By Jeff 
Nestled along the shores of Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County (PEC) has become a hotspot for craft beer lovers. With its rich agricultural roots and a thriving arts scene, this charming region is now home to some of Ontario’s most exciting breweries. Whether you’re a hop enthusiast or a casual beer drinker, PEC offers a fantastic selection of breweries to explore. Here’s a guide to the must-visit breweries in Prince Edward County.
Top Breweries in Prince Edward County
1. Prince Eddy’s Brewing Co.
📍 Location: Picton
🍺 Known For: Small-batch craft beers with local ingredients
⭐ Must-Try: County Light Lager (crisp & refreshing)
A laid-back brewery in the heart of Picton, Prince Eddy’s focuses on approachable, high-quality beers. Their County Light Lager is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a sunny afternoon. The taproom has a cozy vibe, making it a great spot to relax after exploring the town.
2. Parsons Brewing Company
📍 Location: Picton
🍺 Known For: Farm-to-glass brewing with estate-grown hops
⭐ Must-Try: East Coast IPA (juicy & aromatic)
Situated on a picturesque farm, Parsons Brewing grows its own hops and barley, ensuring ultra-fresh flavors. Their East Coast IPA is a standout, with tropical notes and a smooth finish. The outdoor patio offers stunning views of the countryside—ideal for a summer beer flight.
3. Barley Days Brewery
📍 Location: Picton
🍺 Known For: Historic brews with a modern twist
⭐ Must-Try: Harvest Gold Pale Ale (balanced & malty)
One of PEC’s oldest craft breweries, Barley Days pays homage to the region’s brewing heritage. Their Harvest Gold Pale Ale is a local favorite, with a rich malt profile and subtle hop bitterness. The brewery also offers seasonal specialties, so there’s always something new to try.
4. Matron Fine Beer
📍 Location: Bloomfield
🍺 Known For: Bold, experimental brews
⭐ Must-Try: Farmhouse Saison (peppery & dry)
If you love unique and funky beers, Matron is a must-visit. Specializing in Belgian-inspired ales and wild fermentations, this brewery pushes boundaries. Their Farmhouse Saison is a complex, yeast-driven beer with spicy and fruity notes. The industrial-chic taproom adds to the cool vibe.
5. 555 Brewing Co.
📍 Location: Consecon
🍺 Known For: Small-batch creativity
⭐ Must-Try: County Cream Ale (smooth & easy-drinking)
A hidden gem in Consecon, 555 Brewing focuses on small, handcrafted batches. Their County Cream Ale is a silky, slightly sweet brew that’s incredibly drinkable. The brewery has a rustic charm, and the owners are often around to chat about their process.
6. Midtown Brewing Company
📍 Location: Wellington
🍺 Known For: Lively atmosphere & diverse beer selection
⭐ Must-Try: Wellington Wheat (light & citrusy)
Located in the heart of Wellington, Midtown Brewing is a great spot to enjoy a pint with friends. Their Wellington Wheat is a refreshing choice, with hints of orange and coriander. The brewery often hosts live music, making it a fun evening destination.
Brewery Hopping Tips for Prince Edward County
- Plan a Route: Many breweries are within a short drive of each other—consider a self-guided beer tour.
- Try a Flight: Most places offer samplers, so you can taste multiple beers without overdoing it.
- Check for Events: Some breweries host live music, trivia nights, or food pop-ups.
- Designated Driver? Several breweries offer non-alcoholic options or local cider for variety.
Final Thoughts
Prince Edward County’s brewery scene is flourishing, with something for every beer lover—from hop-forward IPAs to smooth lagers and funky sours. Whether you’re a dedicated craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, PEC’s breweries deliver great flavors in beautiful settings.