The Niagara Benchlands is where premium wines, big personality, and a landscape that's anything but ordinary come together. Located just over an hour from Toronto and 30 minutes from Niagara Falls — close enough to feel effortless, yet far enough to feel like a genuine escape.
A designated VQA wine sub-appellation in West Niagara, situated on and around the Niagara Escarpment. It encompasses Jordan, Vineland, Beamsville, and Lincoln — defined by elevated terrain, ancient limestone soils, and the moderating influence of Lake Ontario.
Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Icewine — all shaped by limestone-rich soils and a cool Escarpment climate that produces wines of exceptional minerality and complexity.
From boutique vineyards to family-run estates, each winery brings its own craft and story. Experiences go beyond the glass — walk sunlit vine rows, taste wines poured by the winemakers themselves, and take part in events that showcase the culture of the region.
No — they are distinct VQA sub-appellations. The Benchlands is in West Niagara (Jordan, Vineland, Beamsville, Lincoln); Niagara-on-the-Lake is at the eastern end of the Peninsula. Different soils, elevations, and microclimates produce wines with distinct characters.
Absolutely. Wineries are clustered along a scenic stretch of West Niagara — easy to visit several in a day. Plan your route with Niagara Benchlands Wineries and Wine Country Ontario.
Take the QEW west, exit at Jordan Road or Victoria Avenue — approximately 75 minutes.
QEW east toward Niagara — approximately 45 minutes.
QEW west — approximately 30 minutes.
3210 Staff Avenue, Jordan, Ontario L0R 1S0
Vintage Hotels' Inn on the Twenty and Jordan House Hotel are steps from the winery. St. Catharines offers a wide range of hotels 10 minutes away; Niagara-on-the-Lake boutique inns are approximately 20 minutes out.
A 200-year-old family property on the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, farmed by the Staff family for five generations. Proprietor and Winemaker Sue-Ann Staff is a founding partner of Niagara Benchlands Wineries Inc. and one of the region's most passionate advocates — over 600 national and international medals across her Rieslings, Icewines, and red varietals.
Seven days a week, 11 am–5:30 pm. Walk-ins welcome; reservations recommended on weekends.
$15/person for three wines of your choice. Additional wines $5 each.
Wine tastings, vineyard walks, seasonal events, and weddings & private events on the estate grounds.
The region is home to celebrated restaurants including Inn On The Twenty in Jordan Village — a landmark of Niagara wine country cuisine.
Ontario residents can order online with delivery across the province. Free shipping on orders of $150 or more. Browse our wine collection →
Learn more about tastings. Call 905-562-1719 or email info@sue-annstaff.com.
Approximately 75 minutes via the QEW — close enough to feel effortless, yet far enough to feel like a genuine escape.
70+ wineries, from boutique family estates to larger producers. Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery in Jordan is one of the region's most celebrated, founded by fifth-generation Niagara farmer and winemaker Sue-Ann Staff.
Walk-ins are always welcome, but reservations are recommended on weekends. Call 905-562-1719 for same-day bookings.
Yes! Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome on our outdoor patio and grounds. See our pooch policy →
Yes — across Ontario, with free shipping on orders of $150+. For other Canadian provinces, call 1-877-566-1719. Shop online →
Yes — outdoor weddings from late spring through fall, up to 225 guests. Learn more about weddings at Sue-Ann Staff →