You’re at Home at Meranda-Nixon Winery, Ripley, Ohio

9 June 202416 March 2025

Located in Ripley, Ohio, east of Cincinnati, is Meranda-Nixon Winery. Surrounded by beautiful vineyards in a gorgeous rural setting, this winery is the perfect location for scenic views, total relaxation and much-needed wine therapy.

The charming winery looks like a page out of Country Living magazine with its fashionable displays and bottles of wine for purchase. It was a busy Saturday morning and the tasting bar was crowded with wine enthusiasts and first time visitors. Eagerly waiting to ease into an open spot, I couldn’t help but eavesdrop on several conversations to decide which wines I wanted to sample.

Maura Meranda, co-owner of the vineyard, reached over the crowd to hand me a wine list and welcomed me to the winery. I began my tasting with the Chardonnay, described as “aged in oak barrels…starting with a buttery flavor followed with a toasty oak flavor with a hint of lemongrass and butterscotch followed with a pleasant citrus finish”. This complex wine is full of flavor and has a heavenly, buttery smell (Imagine an oaky hot buttered popcorn…yum!). It won the 2016 Gold Medal Winner in the Ohio Wine Competition.

Easing into the semi-sweet wines, the Trotter White Wine is my next selection which has “tropical flavors with a smooth finish. Summer in a bottle!” This would be a fabulous wine chilled and enjoyed on a hot summer day.

The winery’s 2014 Catawba Estate wine is described as “a wonderful blush wine balanced with raspberry and strawberry flavors”. I loved the sweet hints of fruit that lingered for a perfect, smooth finish and decided to purchase a bottle to enjoy later.

Sparkling wines are oh-so-fabulous and there is nothing better than a cold bottle on a hot summer day or for a lovely, winter celebration. Meranda-Nixon’s Estate Sparkling Catawba is absolutely refreshing, winning a Silver Medal in the Ohio Wine Competition.

Crossing over into red wine territory, I am ready to try the Red Oak Creek, a “blend of Traminette and Norton grapes and is aged in stainless steel. This semi-sweet wine has pleasing berry and raspberry flavors. Enjoy room temperature or chilled.” I had just recently been introduced to the Traminette grapes, which I learned is a French-American hybrid native to the state of Indiana. Known to sustain cold temperatures, it is resistant to fungal diseases and is a popular grape among Ohio wine makers. The Norton grape, however, was quite new to me. Used in producing a more dry wine, the Norton was first grown in the state of Virginia gaining popularity in the 1830s.

For a great wine to drink with burgers, the winery produces their Estate Cabernet Franc which is described as a wine which has “cherry flavors followed by hints of vanilla and a smooth peppery oak finish!” (Pepper? I am always looking for that perfect spicy wine).

Winning the 2015 Silver Medal in the Ohio Wine Competition is the 2013 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon that is a “ruby red wine with black cherry notes from start to finish with hints of vanilla and tobacco.” This wine comes highly recommended with steak.

Although they only had a few bottles left, Maura poured me a sample of the 2013 Estate Norton. One of their best wines to date, it won the 2015 Silver Medal in the Ohio Wine Competition. I enjoyed the smooth, complex taste of this “full bodied, deep ruby red wine that has a little bit of a tart, sweet and bold berry flavor. It has a delicate but smooth oak finish and is aged 12 months in 100% American Oak!”

Enjoying the combination of pepper and vanilla, the 2013 Estate Reserve Cabernet Franc was one of my favorite wines at Meranda-Nixon. This grape grows well in southern Ohio due to warmer temperatures so the grapes can ripen on the vine prior to harvest. “Black cherry on the mid-palate…it shows complex aromas of freshly crushed fruit (blackberry and plum) pepper and tobacco. Velvet smooth tannins, dense and rich, this elixir fills every corner of the mouth its decadence.” In addition to winning Best of Show, it also took home the Double Gold Medal in the 2016 Ohio Wine Competition. James Suckling, former editor of Wine Spectator, compared Meranda’s Cabernet Franc to those wines made in France.

With a two-hour drive home, I decided to complete my tasting and stock up on a few of my favorite wines. This has been one of the best wine tastings I have experienced in Ohio to date and the wines are of superior quality. But don’t take it from me, even their dog Lucy likes to chew the corks.

