Featured Ohio Winery: Terra Cotta Vineyards

16 June 20248 February 2025

Passing cattle farms along the hilly landscape of Muskingum County, I approached Terra Cotta Vineyards in New Concord, Ohio. The long gravel drive boasted beautiful full grapevines that would soon be ready for harvest. It was an early Saturday afternoon, the calm before the storm as a large crowd was expected for the winery’s popular weekend cook outs with a selection of strip steak, marinated pork or salmon cooked over the grill.

The winery, owned by Donna and Paul Roberts, was first established in 1996 sitting in the midst of fifty-six acres. With an environment similar to the European wine regions, the Roberts family found the perfect terrior to grow quality grapes that can sustain the cold Ohio winters.

Entering the rustic winery, the light woods of poplar accented by the terra cotta walls were overshadowed by the gorgeous open, cathedral ceiling. The tasting table was to my left where I decided to try a few samples which included the Chambourcin, Steuben, Baco Noir, Catawba and the Terra Rosa.

I ordered a glass of the Terra Rosa and took a seat on the back porch to admire the dramatic valley views and rolling hills. I learned that beneath the beautiful green landscape was red clay soil and the region is known for its beautiful clay ceramics. In addition to their daughter, Alysia’s pottery, it was how the Roberts’ family came up with the name of the winery, Terra Cotta Vineyards.

So while I am enjoying the panoramic view and the delicious wine, I think about the upcoming harvest. While so many factors have an impact on the quality of the wine, all of the preparation and maintenance over the spring and summer will be important. But in the end, everything is about the harvest.

I would be interested in hearing about your visit to Terra Cotta Vineyards, if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Do you have a favorite wine or another Ohio wine suggestions? I would be happy to learn more about the Ohio wine industry and look forward to your message and recommendations. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Terra Cotta Vineyards
2285 Rix Mills Road
New Concord, OH 43702
Telephone: 740 872 3791

Please refer to the winery’s website for the most up-to-date information such as hours of operation.

Where to Stay:

Hotel Garland
150 Garland Way
New Concord, OH 43762
Telephone: 855 462 9255

Where to Eat:

Theo’s Restaurant
632 Wheeling Avenue
Cambridge, OH 43725
Telephone: 740 432 3787

Looking for authentic home cooking, we stopped at Theo’s Restaurant for lunch and ordered burgers and fries. The service was excellent and so was the food!

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!

Featured Ohio Winery: Ferrante Winery and Ristorante

17 June 202323 September 2024

A sweet, older couple in their 70s were enjoying a glass of wine while sitting at a high top in the tasting room. I had just ordered a few wine samples at Ferrante Winery and Ristorante and took a seat near their table so I could look out the window and feel the warmth of the sunlight beaming in. I was taken by surprise when the lady, wearing a classy blue and white suit, asked me if I was from out of town. She noticed that they had not seen me in here before and said that they could answer any questions I had about the wines because they were regulars. I smiled, thanked them for their hospitality and thought to myself, “I want to be her when I am her age.” I answered by telling them that indeed I was visiting for the weekend and had a couple of activities lined up for the next couple of days. Before I had finished my wine samples, Martha, Joe and I were sharing family pictures and had become best friends. Wine is guaranteed to bring people together.

Entering through the French doors at the stone entrance, I immediately noticed that the facility is quite large with plenty of outdoor space amidst endless rows of grapevines. The inside was absolutely gorgeous with a restaurant straight ahead or the tasting room and store to the left. Of course I was drawn to the store with its large selection of wine and beautiful flooring with multicolor slats. Close by was the wine bar, so after reviewing the wide selection of products, I placed my order for my wine tasting and caught up with the server, who was restocking the wine for the day.

Ferrante Winery provides a number of pre-set tasting menus, so I selected the Proprietor’s Selection Tray which included medium to sweet wines, “ a selection of Ohio’s unique & favorite wines.” Here is a list of my tasting notes related to this amazing wine selection.

