Best 12 Wineries in Ohio: Top Places to Sip and Savor
Ohio may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of wine regions in the United States, but the state has a lot to offer for wine lovers. With over 300 wineries and vineyards spread throughout the state, Ohio has a diverse range of wines to offer, from crisp whites to full-bodied reds.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day trip, Ohio’s wineries and vineyards offer a unique experience. Many of them are located in picturesque settings, such as rolling hills, lakeside views, and Amish country. Visitors can enjoy tastings, and tours, and even stay overnight in some of the wineries’ on-site accommodations.
Some of the most popular wineries in Ohio include Gervasi Vineyard, Sunny Slope Winery, and Château Hough. Gervasi Vineyard, located in Canton, is a Tuscan-inspired winery resort that produces award-winning wines, spirits, craft beer, and cuisine. Sunny Slope Winery, located in Big Prairie, has over 20 varieties in its wine portfolio and offers a cozy atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating. Château Hough, located in Cleveland, is an urban winery that specializes in organic and biodynamic wines.
Understanding Ohio’s Wine Regions
Ohio is home to several wine regions, each with unique terroir and grape varieties. The state’s wine regions are spread across Northern Ohio, with some located near the Great Lakes, while others are situated along the Ohio River Valley.
One of the most prominent Ohio wine regions is the Lake Erie region, which is known for producing high-quality wines. The region’s vineyards benefit from the cooling effect of the lake, which helps to create a favorable microclimate for grape growing. The Lake Erie region is home to several wineries, including Firelands Winery and Heineman Winery.
Another notable wine region in Ohio is the Grand River Valley, located in Ashtabula County. The region is known for producing some of the best Riesling and Chardonnay wines in the state. Wineries in the Grand River Valley include Ferrante Winery and Debonne Vineyards.
The Ohio River Valley is another wine region in the state. The region’s vineyards are located along the Ohio River, and they benefit from the region’s fertile soils. The Ohio River Valley is home to several wineries, including Meranda-Nixon Winery and Meier’s Wine Cellars.
Ohio wine country is a term used to describe the state’s wine regions collectively. The term encompasses all the wine regions in the state, including those located near the Great Lakes and the Ohio River Valley.
Notable Wineries in Ohio
Firelands Winery
Firelands Winery is one of the oldest and most popular wineries in Ohio, producing unique wines since 1880. It offers a wide range of wines, including award-winning Rieslings, Chardonnays, and Cabernets. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Firelands Winery also hosts events and has a wine club for its loyal customers.
Website: http://www.firelandswinery.com/
Address: 917 Bardshar Rd, Sandusky, OH 44870, United States
Gervasi Winery
Gervasi Winery is one of the best wineries in Ohio, offering a unique Tuscan-inspired experience. It has a vineyard, winery, and luxurious villas for guests to stay in. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wines, including Italian varieties such as Sangiovese and Barbera. Gervasi Winery also has a restaurant, bistro, and marketplace for guests to enjoy.
Website: https://www.gervasivineyard.com/
Address: 1700 55th St NE, Canton, OH 44721, United States
Debonne Vineyards
Debonne Vineyards is one of the largest wineries in Ohio, producing over 150,000 gallons of wine annually. It offers a wide range of wines, including award-winning ice wines, Rieslings, and Cabernets. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Debonne Vineyards also hosts events and has a wine club for its loyal customers.
Website: https://www.debonne.com/
Address: 7840 Doty Rd, Madison, OH 44057, United States
Valley Vineyards
Valley Vineyards is a family-owned winery that has been producing wines for over 50 years. It offers a variety of wines, including Chardonnays, Cabernets, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Valley Vineyards also hosts events and has a wine club for its loyal customers.
Website: http://www.valleyvineyards.com/
Address: 2276 US-22 &, OH-3, Morrow, OH 45152, United States
Mastropietro Winery
Mastropietro Winery is a boutique winery that produces small-batch wines. It offers a variety of wines, including Cabernets, Chardonnays, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Mastropietro Winery also hosts events and has a wine club for its loyal customers.
Website: http://mastropietrowinery.com/
Address: 14558 Ellsworth Rd, Berlin Center, OH 44401, United States
Stoney Ridge Winery
Stoney Ridge Winery is a family-owned winery that produces a variety of wines, including Rieslings, Cabernets, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Stoney Ridge Winery also hosts events and has a wine club for its loyal customers.
Website: http://www.stoneyridgewinery.com/
Address: 7144 Williams Co Rd 16, Bryan, OH 43506, United States
Vinoklet Winery
Vinoklet Winery is a family-owned winery that produces a variety of wines, including Rieslings, Chardonnays, and Cabernets. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Vinoklet Winery also has a restaurant and hosts events for its customers.
Website: http://www.vinokletwines.com/
Address: 11069 Colerain Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45252, United States
The Lakehouse Inn and Winery
The Lakehouse Inn and Winery is a boutique winery that produces small-batch wines. It offers a variety of wines, including Chardonnays, Cabernets, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. The Lakehouse Inn and Winery also has a bed and breakfast for guests to stay in.
Website: http://thelakehouseinn.com/
Address: 5653 Lake Rd E, Geneva, OH 44041, United States
Silver Moon Winery
Silver Moon Winery is a family-owned winery that produces a variety of wines, including Rieslings, Chardonnays, and Cabernets. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Silver Moon Winery also hosts events and has a wine club for its loyal customers.
Website: http://www.silvermoonwinery.com/
Address: 4915 Old Rte 39 NW, Dover, OH 44622, United States
Breitenbach Wine Cellars
Breitenbach Wine Cellars is a family-owned winery that produces a variety of wines, including Rieslings, Chardonnays, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Breitenbach Wine Cellars also has a restaurant and hosts events for its customers.