I had the wonderful opportunity to sit down with Maura Meranda to learn more about the history of the winery and to enjoy a glass of wine and the beautiful view. She explained to me that her husband Seth grew up in Ripley on his family’s tobacco farm. With over 100 acres, they provided tobacco for Philip Morris until 2003. Having purchased half of the farm, Seth and his late wife Tina decided to start a vineyard with only three acres. In 2007, they opened the Meranda-Nixon Winery, planted more grapes and made wine until her passing in 2012.

Seth’s passion for winemaking continued the operation. He later met Maura and they were a perfect match for producing some of Ohio’s fabulous award winning wines. What impressed me the most was that I also had the opportunity to meet their children. It was such a pleasure watching them work alongside their parents and providing tours of the vineyards. At the age of 15, Austin was so knowledgeable about the wine-making process and telling me about the grapes they grow in the vineyard (I see a future winemaker in the making).

My visit to Meranda-Nixon Winery was more than just a tour and a tasting. They are a family that loves to share their desire to make great wines. They are committed to giving their visitors an enjoyable experience with an atmosphere that is both welcoming and relaxing.

You may arrive at Meranda-Nixon Winery as a guest, but don’t be surprised if you leave this beautiful place feeling like family.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Meranda-Nixon Winery? I would love to hear about your visit if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below.

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

What to See and What to Do:

Meranda-Nixon Winery
6517 Laycock Road
Ripley, Ohio 45167
Telephone: 855 651 9188

Hours: The winery is open from 1PM to 8 PM on Friday and from 11AM to 6PM on Saturday. Monday – Thursday, the winery is open by Appointment only. The winery is closed on Sunday. 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: During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings are not available. As always, please drink responsibly.

Where to Stay:

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

Voted one of the top Bed & Breakfasts by Cincinnati Magazine in 2001.

Where to Eat:

Ripley Gourmet Tortillas
6 Main Street
Ripley, OH 45167
Telephone: 937 392 4000

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: Wyandotte Winery

2 June 20248 February 2025

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

CPT: Cape Town Airport

4 August 202323 September 2024

It was a wild ride, but I had finally arrived in Cape Town, South Africa. Departing the Columbus International Airport, my flight was scheduled to arrive in Atlanta, but with a delay at CMH, I was rerouted through Detroit, Michigan. Because of the delay, I missed my connection in Frankfurt, and lost a full day in Cape Town.

Waiting for my luggage by the carousel, I finally realized that my suitcase did not arrive. Baggage claim was nearby and I could see that there were several other passengers who were waiting as well. Within about twenty minutes, I stepped up to the window and was asked to complete the lost luggage claim. Handing the form back to the agent, I needed to reach the Hertz counter to pick up my rental car. I couldn’t help but take in the impressive displays and took a few moments to read up on the highlights of Cape Town.

One of the most surprising finds was to learn that South Africa was under a water restriction during my visit. From 2014 to 2017, the country’s water supply dropped from nearly 93 to 23%, resulting in a water crisis in 2018. In January, the water had reached such an all-time low, that the country issued a crisis where water conservation was the utmost of importance.

One of the most beautiful murals at the Cape Town Airport is titled “Flying Madiba.” Unveiled in 2015, this gorgeous tapestry is displayed in honor of Nelson Mandela who championed “human rights around the world.” Madiba, Mandela’s clan name, was imprisoned for his pursuit of civil rights. This spectacular artwork was designed by Czech artist Peter Sis and woven by France’s Atelier Pinton.

In my research of Cape Town before my visit, I learned so much about the wines the Cape Town area produces. I was so excited to try the various varietals, that I had actually made room in my luggage so that I could bring back a few bottles.

I was most surprised that this region has been making wines for over 350 years. With its perfect climate and soil, Cape Town produces such wines as Pinotage, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz, Merlot, Chenin Blanc, Cabernet-Sauvignon and Bordeaux-style red blends.

Kalk Bay, a cute little fishing village in Cape Town, was voted as one of the coolest towns by Forbes Magazine.

The Long Walk of Freedom display represents Robbin Island and the location where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years before the fall of apartheid. I was so excited to have made reservations to visit this historical place in the next couple of days.

The beautiful, bright colored structures remind me of the photos of the homes of Bo-Kaap, the Malay district of Cape Town. With its cobblestone streets. this neighborhood is beaming with culture, incredible restaurants and history. I was so excited to explore this amazing neighborhood and try some amazing, local cuisine.

Yet, what was even more exciting was the opportunity to see penguins on the beach. I learned that there are seven beaches in South Africa where penguins make their home: Bird Island, Boulder Beach, Dassen Island, Dyer Island, Robben Island and St. Croix Island.

So exhilarated with so many options in Cape Town, how would I decide?

