Attending post-secondary school in St Catharines, Ontario allowed me to explore the Niagara Peninsula wine region with ease. Most people frequented the larger wineries, like Peller Estates and Trius Winery but I was drawn to the smaller vineyards in the Beamsville, Vineland, and Jordan areas. I enjoyed the larger wineries but felt there was something much more personal and charming about the smaller. In my exploration, I came across The Good Earth Food and Wine Co. Founded by Nicolette Novak in 1998, The Good Earth is a beautiful establishment with a farm to table approach, delicious wines, and an oasis like property.

As much as I love to travel abroad, there’s something really special about travelling within your own province and finding hidden gems that bring you joy. The Good Earth is one of those places for me. No matter what the season, the weather, the reason for dining, there’s an energy at this little vineyard that is hard to explain but keeps drawing me back. Within the bistro, shop and amongst the vines, you can feel the love and hard work that has gone into making this place what it is today.

The Good Earth has recently been taken over by Christine Flynn, executive chef of IQ Food Co. I’m excited to see what changes Christine will make and how she will integrate her own vision into the already beautifully established business.

If you can’t tell by now, I would highly recommend a visit to The Good Earth. The food is always delicious, the wine is always enjoyable, and the atmosphere is always lovely.