Prince Edward Island is not only known across the world for its’ rich red soil, but also its rich culture. As Islanders, we take a lot of pride in buying local and we love sharing our local treasures with tourists from all over. Here are my favorite five PEI locally made products.

1. Blackberry Mead from Rossignol Winery

When we hear of PEI, we think of the famous Island potatoes that come from the rich soil each fall. For John Rossignol, at PEI’s Rossignol Estate Winery that same rich soil has provided 20 years of high quality grapes, berries, and other fruits for his award winning wines. His 20-acre Little Sands property boasts a stunning view of the Northumberland Strait and welcomes visitors to tour the winery and sample their crisp and delicious wines. Don’t forget to pick up your favorite bottle as you may not be able to find them on the Mainland (as we Islanders say).

2. Strawberry & Grand Marnier from PEI Preserve Company

The PEI Preserve Company recently opened their doors for their 30th year of producing specialty foods on PEI. If you haven’t tried one of their preserves, you’re in for a real treat. Nestled along the River Clyde in New Glasgow, this beautiful property is worth a visit for a taste of their high quality preserves. Each bottle of preserves are low in sugar, high in fruit content and bottled right here on PEI. My all-time favorite is Strawberry & Grand Marnier, and it is a great stocking stuffer for Christmas.

3. Cranberry and Sienna Mug from Village Pottery

Imagine, waking up on Sunday morning and pouring a hot cup of coffee into your unique PEI handmade pottery mug. Located in New London, Village Pottery is the longest running pottery shop on PEI. In this pottery shop, you won’t find any generic molds, but instead a family of talented potters that throw everything by hand. As you browse their charming store, you can see them molding their next creation in the back of the store. They may even give you a tour and show you how it’s done.

4.Lavender Goat’s Milk Soap from Great Canadian Soap Company

As you drive through Brackley Beach, you will drive by some witty “Got Soap?” signs along the side of the road. This is your cue to stop into the Great Canadian Soap Company for some all-natural goat’s milk soap. They have over 200 products that are sure to satisfy all skin needs, especially with Old Man Winter approaching and the dry itchy skin that tags along. You may stop in for the soap but you’ll stay for a visit with the goats and enjoy a sip of refreshing lemonade. After falling in love with your newest soap purchase, you can continue this new love affair buy ordering from their online store year round.

5. Wowie Cowie Ice-Cream from COW’s

Known as “Canada’s Best Ice-Cream”, COW’s ice cream is the best of the best for a reason. This premium ice-cream is created from a combination of high butterfat, using only the freshest of ingredients, and being mixed slowly to minimize the amount of air. I realize that a double scoop of Wowie Cowie won’t travel well, it sure does hit the spot for a great treat while you’re visiting PEI. However, the perfect take home from your COW’s experience would be their delicious chocolate covered potato chips.

COWS Chocolate Covered Chips

Do you have a favorite homemade Island product?