American Riesling win the Best Riesling at the Finger Lakes Wine Competition in New York
- Very clear, no legs and smelled fruity; I could taste apricot and peach and the wine had a perfect finish
Finger Lakes Riesling which won 2 double gold awards in multiple competitions
- Very light wheat color; thicker consistency with a tart smell, tastes fruity with a slight mineral taste and a long finish
Grand River Valley Vidal Blanc
- Similar in color to the American Riesling, this wine was very clear. It had the same consistency as the Finger Lakes Riesling with a crisp smell of apricot and apple; with a fuller taste it had a bold acidity; tasted very similar to an apple jolly rancher
  - In 2017, this wine won Best in Show at the San Francisco Chronicle International Wine Competition
Blanco – won the Gold in the OH wine competition
- Golden colored, thicker body and a great grapey smell, milder acidity; more fruity in taste (grape) with a short finish
White Catawba – Gold OH Wine Competition
- Very light-bodied wine and very light yellow with a unique bouquet, not too fruity but with subtle grape taste
Rosato – Best Blush in the OH Wine Competition
- Peachy pink in color, light body, subtle berry aroma, lingering acidity and short finish
Jester’s Blush
- Beautiful peach color, lovely smell, sugary sweetness, taste the same over full palate, short finish
Rosso
- Beautiful ruby red, grape juice with a kick; would taste amazing COLD!
Pink Catawba – smells like cotton candy, medium body with a sweet finish
Ice Wine – the Vidal Blanc is buttery and beautiful!

Founded in 1937 by Italian immigrants Nick and Anna Ferrante, the winery produced the Russo, Bianco, Concord and Niagara. Their son Peter moved the winery to its current location in 1979 and added the restaurant. Located in the Grand River Valley, some consider this area to be Ohio’s Mini Napa and I could not agree more. The vineyard offers an Italian inspired menu created by chef Nina Salerno. The gorgeous space is large enough for celebratory get-togethers or enjoy a glass of wine on the outdoors terrace while watching live weekend entertainment. The original farmhouse has been converted into their wine productio facility and is well-known for producing Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and their famous Grand River Valley Riesling.

For now, I will enjoy the wonderful company of Martha and Joe, learn more about their family and take note for any additional winery suggestions they may have for the area. Wine is such a beautiful way to bring people together and Ferrante Winery is one of the best Ohio wineries to enjoy a glass or two with new friends.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Ferrante Winery? Did you have lunch, dinner or enjoy a wine tasting? 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 wine tasting at Ferrante Winery and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ferrante Winery & Ristorante
5585 State Route 307
Harpersfield Township, OH
Telephone: 440 466 8466

Where to Stay:

The Lily Cottage
1164 Idlewood Drive
Geneva, OH 44041
Telephone: 440 853 9373

Where to Eat:

Check out Ferrante’s extensive menu! I thoroughly enjoyed the Gnocchi Brue made of “tender chunks of filet mignon simmered in our Merlot wine demi-glace with Portabello mushrooms and onions. Served on potato gnocchi and spiked with gorgonzola cheese!

What to Eat: The cuisine in northeast Ohio is very diverse with a wide variety of Old World cuisine. Here are a few recommendations:

Assiette de Fromage (Cheese Plate) from L’Albratos for a wide ranges of cheese
Barberton-style Fried Chicken, made from a Serbian recipe is an amazing dish from White House Chicken in nearby Barberton, Ohio
Beef Cheek Pierogie’s from Michael Symon’s Lola
Corned Beef Sandwiches from Slyman’s
Polish Boy at Seti’s is a kielbasa topped with meat, coleslaw and ketchup.
Pierogie’s from Sokolowski’s University Inn
Veal Parmesan at Trattoria on the Hill in Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood

On the Three Rivers Wine Trail: Rainbow Hills Winery

10 June 202323 September 2024

Driving to Rainbow Hills Winery along the winding dirt road, I could hear the sound of cicadas calling me towards the vineyards, while wooden directional signs were strategically placed along the route. Soon I approached the final bend in the road where beautiful vines greeted me with sumptuously ripe grapes.

