Tag Archives: grapes

Engineering Fabulous Wines, Vinoklet Winery

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It was a beautiful day, so I planned a visit to Vinoklet Winery & Restaurant on Cincinnati’s Westside.   As I pulled into the parking lot, I was more than surprised by the number of cars and was having a difficult time finding a parking space.

Vinoklet hosts a buffet style dinner over the weekends and is also a popular place for hosting events.  That evening, there was a family reunion, a business dinner as well as a bachelorette party.  I was incredibly grateful that the hostess found a small table for me in a corner when I explained I was interested in a wine tasting.

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In addition to sampling wine, I decided to purchase the cheese tray which included Swiss, Cheddar and Pepperjack cheese, pepperoni, crackers and grapes.  It was the perfect amount for the tasting, but I wished that I had booked a reservation for the buffet-style meal where fish, steak and shrimp were grilled to perfection served with salads, sides and decadent desserts.

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There are a total of nine wines available for tasting, arranged from dry to sweet with the reds to my left and the whites on my right.  I began my tasting with the Brother Joe, a cabernet sauvignon described as “A premium red wine made with cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and chambourcin grapes.  Rich ripe flavors with an elegant finish”.

The Cincinnatus was next, which is a “dry red table wine made with Merlot and Chambourcin grapes.  Vibrant flavor with a harmonious finish”.  I picked up a bottle for our family cookout that weekend, knowing it would be perfect with steak.

I enjoyed the Sunset Blush and It was such a great, refreshing wine that I ordered a glass after my tasting.  This is a “semi-sweet wine made with Catawba, Vidal and Niagara grapes. Aromatic fruit with a zesty finish.”

The last red wine on the list was the La Dolce Vita, translated as “The Sweet Life” in Italian.  It is a “sweet red dessert wine made with Chambourcin and Concord grapes.  Soft and fruity to enjoy anytime”.

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Halfway into my tasting, I had the privilege of meeting Kreso Mikulic, the owner of the winery.  Checking in with his guests, he was enjoying a glass of wine.  Making his rounds, he stopped by my table after coming in from outside and we chatted a few moments about his winery.

Kreso is originally from Croatia, where wine was a part of his everyday life.  Just like many of the northern Italians, each of the members in his village grew their own grapes to produce wine for their families.  He actively participated in the process as a child and has years of experience making extraordinary wines.

Kreso went on to become an electrical engineer, moving to the US and finding work with the General Electric Aviation division.  He is credited with a variety of patents for the aerospace industry.   Once he retired, he opened the winery in 1980 and has been hosting guests in Colerain for nearly forty years.

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Sunset Blush

Continuing with my fifth sample, I learned that the Traminette is a grape blend of the Seyve, a French American hybrid with the vitis vinifera of German descent.  It is the next wine on my list and described by Vinkolet as a “premium wine with spicy characteristics of honey and florals”.  The taste was strongest towards the back of the tongue.

Tears of Joy is definitely a drier wine and is made with Vidal Blanc grapes.  It is “crisp and full of flavor yet soft to the palate”.  It was a little too dry for me, but I really enjoyed the Dreamer, a semi-sweet wine made with Vidal Blanc grapes and an Ohio favorite, the Niagara. The winery labels it as “perfectly balanced and delicate to the taste.”

In Vino Veritas was another favorite wine at Vinoklet Winery.  Also made with Niagara and Vidal Blanc grapes, this is sweeter than the Dreamer and would be a great wine to enjoy on a summer afternoon.

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Passion was the last wine in the tasting and was absolutely delicious.  I couldn’t resist and had to purchase a bottle to enjoy at home.

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What I liked most about the winery was that it is also a restaurant and banquet facility.  Located on rolling hills, I enjoyed walking out to the acres of vineyards that would soon produce grapes over the summer months.  Relaxing at the bonfire after dinner is a favorite pastime with many of Vinoklet’s customers and the sunsets from here are absolutely breathtaking.

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The Weekend Dinner option includes the buffet and there are Weekend Grillouts over the summer months offering a wide selection of meats.  In the evening, the winery sets up the fire pit when the weather permits.

Vinoklet Winery is the perfect location to enjoy an evening meal or celebrate a special event.  With the scenic views, delicious foods and award-winning wines, we found the winery more than exceptional.  What makes Vinoklet so special is also memorialized in Kreso’s philosophy.  When it comes to wine, “the best wine is the wine that pleases you the most”, and at Vinoklet Winery there are so many award-winning options from which to choose.   It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to make wines, but it certainly doesn’t hurt to be an engineer.

Have you visited Vinoklet and do you have a favorite wine from the winery? Do you have a favorite Ohio winery?  I would love to hear about it to experience it for myself.  If you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below, that would be great! Many Thanks for reading about our evening wine tasting at Vinoklet and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Vinoklet Winery & Restaurant
11069 Colerain Avenue
Cincinnati, OH  45252
Telephone:  513 385 9309

  • Hours: The winery is open from noon to 5 PM on Tuesday, noon to 8 PM on Wednesday and Thursday with wine tastings from noon to 4 PM, noon to 11 PM on Friday and Saturday with wine tastings from noon to 4 PM, from 1 PM to 5 PM on Sunday.  The winery is closed on Monday.  Hours are seasonal and are subject to change.  Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation and schedule of events.
  • Amenities:  Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, outdoor seating, online shopping, wine, private events and scheduled events
  • Tips for Your Visit:  Please note that the wine tastings are only provided during certain hours and are subject to change.  As always, please drink responsibly.

Where to Stay:

Hampton Inn Cincinnati – Northwest/Fairfield
430 Kolb Drive
Cincinnati, OH  45014
Telephone:  513 942 3440

Where to Eat: 

Enjoy the buffet at Vinoklet on Wednesdays and Thursdays or visit on Friday and Saturday nights for the opportunity to grill your own entree with a selection of side dishes, desserts and of course, wine!

