The Niagara Peninsula, located near Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, is the largest viticultural area in Canada, both in terms of size and total production; approximately 55% of the nation's wine are made here. The climate is somewhat unique, with warm, sometimes hot summer days and very cold winters. This allows for production of various styles of wines, from well structured Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to deeply concentrated ice wines, many of which, are produced from the red Vidal variety. Other leading varieties include Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Riesling. A total of 13,600 acres are planted on soils of clay, silt and sand. Whites and reds from the Niagara Peninsula have very good natural acidity and can age well. (Wine/Appellations)