Recognized as one of the wineries on the Three Rivers Wine Trail, Rainbow HilIs Winery resides in a beautiful rustic hideaway. With gorgeous flowers springing up throughout the landscape, and a beautiful fountain on the lawn, I was excited to sample some of the unique wines produced by Rainbow Hills.

The tasting area is to the far right, so I climbed the stairs leading up to the bar where I met winemaker, Bob. Since I was not familiar with a couple of the varietals on their wine list. he was extremely helpful in pointing me in the right direction after telling him the types of wine I prefer. He was spot on when I made my selections and I enjoyed every sample he poured as more visitors arrived for a tasting.

Rainbow Hills Vineyards is one of the oldest wineries in Ohio, established in 1988. Founded by the late Leland (Lee) Wyse and his wife, Joy, this beautiful retreat sits on an 82-acre farm that offers fabulous views and promises a getaway of solitude and relaxation.

There is ample space indoors and out for sampling the wines produced by Rainbow Hills. The rustic interior of slate floors and sandstone walls is a beautiful setting for sampling the wines created onsite. Walkways and outlooks create the perfect opportunity for a stroll through the natural beauty of the winery’s surroundings. Joy has planted four-hundred flowers producing a splendid rainbow of colors while in bloom.

Back at the tasting bar, I started out with the Drumming Grouse which is a Concord semi-sweet wine. It has a beautiful color, a slight acidity and sells for $11.75 per bottle. It is a great wine for self-proclaimed non-wine drinkers, easy on the palate and an entry into broadening one’s wine appreciation.

The Trillium was a new wine that Rainbow Hills began producing about a year ago. A blend of Vidal Blanc, Seyval Blanc and Traminette, this combination makes a lovely semi-sweet wine.

My next selection is Ares and it is a perfect wine made of Ohio Foch grapes. This full body red is high in tannins and has a lingering finish.

Bob surprised me with a sample of their Pink Champagne. Served chilled, this is made for celebrations and summer outings. I purchased a couple of bottles of the Champagne because I loved the sweet berry taste.

My final sample is White Gold and according to Bob, this was the perfect year for this wine made from sweet Niagara grapes.

As I completed my tasting, I had the pleasure of meeting Joy Wyse. As she was enjoying a glass of Ohio Chardonel, her favorite wine, I mentioned I had visited Yellow Butterfly Vineyards and learned about Lee’s contribution to this winery’s success. Many other wineries have praised Lee for his willingness to help new winemakers. I wished I could have met him.

As I was ready to leave, I noticed the winery was preparing for their summer cookout. Provided every Friday and Saturday night during the summer, visitors can select a NY Strip or Boneless Chicken Breast with side dishes. Reservations required. The winery is open all year, Monday through Saturday, while the Bed and Breakfast is available seven days a week.

I had a wonderful time visiting Rainbow Hills Vineyards and look forward to an opportunity to return when I can stay overnight. I would have loved to have explored the grounds in more detail and maybe to have had the chance to catch a glimpse of Bigfoot. Newcomerstown is said to be home to this legendary furry beast, so you never know what surprises may await you with a stay at Rainbow Hills Winery, Bed and Breakfast.

What to See and What to Do:

Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305

Many thanks to Bob for his hospitality and assistance with my wine selection and a thank you to Joy Wyse for her generosity as well! Please note that all comments provided were based solely upon my own opinions and experience.

Where to Stay:

Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305

Because the hours of operation are set seasonally, ensure that you check the Rainbow Hills Winery website for the most up-to-date information.

Rainbow Hills Winery is also a bed and breakfast!

Where to Eat and Where to Drink:

Rainbow Hills Winery
26349 T.R. 251
Newcomerstown, OH 43832
Telephone: 740 545 9305

Make reservations for Friday and Saturday night at 5:30 to grill your own dinner. Rainbow Hills will supply the sides which include baked potato, salad, rolls and chocolate cake for dessert.

