Local Connections: Beverage Tour on Island of Orleans: Meet the Makers

3.5 hours | Quebec City | Y Q B - 2 7 0
Average Guest Rating
From
$ 119.95
Min. age: 18 years (See special notes)

Points of Interest

  • Ile d'Orléans
Moderate activity

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

What you will visit:
Island of Orleans
Take a step back in time as you cross the bridge to the Island of Orleans and enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque villages of traditional rural Quebec. First settled by the French over 350 years ago, the Island is a veritable open-air museum, boasting more than 600 heritage buildings.

Monna Cassis Winery
A native of Southern France and fourth-generation liquoriste, Bernard Monna is the first to produce black currant wines and Creme de Cassis in Quebec. The black currant, also known by Quebecers as 'gadelle noire', is a purplish-black berry, fragrant and fruity. The area of Island of Orleans boasts the ideal microclimate for growing black currant. The fruit is harvested during two-week period in early August when the fruit is delightfully ripe and bursting with wonderful flavor. Cassis Monna & Filles currently cultivates 16 hectares of land and produces over 50,000 bottles per year. Tour the grounds and learn all about the production from vineyard to glass.

Apple Cider House
Cidrerie Bilodeau is the creator of the first Cider House. Presiding over over 3000 apple trees on a 6-hectares land, the lush orchards grow 10 varieties of apples used in a variety of fine ciders. From a knowledgeable family member, learn about cider production, the numerous awards the ciders' have won for their distinctive taste and aromas and taste different varieties to choose a favorite of your own.

Domaine Marguerite Winery
Nestled in Sainte Famille village, a few miles from Quebec City center, meet Dominique the owner and learn about her 150 acres land, her vineyard, orchards and winery. A large selection of wines is made on the property with the fruits that they grow. Domaine Marguerite has been growing apples and vines since 1809. You will taste some products and discuss with the owners how the fruit is processed. They have an array of local products in their lovely old-fashioned boutique such as cheese, chocolate, maple syrup, honey, jams, mustards, vinegars, as well as a great selection of wines.

What you will see along the way:
Within minutes of the Old Walled City of Quebec are the beautiful pastoral landscapes of Island of Orleans and Montmorency Falls. Located along the St.-Lawrence River and in the foothills of the Laurentian Mountains, the views of the surrounding countryside and skyline of Québec are spectacular.

Shopping:
Both venues have onsite shopping areas, the perfect opportunity to bring wonderful and unique black current and apple products home.

Details

Tour timeline may vary to avoid overcrowding, etc.

Depart ship for scenic ride to the Island of Orleans and drive by to see Montmorency Falls.

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Travel time:
00:30

Arrive at the Winery

Time at site:
00:35
Free time at site:
10
Inside visit:
Yes
Air conditioned:
Yes
Steps:
5
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
Yes
Photo/video opportunity:
Yes

Departure to Cider House

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Travel time:
00:10

Arrive at Cider House for visit and tasting

Time at site:
00:35
Free time at site:
10
Inside visit:
Yes
Air conditioned:
Yes
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
Yes
Photo/video opportunity:
Yes

Departure to Black Current Shop

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Travel time:
00:20

Arrive to visit and tasting

Time at site:
00:50
Free time at site:
15
Inside visit:
Yes
Air conditioned:
Yes
Steps:
4
Wheelchair accessible:
No
Restroom available:
Yes
Shopping available:
Yes
Photo/video opportunity:
Yes

Reboard your motorcoach and return to the ship

Transport type:
Air Conditioned Motorcoach
Travel time:
00:30