Featured Ohio Winery: Stoney Ridge Winery in Bryan

As I travel down the long graveled drive, coming into view is Stoney Ridge Winery appearing more like a schoolhouse or the church of a small congregation.  The pristine white-sided structure with its red brick addition provides plenty of space for wine tastings, events and an afternoon out with friends.  Located in the rural town of Bryan, Ohio, Stoney Ridge is a sprawling estate with over thirteen acres of vineyards to produce their award winning estate wines.

The winery was first opened by Philip and Pamela Stotz who began planting the vineyard in 1997.  Among the varietals grown here are hearty, French-hybrid grapes that can survive the cold such as the Frontenac, Marechal Foch, Vidal and Vignoles.  While all of their wines are produced here, they purchase a variety of grapes from Lake Michigan to Lake Erie to include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot and Riesling.  The winery provides samples of not only their wines, but handcrafted hard ciders as well.

Entering the Stoney Ridge Winery, my eyes are immediately directed to the beautiful woodwork interior and stunning stone fireplace.  A viewing tower and upstairs loft provides spectacular views of the outdoor landscape.  In front of me is the long, light colored granite bar with plenty of space for a large number of wine tastings.  The winery will be hosting an event for the Humane Society and I have arrived an hour before the occasion begins.

While sampling a few wines, I learned that the Stotz family property offered a local farmer’s market where they first began selling produce from their forty acres.  As their endeavor grew, they planted their first acres of vines in the late 1990s.  Visitors can tour the vineyard on a harvest wagon, enjoy samples of their wine and shop in the gift store for a wide variety of foods, gift baskets and crafts.

Stoney Ridge Winery has a great following with about eighty percent of their business local.   Their best-selling wines include Sweet Barn Dance Red, Sunset Cruise, Stormy Nights and their semi-dry Riesling.  I ordered a bottle of Barn Dance Blush and took a seat at one of the picnic tables by the pond admiring the well-manicured trellis vines in the distance.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Stoney Ridge Winery in Bryan, Ohio?  What was your favorite wine?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my winery experience and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Stoney Ridge Winery
07144 County Road 16
Bryan, OH  43506
Telephone:   419 636 3500

Where to Stay:

Colonial Manor Motel
924 E. High Street
Bryan, OH  43506
Telephone;  419 636 3123

Boutique in the heart of downtown Bryan, this motel also includes a complimentary breakfast.

Where to Eat:

Stoney Ridge Winery
07144 County Road 16
Bryan, OH  43506
Telephone:   419 636 3500

Stoney Ridge Winery offers a great selection of flatbread pizzas and appetizers.

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Sarah’s Vineyard, an Ohio Winery in a State Park

A small fire was ablaze on this beautiful October afternoon as I approached the outdoor seating area of Sarah’s Vineyard Winery & Art Gallery.  The welcoming stone fireplace was in need of a few more fire sticks to keep the embers burning, but the smell reminded me of a pleasant fall day, perfect for sampling wine.

It would have been a wonderful afternoon to linger by the fire but I soon learned that a private event was scheduled for this outdoor space.   The server kindly directed me towards the beautifully restored 1840s barn where I would find the tasting room and additional seating.  The bar was full but within minutes I was able to place my wine order and find the perfect high top table to enjoy my wine.

I started out with the Cuyahoga Valley Reserve, a red zinfandel blend that is aged in oak.  This grape varietal is one of my favorites and I am happy with my selection.  Sitting next to me was a woman in her mid-30’s waiting for a couple of friends for a wine tasting.  She suggested me that I return to Sarah’s Vineyard for their Annual Summer Solstice Festival in June, a celebration of the start of summer.

Looking for another red to sample, I notice a wine labeled “Miserabile.”   I asked about this wine and learned that it is a blend of Merlot, Sangiovese, Zinfandel and Rubiana grapes. This wine was far less miserable yet smooth and divine.

My final pour was the Sweet Elisa made from Niagara and Concord grapes.  A popular blend for Ohio wineries, the wine is a fruity wine that is refreshing when served cold.  Very sweet, this is a typical first wine for beginners who are just starting out.

Looking over the menu, I wished I would have made reservations for dinner.  With a great selection of starters, soups, salads and sandwiches, the winery also provides wood-fired pizzas.  I decided instead to order a carafe of Sweet Elisa, the winery’s top seller, and find a seat outdoors among the endless rows of grapevines.  The Indian summer sun felt comforting and warm. I sat at my table happy to have a few moments to relax and take in my rural surroundings.

The Lytz family has been serving wine at Sarah’s Vineyard since the early 2000s.  Sitting upon 15 acres in northeast Ohio, the property includes the winery, vineyards and a beautiful view of the surrounding farmland.  Varietals grown here include hearty grapes that easily sustain the cold Midwest weather such as Cabernet Franc, Traminette, Niagara and Rubiana.  They have six wines that they regularly produce which are the Blue Heron, Golden Solstice, Sarah’s Secret, Miserabile, Cuyahoga Valley Reserve and Sweet Elisa.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that the winery was also an art gallery and studio.  Sarah’s Vineyards hosts a variety of art shows throughout the year and art classes are offered on a regular basis.  Located in the midst of Cuyahoga Valley National Park, quiet surroundings and gorgeous landscape are perfect for a day of art and wine tasting.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Sarah’s Vineyard?  What was your favorite wine?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.   Many thanks for reading about my visit to Sarah’s Vineyard and wishing  you many Happy Travels!