Railroad Restaurant & Saloon
509 Main Street
Coshocton, OH 43812
Telephone: 740 575 4151

It was a day to try some fried food and I could not pass up the opportunity to try the deep fried pickles because I prefer the chips over the spears. The spicy cajun dipping sauce was the perfect condiment. I also ordered the lobster bisque which was creamy, delicious and full of lobster meat.

The El Nino Wine Will Take You by Storm at A. R. Winery

3 June 202323 September 2024

All wines are not the same and Ohio wineries are learning how to ferment a wide range of products to create some of the most interesting libations in the state…including A.R. Winery.

I first noticed A. R. Winery while having dinner at Michael Anthony’s at The Inn in Versailles, Ohio. I have to admit, I was drawn to the adorable dog on the label, but when I learned it was a local wine, I was excited to try it. Supporting Ohio wines, I ordered a bottle of the “She Said Yes” a fabulous, semi-sweet wine, which paired quite nicely with the house carbonara. With plenty of time after dinner, I was eager to visit the winery and sample a few more wines.

Entering through the outdoor patio, I was immediately drawn to the winery’s laid-back, country character. Heading straight for the tasting bar, I met Russell, a co-owner of the winery (He is the R in A.R.). Russell is the wine maker and was happy to introduce me to the wines that he produces onsite. With his great sense of humor, I listened as he quickly ran through the highlights of each wine, explaining their distinct characteristics and flavors.

Angie, his lovely wife, was taking orders and serving customers on this busy night. Without missing a beat, she handled each interaction with such grace so I wasn’t surprised to learn she had been a meeting planner prior to opening the winery.

Russell is proud to point out that A.R. Winery is non-traditional as he explained that most of his wines are made from anything but grapes. With his enthusiasm, I couldn’t wait to try some of the interesting combinations he has created. I ordered a wine tasting ($5 for five) and purchased additional samples for $1 per pour thereafter.

Making wine is in Russell’s DNA. His grandfather was a winemaker back in the 1800s. He also knows the flavors that his clientele prefers and focuses on wines that sell in the Ohio region which are fruity and sweet.

Here is the selection of wine that I sampled that evening and a description of each:

Lock, Stock and Berries is a three time silver medal award winner and their most popular wine. Described as “a delicious blend of sweet blackberry, blueberry & red raspberry exploding in a mouthwatering finish. Best Chilled.” has a wonderful sweet smell and a beautiful color. Priced at $12.99 per bottle, it is the perfect summer wine on the deck.

County Fair Caramel Apple won the bronze medal at the 2016 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. I love the fact that it is made of cider using local apples from Downing Fruit Farms and enjoyed its smooth silky taste. As the description suggests, “Let the sweet caramel & tart apple flavors take you back to the county fair!”. A bottle of this apple wine is available for $13.99.

Bluesberry is a “rich, sweet blueberry wine that has a smooth, bold and jazzy flavor. Pair this wine with your favorite tasty chocolates!” This was my first opportunity to try a blueberry wine, so I was not really sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised that it was not too tart and had a great balance of blueberry flavor.

OMB “Oh My Berry” is a strawberry wine with a nice, very light taste. Described as “rich, sweet strawberries full of flavor! This light refreshing wine has a pleasing aroma for all to enjoy!” And I couldn’t agree more, who doesn’t absolutely love the smell of fresh strawberries?

Forbidden Apple won both a gold medal and best of class awards at the 2015 Indy International Wine Competition. This wine, incredibly priced at $9.99 per bottle has a “smooth mixture of sweet apples. The taste of sweet cider turned wine will tempt your every taste bud”. I loved the perfect balance of apple and purchased a bottle to enjoy again during the fall season.