Have you visited Cape Town? What was your favorite place and would you visit again? 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 arrival into Cape Town and I hope you read more about my amazing vacation. Wishing you many amazing travels in your future!

What to See and What to Do:

Robbin Island
Cape Town 7400 South Africa
Telephone: +27 (0) 21 409 5100

Admission Fee: Adults: R550 ($35 per adult); Children (ages 2 – 18): R310 ($18 per child)
Hours: Open daily from 9AM to 3:30PM
Amenities: scheduled tours, tour guide by former prisoners, special exhibitions, ferry transportation to the island, bus transportation on the island,
Scenic View: Gorgeous views of Cape Town from the ferry and island. There are penguins on Robben Island as well.
Length of Visit: At least 2 – 3 hours to see the highlights
Tips for Your Visit: You can pay an additional fee for pick up from your hotel. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and remember your passport. There will be plenty of opportunities for photos so don’t forget your camera. The tour is based on the weather of the seas and may be cancelled, so if you are staying over several days, select this option at the beginning of your visit to Cape Town. You may want to consider taking medication for motion sickness for the ferry. Bring additional money to tip your guide.

Top 5 Wineries in South Africa

Boschendel Wine Estate
Pniel Road, Groot
Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 870 4200

One of the oldest and most picturesque wineries in South Africa, this estate is known for its Boschendel Brut.

Babylonstoren
Klapmuts, Simondium
Simondium, 7670, South Africa
Telephone: 27 21 863 3852

Babylonstoren produces 13 different grape varieties over 232 acres. In addition to its winery, Babylonstoren offers cottages, restaurants, spa treatments and garden.

Jordan Wines Stellenbosch
Stellenbosch Kloof Road, Vlottenberg
Stellenbosch, 7604, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 881 3441

Twenty five minutes from Cape Town International Airport, the Jordan Wine Estate is an ultimate wine destination with vineyards, luxury suites, a bakery and spectacular views.

Waterkloof
Old Sir Lowry’s Pass Road, Somerset West
Cape Town, 7130, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 858 1292

Producing organic wines on land that was once the feeding ground of local sheep, Waterkloof is a full-fledged organic farm.

Beau Constantia
1043 Constantia Main Road, Constantia
Cape Town, 7130, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 794 8632

Overlooking False Bay, this spectacular boutique winery is also a magnificent restaurant

Kalk Bay is a 35 minute drive from Cape Town, South Africa, Known for its caves, it is recommended to schedule a tour with a local who is familiar with the cave routes. There are fabulous restaurants along the coast and lovely places to stay with scenic views.

Bo Kaap is another neighborhood in the heart of Cape Town. Colorful houses line the streets and restaurants offer traditional dishes. Dating back to the 1760’s, this area was once known as the Malay Quarter when Indonesians and Malaysians were brought here as slaves. Be sure to check out the Bo Kaap museum.

Where to Stay:

Radisson RED V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
No. 6, Silo, Silo Square, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Telephone: +27 87 086 1578

Where to Eat:

Harbour House V&A Waterfront
Quay Four, Ground Floor, V&A Waterfront
Cape Town, 8001, South Africa
Telephone: +27 21 418 4744

In addition to their sushi, the views of the V&A Harbor are spectacular!

What to Eat:

Amaural Don Pedro is a dessert cocktail made from the marula fruit, indigenous fruit
Biltong and Droewors are air dried meat and sausage, a traditional South African meal. Cured with vinegar, salt, spices and sugar, this dish can also be made with ostrich and wild boar. a cream liquor made from South African
Bobotie is a dish inspired from the country’s Asian settlers. This casserole dish is made of minced meats simmered in spices then topped with egg and milk then baked.
Boerewors are sausages formed into a coil and cooked on a BBQ (braai); boer means farmer and wors is sausage.
Braii / Shisha nyama are barbecues and many butchers will set these up in front of their shops.
Bunny Chow is a popular street food in Durban where hollowed out loaf breads are filled with spicy curry.
Chakalaka & pap, a vegetable dish is typically served with barbecued meat.
Malva Pudding is a dessert inspired by the Dutch who settled in Cape Town. Similar to a sticky pudding, it is made with an apricot jam and smothered in a hot cream sauce.

