Driving to Rainbow Hills Winery along the winding dirt road, I could hear the sound of cicadas calling me towards the vineyards, while wooden directional signs were strategically placed along the route. Soon I approached the final bend in the road where beautiful vines greeted me with sumptuously ripe grapes.
Recognized as one of the wineries on the Three Rivers Wine Trail, Rainbow HilIs Winery resides in a beautiful rustic hideaway. With gorgeous flowers springing up throughout the landscape, and a beautiful fountain on the lawn, I was excited to sample some of the unique wines produced by Rainbow Hills.
The tasting area is to the far right, so I climbed the stairs leading up to the bar where I met winemaker, Bob. Since I was not familiar with a couple of the varietals on their wine list. he was extremely helpful in pointing me in the right direction after telling him the types of wine I prefer. He was spot on when I made my selections and I enjoyed every sample he poured as more visitors arrived for a tasting.
Rainbow Hills Vineyards is one of the oldest wineries in Ohio, established in 1988. Founded by the late Leland (Lee) Wyse and his wife, Joy, this beautiful retreat sits on an 82-acre farm that offers fabulous views and promises a getaway of solitude and relaxation.
There is ample space indoors and out for sampling the wines produced by Rainbow Hills. The rustic interior of slate floors and sandstone walls is a beautiful setting for sampling the wines created onsite. Walkways and outlooks create the perfect opportunity for a stroll through the natural beauty of the winery’s surroundings. Joy has planted four-hundred flowers producing a splendid rainbow of colors while in bloom.
Back at the tasting bar, I started out with the Drumming Grouse which is a Concord semi-sweet wine. It has a beautiful color, a slight acidity and sells for $11.75 per bottle. It is a great wine for self-proclaimed non-wine drinkers, easy on the palate and an entry into broadening one’s wine appreciation.
The Trillium was a new wine that Rainbow Hills began producing about a year ago. A blend of Vidal Blanc, Seyval Blanc and Traminette, this combination makes a lovely semi-sweet wine.
My next selection is Ares and it is a perfect wine made of Ohio Foch grapes. This full body red is high in tannins and has a lingering finish.
Bob surprised me with a sample of their Pink Champagne. Served chilled, this is made for celebrations and summer outings. I purchased a couple of bottles of the Champagne because I loved the sweet berry taste.
My final sample is White Gold and according to Bob, this was the perfect year for this wine made from sweet Niagara grapes.
As I completed my tasting, I had the pleasure of meeting Joy Wyse. As she was enjoying a glass of Ohio Chardonel, her favorite wine, I mentioned I had visited Yellow Butterfly Vineyards and learned about Lee’s contribution to this winery’s success. Many other wineries have praised Lee for his willingness to help new winemakers. I wished I could have met him.
As I was ready to leave, I noticed the winery was preparing for their summer cookout. Provided every Friday and Saturday night during the summer, visitors can select a NY Strip or Boneless Chicken Breast with side dishes. Reservations required. The winery is open all year, Monday through Saturday, while the Bed and Breakfast is available seven days a week.
I had a wonderful time visiting Rainbow Hills Vineyards and look forward to an opportunity to return when I can stay overnight. I would have loved to have explored the grounds in more detail and maybe to have had the chance to catch a glimpse of Bigfoot. Newcomerstown is said to be home to this legendary furry beast, so you never know what surprises may await you with a stay at Rainbow Hills Winery, Bed and Breakfast.
What to See and What to Do:
Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305
Many thanks to Bob for his hospitality and assistance with my wine selection and a thank you to Joy Wyse for her generosity as well! Please note that all comments provided were based solely upon my own opinions and experience.
Where to Stay:
Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305
Because the hours of operation are set seasonally, ensure that you check the Rainbow Hills Winery website for the most up-to-date information.
Rainbow Hills Winery is also a bed and breakfast!
Where to Eat and Where to Drink:
Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305
Make reservations for Friday and Saturday night at 5:30 to grill your own dinner. Rainbow Hills will supply the sides which include baked potato, salad, rolls and chocolate cake for dessert.
Railroad Restaurant & Saloon
509 Main Street
Coshocton, OH 43812
Telephone: 740 575 4151
It was a day to try some fried food and I could not pass up the opportunity to try the deep fried pickles because I prefer the chips over the spears. The spicy cajun dipping sauce was the perfect condiment. I also ordered the lobster bisque which was creamy, delicious and full of lobster meat.