Winery Contact Information:

Sarah’s Vineyard Winery & Art Gallery
1204 W. Steels Corners Road
Cuyahoga Falls, OH  44223
Telephone:  330 929 8057

Where to Stay:

Vineyard Woods
740 State Route 534 North
Geneva, OH 44041
Telephone:   440 624 3054
Website:  http://www.vineyardwoods.com/

Where to Eat:

The Pickled Pepper
4949 Golf Avenue
Geneva on the Lake, OH  44041
Telephone: 440 361 4014

We entered the brightly colored outdoor restaurant and ordered the deep fried pickles to satisfy my obsession. Yum!

Mastropietro Winery in Berlin Center, Ohio

It was a beautiful sunny day exploring Ohio’s Amish Country when I happened upon an Italianate winery in Berlin Center, Mastropietro Winery.  The winery is surrounded by acres of vines producing estate grown varietals such as Vidal Blanc, Chambourcin and Frontenac grapes, perfect for the winter temperatures.  In addition to these hearty Ohio grapes, the winery also brings in northern California fruit for expanding their wine offerings.

Mastropietro Winery was the first to open in Mahoning County in 2005.  In addition to wine, they offer a lovely selection of sangrias, slushies and dessert wine.  With a full service bar, visitors who may not be interested in wine, can purchase craft beers, snacks and appetizers.

Grandfather Joseph began making wine in their basement which led to starting their business.  Soon, Joseph’s son Daniel, wife Marianne and sister Cathy were supporting the winery as well and were making award-winning wines.

The winery and tasting room hosts a number of events.  In addition, there is a spacious banquet hall for private events such as weddings.  In the summer, they sponsor concerts, a balloon festival and car shows.

Arriving in the afternoon, I noticed the stunning Tuscan-style property with plenty of outside seating.  I had decided on a glass of Dolce Bianco to start and found the perfect place to admire the surrounding fifty-two acres and enjoy the welcome silence.  Firepits are also available for guests, perfect for the cooler spring and fall weather.

Mastropietro was a welcome stop on my visit to Amish Country and I look forward to returning for one of their summer events and to restock on the Dolce Bianco.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Mastropietro Winery?  Which wines did you sample?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my lovely visit to Mahoning’s Mastropietro and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Mastropietro Winery
14558 Ellsworth Road
Berlin Center, OH 44401
Telephone:  330-547-2151

Sampling Some Redneck Love at Kennedy Vineyard, New Madison, OH

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Kennedy Vineyard was a welcome sight among the crops of corn and soybean of Darke County.    As I approached the graveled driveway leading to the winery, grapevines were loaded with juicy varietals most popular in the Ohio wine region.

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Having just opened for the afternoon, I entered the warm and welcoming winery with a casual and country style.  There was plenty of seating but that would not last for long. As I took my place at the tasting bar, I was greeted by winery co-owner, Louisa Kennedy.

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The large windows looking out into the vineyard provided stunning views of the DeChaunac grapes, planted over 10 years ago, by Barbara Kennedy, Louisa’s mother-in-law.   Fields of corn were converted to vineyards and after many years of producing wine, the winery opened over two years ago.  Additional varietals that thrive at Kennedy Vineyard are Chambourcin, Vidal, Cayuga, Concord, Steuben, Niagara and Catawba grapes.

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The first wine I sampled was Lone Cedar Red, described as “a well-balanced and full-bodied wine with notes of sweet cherry”.  Winning the 2015 Bronze Medal at the Finger Lakes Wine Competition, this wine was very smooth and beautiful in color.  Named after the sole cedar tree which stands on the property, it is perfectly paired with a steak or can be enjoyed as a casual drink after a long day at work.

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My next wine was “a semi-sweet wine full-bodied  with bold flavors of blackberry and lingering black cherry.”  Made with a blend including DeChaunac grapes, I enjoyed the wine’s subtle finish and beautiful label. I was not surprised to learn that it had won the 2015 Silver Medal Winner, Finger Lakes Wine Competition.

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One of the qualities that I admired about Kennedy Vineyard was their passion to give back to their community.  By purchasing their wine Resilient, proceeds from the sales are provided to help fund epilepsy research.  I learned from Louisa that the teens that were photographed for the label are from a local high school. Although these students were diagnosed with epilepsy, they were excited for the opportunity to bring awareness of their illness and to show that they can live healthy productive lives.

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While sampling the apple wine, Louisa explained their future plans to convert their barn into a processing room and to further expand the winery.   She has an intense passion for wine and she is currently pursuing a degree in viticulture.  Eager to share her knowledge and expertise, I enjoyed learning more about Kennedy Vineyards and the process of making wine.

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I was ready for my next sample, Kennedy’s Redneck Girl.  This is a beautifully colored blackberry wine which is one of their top sellers.   A “soft sweet wine with lots of character and soft notes of cherry and raspberry”, this wine was awarded the 2015 Silver Medal at the Finger Lakes Wine Competition.

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Louisa poured me a sample of Love at First White.  A chilled sweet wine, this “elegant sweet white blend with bold flavors of the Niagara grape” is perfect  for a hot summer day.

So what do you have when you combine Redneck Girl with Love at First White?  Redneck Love, a perfect wine combination.  I decided to purchase both bottles so I could enjoy these wines at home.

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Spending time with the Kennedys was a great way to enjoy my afternoon.  I was off to find a place for dinner when John recommended The Merchant House in Greenville.  He insisted I try the Pig Candy and mentioned that the restaurant had recently opened about a month ago.  Apparently it was already creating a local buzz, so I knew I had to check it out, but not without resisting the temptation to play with the winery’s adorable kittens one last time.

Have you visited Kennedy Vineyard and have a favorite wine that you would like to share?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my amazing visit to Kennedy Vineyard and wishing you many Happy Travels. Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Kennedy Vineyard
3911 State Route 722
New Madison, OH  45346
Telephone:  937 273 8381

  • Hours: The winery is open from 6 PM to 9 PM on Friday and 2 PM to 9 PM on Saturday.  The winery is closed from Sunday thru Thursday. Hours are seasonal and are subject to change. Please refer to the winery’s Facebook page for any updates to its hours of operation and listing of events.
  • Amenities:  Weekend entertainment, wine tastings, wine club, wine baskets, wine, gift shop, private events and scheduled events
  • Tips for Your Visit:  During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings are not available.  As always, please drink responsibly.