What to Read:

Long Walk to Freedom, by Nelson Mandela
A History of South Africa, by Frank Welsh
Burger’s Daughter, by Nadine Gordimer
Cry, The Beloved Country, by Alan Paton
Jock of the Bushveld, by Sir James Percy Fitzpatrick

What to Photograph:

Lion’s Head – The Top and Wally’s Cave
Boulder’s Beach for the Penguins
Cape Point for its stunning views
The Bo-Kaap for its vibrant colors
Street art in Woodstock
Muizenberg and St James for their colorful bathing boxes
Top of Table Mountain
Chapman’s Peak Drive
Robben Island
The amazing wineries

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

Engineering Fabulous Wines, Vinoklet Winery

24 June 202323 September 2024

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.

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.

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”.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Gervasi Vineyard, Canton, Ohio

24 June 202222 September 2024

After spending the morning and early afternoon at Stan Hywet Home and Gardens, I was excited to visit Gervasi Vineyard in the neighboring city of Canton. Located in the heart of town, the entrance of wrought iron and stone welcomed me to a small Italian-like village where I found several fabulous restaurants, a AAA Four-Diamond boutique hotel and award winning wines.

I began my tour of Gervasi Vineyard at The Crush House which is located at the back of the property. I was pleasantly surprised by the stylish restaurant and tasting room which was energetic, upbeat and full of conversation.

Not long after I had been seated, Nick, the wine bar expert behind the counter, stopped by to introduce himself and handed me a menu. I told him I was interested in a wine tasting and a small meal to tie me over for dinner. I watched as he efficiently checked on his customers, provided a brief overview of their next wine tasting and delivered their meals so effortlessly.

With so many available wines at Gervasi, I was relieved that they provided a predetermined tasting that coincided with my favorite wines. I wanted to try a mix of the vineyards reds and whites and decided to order the Vintner’s GV Tour, referred to as their “grand tasting experience”.

While the Crush House Burger with Gorgonzola cheese and bacon was tempting, I knew I would be eating in a couple of hours and noticed the Formaggio and Salami Plate. Offering a generous amount of meats and cheese, along with additional condiments, I knew this would be enough to satisfy me until dinner.

The charcuterie plate arrived and the presentation was elegant and inviting. I could smell the tartness of the mustard and the fruitiness of the marmalade. The cheese had a smoky taste and smooth texture paired with the full flavor of the stone grain mustard, they married perfectly with the selection of meats. The combination of prosciutto and blue cheese was super rich, creamy and absolutely delicious.

My first sample of six wines was the Floretto which has a light taste with a little sweetness. I could smell the green bell pepper and taste a hint of lime. The name, Floretto, means “little flower” in Italian and this wine had a nice finish.

Gervasi’s Pinot Grigio, Lucello is a tart wine and very acidic with the flavor of green apple. I enjoyed the crisp, clean taste of this wine.

I had just recently begun adding the chardonnay to my selection of wines at home to pair with salty and buttery foods. I enjoyed drinking the Ciao Bella with the cured meats offered with my formaggio and salami plate and decided to purchase a bottle to enjoy at a later date.

Bellina is Gervasi’s white wine that is aged in oak barrels and I enjoyed the wine’s smooth finish. Nick asked if I could detect the flavors of banana and toffee, and I supposed the buttery taste could have been toffee, but I did not recognize the banana.

The Red San Gervasio is the vineyard’s merlot and one of my favorite wine varietals to drink with rich foods, to add to sangrias and to sip through the long winter nights. I liked this wine’s smooth, even texture and taste and knew that it would pair with practically most of the meals I enjoy.

With a little blue cheese left on my plate, I sampled the Nebbiolo which was the perfect combination due to their earthy flavors. The Nebbiolo is perfect with fatty meats such as spicy beef short ribs and has a floral tone of violet.

Nick explained that the vineyard was currently out of their Lascito and Passione wines, which are grown and produced on their estate. I was looking forward to the Barolo as this is one of my favorite Italian wines.

My next wine Abbraccio had won several awards at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition to include 2016 Best in Class and 2016 Double Gold. Abbraccio, meaning “embrace” in Italian, is a full-bodied wine with bold layers of black cherries, black currant and subtle notes of plum.

My wine tasting was complete, but I added a couple of samples before visiting The Bistro, Gervasi Vineyard’s outdoor casual restaurant. I decided on a glass of Barbera, a spectacular red wine and then added a sample of Sognata, the winery’s fabulous dessert wine that tasted like apple juice. This wine won the 2016 Director’s Choice Award for the Best Dessert Wine from Ohio Wines and I purchased a bottle to enjoy as an after dinner drink.

