History

Wayne Gretzky Estates Winery and Distillery is located in Niagara-on-the-Lake and marks the opening of a brand-new growth area in 2017: a 23,000-square-foot facility, which is Ontario's first combined winery and distillery. The history draws on Wayne Gretzky's family traditions with wine production and craftsmanship: as a child he watched his grandfather's work picking, pressing grapes and bottling wines. His overarching philosophy is simple: 'Whatever your craft, do it well.' The facility is a tribute to Canadian wine, Canadian whisky and Canadian culture, and visitors are greeted by an atmosphere of hard work, quality and pride in wine and spirits.

In the description of the business it is highlighted that achievement and quality are expressed in both Icewine and whisky production, where it states that guests can feel the intensity in a perfectly chilled portion of Icewine and sense engagement with the right standards and innovative techniques that set their whiskies apart. Wayne Gretzky Estates invites guests to experience the honor of copper distillation equipment and an approach that focuses on craft and Canadian identity.

Production / Manufacturing

The facility produces Canadian whisky made from locally sourced grain and uses a distillation system that includes a gleaming copper still. The descriptions highlight a commitment to experimental and refined methods as well as high standards and precision in production, which 'set our whiskies apart.' The copper-toned distillery and the associated facilities emphasize an approach where quality, craftsmanship and innovation go hand in hand.

Products / Whisky Series

The company presents a whisky approach based on Canadian whiskies produced from locally sourced grains. The product catalog in-store shows categories such as Spirits, where Canadian whisky is included. Part of the experience offering includes estate-exclusive cocktails presenting whisky from the Gretzky selection. In addition, Gretzky Cocktail Class (mixology training) is offered as part of their experiences, and it is mentioned that an experience includes a cocktail made with one of their favorite whiskies.

Visit / Experiences

Whisky Bar Patio

The Whisky Bar Patio functions as a warm and inviting space where wine, whisky, beer and Wayne Gretzky fans can gather in Niagara-on-the-Lake. It notes that the patio is heated and open year-round. There is a focus on outdoor and indoor experiences across seasons, and take-out is mentioned on weekends as well as the opportunity to enjoy food such as 'casual comfort foods' from the region's farm-to-table flavors, and that Happy Hour is Canadian in spirit.

Tours & Experiences

Wayne Gretzky Estates offers a range of experiences: - The Wine, Spirit, and Cocktail Tour: available daily, a 45-minute guided tour highlighting wine and spirits, including an estate-exclusive cocktail and a peek into the distillery. - Wayne Gretzky Estates Tasting (Walk-Ins Only): daily, the ability to build a flight of 4 products from the wine and spirits portfolio. - The Gretzky Cocktail Class: offered Friday to Sunday, hands-on session in mixology. - Maple Leaf Saturdays: Saturday evenings open in Club Lounge for Leafs games, walk-in without reservations, members receive a free glass of Brut or equivalent. - Club Lounge and Cocktail Lounge: exclusive lounges and special events such as dead bartender-themed events. - Seasonal events such as Skate Days (Community Skate Days and Project Share Skate Days), Skate with Santa and Valentine's DJ Night. - Hot Chocolate Trail and the opportunity for house-made chocolate delights with Whisky Creams. - MyWineCountry Tour and collaborations such as Wine Club offers with benefits across multiple estates. - Dine With Us: Whisky Bar Patio and Stay With Us: Riverbend Inn & Vineyard are mentioned as affiliated experiences and accommodations.

Philosophy of Experiences

The experiences are designed to celebrate Canadian wine, whisky and culture through guided tours, tastings and interactive sessions, all with a focus on craftsmanship, community and a strong connection to the Niagara region.

Philosophy

Wayne Gretzky Estates describes a core philosophy of giving their all in their craft and striving for excellence in everything they do—'Whatever your craft, do it well.' Hospitality, hard work and pride in Canadian culture go hand in hand with an intensity that can be tasted in Icewine and at copper-still scenes rather than being just a commercial project. Emphasis is placed on rigorous standards, innovative techniques and a close connection to locally produced ingredients, which supports their identity as Ontario's first combined winery and distillery.