Find Kennedy Vineyard on Facebook and don’t forget, they can also ship wines directly to you as well!

Where to Stay:

Best Western Monroe Inn
40 New Garver Road
Monroe, OH  45050
Telephone:  513 539 4400

Where to Eat:

The Merchant House
406 S. Broadway Street
Greenville, OH  45331
Telephone; 937 459 4405

Pig Candy is hands-down my favorite appetizer on the menu! Smoked, candied bacon, with cinnamon, sugar and unique blend of spices makes this selection a favorite of the restaurant’s patrons.  The Pig Candy BLT is also a popular offering, which includes the amazing appetizer on bread with lettuce and tomato.

For pizzas, I can’t get enough of the Detroiter and Cherry Margherita pies!

Buccia Vineyard Winery Bed and Breakfast, Conneaut, Ohio

It was harvest time for grapes in Ohio, and with so many vineyards, I planned to spend a weekend exploring some of the more established wineries around Ashtabula County.  Traveling as far northeast as possible, I found the little town of Conneaut, the home to Buccia Vineyard Winery Bed and Breakfast, a vineyard with a charming bed and breakfast.

Joanna and Fred Buccia have been tending to their vineyard since the 1970s and I looked forward to sampling a broad representation of this region’s wines.  Resting under an arbor of grapes above me, Joanna picked a few grapes for me as she sat down at the picnic table eager to tell me more about the history of grape growing around this area.  She reminded me that the weather in May was cold and while July and August were unusually hot, the harvesting of grapes would come early this year.

From dry and full bodied Cabernet Francs to the semi dry Lake Erie blend of Reflections, there seemed to be an endless selection of premium wines and new grapes of which I had never heard.  For example, the Baco grape produces a wonderful red wine that was dry, smooth, with a minimum acidity while the Chambourcin, a French-American hybrid that thrives in the cold temperatures, producing a red wine with a higher acidity and low tannins.

Many of the wines at Buccia Vineyard are made from the grapes that they grow on the property, called estate wines, while the remaining grapes and juice come from Chile, Argentina and California.  My next sample was the Seyval, another French hybrid that is grown mainly to produce white dry wines.

A small group of four unloaded out of an early model station wagon.  Inquiring if they could try a few of the wines, they also asked if they could stay the night at the bed and breakfast.  Joanna excused herself from our conversation and tended to the visitors as I overheard Fred tell them that the winery was for sale.

Enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, surrounded by vines full of grapes, I continue sampling the Vignoles and another new wine for me, the Agawan that has  “fruity start with an herbal finish”.  Rounding out my wine tasting, I poured a small taste of Reflections, a red blend made from the “best of Lake Erie grapes”, then took my last sip of Maiden’s blush, a sweet wine combined with the juices of local blueberries.

Joanna returned after setting up her new guests in one of the four rooms at the bed and breakfast.  She gave me a quick tour of the property and showed me the available rooms with quiet decks, hot tubs and fireplaces.   I listened to the faint sounds of Jimmy Buffett coming over the radio as I gave Joanna my list of remaining sites I planned to visit in Conneaut.  It was a lovely summer day and I had the beautiful shores of Lake Erie to explore.

Have you visited Buccia Vineyard?  Did you have a favorite wine?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Buccia Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Buccia Vineyard Winery Bed and Breakfast
518 Gore Road
Conneaut, Ohio   44030
Telephone:  440 593 5976

Where to Stay:

Stay at the Buccia Vineyard Winery Bed and Breakfast or there are several options along the Lake Erie seashore.

Where to Eat:

Biscotti’s Restaurant
186 Park Avenue
Conneaut, OH  44030
Telephone: 440 593 6766

Serving  Italian cuisine, I ordered the Medallions Gorgonzola Alfredo to try their homemade Alfredo sauce, so rich and delicious.

Kinkead Ridge Winery and Its Bright Future

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Located in downtown Ripley, Kinkead Ridge Winery is an urban winery that has been producing exceptional wines over the last few years.  I had the opportunity to meet the new owners, Dr. Don Bowers and his wife Anna Marie, during a wine event over the Memorial Day weekend.

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Dr. Bowers provided me a list of his wines that included a detailed description.  I began my tasting with the 2014 Lowell Marie Pinot Gris.  “A nose of pear and melon is followed by a hint of fruity sweetness blending melon and pears with a rapidly developed crispness and a late burst of citrus rinds.  The finish brings to mind Meyer lemon and shows a light minerality.  A fine partner with hors d’oeuvres and milder cheeses, this wine will compliment seafood, white fish and mild chicken dishes.  Serve chilled.”

The 2015 Lowell Marie Viognier Roussanne “opens with sweet white blossoms on the nose with a hint of honey.  The style is off dry with pineapple and apple flavors from the Viognier (grapes) and mild citrus form the Roussanne (grapes). A relaxing refreshment by the glass, it would be enhanced by sharp, dry cheeses and cured meats.  It will pair well with meals of chicken, veal or mild pork featuring creamy sauces and  with shellfish especially seared scallops.  The alcohol content is 15% while the residual sugar measures at 1.5%.  The wine is 70% Viognier and 30% Roussanne.”