It just so happened that the couple sitting next to me at The Crush was also at the Bistro. I absolutely love that wine brings people together. I had the pleasure of meeting Mike and Cathy who had just started dating within the last six months and we decided to order a drink together before finding a place along the lake. The weather was perfect on this early evening and seats were filling up fast. We placed our orders and enjoyed a few moments of people watching before our meals arrived. The pizzas were spectacular and soon I had to start making the trek back to Columbus with a stop in Mansfield for one last winery for the day.

I had learned earlier that the Gervasi estate grows six acres of their own varietals so I took a moment to walk among the grapes that would soon be ready for harvest. Ripening under the summer’s hot sun, the vines were full of plump fruit and looked as though they were ready to be picked.

I was sad to leave because Gervasi Vineyard is an impressive winery that offers a wide range of services and activities. Conveniently located off of .I-77, the winery is 20 minutes south of Akron. The Crush House is open for both lunch and dinner, seven days a week and provides tours at noon, 1 o’clock and 2. I could have easily spent the day here.

Have you had the opportunity to explore Gervasi Vineyard? I would be happy to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my afternoon at Gervasi Vineyard and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Gervasi Vineyard
1700 55th St. NE
Canton, OH 44721
Telephone: 330 497 1000

Where to Stay:

The Villas at Gervasi Vineyard
1700 55th St. NE
Canton, OH 44721
Telephone: 330 497 1000

Where to Eat:

The Crush House at Gervasi Vineyard
1700 55th St. NE
Canton, OH 44721
Telephone: 330 497 1000

I felt as though I was dining at an Italian villa. The food was spectacular and the location superb. I ordered the meat and cheese plate for dinner and enjoyed a wine tasting of Gervasi Vineyard wines.

Books to Read:

Wicked Akron: Tales of Rumrunners, Mobsters and Other Rubber City Rogues, by Kymberli Hagelberg
Lost Akron by Mark J. Price
Goosetown: Reconstructing an Akron Neighborhood by Joyce Dyer
The Rest is History: True Tales from Akron’s Vibrant Past by Mark J. Price
If Looks Could Kill by M. William Phelps
Mafia Cop Killers in Akron: The Gang War Before Prohibition by Mark J. Price
The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier

Photo Guide to Akron/Canton:

Cuyahoga Valley National Park
Northside Arts District in Akron
Luigi’s Restaurant at Lock 3 Park
750ml wine bar in Pilgrim Square, recommended by Wine Spectator
Chill Ice Cream for exotic flavors
Blu Jazz Club for its history (performers include Dizzy Gillespie, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald)

Voted Best in Ohio! The Winery at Versailles

17 June 202222 September 2024

Surrounded by cornfields in all directions, a white modest barn houses one of the largest producers of wine in the state of Ohio, The Winery at Versailles, the home of Rodeo Red.

Stepping inside the winery, the gorgeous, Italian farm setting is accented with oak barrels and high ceilings. The tasting room is beautifully laid out with bottles of wine and accessories displayed along the perimeter. The open-style, tasting room has exposed beams, rustic posts and several round tables covered in black table cloths.

With a history connected to Annie Oakley, this winery has over twenty-five wines available for tasting.

A young attendant provided me with a tasting menu and explained that their tastings are five one ounce samples or two ounces which also included a complimentary wine glass. The wide range of wines made my decision difficult, but I decided on a diverse selection of red and white, both dry and sweet.

I submitted my list which included the Merlot, the Darke Red, Peach Mist, Rodeo Red and the Schwaartzbeeran. Within a few moments my plastic tray arrived with the wines arranged from dry to sweet, starting with the Merlot.

Deep red and rich in color, this wine had a very robust body with a hint of oak. I imagined it would be spectacular with a juicy steak or roast. The cost of this wine is $15.99 per bottle.

Darke Red, named after the county from where it was produced, is a chilled red wine and I find it exceptionally refreshing. It is a semi-dry wine and is a “blend of Chambourcin, Chancellor and Foch (grapes) to create a rich, fruity and hearty bramble-berry and textured oak flavor”. The cost of this wine goes for $9.99 per bottle.

The Peach Mist was one of my favorite surprises on the wine list. It was tart, but had an elegant taste, similar to a sweet tart or a Smarties candy. “Well ripened juicy peaches give this sparkling wine a sweet yet soft and refreshing finish. Perfect when chilled ice cold on a hot summer day! Makes a fantastic peach Mimosa!” $13.50

Rodeo Red: This is an “all-time best seller here at the winery. Made from a blend of Concord and Niagara, this is the ultimate party wine. One of our “Celebration of Country Life” series.” Personally, all I can taste is fabulous grape juice.