Website: http://www.breitenbachwine.com/
Address: 5934 Old Rte 39 NW, Dover, OH 44622, United States
Chateau Tebeau Winery
Chateau Tebeau Winery is a family-owned winery that produces a variety of wines, including Rieslings, Chardonnays, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Chateau Tebeau Winery also has a bed and breakfast for guests to stay in.
Website: https://marketing92917.wixsite.com/mysite-1
Address: 525 OH-635, Helena, OH 43435, United States
Terra Cotta Vineyards
Terra Cotta Vineyards is a family-owned winery that produces a variety of wines, including Rieslings, Chardonnays, and Cabernets. Visitors can enjoy a tasting experience in the tasting room or take a tour of the winery. Terra Cotta Vineyards also has a restaurant and hosts events for its customers.
Website: http://www.terracottavineyards.com/
Address: 2285 Rix Mills Rd, New Concord, OH 43762, United States
Exploring Ohio’s Wine Trails
Ohio boasts several wine trails that traverse the state and provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the region’s wineries. Each wine trail offers a unique experience, from the Appalachian Wine Trail in the southeast to the Lake Erie Shores and Islands Wine Trail in the north.
The Appalachian Wine Trail is a must-visit for those interested in exploring the region’s history and culture. The trail winds through the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and includes six wineries, each with its unique charm. Visitors can sample award-winning wines and learn about the region’s rich heritage.
The Ohio River Valley Wine Trail, located in the southwest, is another popular destination for wine enthusiasts. The trail includes five wineries and offers visitors a chance to explore the scenic Ohio River Valley. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and beautiful views of the river.
The Canal Country Wine Trail, located in the northeast, is a great option for those looking to explore Ohio’s countryside. The trail includes four wineries and takes visitors through the region’s picturesque canal country. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and beautiful scenery.
The Capital City Wine Trail, located in central Ohio, is an excellent option for those looking to explore the state’s capital city, Columbus. The trail includes six wineries and takes visitors through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods. Visitors can enjoy tastings, and tours, and explore the city’s attractions.
The Lake Erie Shores and Islands Wine Trail is a must-visit for those looking to explore Ohio’s beautiful Lake Erie coastline. The trail includes 11 wineries and takes visitors through the region’s picturesque vineyards and orchards. Visitors can enjoy tastings, tours, and beautiful views of Lake Erie.
Wine Varieties in Ohio
Ohio has a diverse range of wine varieties that can please any palate. Here are some of the most popular wine varieties in Ohio:
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a red wine grape variety that is grown in several vineyards in Ohio. It is a light-bodied wine with a fruity aroma and flavors of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry. It pairs well with grilled meats, salmon, and pasta dishes.
Fruit Wines
Ohio is known for its fruit wines, which are made from a variety of fruits such as apples, cherries, and peaches. These wines are sweet and fruity and can be enjoyed as a dessert wine or paired with spicy foods.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a white wine grape variety that is grown in several vineyards in Ohio. It is a full-bodied wine with flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla. It pairs well with seafood, chicken, and creamy pasta dishes.
Riesling
Riesling is a white wine grape variety that is grown in several vineyards in Ohio. It is a light-bodied wine with flavors of green apple, lemon, and peach. It pairs well with spicy foods, seafood, and salads.
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris is a white wine grape variety that is grown in several vineyards in Ohio. It is a light-bodied wine with flavors of pear, apple, and honey. It pairs well with seafood, chicken, and salads.
Varietals
Ohio also produces a variety of other wine varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and more. These wines are full-bodied and have complex flavors that pair well with red meats, hearty stews, and aged cheeses.
Apple Wine
Ohio is also known for its apple wine, which is made from a variety of apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and more. This wine is sweet and fruity and can be enjoyed as a dessert wine or paired with spicy foods.
In conclusion, Ohio has a diverse range of wine varieties that can please any wine lover. Whether you prefer red or white wines, fruity or complex flavors, Ohio has something for everyone.
Visiting Ohio Wineries: Practical Information
Ohio is home to over 280 wineries, making it a popular destination for wine lovers. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced wine enthusiast, Ohio’s wineries offer something for everyone. Here are some practical tips for visiting Ohio wineries:
Getting There
Ohio’s wineries are located throughout the state, with many clustered in the northeast and southwest regions. If you’re flying in, the closest major airports are in Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati. From there, you can rent a car or take a taxi to reach your destination.
Visiting Wineries
Most Ohio wineries are open to visitors year-round, but it’s always a good idea to check their hours of operation before you go. Some wineries require reservations for tastings or tours, so it’s best to call ahead to make sure you can get a spot.
When visiting wineries, be sure to dress appropriately. Comfortable shoes are a must, as many wineries have uneven terrain and gravel paths. You may also want to bring a light jacket or sweater, as some wineries can be chilly inside.
Popular Winery Destinations
Ohio has several popular winery destinations that are worth a visit. Toledo, Put-in-Bay, and Geneva-on-the-Lake are all home to multiple wineries and offer a variety of experiences.
If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider visiting Kelleys Island, which is home to several wineries and is accessible by ferry. Vermilion Valley Vineyards and Lakehouse Inn and Winery are also popular destinations, offering stunning views of Lake Erie.
Additional Information
Many Ohio wineries have websites that provide detailed information about their offerings, hours of operation, and special events. Some wineries also offer newsletters that you can sign up for to stay up-to-date on their latest news and offerings.
Overall, visiting Ohio wineries is a great way to explore the state’s rich winemaking history and sample some of the best wines in the world. With so many wineries to choose from, there’s something for everyone.