Merrill House: A Wine Lover’s Retreat in the Heart of Prince Edward County
In recent years, Prince Edward County (PEC) has emerged as one of Canada’s most dynamic wine destinations—a place where limestone-rich soils, Lake Ontario breezes, and a pioneering community of winemakers converge to create a mosaic of distinctive terroirs and wines that shines with bright acidity and ripe phenolics. For the oenophile seeking both exploration and repose, there is perhaps no better home base than Merrill House in Picton, a historic boutique hotel that embodies the county’s spirit of refinement, creativity, and rural charm.
A House with History and Character
Built in 1878, this Victorian mansion, on Picton main street, just a few steps away from village heart, has been reimagined into a boutique hotel that seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary design. Its rooms are an eclectic mix of antiques, bold art, and playful modern touches, creating a space that feels both sophisticated and warmly personal. Merrill House is not just a place to stay—it’s a place to live, even if only for a weekend, and a place where you can keep finding little hidden gems and décor elements all around – a tiny little paper crane cradled over a door frame, the curated selection of literature, design and fashion books available all over the place, the stellar golden chandelier, eclectic, unique art pieces.
A Gateway to County Wines
Prince Edward County is Canada’s youngest Designated Viticultural Area, yet it has already earned international acclaim for its vibrant Chardonnay, elegant Pinot Noir, and traditional method sparkling wines. From the doors of Merrill House, you are only minutes away from some of the region’s most iconic producers. A short drive might take you to Closson Chase for benchmark Chardonnay, to Norman Hardie for Burgundian-inspired Pinot, or to Hinterland for sparkling wines that rival Champagne. For the traveler, this proximity means you can immerse yourself fully in the rhythm of the county: mornings of cellar tastings, afternoons among the vines, and evenings of reflection back at Merrill House. To stay here is to weave oneself into the fabric of the county, glass in hand, heart at ease, and curiosity alive.
For guests eager to immerse themselves fully in Prince Edward County’s wine culture, Merrill House offers its very own Wine Passport—a curated invitation to discover the county glass by glass with exclusive tasting perks in 16 of the best and most renowned wineries in the region. It is an ideal way to guide your whole journey in the County with trust and feel completely VIP.
The Wine Cellar: A Journey Beneath the Surface
What sets Merrill House apart from many accommodations in wine country is not only its hospitality but also its serious dedication to wine. Beneath the property lies a cellar that houses one of the most impressive collections in PEC, featuring a thoughtful selection of local producers alongside global classics. Guests can enjoy verticals of county Pinot Noir or rare bottles from Burgundy and Champagne. This curated selection feels connected to the region and a deep knowledge and appreciation of classics.
Agrotourism and a Sense of Place
Wine tourism in Prince Edward County is inseparable from the broader culture of agrotourism. Beyond the vineyards, visitors encounter lavender farms, cheesemakers, cideries, craft breweries, and seasonal farmers’ markets that reflect the county’s agricultural heartbeat. Merrill House celebrates this ecosystem through its Brasserie, Alexandria.
Dining at Brasserie Alexandria is a journey that bridges Parisian brasserie tradition with the agricultural abundance of Prince Edward County. The menu pays homage to French gastronomy, offering timeless classics such as escargots in garlic butter, steak tartare, and rich terrines. These staples are elevated using fresh, hyper-local ingredients Each plate shows technique, care and intent.