Schwartzbeeren is one of The Winery of Versailles’ dessert wines and after having read the description, I had to try it. “What can you say about a wine that tastes like blackberry pie in a glass? Made from 100% blackberries, this dessert wine can be warmed, poured over ice cream, or served just as a dessert itself.”

Nothing makes me happier than learning that a business gives back to its community. I noticed in the list of wines, there are specific selections where proceeds are given to support some of the local charities. The new Freedom wine is “a sweet white late harvest Riesling blend with notes of tropical fruit and a rich honey finish”. This wine was named in honor of those men and women who have dedicated their lives and service to our country. A $2 donation will be set aside for each sale of Freedom and donated to an incredible organization, Honor Flight – Dayton. This non-profit group is dedicated to helping WWII, Korean and Vietnam war veterans and terminally ill veterans visit their national monuments in Washington DC.

A donation of $2 per bottle of Hope Whispers, a Riesling style wine with a soft pink hue, will be donated to Wayne Health Care Cancer Center in Greenville in support for breast cancer. This bottle sells for $14.99.

I was elated when I learned that Carlena Sneed, events coordinator for The Winery at Versailles, had a few moments to chat about the winery. She is a cheerful, enthusiastic young lady with a personality that lights up the room. She provided me with a brief overview of the winery’s operations, the events that they host and how much she loves working for Mike and Carol Williams, the owners.

Not familiar with the wine season, I wanted to know when Ohio grapes are harvested. I learned that the vineyards are at their peak in August or September and then shortly thereafter they are ready for reaping. Since most of the grapes for their wines are grown here, they can produce about 100,000 bottles in the course of one year. They also supply bulk juice for close to 70 wineries in the United States. Carlena mentioned that they grow the Steuben grapes that taste just like cotton candy off of the vine.

The winery hosts several events over the year. In the spring the winery sponsors an Adult Easter Egg Hunt, where there is music, wine, random prizes and items for auction. During the fall season, there is the annual Sips and Sounds event, full of wine and music. Each weekend during the summer, the Winery at Versailles holds their Thrill to Grill restaurant style meal which includes a selection of one of five meats for grilling, potatoes, vegetables and a dessert for $60 per couple. This also includes a bottle of one of the winery’s many delicious wines.

There is so much to love about the Winery at Versailles, and besides the wine, I admire the owners, Mike and Carol Williams for their strong sense of family. After their daughter moved to Ohio, the Williams’ moved from Wilcox, Pennsylvania to be closer to her and their grandchildren. They were excited to open another successful winery which brought them to their current location in Versailles, a property once owned by the aunt of Annie Oakley.

The names of some of the wines are drawn upon a horse theme or are named after one of their children or grandchildren. I was drawn to the Lucia wine, named after their granddaughter, bottled in an elegantly twisted glass container. The cute pink label is bejeweled and is perfectly designed to represent breast cancer survivors.

It is no surprise that The Winery at Versailles was voted as one of Ohio’s Best in 2016. Their wines are fabulous, the location is beautiful and the staff are outstanding. And if having one winery was not enough, Mike and Carol will be keeping busy this summer as they open The Winery at Hunter’s Valley, their newest location in Liverpool, Pennsylvania. Although the winery itself is smaller, it sits on 120 acres of vineyards along the Sesquahanah River. A four and a half hour drive from Pittsburgh, the property provides million dollar views of the river, nestled in the Appalachian Mountains. As the Williams family continue to put their faith in God above all else, treat their employees like one of their own and generously give back to their community, it certainly has proven to bring them success.

If you have had the opportunity to visit The Winery of Versailles, I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below! Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Winery at Versailles
6572 OH State Route 47
Versailles, Ohio 45380
Telephone: 937 526 3232

Hours: The winery is open from 10 AM to 6 PM on Monday through Wednesday and from 10 AM to 8 PM on Thursday and from 10 AM to 9 PM on Friday and Saturday. The winery is closed on Sunday. 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: During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings may not be available. As always, please drink responsibly.

Where to Stay:

The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH 45380
Telephone: 937 526 3020

Where to Eat:

Michael Anthony’s at The Inn at Versailles
21 West Main Street
Versailles, OH 45380
Telephone: 937 526 3020

I have visited Michael Anthony’s several times and cannot bear to order anything else but the Fettuccine Della Casa, the house pasta cooked with crispy bacon, peas, Parmesan cheese and cream. The portion size is extremely generous and I have been known to eat the whole dish in one seating or save it for a couple more days for leftovers.

