Muskoka Lakes Farm and Winery

Terroir

Muskoka Lakes Winery was founded on the principle of terroir – crafting wines to reflect the land that produced them. Creating a sense of place means starting with fruit that thrives in the rugged soils and climate of Muskoka.

Quality, local fruit

As farmers in Muskoka for over 60 years, we want you to taste what’s beautiful and unique about this area. That means using our best quality fruit because it makes the best wine. It’s that simple.

Craft Wine

Using traditional methods we can re-discover what the ancients knew – that wonderful wines can be crafted from the fruit that grows around us. Craft wines are made in small batches, by hand, using traditional methods. Passion and dedication are required to allow the unique qualities and growing conditions of locally grown fruit to shine.

Taste Muskoka!

Wines from Muskoka come in a range of styles from dry to dessert. They can be full-bodied or light, crisp and refreshing. We’re proud to bring you Muskoka in a glass!

Winery Story

Muskoka Lakes Winery was launched with the 2000 vintage of Cranberry Wine. This initial release was so well received, it sold out in 16 days. The following release of 2000 Cranberry Blueberry Wine sold out in just 4 days. Over the years, many other wines have been introduced, but Cranberry Wine and Cranberry Blueberry Wine continue to be best sellers.

The idea for the winery started when Murray Johnston, second generation cranberry grower, was studying agriculture at University of Guelph. It was the late 70’s, and the Ontario wine industry was just getting started. He spent hours talking about wine and grapes with a friend who was helping with the first vintages at Iniskillin Winery.

After university, Murray and his wife Wendy spent a lot of time visiting Niagara, watching its growth as a wine region. Wendy grew up hearing her grandmother’s stories about the family distillery, Gooderham and Worts. The craft of distilling always fascinated her and led to a passion for wine and winemaking. After she became a certified sommelier, Murray and Wendy decided it was time for another development in Ontario wine – the idea of crafting wine from fruit native to their Muskoka home. Wendy’s Gooderham grandmother played a part in establishing this new venture. Now in its second decade, Muskoka Lakes Winery continues to create new award winning wines, many of which are available throughout Ontario at the LCBO.