Ocala was originally founded in 1912 by the Smith Family. George Smith was a cattler who purchased land to raise his prized purebred Holsteins for meat and dairy. In the late 1970’s, a decision was made to disperse the herd and to expand the small apple orchard behind the barn in order to shift the family business toward fruit production. In the early 90’s, as many other additions of fruit varieties were being made, the planting of grape vines also began, creating a unique estate of an orchard vineyard.
Ocala opened to the public as a licensed Ontario winery in the summer of 1995. Due to a shorter growing season and colder winters at our location, the vineyard is made up of mostly white grape varieties and a few hardy varieties of red. Today, Ocala is dedicated to continuing the tradition of the Smiths in growing high quality fruits and making delicious wines to be enjoyed by all. With over 30 varieties of wines as well as non alcoholic juices, there’s something for everyone.
Book a private event for a group as small as 10 or as large as 100 or come by for a tasting, tour or simply to be taken aback by the beauty of this land.