The next wine on my list was one of the most innovative of all the selections, Fortunately, there was one bottle left because it was sold out. El Loco Lime is “squeezed from fresh limes, it is a one of a kind wine! Sweet, zesty lime wine with a hint of tartness. If you love margaritas, you will love this wine!” This Bronze Medal Award winner is quite unique and it was recommended that I try it with some salt along the rim and I could have sworn I was drinking a margarita.

The El Nino Tropical will literally take you by storm. When Russell explained that with each sip I would taste a different tropical flavor, I had to admit I was a bit skeptical. Flavors of strawberry, pineapple, mango and papaya burst in tropical harmony and truly “warmed my every taste bud!” This chemical reaction is spectacular. Winning a Silver medal at the 2016 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, I had to buy a bottle to share with friends.

The next white wine holds a special place in the hearts of Russell and Angie. It was their wedding wine that they labeled “She Said Yes”. This wine is described as a “full bodied, sweet white grape wine with hints of pineapple and tropical! Toast your wedding day with this perfect wine pick!” I can see why she said yes. This is a delicious wine and perfectly priced at $11.99 per bottle.

I absolutely love the catchy names of these wines as well as their flavors. Caught Red-Handed is “a fruity, sweet Fredonia red grape wine. Amazingly flavorful! Pairs well with a variety of fruits and cheeses!” This is a wine for any occasion.

Recently released is A.R. Winery’s Back In Blanc. Made from the Diamond grape, it is a “dry white wine with hints of crisp green apples and lemons.” I found it refreshing and is perfect for an afternoon drink on the porch.

With so many fascinating combinations of wines at A. R. Winery, it is no surprise that coming soon is their peach/peppermint bourbon barrel wine. Bourbon barrel wines seem to be popping up all over the state, so this will be quite a novel blend. I look forward to trying it at its release.

No doubt A. R. Winery caters to their customers and loves to offer unique blends of wine that are sure to please. Their outdoor seating area is fabulous and it is one of the few wineries where Ohio State University sports are televised, which is perfect for those Saturday afternoon football games. They also offer brick oven pizza which only proves A. R. Winery knows how to make their customers happy.

Have you visited A. R. Winery? Which wines did you absolutely love? I would be happy if you would let me know about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Cheers!

What to See and What to Do:

A. R. Winery
3564 Gordon Landis Road
Arcanum, Ohio 45304
Telephone: 937 417 0565

Please consult the winery’s website for hours of operation.

Where to Stay:

Artist Junction Bed & Breakfast
6100 Routzong Road
Greenville, OH 45331
Telephone: 941 780 2490

Where to Eat:

Maid-Rite Sandwich Shoppe
125 N Broadway Street
Greenville, OH 45331
Telephone: 937 548 9340

Maid-Rite has been serving these amazing loose meat hamburgers since 1934. Their signature beef sandwich, the Maid-Rite is only $2.15 and can be ordered with mustard, pickle and/or onion.

You can’t stop by Maid-Rite without checking out the “gum wall”. For years, people have been depositing their chewed up gum on the wall….so very interesting.

Books to Read:

The secret town: The story of the founding of Arcanum, Ohio, by William Gunder
The Ren Faire at the End of the World, by Josef Matulich

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

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)

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.

Caesar’s Creek Vineyards in Xenia

11 June 202122 September 2024

Rows of young vines bordered the gravel drive leading to the pole barn of Caesar’s Creek Vineyards. I left a cloud of dust behind me, wondering if the winery was open on this Friday afternoon, because it seemed unusually quiet, or maybe I was just early. Approaching the large double doors into the entrance, I stepped into a beautiful large tasting room that I had all to myself. Trisha kindly offered me a list of wines and I was so excited to sample a few wines, beginning with the Traminette 2013.

The Traminette is a semi-dry white wine “with orange blossom aromas. Notes of citrus on the palette.” I love the smell of this wine while the texture and taste was crisp yet smooth. I enjoyed the light flavor of the wine and decided that this was one of my favorite wines from Caesar’s Creek Vineyards. To purchase a bottle, the cost was $15.95 and $6 a glass.

