Charlottetown 
Credit: Tatiana Rodriguez/ Unsplash
Set out on a journey on the 5/15 Fermentation Trail to discover the finest fermented drinks in Queens County with a visit to five breweries.
There are a total of 5 alcoholic beverage producers, that are just 15 minutes away from each other, hence the name 5/15 Fermentation Trail.
The breweries and cideries on the 5/15 Fermentation Trail have been open since June and will remain open till October end. On this little tasting adventure, you will have the opportunity to taste a variety of beverages, including wine, beer, cider, mead and spirits. All of these have been made by small-scale craftspeople, who would love to share their creations with you. You can also learn about these alcoholic drinks and the people who make them.
First up, if you are starting from Charlottetown and going northwest (you can follow any order) is the Island Honey Wine Company. They produce mead, which is considered to be the world’s oldest alcoholic beverage. You can get a guided tour of the farm on their very own mead mobile and taste what the ancient Greeks believed was “the nectar of Gods.”
After visiting The Island Honey Wine Company, your next tasting experience will be at The Deep Roots Distillery. They create the best spirits and liquors using only the finest, locally sourced ingredients. The Distillery aims to “capture the rich and flavorful spirit of the Island” and they do not disappoint.
Stop at Riverdale Orchard that produces award-winning craft ciders that you can taste. They also have cider on tap and offer tours of the orchard. The Riverdale Orchard Cidery is open (currently) Wednesdays to Sundays, so don’t miss out on this fun tasting experience at these award-winning places.
Cool down with draught beer at Modern Brewer’s Village Green. They have a tap room and a patio too, where you can enjoy your drink. They also have a large variety of beers, as well as traditional British Ales and IPA’s.
At the family-owned Matos Vineyard and Winery, you can taste different wines, spirits and liqueurs. You can also get a tour of their vineyard.
A perfect way to celebrate Oktoberfest and the Fall season on Canada’s Food Island, PEI! While at the breweries, do not forget to get some gifts for the foodie on your Christmas list.
5/15 Fermentation Trail – PEI
What: The 5/15 fermentation trail is a chance to visit small scale craftspeople with a passion for creating some of the finest beverages on the island that you can taste and learn about yourself. Whether you like beer, wine, cider, spirits, or mead, there is something for everyone. All five establishments are located within 15 minutes of each other in the heart of Queens County PEI.
Where:
- Matos Vineyard and Winery, 3156 West River Road, Rte 9, Saint Catherines
- The Riverdale Orchard Cidery, 582 Riverdale Road, Route 245 Bonshaw
- Island Honey Wine Company, 820 Millboro Rd Rte 243, New Glasgow
- Deep Roots Distillery, 2100 N York River Rd, Warren Grove
- Modern Brewer’s Village Green, 30 Church Street, Cornwall
Check the websites for operating hours before travelling.