The 2014 Roussanne Viognier seemed much sweeter than the Viognier Roussanne, which is the perfect wine for me as I am beginning to learn more about the drier white wines.  “This wine begins with orange blossom and flint of the nose revealing the Viognier.  The flavor is pineapple with hints of tobacco and a bracing mouthfeel.  The mixed herbal note and the distinct finish of lime zest gives voice to the Roussanne.  This Rhone style white wine will complement aromatic cheese and salami, sausage and specialty hams and will being a bracing crispness to rich chicken and veal dishes, enrich scallops, cream sauces and pasta with shellfish.”   A bottle of this wonderful wine is $14.99.

My last sample of white wine was the 2015 Lowell Marie Sauvignon Blanc Semillon.  “This nearly equally partnership of two classic Bordeaux white varieties starts with aromas of lemon and green apple notes.  Reflects a surprising smoothness that would enhance soft creamy cheeses, nuts and succulent cherries, figs or plums.  This full bodied wine complements oysters, prawns, clams, flaky white fish, grilled salmon or tuna as well as chicken or veil.   Serve gently chilled”, this bottle is available for $13.99 per bottle.  I am a huge fan of seafood, so I purchased a bottle so that I could try it with my favorite grilled salmon recipe.

The 2014 River Village Cellars Traminette is a semi-sweet “captures the sweet fragrances of warm evenings, of honeysuckle and wild rose, of water lilies and lavender.  …Like its parent, Gewurztraminer, this wine stands up to the fiery spices of Asian cuisine but this year’s vintage was a bit softer and sweeter for sipping…Serve chilled.”  I enjoyed the spicy aftertaste of this wine which comes from the flavors of nutmeg, rose and star anise.

Described as a “New World hybrid grape with a pronounced character reminiscent of Gewirtztraminer from Alsace”, this wine was made from Traminette grapes provided by McCafferty Bridge Vineyard  and has a very light flavor and fruity aroma.

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Before moving on to the red wines, I enjoyed sampled some of the complimentary cheese and crackers provided by the winery.  Since I love the dry reds, I was so excited to sample the Merlot, a 2014 Lowell Marie.  Described as “light bodied and immediately drinkable, it is an early release especially well-suited for refreshing summer drinks and Sangrias as it doesn’t overpower fresh fruits and takes will to a bit of sweetness  and sparkle.  It also complements lighter outdoor meals and picnics and could be lightly chilled.”  It is perfectly priced at $10.99 per bottle.

Kinkead Ridge’s 2013 River Village Cellars comes from the Chambourcin grapes also produced by McCafferty Bridge Vineyard.  It is “full-bodied, deep-colored with notes of cassis, berry fruit and plum.” This wine is perfectly paired with “beef, lamb wild game and richly flavored cheeses”. Barrel aged nine months, the retail bottle price for this wine is $11.99.  I enjoyed the taste of this wine and loved the aromas of stone fruit.

One of my favorite wines at Kinkead Ridge was the 2013 Estate Bottled Petit Verdot.  “Hand harvested…, this intensely-colored dark purple tannic complex wine displays a fragrant nose with tones of violet and leather.  Small-lot fermentations with hand punch-downs and classic small scale winemaking techniques were used to create this wine.  Aged in premium French and American oak, one can enjoy this wine with beef, lamb or wild game.  Tasting this wine will leave you wanting more!” A bottle of Petit Verdot can be purchased for $24.99 and is well worth the price.

Kinkead Ridge boasts two Cabernets and I enjoyed both of these wines immensely.  The Sauvignon is “hand-harvested…, this wine is dark ruby red, well structured, and complex displaying classic Cabernet aromas of cassis, plum and black cherry.  The process for creating this wine were similar to the winery’s Petit Verdot, also aged in premium French and American oak.”  This excellent wine has a lovely, smooth texture.

The Cabernet Franc, bottled in 2013 was also “hand-harvested…this wine’s fragrant aromas of violet and black cherry precede a taste of full-bodied, richly flavored complexity, with raspberry and spice overtones.”  This wine is perfect with “beef, turkey, pork and rich stews.”

During my visit, I had the opportunity to discuss the future of Kinkead Ridge’s Winery with new owner Dr. Don Bowers.  He is a medical doctor by trade and since I work in the pharmaceutical industry in research and development, I found the explanation of his wine-making techniques to be very interesting…after all, it is all about chemistry.  Dr. Bowers and his family are very involved in the day to day process of wine making.  Having purchased Kinkead Ridge, the established winery has a long list of venues where their wines can be purchased and the owners have  plans for expansion.  I look forward to visiting the winery again in the future and continue to follow the winery’s success.

Have you had the opportunity to try some of the fabulous wines produced by Kinkead Ridge Winery?  I would love to hear about your favorite wines and your experience with the winery if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

I would like to thank Dr. Don Bowers and his family for their time and hospitality during my visit!

What to See and What to Do:

Kinkead Ridge Winery
904 Hamburg Street
Ripley, Ohio   45167
Telephone:  216 551 9093

Where to Stay:

The Signal House Bed and Breakfast
234 N. Front Street
Ripley, OH  45167
Telephone:  937 392 1640

Where to Eat:

Cohearts Riverhouse
18 N. Front Street
Ripley, OH  45167
Telephone:  937 392 4819

Delicious burger with a fabulous view of the Ohio River!

What to Read:

  • Ripley, Ohio It’s History and Families, by Eliese Bambach Stivers
  • Beyond the River: The Untold Stories of the Heroes of the Underground Railroad, by Ann Hagedorn
  • His Promised Land: The Autobiography of John P. Parker, Former Slave and Conductor on the Underground Railroad, by John P. Parker

Featured Ohio Winery: Leisure Time Winery

Returning from the Spangler Candy Company, I decided to stop in Napoleon, Ohio to visit Leisure Time Winery where “Time for turning moments into memories!” is their motto.  Cruising through the beautiful countryside of northeast Ohio, I was looking forward to sampling a couple of wines and enjoying a Saturday night of live music.

