Tag Archives: Marquette

Ohio Wine Month Featured Winery: Old Mason Winery

Parking near the large pole barn, I noticed the dark clouds and picked up my  umbrella as I exited the car.  I was happy to sample a few local wines at Old Mason Winery in nearby Miami County which had opened its doors in 2013.  I entered into a beautifully transformed pole barn, decorated with light colored brick and  granite counter tops.

Several tables with chairs were open in the tasting room, so I took a seat near the beautiful fireplace.  Reviewing the menu, Donna stopped by to provide me with a tasting sheet and explained that I could select five wines in either 1 or 2 ounce pours.  There were so many options available that included:

  • Frontenac, a dry red wine with cherry over tones and characteristics of black currant, plums, leather and vanilla, aged on American Oak.
  • Marquette, a complex ruby colored wine with notes of cherry, berry, black pepper and spice
  • HyBlend is a blend of Frontenac and Marquette grapes. Fermented dry and then aged on American and French Oak, this smoky smooth wine satisfies.
  • Chambourcin – smooth, French oak, smokehouse and earthy

  • Sunlight – This white wine is made from local Cayuga grapes and is fermented dry.  With a slight citrus aroma, it has a crisp citrus taste.
  • Vidal Blanc – a hybrid white grape fermented dry provides a crisp and clean fruit flavor and texture
  • Traminette – a semi-dry white wine with a floral scent and fruit aromas.  The flavor is rich with hints of pear and honey.
  • La Crescent – a sweet wine made with 100% Estate grown grapes.
  • Nature’s Ink – smelling like a fruity Flintstones vitamin, you can tell the sweetness compares to the other Noiret grapes. With a  berry taste / green and black pepper, raspberry and mint, this wine is dry and has tannin structure
  • White Blossom – This white wine is made of three varietals that give it notes of melon with a slight citrus flavor on the finish
  • Dark Rose- a berry flavored wine best served chilled
  • Niagara – typical of Niagara with its off-putting smell, it has an average taste

  • Statesman – my favorite from the list, this is typical Ohio wine with a cherry finish
  • Razz – made from raspberries
  • Apple Blend – made from apples
  • Cool Mango – made from apple and mango

In addition to the Statesman, I also enjoyed the Razz, Cool Mango and LaCrescent and don’t forget their slushies.

As I left Old Mason Winery and Vineyard, the rain had let up and I noticed the picnic area.  I would love to return when the weather is clear.  Surrounded by open fields and lush green grass, the rural setting would be perfect for a picnic.

Have you visited Old Mason Winery & Vineyard in West Milton, Ohio?  Which wines did you drink?  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 Old Mason Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels.

Ohio Mason Winery & Vineyard Inc.
4199 South Iddings Road, West Milton, OH  45383
Telephone:  937 698 1122

  • Hours of Operation:  Monday – Thursday from 12 – 6; Friday and Saturday from noon to 9 and closed on Sunday
  • 10% discount on a case of wine

Featured Ohio Winery: Wyandotte Winery

A small vineyard and a beautifully groomed entrance greeted me as I arrived at Wyandotte Winery. Established in 1977, Wyandotte stakes its claim as the first and oldest winery of Central Ohio.

Entering the front door, I was met by a pleasant server at the wine tasting bar.  As I reviewed the wine list and the small plate items, I placed my order for the Meat and Ohio Cheese plate as well as seven wine samples, which were $1 per pour.  For visitors who buy six bottles of wine, ten free samples are included, while a 10% discount is provided for the purchase of wine by the case.

  • Carmenere Malbec Blend: lovely combination, not as dry as a Malbec, Pinot Noir or Merlot but had a hint of tartness; beautiful deep red color described with aromas of smoke and vanilla, cherry highlights, and a mild black pepper finish. $14.99  per bottle
  • Vin De Cacao – semi sweet red wine infused with cocoa; delicious and great for an after dinner drink; soft thick texture with a hint of chocolate described as off dry. $13.99 per bottle
  • Apple Hill – using apples from an orchard in Mansfield, this wine was crisp with a nice apple taste which was not too overpowering and had a hint of spice.  $13.99 per bottle
  • Grandstand – an Ohio Catawba; sweet white, all about the grape. $13.99 per bottle
  • Sweet William – Sweet American Table Wine mad of Ohio Foch and Niagara, a red/white blend.  A local favorite, this wine is sweet and fruity.  $14.99 per bottle
  • Hope is100% pomegranates making it sweet and tart.  Proceeds from this wine benefit cancer and you can purchase it by the glass for $8 or $14.99 per bottle.
  • Vintage Harbor Reserve Port – luxuriously rich fortified dessert wine available by the glass for $8 or by the bottle for $29.99.