I decided to branch out with a sample of Creek Stomper. My preferences are the drier reds and fruity wines, but I am surprised by how much I am enjoying the whites. This 2013 wine is a semi-sweet white wine with apples and honeydew on the nose and palette. I can definitely taste the apple but I am really stretching to savor the honeydew flavors but regardless, I definitely enjoy the smooth body of the wine. They say you have to keep drinking wines to improve your wine tasting abilities, so that won’t be a problem.

My next sample was Just Peachy which is described as a sweet white wine with “delicious peach nose and palette.” As soon as Trisha uncorked the bottle, my nose took in the beautiful fruity bouquet of peach and my mouth began to water. This is such an easy wine to love.

Headwaters White is another 2013 vintage that is “very sweet with notes of honey and tangerine”. I enjoyed the wine, but struggled to taste the fruit so I moved on to Miss Petunia Pie.

Of course, who doesn’t love the picture of a little Shih Tzu frolicking around in the grass as the label on the bottle? Similar to a dessert wine, this is made from Frontenac Gris Grapes and California Chardonnay. It has a thick texture and comes in a half sized bottle for $12.95. I set aside a bottle of Miss Petunia to take home to enjoy at a later date.

My final tasting was the 2013 Twilight which is a semisweet with bright notes of cherry, undertones of citrus and a clean finish. I learned that this is made from the Cayuga white grape which is a hybrid of Schuyler and the Seyval Blanc. I enjoyed the fruity taste and gorgeous color, so I purchased another wine to take home.

I explained to Trisha that I was new to learning about wines. She said that tasting and trying new wines were the perfect way to become more acquainted with wines. She also suggested a couple of references that she thought would be helpful. In addition, she mentioned that I contact Chip Emmerich from Burnet Ridge to set up an appointment for a tour. She stated that he is very knowledgeable about wine and would give some great advice and encouraged me to try their Purple Trillium.

I was so thankful for the opportunity to learn more about Caesar’s Creek wines. When I asked Trisha about the vines, she said that they planted their first vines in 2005 where they grow nine varieties of hybrid grapes on seven acres. With the recent winter vortex, some of the grapes would take longer to produce grapes. I left Caesar’s Creek Vineyards with three bottles of wine and an abundance of suggestions and tips. I could totally get used to this.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Caesar’s Creek Vineyards? Did you have a favorite wine? 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 my afternoon at Caesar’s Creek Vineyards and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Caesar’s Creek Vineyard
962 Long Road
Xenia, Ohio 45385
Telephone: 937 479 4278

The winery’s hours change seasonally, so please reference the winery’s website for hours of operation.

Where to Stay:

Ramada Xenia
300 Xenia Towne Square
Xenia, Ohio 45385
Telephone: 937 372 9921

Where to Eat:

Acapulco Restaurant
88 Xenia Towne Square
Xenia, Ohio 45385
Telephone: 937 374 0582

The chips and salsa remind me of my days in Southern California, authentic and a little spicy. I ordered the chicken burrito with rice and beans which was enough to feed me for three days.

What to Eat:

Award-winning wings and steaks at Nick’s Restaurant
Tenderloin Sandwich at Linda’s Family Restaurant

What to Read:

Ohio Town: A Portrait of Xenia, Ohio by Helen Hooven Santmyer
Herbs and Apples by Helen Hooven Santmyer

The Winery at Wolf Creek in Norton, Ohio

24 June 202022 September 2024

Taking the last sip of my wine sample of Space Cowboy, I noticed a group of bubbly young college students walking through the door of The Winery at Wolf Creek, dressed for a bachelorette party. They approached the tasting bar where I was enjoying a glass of wine when we struck up a conversation. It was their first time here, so they asked what I was drinking and if I had any suggestions for what they should order.

This was their first winery experience but they were not new to wine. We discussed which types of wine they would normally purchase and I shared with them my wine list with all of my hand written notes. I suggested that they start out sampling some of the wines before they commit to a bottle. They agreed that the sweet, fruit wines were more their style so they started out with samples of Blue (blueberry), Original Sin (apple) and Space Cowboy (peach).