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

Featured Ohio Winery: Stoney Ridge Winery in Bryan

27 May 202210 March 2025

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.

Hundley Cellars, A Cozy Winery in Ohio’s Grand River Valley

15 April 20222 March 2025

An adorable cottage sits in the midst of northeast Ohio’s wine country. With brown shingle siding, a stone fireplace, vaulted ceiling and hunter green roofing, it looks more like a hunting lodge than a Great River Valley winery . From the moment I arrived, I felt as though I was sitting in the midst of a best friend’s great room. The gorgeous light wood interior, accented with dark furniture was classic and extremely cozy.

I selected a table looking out towards the deck where it was still quite cold to be seated outside. I placed my order at the tasting bar for a flight of wines and a small plate from the simple snacks menu which included cheese, crackers and meat for an additional charge.

My wines arrived and shortly thereafter the Cheese Board which had some amazing samples of Cotswold (Gloucester with Chives, England) cheese, Red Dragon (with Whole Grain Mustard, Wales) cheese, Five Counties/Stripey Jack (England) Vintage Cheddar (Canada), pickles and artisan crackers. The meat selection was the perfect size that paired well with the wines I had selected.

Starting out with the Chardonnay, I noted the beautiful blonde color of the wine and simple body. Lightly oaked, this perfect buttery Chardonnay would pair quite nicely with a lovely Camembert. I knew that my sister will enjoy this wine over the holidays and added this to my list of wines I wanted to purchase.

The Estate Traminette was the color of sunshine and I could taste the minerals in this wine for certain. It was a perfect pairing with the crackers that were placed on my board as the third set from the left.

Interestingly, the Niagara had what appeared to be bubbles and I enjoyed this wine with the selection of meat. It was a semi-sweet wine that had a mild bite to its finish.

The Estate Seyval are grown on the property and are hand picked during harvest. With a color of light straw, this wine had a medium body and a short finish and I imagined it would be perfect with grilled salmon or a tuna steak.

The Late Harvest Vidal was another estate wine which had a hint of light green to its light yellow undertones. It had an intense honey taste with a strong apricot smell. The taste was fruity with a smooth texture and I knew this would pair well with my spicy Asian dishes.

The Merlot had a nice dryness and full body. A beautiful beet color, this purplish red wine was perfect with the meat and cheese and ended with a short tart finish.

My final sample was the Harvest Red. Solid red in color it had it had a very strong grape smell which reminded me of jam. A very sweet grape juice taste which I find to be typical of Ohio wines and always a delicious choice.

Hundley Cellars opened its doors in 2014 and offers an amazing selection of wines. Sitting on 35 acres in Ashtabula County, the property includes a beautiful outdoor deck to enjoy the pond and surrounding vineyards.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Hundley Cellars? I would love to hear about your visit and learn which wines you enjoyed most if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Hundley Cellars and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Hundley Cellars
6451 St. Route 307
Geneva, Ohio 44041
Telephone: 440 361 3088

Hours: The winery is open from 12 PM to 7 PM on Wednesday and Thursday, 12 PM to 9 PM on Friday and Saturday and from 12 PM to 6 PM on Sunday. The winery is closed on Monday and Tuesday. Hours are seasonal and are subject to change. Please refer to the winery’s website for any updates to its hours of operation.
Amenities: Weekend entertainment, dining, wine tastings, outdoor seating, wine, private events
Tips for Your Visit: During the nights when the winery provides entertainment, wine tastings are not available. As always, please drink responsibly.

Where to Stay:

The Lodge at Geneva on the Lake
4888 N. Broadway
Geneva on the Lake, Ohio 44041
Telephone: 866 806 8066

Where to Eat:

I recommend having snacks at Hundley Cellars because they are fabulous and unique! Here are a couple of suggestions close by if you would prefer a full menu option:

Chops Grille & Tap House
1752 State Route 534 South
Geneva, Ohio 44041
Telephone: 440 466 7427

Crosswinds Grille
5653 Lake Road East
Geneva, Ohio 44041
Telephone: 440 466 8668 x4

My favorite menu item is the charcuterie board. Crosswinds is known for its farm to table offerings where everything tastes so fresh.

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

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

21 August 202122 September 2024

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!

St. Joseph’s Pinot Vista Vineyard in Madison, Ohio

1 July 202022 September 2024

When I arrived at St. Joseph Vineyards, I was aware of the winery’s reputation for making some of the best wines in Ohio.

