What is a characteristic feature of the climate in Ontario's growing areas?

The characteristic feature of the climate in Ontario's growing areas is indeed short hot summers and long cold winters. This climate pattern plays a significant role in grape growing and wine production in the region. The warm summers provide the necessary heat accumulation for grapes to reach optimal ripeness, while the cold winters help manage vineyard pests and diseases by providing a natural dormancy period for the vines.

Ontario's growing regions, particularly the Niagara Peninsula, have a continental climate, which means that there are significant temperature variations between the seasons. The short warm summer allows for a growing season that can produce high-quality wines such as ice wine, while the long cold winters help to shape the styles of wine that can be produced in the area.

In contrast, the other options reflect characteristics not applicable to Ontario's climate. Consistent warm temperatures year-round do not occur due to the significant seasonal changes. High humidity and rainfall year-round would lead to disease pressure in vineyards, which is not the norm for this region. Lastly, mild and rainy coastal conditions are more typical of maritime climates, which does not describe Ontario's inland geography and climate profile. Understanding these climatic characteristics is crucial for recognizing how they influence viticulture and the overall wine industry in Ontario.