken with garlic, lemon and fingerling potatoes.
A classic Chardonnay pairing. The wine's richness complements the succulent chicken while its acidity refreshes the palate and balances the savoury flavours.

Vegetarian: Cheese soufflé with Gruyère and fresh herbs.
Tony's suggested pairing translated into a centrepiece vegetarian dish. The soufflé's airy richness is beautifully matched by the wine's creamy texture and vibrant acidity.

Dessert: Pear and almond tart with crème fraîche.
The wine's pear and subtle oak spice notes create a natural flavour bridge, while the restrained sweetness ensures the wine remains expressive and balanced.

Additional Notes

Selected as one of Tony Aspler's favourites, this Single Vineyard Chardonnay showcases the elegance and precision that Niagara Chardonnay can achieve. While generously textured and oak-influenced, the wine never loses the freshness that defines top cool-climate expressions. The result is a Chardonnay that appeals equally to lovers of richer Burgundian styles and those who appreciate balance and restraint.

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2024 Syrah

Pre-release.
Tasting Notes by Leah Spooner

Name: 2024 Syrah
Geographical Indication: VQA Beamsville Bench
Vineyard: Stonebridge Vineyard
Varietal: Syrah
Alcohol: 13.2%

Style: A polished cool-climate Syrah that balances ripe dark fruit with savoury complexity and mineral precision. Full-bodied yet energetic, this Niagara-grown Syrah offers fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity and layered notes of blackberry, cured meat, black pepper and baking spice. Powerful without being heavy, it is equally suited to elegant dinners and relaxed gatherings.

Quality Score: 94. Serve at 16–18°C. Decant for 45–60 minutes before serving to reveal its full aromatic complexity. Enjoy now through 2035.

Description

Appearance: Deep red-purple.

Nose: Aromas of nutmeg and clove intertwine with blackberry, dark cherry and blueberry. Layers of black pepper, black soil and subtle savoury notes add depth and intrigue.

Palate: A full-bodied single-vineyard Syrah with remarkable cool-climate vibrancy and juiciness. Fine-grained tannins frame concentrated dark fruit flavours alongside hints of cured meat and graphite-like minerality. Fresh acidity carries the wine effortlessly across the palate, while gentle baking spice emerges on a long, sleek and savoury finish.

Serving Temperature: 16–18°C.

Drinking Window: Now through 2035.

Pairing

Starter: Grilled lamb kofta with mint yogurt and pomegranate.
The wine's peppery spice and savoury character complement the lamb beautifully, while the yogurt softens the tannins and refreshes the palate. This follows the WSET principle of matching flavour intensity while balancing texture.

Cheese: Manchego (12-month aged) with fig compote and Marcona almonds.
The nutty, savoury character of Manchego echoes the Syrah's earthy complexity, while the fruit preserves highlight its dark berry notes.

Main: Filet mignon with rosemary-roasted potatoes and red wine shallot reduction.
A classic pairing where the wine's fine tannins complement tender beef, while its acidity and minerality provide lift and freshness throughout the meal.

Vegetarian: Mushroom and lentil shepherd's pie with roasted root vegetables.
Earthy mushrooms and lentils amplify the wine's savoury and mineral qualities, creating a satisfying vegetarian pairing with enough depth to match the wine's structure.

Dessert: Dark chocolate torte with black cherry compote.
The wine's dark fruit and spice notes connect beautifully with the bittersweet chocolate and cherry flavours. Keeping sweetness restrained ensures the wine remains balanced and expressive.

Additional Notes

This Syrah showcases the exciting potential of Niagara's cool-climate red wines. While retaining the hallmark pepper, savoury meat and spice characteristics associated with the variety, it also possesses the freshness and acidity that distinguish Ontario-grown examples. The result is a wine that feels both powerful and refined, offering immediate enjoyment while rewarding cellaring.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you use a new winery each month?

Yes, we partner with a different winery each month ensuring you receive a variety of VQA wines.

Who picks the wines?

We work together with the wineries and with our team of experts.

When was Stonebridge Winery 2026 Subscription featured?

It was featured in July 2026.

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