The sun was beginning to set when I arrived and I had a drive ahead of me to reach Columbus.  I wished I would have set out earlier so I could enjoy the outdoor patio, but at least I was able to make it in time for the gorgeous sunset.

I made a stop at the bar to check out the selection of wines and began my tasting with Comfortably Numb, a bold red wine lightly oaked and a perfect balance of acidity.  According to the wine list, this lovely red pairs perfectly well with steak and an assortment of game.

My next sample was Hocus Pocus, a semi dry, perfect blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio.  I thought it would be fun to have a couple of bottles in preparation for the upcoming Halloween holiday.

I decided to review the menu and learned that Leisure Time is known for their pizzas.  I wanted something light and ordered the pretzels, a great choice for sampling wine.

The Lazy Daze Riesling was surprisingly delicious.  More sweet than dry, it was perfect and recommended for the summer months.

The staff are super friendly and placed my order for a cheese quesadilla as I decided on my next selection from the 12 wines which are all made on site.  I opted for Comfort Zone, a semi-sweet wine which was so easy to drink.  A sweet blend of chancellor and concord grapes, I could have easily mistaken this generous pour as a glass of grape juice.

I learned that the wines at Leisure Time Winery are made from grape juice that they purchase from various vendors.  The Wine O’ Clock, made from local Niagara grapes, was the best sample I had sipped so far.  I decided to buy a couple of bottles as well as purchased a glass to enjoy while listening to the amazing local, live band.

An hour passed while enjoying the entertainment and the wine, so it was time for me to begin the trek towards Columbus.  I enjoyed my evening at Leisure Time Winery and wished I had lived a little closer so that I could stay a little longer.

Have you visited Leisure Time Winery in Napoleon?  What was your favorite wine selection?  I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for reading about my winery visit and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to Do and What to See:

Leisure Time Winery
16982 Country Road, M2
Napoleon, OH  43545
Telephone:  419 758 3442

Open Wednesday to Friday from 5PM to 9PM and Saturday from 12PM to 9PM.  (Check their website for their summer hours).  They are also open Mondays and Tuesdays for art & painting classes.

The winery is located 2 miles south of State Route 24 between Defiance and Napoleon.  Check out their Facebook page for the most up to date information and hours of operation.

Where to Stay:

Sauder Heritage Inn
22611 OH-2
Archbold, OH 43502
Telephone: 800 590 9755

Where to Eat:

Leisure Time Winery
16982 Country Road, M2
Napoleon, OH  43545
Telephone:  419 758 3442

You don’t have to travel far for good food when visiting Leisure Time Winery. With a full menu, you can order their famous pizzas, paninis, large list of appetizers and desserts.  The Margherita Pizza with jalapenos is my favorite!

An Afternoon Wine Tasting in Tuscany

During a fall trip to the Mediterranean, I was looking forward to visiting the Tuscany region of Italy.  I had booked a seven-day cruise on the Pullmantur Sovereign and decided to experience the rolling hills of vineyards on an excursion sponsored by the ship.  The opportunity to sample the Italian wines outside of Florence was an unforgettable experience and from that point forward, I became fascinated by the wines of Italy from Chianti to Sangiovese.

The day was absolutely beautiful for a morning in Pisa then a short bus ride to the Tuscan region of Lucca.  Famous for its wine and spectacular countryside, vineyards of Semillon and Pinot Bianco grapes surrounded us as the bus arrived at Fattoria il Poggio.

Fattoria means “farm” in Italian and the il Poggio is what the Italians refer to as an agritourismo, otherwise known as a farm stay.  Farm stays are  perfect for guests who are interested in immersing themselves in the local culture based in an agricultural setting. In most cases, the restaurants at a fattoria will incorporate the “farm to table” concept using its own fresh produce and meats.

With voracious appetites, we were eager to sample the local wines as well as the olive oil produced by the farm.  This beautiful eco-tourismo exports seven red and white wines as well as a variety of olive oils and balsamic vinegar.

We arrived to elegantly prepared tables draped in white linen tablecloths where empty wine glasses patiently waited to be filled.  Our host welcomed us to Fattoria il Poggio as servers filled our tables with copious bottles of wine and antipasti.  I could not wait to indulge in the estate wines, snack on locally prepared meats and cheeses and enjoy some of the finest ingredients organically grown at the farm.

The hospitality at Fattoria il Poggio was exceptional, the scenery mesmerizing and the food was more than outstanding.  Enjoying the generous portions set before us, we learned so much about the daily farm activities as well as how their products are made.

The wine pours were flowing and there were plenty of meats, cheeses, bread and olives.  Served family style, I can assure you that no one left hungry and not a drop of wine was left in the bottles.  What an amazing way to spend the afternoon.

We were offered six wines to sample as well as the wide range of items produced at the farm.  Fattoria Il Poggio has been making high quality wines since 1845 as well as growing fruits and medicinal herbs.  These items were available for purchase at the gift shop where other wine related souvenir items were sold as well.

A day in Tuscany is certainly not enough time to visit the region of remarkable wines which has made such an impact on the country’s culture.  With seven World Heritage Sites and endless charming villages, this area is one of the most visited in Italy.

Should guests decide to book a stay at Fattoria il Poggio, luxury  accommodations include such amenities as WiFi, satellite TV, floor heating, a private spa and a rooftop pool.  Additional services include local tours,  onsite events and cooking classes.  The il Poggio is the ideal location for wedding ceremonies, anniversaries and other monumental celebrations.

I absolutely love the idea of supporting local families and booking a stay at an agritourismo.  With first class service, outstanding amenities and fabulous produce, Fattoria il Poggio is the perfect farm stay for a future visit to Tuscany.