Ask about their Heirloom Chardonnay, the Ice House (Ice wine from Gewurtraminer), Glass House from Vidal Blanc, wine slushies and sangria pitchers.

I enjoyed learning about the history of Wyandotte Winery, first established as Jones Wyandotte Wine Cellar.  The home-style winery was designed and built by Floyd Jones, which included a cellar where the wine was produced, and on the first floor, the tasting room, gift shop and living quarters of Mr. Jones and his family.  Floyd offered a variety of grape-based wines, while creating specialized wines from rhubarb, beets and dandelions.

In less than 10 years, the Jones family turned the winery into a prosperous business and sold it to Bill and Jane Butler in 1985.  Bill successfully continued the wine-making tradition and won many awards for his wine and became well-known for his Raspberry Champagne.  Expanding its operations to include the William Graystone Winery and Restaurant, the Butlers opened a second location in German Village in 1990 hosting elegant dinners and special events.

By 2004, Wyandotte Wine Cellar was up for sale and today’s owners, Robin and Valerie Coolidge re-opened Wyandotte Winery in 2007.

From harvesting and bottling, to fermentation and aging, all stages of wine production are conducted onsite.

Harvesting the estate Marquette grapes as well as collaborating with other fruit and grape growers, Robin incorporates Ohio produce as much as possible in creating his wines.  Some of the best local varietals include the Niagara, Catawba and Concord grapes while Riesling, Gerwurztraminer and Pinot Noir also thrive in the Ohio climate.  French-American hybrids that survive well in the cold temperatures include Baco Noir, Chambourcin, Seyval Blanc and Traminette.

Check out Wyandotte Winery’s wine making operation by signing up for a free wine cellar tour on Saturdays.

Wyandotte Winery offers several events throughout the year which are not only educational, but fun.  Valerie Coolidge is the wine and food pairing expert at Wyandotte and teaches guests how to pair food with wine for a more enjoyable experience.  There is plenty of space to host an event, celebrate a birthday or enjoy a special occasion.  With Wednesday Happy Hour and Friday night music, guests should check Wyandotte Winery’s website for fun events year around.

Valerie is also the genius behind the “Famous Wyandotte Wine Cakes” which are prepared with both wine in the batter as well as in the glaze.  The wine cakes are available both at the winery or by ordering them online.  Samples are available upon request at the winery.

Relax in the outdoor space at Wyandotte Winery and you may find yourself in the hammock.  Buy a bottle or enjoy a glass for $6 (a glass of Port for $8). Wine slushies in cherry, berry or kiwi as well as Sangria are also on the menu.  From the words of winemaker, Robin Coolidge, “Drink what you like!”

Have you had the opportunity to visit Wyandotte Winery  to sample some of their amazing wines?  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 fabulous time at Wyandotte Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels!  Cheers!

What to See and What to Do: 

Wyandotte Winery
4640 Wyandotte Drive
Columbus, OH  43230
Telephone:  614 476 3624; 877 906 7464

Hours of Operation:
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and Saturday from 1 – 7; Friday from 1 – 9

Wyandotte Winery also owns Rockside Winery in Lancaster under the management of their son Ryan, opened in November of 2014.

Where to Stay:

Hilton Columbus at Easton
3900 Chagrin Drive
Columbus, OH  43219
Telephone:  614 414 5000

Where to Eat:

Cap City Fine Diner and Bistro
1301 Stoneridge Drive
Gahanna, OH  43230
Telephone:  614 478 9999

I was in the mood for real diner food, so I ordered the Warm Pretzel with (beer) Cheese to start and the Diner Meatloaf Sandwich as my entree.