The server set them up as I took a glass of Redemption out to the patio, waiting for a pizza from Fat Boys. Redemption is a French-hybrid blend that is light on the sweet side which I absolutely enjoy chilled.

I took a menu outside to look over the beer selection that includes craft beers from local and popular breweries as well as ciders and fruit based ales. The Winery at Wolf Creek has a limited menu of cheeses, meat and crackers but they welcome patrons to bring their own foods to enjoy with their wines while enjoying the spectacular view.

With a few minutes to spare, I reviewed my tasting notes and information that I had collected from my server. Distracted by the beautiful view of the Akron skyline, I noted which wines I would be purchasing before leaving the winery.

The Vignoles was my first sample which is a semi-sweet estate wine that I found had a lingering sour finish. This having been my first experience with this wine, I was curious to learn about specific food pairings that may alter the taste of the wine and found an unusual list to include pumpkin and ginger-based foods as well as gingers snaps*.

One of the varietals grown on the estate, Vignoles is one of three grapes that make up about 80 percent of their white wine production which also includes the Pinot Gris and Leon Millot.

Peppery and smooth, the Zinfandel was my absolute favorite but having learned that the winery makes a great Cabernet Franc, I had to sample this wine as well.

Summit County provides a grape growing terrior that includes sandy loam, clay loam and gravel. Because the climate is similar to the Loire Valley in France, this provides the potential as a perfect location for growing Cabernet Franc and Chambourcin varietals.

Switching over to sweet wines, Sweet Revenge is a beautiful Ohio rose that the winery has been making for over twenty years. A blend of Seyval Blanc and French Hybrid wines, this crisp, delicious wine is a classic.

I am always interested in sampling the fruit wines from Ohio wineries because they have the potential to be extremely fruity or combined with grapes, have subtle notes of fruit flavor in the blend. Blue, a semi-dry blueberry wine was rich in color as well as a little tart which I found to be an absolute lovely combination.

Original sin is the perfect name for this crisp, apple based wine, but it is Space Cowboy that wins my vote with its full peach flavor in every sip.

The sun is starting to set on this beautiful, brisk October evening. I bring myself inside where I can continue admiring the outside view from the beautiful glass windows of the tasting room.

My pizza had just arrived, so I ordered a bottle of Zinfandel, knowing that the winery can repackage the remaining wine for me to take home.

The Winery at Wolf Creek is open year around, with limited hours during the winter season. Cellar tours are available by appointment and wine tastings are offered daily. The winery offers a great selection of wine accessories, clothes, gift baskets and of course, wine which ranges from $14 to $24 per bottle.

The bachelorette party is going strong in the tasting room and I stop by to inquire how they enjoyed the wines. The bride-to-be, dressed in red, mentioned that they had such a difficult selecting a favorite that they purchased one of each to enjoy with their large group. I told her to beware of the Big Bad Wolf as I exited the winery, happy to see they were having the time of their lives.

Have you had the opportunity to visit The Winery at Wolf Creek? Did you pack a picnic or order some food? What was your favorite wine? I would love to hear about your visit to The Winery at Wolf Creek if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my post about The Winery at Wolf Creek and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Winery at Wolf Creek
2637 South Cleveland Massillon Road
Norton, Ohio 44203
Telephone: 330 665 1445

Where to Stay:

The Whimsical Pig Bed & Breakfast
2682 South Cleveland Massillon Road
Norton, OH 44203
Telephone: 330 576 6104

Ron and Sue Bishop were absolutely lovely hosts. The French toast for breakfast was amazing!

Where to Eat:

Wolf Creek Tavern
3044 Wadsworth Road
Norton, OH 44203
Telephone: 234 571 4531

Seated on the outside patio, I was so excited to try an order of homemade pierogis and I selected the fish and chips for my entree.