Are you a wine lover?  Have you visited a winery that you absolutely loved?  Or do you have the experience of staying at an agritourismo?   I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. And if you have visited Lucca and can recommend other wineries, I would love to hear about your favorites as well.  Many thanks for reading about my wine tasting in Lucca and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone:  +39 0583 22088

Where to Stay:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone:  +39 0583 22088

Where to Eat:

Fattoria il Poggio
Via S. Piero, 39
55015, Montecarlo LU, Italy
Phone:  39 0583 22088

Fattoria il Poggio’s Menu

During our wine tasting, we sampled various delicious Antipasti dishes.

What to Eat: 

  • Bistecca alla Fiorentina is a T-bone steak with the filet on one side and sirloin on the other.
  • Cacciucco is a fish soup dish from the port towns of Livorno and Viareggio.
  • Castagnaccio is a cake made from chestnut flour.
  • Crostini Toscani is bread topped with chopped liver sauce.
  • Lampredotto sandwich is made from the fourth stomach of a cow served in broth and served with a spicy sauce.
  • Lardo di Colonnata is cured pork meat.
  • Panzanella is a bread soup served cold made from bread, tomatoes, onion, basil, olive oil and vinegar.
  • Pappa al pomodoro is a simple soup made of tomatoes, garlic, and basil leaves served with stale bread.
  • Ribollita is a soup made with cabbage, beef, carrots and onion.

What to Read:

  • A Culinary Traveller in Tuscany,  by Beth Elon
  • A Thousand Days in Tuscany, by Marlena de Blasi
  • A Vineyard in Tuscany: A Wine Lover’s Dream, by Ferenc Mate
  • Every Day in Tuscany, Seasons of an Italian Life, by Frances Mayes
  • Not in a Tuscan Villa, by John and Nancy Petralla
  • The Agony and the Ecstacy, by Irving Stone
  • Under the Tuscan Sun, by Frances Mayes
  • War in Val D’Orica: An Italian War Diary, 1943 – 1944, by Iris Origo

Photo Guide for Tuscany:

Here are some amazing locations to photograph Tuscany, Italy:

  • Florence:
    • Canonici Palace
    • Florence Baptistry
    • Florence Cathedral
    • Florence Skyline:  view from Palazzo Vecchio
    • Il Duomo
    • Marcampo
    • Michelangelo’s David statue
    • Montalcino Street
    • Palazzo Strozzi
    • Perano Castle
    • Piazalle Michelangelo
    • Piaza del Duomo
    • Pienza
    • Ponte Vecchio
    • The Streets of Florence
    • Uffizi Gallery
    • Volpaia
  • Pisa
    • The Leaning Tower
    • Marina
  • Tuscany
    • Abbazia San Galgano
    • Abbey of Sant’Antimo
    • Agritourismos
    • Basilica di Santa Magherita
    • Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta
    • Carrara Marble Quarry
    • Castel Boccale
    • Chianti
    • Cortona
    • Crete Senesi
    • Firenze – the Arno River from the Ponte Santa Trinita
    • Monte Divalli
    • Montepulciano
    • Monticchiello – Strada dei Cipressi
    • Palazzo Pitti
    • Pitigliano
    • Podere Belvedere countryside in the Val D’Orcia
    • Poggio Covilli d’Asso
    • San Gimignano
    • San Giovanni
    • Seminario Maggiore
    • Siena – view from the Torre del Mangio
    • Terranuova Bracciolini
    • Tuscan Tunnel
    • Volterra
  • Wineries
    • Avignonisi
    • Barone Ricasoli
    • Capezanna
    • Castello Banfi
    • Castello di Ama
    • Castiglion del Bosco
    • Poggio al Casone
    • Poggio Antico

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Plan a Visit to Buckeye Lake Winery for Ohio Wine Month in June

What better place to enjoy a bottle of wine than alongside the beauty of Buckeye Lake in Ohio?   Buckeye Lake Winery was my first choice for a girl’s day of wine tasting, so I called a couple of my Columbus girlfriends to join me and began our 25-mile road trip to Thornville.

We arrived at 11 AM when the winery opened and was met by the winery’s proprietor, Tracy Higgenbotham and a large truck of fermented grapes arriving from Napa Valley.  Tracy welcomed us, provided us with menus and excused himself for a moment while we decided on what to order for lunch.

Within minutes, we had ordered several wine samples, the charcuterie plate, Boursin with Pecan & Honey and the Fig and Gorgonzola flatbread.  Several other options we considered were the Brie Wedge with fruit and a house made port reduction, Buckeye Lake Winery’s signature Winery Chips with a garlic cream sauce, bleu cheese, Parmesan and scallions as well as the Caprese Flatbread.  One look at the brunch menu and we all agreed we needed to make reservations soon to share the Bananas Foster French Toast.

Chatting it up with Tracy, he was eager to tell us about the winery and his previous experience visiting California’s wine country on business trips.  With his passion for great food and delicious wine, he and his wife Laura opened the winery to bring the Napa Valley experience to Ohio.   Tracy explained that he works directly with vineyards in Napa, Sonoma, Lodi and the Russian River Valley, personally selecting the grapes that go into making his wines.  Wine production begins at custom crush houses where the grapes are fermented and then he coordinates the shipping of the product to complete the aging, blending and bottling of the wine in Ohio.

While most of Buckeye Lake Winery’s wines come from grapes in California, Tracy knows that the Ohio wine drinkers like their sweet wines and has collaborated with local Ohio grape growers to make the winery’s popular Sweet Lake View.