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

Enjoying Some Wine Therapy at the Magical Myrrdin Winery

Several Ohio wineries exist around Lake Milton, but only a few can compete with the ambiance and gorgeous lake scenery at Myrddin Winery.  Myrddin is Welsh for Merlin and as I approached the lovely winery within the wood, it seemed quite possible that  sprites and fairies could magically appear to land on my shoulder.

The winery’s slogan is “Wine, Water, Woods and Wildlife”, and I was definitely surrounded by all four, starting with wine.  With so many lovely selections, I started with the dry reds sampling the Pendragon, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Corot Noir, Noiret, Marquette and Cabernet Franc.  The blend was exceptional with a perfect balance that gave this wine a smooth finish.

Taliesin is a blend of two of my favorite wines, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, another perfect blend to add to my wine collection.

Sorcerer’s Red was my third selection, which is a sweet wine produced from Concord grapes, which tasted more like grape juice than wine.  Since most of my friends like the sweet wines and I enjoy drinking them cold on a hot summer day, I purchased couple of bottles to break open in a couple of months.

My final sample was the Port wine made from the Frontenac varietal and I agreed that this would be a great after dinner drink with some dark chocolate.   Put another bottle on my tab please.

It was a beautiful afternoon and the sun was beginning to set on Lake Milton, so I ordered a glass of Taliesin so I could sit outside and enjoy the soothing shade of the forest.  I watched squirrels chase each other from one tall tree to the next and the chirping conversation of birds perching on a nearby tree limb.  Enjoying the view of the lake, I could hear the gentle lapping of water teasing the shore as I sipped my glass of wine.  Nature is great for the soul and wine therapy could not get much better than this.

Do you have a favorite Ohio winery that recharges or relaxes you?  I would love to hear about the winery that re-energizes you if you will kindly leave your recommendation in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my quick stop at Myrddin Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Myrddin Winery
3020 Scenic Dr.
Berlin Center, OH  44401
Telephone:  330 654 9181

Myrrdin Winery opened in 2004 and is owned and operated by Kristofer and Evelyn Sperry.  The varietals used to produce their fabulous wines include Buffalo, Concord, Noiret, Seyval Blanc and Zweigelt.  The winery’s location is perfect for boaters who can access Myrrdin’s dock.  Visit Myrrdin Winery’s website for upcoming special events as well as their entertainment listing.

Where to Stay:

Bella Fattoria Bed and Breakfast
14560 Ellsworth Road
Berlin Center, OH  44401
Telephone:  330 720 2544

Where to Eat:

Myrddin Winery
3020 Scenic Dr.
Berlin Center, OH  44401
Telephone:  330 654 9181

Myrddin Winery offers a wide selection of appetizers as well as pizzas, salad, soups and sandwiches.  Save room for dessert!

Beautiful Rural Winery in Ohio: Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery

I narrowly escaped a torrential downpour as I entered the charming Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard and Winery in Eaton, Ohio.  I took the last open stool in the corner of the tasting bar and began to review the wine menu.  A group of regular patrons were finishing up their order for several cases of wine, so I was eager to hear what they purchased.  I knew this would be a great start for coming up with my list of samples for my tasting.

Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard and Winery is Preble County’s first winery.  Located in the 1890’s brick Oklahoma Schoolhouse Number Four, the beautiful renovations to the property include beautiful rustic golden walls framed with dark trim, floor to ceiling windows, keeping the original stone sills and the  elegantly stained wooden floors.  The result of the restoration was absolutely stunning considering the building had been vacant for over thirty years.

This young winery is already off to a great start winning several awards both in Ohio as well as Indiana.  Olde Schoolhouse won Best Amateur Wine at the INDY International Wine Competition, which was quite an honor and award winning wine maker, Mr. Z was invited to judge the competition the following year.  Another grand accomplishment for Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard was that they were the featured winery at the Ohio State Fair at the Taste of Ohio pavilion.  I was excited to try some of these amazing wines, starting with the Noiret, a gold medal winner at INDY.

