Best 5 Wineries in Columbus OH: Top Places to Savor Local Wines
Columbus, Ohio is home to some of the best wineries in the region. For wine lovers, there are plenty of options to choose from, each offering unique experiences and flavors. From family-owned wineries to sophisticated shops selling wine and craft beer, Columbus has something for everyone.
Whether you’re a local or visiting Columbus, exploring the wineries is a must-do activity. The wineries offer wine tastings, tours, and light snacks, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon with friends or family. The wineries also offer an opportunity to learn about the wine-making process, the history of the winery, and the different types of wine.
Best Wineries in Columbus, OH
Wyandotte Winery
Wyandotte Winery is a family-owned and operated winery located in Columbus, OH. They offer a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. The winery also hosts events such as wine tastings, live music, and food pairings. Visitors can learn about the winemaking process and the history of the winery. The knowledgeable staff is always ready to answer any questions visitors may have.
Website: https://www.wyandottewinery.com/
Address: 4640 Wyandotte Dr, Columbus, OH 43230, United States
Plum Run Winery
Plum Run Winery is a boutique winery located in Grove City, OH, just a short drive from Columbus. They specialize in small-batch, handcrafted wines made from locally sourced grapes. The winery offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for a romantic date or a relaxing evening with friends. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting or a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful vineyard views.
Website: https://plumrunwinery.com/
Address: 3946 Broadway, Grove City, OH 43123, United States
Rockside Winery and Vineyards
Rockside Winery and Vineyards is a picturesque winery located in Lancaster, OH, about 30 minutes from Columbus. They offer a wide selection of wines, including dry, semi-dry, and sweet wines. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting, take a tour of the vineyards, or relax on the outdoor patio with a glass of wine and some snacks. The winery also hosts events such as live music and food trucks.
Website: http://www.rocksidewinery.com/
Address: 2363 Lancaster-Newark Rd NE, Lancaster, OH 43130, United States
Hocking Hills Winery
Hocking Hills Winery is a rustic winery located in Logan, OH, about an hour’s drive from Columbus. They offer a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the outdoor patio with a glass of wine and some snacks. The winery also hosts events such as live music and food trucks.
Website: http://www.hockinghillswinery.com/
Address: 30402 Freeman Rd, Logan, OH 43138, United States
Good Vibes Winery
Good Vibes Winery is a family-owned and operated winery located in Westerville, OH, just a short drive from Columbus. They offer a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a wine tasting or a glass of wine while taking in the beautiful vineyard views. The winery also hosts events such as live music and food trucks.
Website: http://www.good-vibes-winery.com/
Address: 2 S State St, Westerville, OH 43081, United States
Wine Varieties in Columbus
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a popular wine variety in Columbus. This full-bodied wine is made from grapes that are grown in various regions around the world, including Ohio. Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its high tannins, which give it a strong and bold flavor. Some of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines in Columbus are produced by Wyandotte Winery and Camelot Cellars Winery.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is another popular wine variety in Columbus. This white wine is made from green-skinned grapes that are grown in various regions around the world, including Ohio. Chardonnay is known for its buttery and creamy texture and can be paired with a wide range of foods. Some of the best Chardonnay wines in Columbus are produced by Signature Wines and Wyandotte Winery.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a light-bodied red wine that is made from grapes that are grown in various regions around the world, including Ohio. This wine is known for its fruity and earthy flavors, which make it a popular choice for many wine enthusiasts. Some of the best Pinot Noir wines in Columbus are produced by Camelot Cellars Winery and Wyandotte Winery.
Riesling
Riesling is a white wine that is made from grapes that are grown in various regions around the world, including Ohio. This wine is known for its sweet and fruity flavors, which make it a popular choice for many wine enthusiasts. Some of the best Riesling wines in Columbus are produced by Wyandotte Winery and Signature Wines.
In Columbus, there are many wineries that produce a wide range of wine varieties. These wineries use different grape varieties to create unique flavors and aromas. Some of the most popular Ohio grapes used in wine production are Catawba, Concord, and Niagara. Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual wine enthusiast, Columbus has something for everyone.
Wine Tasting Experience
Columbus, OH has a thriving wine scene with various wineries offering unique wine-tasting experiences. With so many options, it can be challenging to decide which winery to visit. This section will provide an overview of the different wine-tasting experiences you can expect in Columbus, OH.
Vineyard Tours
Visiting a vineyard is an excellent opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and taste wines straight from the source. Many wineries in Columbus, OH offer guided vineyard tours that provide an immersive experience. During the tour, visitors can learn about the different grape varieties, the winemaking process, and the history of the vineyard.
Wine Bars
Wine bars are a great option for those who want to taste a variety of wines without committing to a full vineyard tour. Many wine bars in Columbus, OH offer wine flights, which allow visitors to taste several wines in small portions. Some wine bars also offer food pairings to enhance the wine-tasting experience.
Wine on High
Wine on High is a wine shop and tasting room located in the Short North Arts District in Columbus, OH. They offer a wide variety of wines from around the world, as well as locally produced wines. Visitors can taste wines by the glass or purchase bottles to take home. The knowledgeable staff can also provide recommendations based on individual preferences.
Food and Wine Pairings
Pizza and Wine
When it comes to pairing wine with pizza, it’s important to consider the toppings. For example, a pepperoni pizza pairs well with a bold red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Chianti. If you prefer a white wine, try a Pinot Grigio or a Sauvignon Blanc with a margherita pizza. For a vegetarian pizza, a light-bodied red like a Pinot Noir or a Rosé would be a great choice.
Pasta and Wine
Pasta is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of wines. For a classic tomato-based pasta dish, a Chianti or a Sangiovese would be a great choice. For a cream-based pasta dish, a Chardonnay or a Pinot Grigio would be a good match. For a seafood pasta dish, a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio would complement the flavors well.
Food Trucks and Wine
Food trucks offer a variety of cuisines, which can make it challenging to find the perfect wine pairing. However, there are some general guidelines to follow. For spicy dishes, a sweet wine like a Riesling or a Gewürztraminer can help balance out the heat. For savory dishes, a medium-bodied red like a Merlot or a Syrah would be a great choice. For lighter dishes like salads or sandwiches, a crisp white like a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio would be a good match.
Additional Activities
Live Music
Many wineries in Columbus, OH offer live music events, making for a fun and lively atmosphere. Wyandotte Winery, for example, hosts a variety of musical acts, from jazz to rock, on their outdoor patio during the summer months. Camelot Cellars Winery also features live music on select evenings, creating a relaxed and enjoyable ambiance for guests.
Award-Winning Wines
Columbus, OH is home to several wineries that have received awards for their exceptional wines. Signature Wines, for instance, has won multiple medals at the Ohio Wine Competition for its unique and flavorful blends. Wyandotte Winery has also been recognized for its wines, including a gold medal for its Cabernet Franc at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.
Winemaking
For those interested in the winemaking process, several wineries in Columbus, OH offer tours and classes. Wyandotte Winery provides a behind-the-scenes look at their winemaking process, as well as tastings of their award-winning wines. Le Petit Chevalier Vineyards and Farm Winery offers classes on winemaking, allowing guests to learn the art of crafting their own wine.
Overall, Columbus, OH offers a variety of additional activities to enhance the wine-tasting experience, from live music events to winemaking classes.