White Wines

  • Lake View White – Dry White Wine, California: The winemaker’s selection is a limited release blend of Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc and is clean, bright and fruity $23 / $7
  • Pinot Grigio, Russian River Valley: This wine is aged in stainless steel tanks and is minerally rich. It has a honeysuckle and pear taste $24 / $7
  • Sauvignon Blanc – Napa Valley, California: Bright floral notes with tropical fruit, honeysuckle and a clean finish.  $26 / $8
  • Chardonnay – Napa Valley, California: This wine is barrel aged for 10 months and is clean and bright with hints of smoky toasted oak vanilla, green apples and pears.  $32 / $9

Red Wines

  • Lake View Red – Dry Red Wine, Lodi California:  The winemaker’s selection is a limited release blend of Petite Sirah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon and is full bodied with a soft finish.  $29 / $8
  • Cabernet Sauvignon – Lodi California: This wine is barrel aged for 18 months and has hints of black cherry, blackberry and oak with a soft finish.   $32 / $9
  • Zinfandel – Lodi, California: This wine is produced with grapes from 100 year old vines and is barrel aged for 18 months.  It is jammy, spicy and rich with a velvet finish.  $43 / $9
  • Cabernet Sauvignon – Napa Valley, California: This wine is barrel aged for 18 months in oak barrels and is rich, robust with black cherry flavor and a hint of dark chocolate and tobacco.  $75 This wine is sold by the bottle only to Wine Club members and is not included in wine tastings

Ohio Wine

  • Sweet Lake View, Ohio Wine: Sweet Lake View is produced and bottled at Buckeye Lake Winery.  The wine is aged in stainless steel tanks and has hints of citrus, peach and honey  $18 / $6

Prices are subject to change, so visit Buckeye Lake Winery’s website for the most up-to-date information.

Our lunch had arrived and we could not stop raving about our selection.  The Fig and Gorgonzola flatbread was spectacular with a perfect mix of saltiness from the bacon, the sweetness of the figs and caramelized onion with bursts of garlicky goodness.  The charcuterie plate was a generous portion of meats and cheeses (homemade goat cheeses with either apricots or blueberries), a few grapes, olives and French bread with a delicious marmalade.   We could not wait to dig into the Boursin with Pecan & Honey but waited to make it our dessert to this divine trio of small plates.

While it would have been lovely to have dined inside of the wine cave, we found a table outside so that we could enjoy the soothing view of Buckeye Lake.  We shared a bottle of Chardonnay, Zinfandel as well as our meals while catching up on the latest gossip.  We shared photos, secrets and happily stayed longer than planned.  Feasting on spectacular meals and delicious wines, enjoying the spectacular views, we couldn’t help but feel that we had truly arrived in Napa.

Have you had the pleasure of visiting Buckeye Lake Winery?  What did you think of the fabulous wines and food?  What were your favorite wines and menu items?  I would love to hear about your experience sampling wines at the winery if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

Many thanks for catching up with me at Buckeye Lake Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels. Cheers!

Disclosure:   Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Buckeye Lake Winery
13750 Rosewood Road
Thornville, OH  43076
Telephone:  740 246 5665

Where to Stay:

Best Western Lakewood Inn
122 Arrowhead Drive
Hebron, OH  43025
Telephone:  866 599 6674

Where to Eat: 

Buckeye Lake Winery
13750 Rosewood Road
Thornville, OH  43076
Telephone:  740 246 5665

Buckeye Lake Winery has extensive menu of starters and meals that have been customized to pair with their wines.

Here are more of my favorite Columbus Classics:

  • Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream:  Known for her unique flavor combinations, Jeni Britton Bauer has made ice cream famous in C-Bus!
  • North Market:  A one-stop shop for universal cuisine, Columbus’ North Market is worth a stop in the Short North District of the city.
  • The Thurman Cafe:  The Thurmanator is the burger of all burgers at this longtime local cafe in German Village.  There may be a wait all burgers are made to order.
  • Schmidt’s Sausage Haus and Restaurant:  While the sausage at Schmidt’s is the official food of Columbus, it’s the amazing Cream Puffs that have the locals lining up at the door.

What to Read: 

  • Columbus: The Story of a City, by Ed Lentz
  • Columbus, Ohio: A Photographic Portrait, by Randall L Schieber and Robin Smith
  • Ohio in Photographs: A Portrait of the Buckeye State, by Ian Adams
  • Secret Columbus, by Anietra Hamper

Photo Guide for Columbus: 

  • Coffman Park: small ponds, bridges, white barn, pavilion, landscaping, public art
  • Columbus Museum of Art:  the grounds, inside artwork and special exhibits
  • Everal Barn and Homestead:  landscaping, white barn, beautiful lake
  • Frank Fetch Park:  gardens, brick paths, beautiful trees and landscaping
  • Franklin Park Conservatory:  beautiful gardens, artwork, flowers and special exhibits
  • Gantz Park:  barn, beautiful trees,
  • German Village:  brick streets, landscaping, parks, charming architecture, Old World charm, historical buildings
  • Grove City:  brick roads, small town, shopping area
  • Hayden Falls – wooden walking path, waterfall
  • Historical Village of Hilliard:  a small village to include a schoolhouse, train car, chapel, log cabin, covered bridge, gazebo and granary
  • Homestead Park in Hilliard: walking path, covered bridge, barns, trains, tractor, pond and pet park
  • Inniswood Metro Gardens:  gardens, lily pond, herb garden, play area for children, secret garden
  • Ohio State House: rotunda and landscaping (photo permit required)
  • Ohio State University:  campus, landscaping, Mirror Lake, Ohio Stadium (you can pay a small fee to take photos inside)
  • Park of Roses in Clintonville:  various types of rose gardens
  • Riverfront Park:  city view, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
  • Schiller Park:  gardens, walking paths, stone columns, wooden bridge, small lake
  • Scioto Mile:  city views, Scioto River, landscapes, fountains, walking paths
  • Scioto Park in Dublin:  statue of Chief Leatherlips, river views, landscaping, and paths
  • Short North:  restaurants, italian village, shops, city views, murals
  • Topiary Park:  depiction of George Seurat’s 1884 painting, landscape, fountains, small pond, gazebo