  • Noiret: Described as a dry, medium-bodied wine, the hint of oak compliments the smooth texture of the wine.   Priced at $8 per glass or $14.99 per bottle, this wine is rich with color as well as taste.
  • Nightberry is one of Old Schoohouse Vineyard and Winery’s new additions. A lovely blend of semi-dry red wine and blackberry makes this wine perfect for any occasion.  It is described as a fruit forward wine that finishes nice and dry.  Price for a glass is $6 and bottle priced at $14.99.
  • The Riesling is another semi-dry wine, white with a light body.  Surprised by its perfect balance, I tried a sample at the winery’s recommendation and found it to be airy with a classic finish.  A glass of this wine can be purchased at $6.50 per glass or $16.99 per bottle.
  • The Traminette is a popular varietal in Ohio and Olde Schoolhouse took the silver medal at the INDY International Wine Competition. A semi-sweet wine with tropical aromas and flavors, I enjoyed the texture of the wine and would consider it medium bodied.  Perfectly sweet, this wine is priced at $6 for a glass and $14.99 for the bottle.

  • With a hint of cherry, this bronze medal winner, Rebel Red is a fruity blend of Fredonia and Chambourcin grapes. Perfectly priced at $6 per glass or $12.99 per bottle, I knew this would be a hit with my sweet-wine loving friends.
  • The Valvin Muscat, made with a grape similar to the Moscato, will please all wine drinkers who enjoy sweet wines. This Silver Medal winner at the Indy International wine competition would be a great summer wine, chilled and carefully sipped on a hot afternoon.  I learned from another customer that this wine makes an incredible slushie paired with Olde Schoolhouse’s blackberry wine. Winning a double gold award, the blackberry wine is obviously one of the winery’s most popular wines as it was sold out during my visit.
  • My final sample was the Pinkaliciouz, a pretty-in-pink colored wine made of a blend of grapes and berry wine. The wine was priced at $6 per glass and $15.99 per bottle.

Having finished my wine tasting, I ordered three bottles of wine, the Riesling, the Noiret and the Rebel Red and found the perfect spot overlooking the vineyards to enjoy my glass of Noiret.

One thousand grapevines replaced the former pasture in the spring of 2015.  Crops of Marquette and Le Crescent will be ready in approximately four years. This will be a welcome addition to the winery as it continues to grow, producing over 6,000 gallons of wine each year.

History buffs will enjoy some of the memorabilia that hangs from the walls of the winery.  From an annual school photo of children dating back to 1913 to an original Montgomery Seed Company bag, the winery preserves some of Preble County’s historical treasures.

The Olde Schoolhouse Winery is a wonderful place to host an event regardless of whether it is a corporate meeting or a baby shower.   The party room boasts a 53 inch screen television and holds up to 50 guests, while the patio can accommodate 60.  At the time of my visit, the winery was exploring the opportunity of purchasing a food license.  For a list of current events as well as a schedule for their weekend entertainment, The Olde Schoolhouse’s Facebook page is a great way to stay connected.    Their wines are sold at nearly 40 different locations such as Sutton’s Food in Arcanum and Ray’s Wine Spirits and Grille a local restaurant in Clayton.

Have you had the opportunity of visiting Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard and Winery?  What were some of your favorite wines?  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 Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard and Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard and Winery
152 State Route 726 North
Eaton, OH  45320
Telephone:  937 472 WINE (9463)

Where to Stay:

Whispering Oaks Bed & Breakfast
1881 Route 127 North
Eaton, OH  45320
Telephone: 937 456 1121

Where to Eat:

Ray’s  Wine Spirits Grill
8268 N. Main Street
Clayton, OH  45415
Telephone:  937 890 0300

The fish tacos were exceptionally fresh, creamy and full of flavor.  I ordered the asparagus with my entree.

Featured Ohio Winery: Hanover Winery

The Pink Toad Party, Hanover Winery’s fundraiser for breast cancer was well underway when I entered the tasting room.   A steady stream of women, many dressed in pink, stood in line to order the winery’s Pink Toad Blush in support of a great cause for loved ones and fellow breast cancer survivors.  I felt honored to listen to some incredible journeys of survival from the brave women who had battled cancer and the dear family members who cared for them along the way.

I have since returned to Hanover Winery several times because of its picturesque, rural setting, its charming tasting room and of course, wonderful selection of wines.  I, myself, am particularly fond of the Statesman and the Black Dahlia wines, yet there are over twenty-five wines to sample and purchase.  From wonderful dry reds to a wonderful range of fruit wines, the winery offers a wide variety of award winning wines that are sure to please.