Founded in 1987, Doreen and her husband Art Pietrzyk, moved from Cleveland to Ohio’s Grand River Valley after perfecting their wine-making skills over several years since 1972. Art was an engineer, so of course he was curious to learn how wine was made, so he began his own operation making wine from grapes and concentrate.

Art and Doreen’s curiosity for making wine led them to work with such winemakers as Bill Worthy in the Grand River Valley, Doug Mooreshead at Presque Isle Winery and favorite local, Arnie Esterer of nearby Markko Vineyard. They also reached out to Ohio State University’s agriculture division, traveled the world to sample lots of wine and eventually purchased land to start growing their own grapes.

The drive to reach the vineyards was absolutely stunning with twists, turns, valleys and hills. The gravel road eventually reaches the winery which was built in 1999. Approaching upstairs, the smell of cedar escapes the tasting room where the winery’s medals and wines are displayed while the basement houses the winemaking operations.

Standing behind the counter was Doreen, pouring her award-winning varietals from their local vitis vinifera grapes.

According to Doreen, there are seven acres of grapes, mostly red from Ohio’s Grand River Valley with an additional six acres of white grapes in Conneaut’s Lake Erie Appellation. They types of grapes they have planted include Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Shiraz and Vidal Blanc.

I couldn’t resist a glass of the Saperavi, a popular grape from the country of Georgia. The name means “dye”, which relates to the deep, red color of the wine, almost black in color. With a full body and dynamic texture, this wine is my favorite at St. Joseph Vineyard. Considered a bit jammy, the taste of the wine changes after the second day. Smelling of berries, it also tastes fruit-forward and would be perfectly paired with steak.

The wine label is a replica of the beautiful stained glass window on the property. Perfectly recreated, it resembles the elegance and artistic nature of the winemakers and their process.

White Wines

Pinot Gris: A dry wine with orange, citrus and honeysuckle fruit flavors
Chardonnay: A dry, complex and intense wine made “sur-lie style” with apple and buttery flavors
Sauvignon Blanc: A fruity wine rich in tropical, pineapple floral and herbal character
Riesling: A semi-dry fruity wine intense with apple, citrus and melon flavors
Vidal Blanc: A semi-dry Germanic style wine enlivened with pear, peach and apricot fruit flavors
Ice Wine: This special sweet dessert wine is made from grapes that are picked and pressed while still frozen to extract a highly concentrated juice.

Red Wines

Pinot Noir: A bright red with luscious bing cherry and strawberry flavors, coupled with hints of violet.
Reserve Pinot Noir: A big intense red with black cherry and plum flavors along with clove spice and cedar tones with a perfume bouquet with hints of roses.
St. Joseph Noir: A proprietary red blend which includes varieties such as Pinot, Cabernet, Petit Shiraz, Merlot, Shiraz and Sangiovese.
Merlot: A dark red wine teeming with raspberry, currant and plum aromas.
Shiraz: The Shiraz is Rhone-style red with blueberry, clove and peppery flavors.
Cabernet / Cabernet Franc: Big Red Cabernet with berry, plum and vanilla notes.

St. Joseph’s Vineyard’s philosophy comes from a Bible verse from the book of Matthew. “Wherefore ye shall know them by their fruits. The good vine bears good wine.” (Matthew 7:16).

The Pietrzyks have lived up to their philosophy, creating award winning wines for years and I am ready to grab a couple bottles of Saperavi and enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Have you visited St. Joseph Vineyards? What was your favorite wine? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to St. Joseph Vineyards and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

St, Joseph Vineyards
6060 Madison Road
7800 Warner Road (tasting room)
Thompson, Ohio 44086
Telephone: 440 298 3709

Main Room is open Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 11AM to 6PM during the spring and fall and open Friday and Saturday from noon to 7PM, all year.

Where to Stay:

The Lodge at Geneva on the Lake
4888 N. Broadway
Geneva on the Lake, Ohio 44041
Telephone: 866 806 8066

Where to Eat:

I recommend having snacks at Hundley Cellars because they are fabulous and unique! Here are a couple of suggestions close by if you would prefer a full menu option:

Chops Grille & Tap House
1752 State Route 534 South
Geneva, Ohio 44041
Telephone: 440 466 7427

Crosswinds Grille
5653 Lake Road East
Geneva, Ohio 44041
Telephone: 440 466 8668 x4

My favorite menu item is the charcuterie board. Crosswinds is known for its farm to table offerings where everything tastes so fresh.

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