Best 5 Wineries in Lebanon County, PA: A Guide to the Top Tasting Rooms and Vineyards
Several wineries in Lebanon County, PA offer a unique experience to wine enthusiasts. The county is home to several vineyards and wineries that produce high-quality wines. These wineries are known for their picturesque views, warm hospitality, and delicious wines.
One of the best wineries in Lebanon County, PA is Mount Hope Estate & Winery. It is the oldest winery in the state and offers a wide range of handcrafted wines, ciders, and spirits. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours, and events at the winery. The estate also hosts the annual Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, which is a popular attraction in the area.
Another popular winery in Lebanon County is Cullari Vineyards and Winery. This family-owned winery produces award-winning wines from locally grown grapes. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours, and events at the winery. The winery also has a tasting room in Hershey, PA, which is a popular tourist destination.
History of Winemaking in Lebanon County
Lebanon County has a rich history of winemaking that dates back to colonial times. In the early days, the area was part of Chester County, one of the three original counties of the Province of Pennsylvania. Later, in 1729, the western section of the Lebanon Valley was divided off to make Lancaster County. After the Revolution, the area was divided again in 1785 with the formation of Dauphin County.
Winemaking in Lebanon County started to gain popularity in the early 1800s when local residents petitioned the Pennsylvania State Legislature to create a wine district in the area. The petition was granted, and the Lebanon Valley became an official wine district in 1820.
Today, Lebanon County is home to some of the best wineries in Pennsylvania, with over 300 wineries operating in the state. Some of the most popular wineries in Lebanon County include Violet Vintage Wine Company, Stone Mountain Wine Cellars, and Chateau Ksara.
Local winemakers in Lebanon County have gained a reputation for producing high-quality wines that showcase the unique flavors of the region. Many wineries in the area specialize in using locally grown grapes, which gives their wines a distinct flavor that cannot be found anywhere else.
In recent years, the popularity of winemaking in Lebanon County has continued to grow, with more and more visitors flocking to the area to sample some of the best wines in Pennsylvania. With its rich history, beautiful countryside, and excellent wineries, Lebanon County is truly a wine lover’s paradise.
Top Wineries to Visit
Lebanon County, PA has a variety of wineries to visit, each with its own unique charm and character. Here are some of the top wineries to consider visiting:
Adams County Winery
Adams County Winery is a family-owned and operated winery that has been producing award-winning wines for over 40 years. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their wines, take a tour of the winery, or relax on the outdoor patio. The winery also hosts events throughout the year, including live music and food trucks.
Website: http://www.adamscountywinery.com/
Address: 251 Peach Tree Rd, Orrtanna, PA 17353, United States
Deer Creek Winery
Deer Creek Winery is located in a picturesque setting and offers a wide variety of wines to taste, including dry, semi-sweet, and sweet wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting in the rustic tasting room or on the outdoor patio. The winery also has a gift shop with wine-related items and souvenirs.
Website: http://www.deercreekwine.com/
Address: 3333 Soap Fat Rd, Shippenville, PA 16254, United States
Penns Woods Winery
Penns Woods Winery is a boutique winery that focuses on producing high-quality wines using sustainable practices. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their wines in the cozy tasting room or on the outdoor patio overlooking the vineyards. The winery also hosts events throughout the year, including yoga and wine tastings.
Website: http://pennswoodswinery.com/
Address: 124 Beaver Valley Rd, Chadds Ford, PA 19317, United States
Nissley Vineyards and Winery
Nissley Vineyards and Winery is a family-owned winery that has been producing award-winning wines for over 40 years. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their wines in the charming tasting room or on the outdoor deck. The winery also hosts events throughout the year, including live music and food trucks.
Website: http://www.nissleywine.com/
Address: 140 Vintage Dr, Bainbridge, PA 17502, United States
Mount Hope Estate
Mount Hope Estate is a historic estate that is home to the Mount Hope Winery. Visitors can take a tour of the winery and learn about the winemaking process, or enjoy a tasting of their wines in the tasting room. The estate also hosts events throughout the year, including the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire and the Great Pennsylvania FlavorFest.
Website: https://mounthope.estate/
Address: 2775 Lebanon Rd, Manheim, PA 17545, United States
Wine Varieties and Tasting
When it comes to wine tasting in Lebanon County, PA, visitors can expect to find a variety of wine types to suit their tastes. Most wineries offer flights and tastings, allowing visitors to sample a range of wines before committing to a full glass or bottle.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a popular grape variety in Lebanon County, PA, and is known for its light to medium-bodied red wine. Pinot Noir wines are typically fruity and smooth, with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and spice. Visitors can expect to find several wineries in the area that offer Pinot Noir tastings.
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is another popular grape variety in Lebanon County, PA, and is known for its full-bodied red wine. Cabernet Franc wines are typically bold and tannic, with flavors of blackberry, plum, and tobacco. Visitors can expect to find several wineries in the area that offer Cabernet Franc tastings.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a popular grape variety in Lebanon County, PA, and is known for its full-bodied white wine. Chardonnay wines are typically buttery and oaky, with flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla. Visitors can expect to find several wineries in the area that offer Chardonnay tastings.
Riesling
Riesling is a popular grape variety in Lebanon County, PA, and is known for its sweet white wine. Riesling wines are typically light and refreshing, with flavors of peach, apricot, and honey. Visitors can expect to find several wineries in the area that offer Riesling tastings.
Food and Atmosphere
Food Trucks
Visitors to Lebanon County’s wineries can enjoy a variety of snacks and light meals from food trucks parked on the premises. These mobile kitchens offer a range of delicious treats that pair well with the wine selection. Some food trucks specialize in gourmet sandwiches, while others offer wood-fired pizza, artisanal cheese plates, and other small bites.
Outdoor Bar
Many wineries in Lebanon County offer an outdoor bar where visitors can enjoy wine tastings and drinks with friends and family. These bars are often situated in scenic locations with stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside. They provide a relaxed atmosphere where visitors can unwind and enjoy a glass of wine while soaking up the sunshine.
The Vineyard Deck
For those who prefer a more intimate setting, some wineries in Lebanon County offer a vineyard deck where visitors can enjoy wine and food in a private setting. These decks are often situated in the heart of the vineyard, surrounded by rows of grapevines. They offer a unique and romantic atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or a romantic date.
Overall, the food and atmosphere at Lebanon County’s wineries are excellent. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of delicious snacks and light meals from food trucks, sip wine at an outdoor bar with stunning views, or relax in a private setting on a vineyard deck. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, the wineries in Lebanon County offer a unique and enjoyable experience for all.