Here is a list of wines I have sampled:

REDS:

  • 2015 Malbec: Robust, full body dry red with interesting notes of plums and dark berries. Notably higher tannins with a sweet tobacco finish.  $23.99;  Residual Sugar: 0%;  Alcohol:  3%;  This wine was awarded a Silver Medal at the 2018 Finger Lakes International Competition
  • Cabernet Sauvignon: Bold layers of dark fruits with subtle notes of vanilla and caramel.  Medium smooth tannins.  Well balanced in oak with a nice finish. $36; Residual Sugar: 0%; This wine was awarded the International Double Gold Medal at the 2017 Competition
  • Chambourcin: A complex red wine with rich dark fruit flavors, oak aged;  $13.99;  Residual Sugar:  1%;  This wine was awarded a Gold Medal at the Ohio Wine Competition

  • Black Dahlia: Merlot Blackberry, dark and delicious; $18; Residual Sugar:  5%;  This wine was awarded the Bronze Medal at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition
  • Baco Noir: A bold dry red with layers of plum and vanilla flavors, oak barrel aged;  $17; Residual Sugar:  1%
  • Pink Toad: Flavorful Catawba, a nice blush wine; $9.99; Residual Sugar: 9%; This wine was awarded the Bronze Medal at the Ohio Wine Competition

  • Sweet Lizzy: Sweet rose’ wine named in memory of our black Labrador Lizzy.  $10.99; Residual Sugar:  9%;   This wine was awarded the Gold Medal at the 2018 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and a Bronze Medal from the Ohio Wine Competition

WHITES

  • Chardonnay: Stainless steel fermented lightly oaked; $13.99; Residual Sugar  5%
  • Vignoles: Dry, oak aged with hints of pineapple and apricot.  $12.99; Residual Sugar:  1%; This wine was awarded the Bronze Medal at the Ohio Wine Competition

FRUIT

  • Dammit Annie: A delicious blend of Blackberries and Haskap Berries; Sweet enough for dessert.  Named after their Labrador Annie;  $16.99; Residual Sugar:  5%
  • Peach: A smooth and delicious peach wine. A great summer treat  $11.99;  Residual Sugar: 9%; This wine was awarded the Silver and Bronze Medals at both the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and the Ohio Wine Competition

PORT

  • Attitude: A port style dessert wine, oak barrel aged.  Alcohol 19.5%; $23.99; Residual Sugar: 5.9%; This wine was awarded the Silver Medal at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.

SPECIALTY

  • Unleashed: Raspberry Riesling, a sweet Riesling blended with real raspberries.  Labeled in memory of our yellow Labrador Ellie; $13.99; Residual Sugar:  5%;  This wine was awarded the Silver Medal at the Ohio Wine Competition

Additional wines available at Hanover Winery include:

REDS

  • 2015 Tampranillo
  • Marquette
  • Marechal Foch
  • Hanover Red
  • Mason’s Red
  • Soft Red

WHITES

  • Soft White
  • Vidal Blanc
  • Riesling – New Release
  • Traminette – New Release
  • Seyval Blanc
  • Hanover White
  • Kiss Me

FRUIT

  • Blackberry
  • Ohio Apple
  • Cranberry

SPARKLING

  • Bubbly

My drive from Oxford took only about ten minutes and the rural route was a welcoming change to my city life.  I could use a little leisurely wine time and knew I had finally arrived when I noticed the rows of Marquette and Seyval grapes.

According to Eddie McDonald, co-owner of the winery, the vines were planted in the spring of 2016 and it will take a few years until the crop produces grapes.  He and his wife Elizabeth opened the winery in 2009 after making wine for family and friends as a hobby for over ten years.  Known as Butler County’s sole winery, the gorgeous property is perfect for relaxing along the pond with a bottle of wine, enjoying the weekend entertainment or attending one of Hanover Winery’s many sponsored events. Visit their website to learn more about Hanover’s Annual Summer Wine Festival in August (expect a large turnout) and their Annual Animal Rescue Fundraiser in the Spring.

Business was soon picking up and Eddie was needed to bring some more wine up from their “wine cellar”.  He asked if I wanted to check it out and of course I was curious to see where the magic happens.  The entertainment was setting up on the patio, so I stopped by the tasting table and ordered a glass of Pink Toad to enjoy the pond.  I brought my list of wines to purchase for upcoming events, and bought a few favorites for my friends and family.   While Hanover Winery is one of my favorite wineries to visit because of the hospitality of Eddie and Elizabeth and the delicious award winning wines, I always enjoy visiting with the resident celebrities, Mason and Annie.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Hanover Winery?  What wines did you try?  I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reading about one of my favorite Ohio wineries and wishing you many Happy Travels.  Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

Hanover Winery
2165 Morman Road
Hamilton, OH  45013
Telephone:  513 863 3119

Where to Stay:

The Elms
75 South Main Street
Oxford, OH  45056
Telephone:  513 524 2002

Where to Eat:

LaRosa’s Pizza Hamilton
770 NW Washington Blvd.
Hamilton, OH  45013
Telephone:  513 347 1111
Website:  www.larosas.com

Featured Ohio Winery: Barrel Run Crossing Winery & Vineyard

It was a beautiful spring day and I had set out for Barrel Run Crossing Winery & Vineyard to sample wine on the Canal Country Wine Trail.  The tree branches were just beginning to bud with new leaves as I approached the winery.  I had stopped short of a set of railroad tracks ahead in rural Rootstown, Ohio.  Stepping through the arbor, I entered the beautiful white farmhouse turned winery.

What was once a family farm over the last four generations, is now a vineyard with French-American hybrids.  These varietals, known to successfully grow in the climate of Ohio, are cold-hardy vines and resistant to disease. Barrel Run Crossing planted their first crop in 2008 with a selection of grapes to include Corot Noir, Frontenac, Frontenac Gris, Marquette, Noiret, St. Pepin, Traminette and Vidal Blanc.

Excited to sample a few wines, I studied the menu and soon realized the selections were cleverly themed around the railroad.  The $9.95 BRX Wine Tasting flight included a choice of five wines and a customized wine glass to take home.  Hardly noticing the description of the wines, I based my decision solely on the names starting with Locomotion, Engine Number 5, Tipsy Conductor, Off the Tracks and All Aboard.

Locomotion was labeled as a dry white blend of Chardonnay, Traminette and Vidal, a new crafted wine recently added to the menu.  The combination of estate grown varietals with the Chardonnay was the perfect balance resulting in a nice, smooth finish which could find myself easily pairing with a white sauce pasta.

“A True Ohio Dry Red Blend Wine with Cherry Notes and Blackberry and Plum Aromas” adequately described the Engine Number 5.  I enjoyed the subtle tart stone fruit flavors of this wine while tasting a hint of blackberry at the finish.

An estate wine, “crafted entirely from Frontenac and Frontenac Gris grown onsite”, the Tipsy Conductor is satisfyingly crisp with a lovely sweetness from a semi-sweet white.

All Aboard, was a white wine much sweeter than my previous selections.  Produced from the estate grown Vidal Blanc, I imagined this wine would be perfect on a spring or summer afternoon.

Off the Tracks, a sweet red created from the local estate Frontenac grapes is popular among Ohio wine drinkers.  The addition of blackberry juice gives this wine an added element of sweetness.

Barrel Run Crossing offers the Sugar-Luv chocolate pairing of truffles with five complementary wine samples for $7.50, every third Friday of the month.  They also host a food and wine pairing event by reservation only and encourage visitors to facilitate the space for family gatherings.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Barrel Run Crossing Winery & Vineyard?  I would be interested in hearing about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below.  Many thanks for reviewing my port about my visit to Barrel Run Crossing and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Barrel Run Crossing Winery & Vineyard
3272 Industry Road
Rootstown, OH  44272
Telephone:  330 325 1075

Where to Stay:

Rocking Horse Inn
248 W Riddle Avenue
Ravenna, OH  44266
Telephone:  330 297 5720

Where to Eat:

Lil’ Paisan’s Pizzeria
4129 Tallmadge Road
Rootstown, OH  44272
Telephone: 330 325 4000

I went for the 9-inch Deluxe Supreme made with homemade pizza dough and fresh toppings.  I wished I would have ordered a larger size it was so good!