Ohio’s wine country offers a delightful escape for wine lovers. You can explore charming vineyards, taste local varietals, and enjoy scenic views. Wine tours provide a fun way to experience multiple wineries without worrying about driving.
You can find wine tours and tastings across Ohio that cater to different tastes and interests. Some tours focus on specific regions, while others highlight award-winning wines. You might visit small family-owned wineries or larger estates with on-site restaurants. Many tours also include transportation, so you can relax and fully enjoy your wine tasting adventure.
1) Geneva Wine Cellars & Tasting Room
Geneva, Ohio is home to many fantastic wineries. You’ll find some of the best wine tasting experiences in the state here.
One standout option is the Geneva Wine Cellars & Tasting Room. This charming spot offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for wine lovers.
You can enjoy a variety of wines crafted from locally grown grapes. The tasting room staff are knowledgeable and friendly, ready to guide you through your wine journey.
Geneva Wine Cellars offers both indoor and outdoor seating options. On nice days, you can sip your wine while taking in beautiful vineyard views.
Wine tours are a popular way to explore Geneva’s wine scene. Many tours include stops at multiple wineries, including Geneva Wine Cellars.
Prices for wine tours in the area typically range from $50 to $55 per person, depending on group size. This often includes tastings at several wineries.
Geneva Wine Cellars & Tasting Room provides a perfect blend of excellent wines and Ohio hospitality. It’s a must-visit spot on your Geneva wine adventure.
2) Debonné Vineyards
Debonné Vineyards offers you a chance to explore Ohio’s premier estate winery. Located in Madison, about an hour east of Cleveland, this vineyard welcomes visitors year-round.
You can enjoy wine tasting and winery tours at Debonné. Group tours are available Monday through Thursday for parties of 25 or more. Be sure to call ahead to schedule your visit.
The vineyard hosts exciting events throughout the year. You might catch a festival, show, or workshop during your visit. Check their upcoming events calendar to plan your trip.
Debonné participates in the Tannenbaum Trail, a self-driving tour along the Vines & Wines Trail in Northeast Ohio. This event typically runs on weekends from late November through December.
For a unique winter experience, you can join the Hot Chocolate Trail. This cozy event lets you warm up while exploring local establishments.
Debonné Vineyards also provides information on nearby lodging and transportation options. This will help you plan a safe and convenient visit.
3) Ferrante Winery & Ristorante
Ferrante Winery & Ristorante offers a delightful wine tour experience in Ohio. You can visit their state-of-the-art winemaking facility in Harpersfield Township, Geneva.
The Ferrante family has been crafting award-winning wines since 1937. You’ll get to taste their nationally and internationally acclaimed wines during your visit.
Wine tastings and tours are available at Ferrante. You can sample their unique offerings, including their newly released Ice Wines.
For a special experience, you can join their Bourbon Barrel Aged Ice Wine Cellar Tour. This tour lets you sample their first-ever Bourbon Barrel Aged Ice Wine and enjoy exclusive discounts.
Ferrante Winery is easy to find. It’s located right off I-90 at the Geneva exit. You’ll find it on Route 307 west.
After your tour, you can browse their gift shop. It’s filled with unique items that make great souvenirs or gifts for wine enthusiasts.
4) Laurello Vineyards
Laurello Vineyards offers you a charming wine experience in Geneva, Ohio. This boutique winery is nestled in the Grand River Valley, known for its excellent wines.
You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere at Laurello’s. The winery features an outdoor patio with a walk-up wine bar, perfect for enjoying your favorite vintage on a sunny day.
For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Laurello’s provides two bocce courts. You can challenge your friends to a friendly game while sipping on their award-winning wines.
Wood-fired pizzas and panini sandwiches are available to complement your wine tasting. Fresh salads are also on the menu, giving you a variety of dining options.
Laurello Vineyards hosts live weekend entertainment. You can enjoy music while savoring your wine and taking in the vineyard views.
If you’re planning a special occasion, Laurello’s offers two large party rooms. These spaces are ideal for celebrations or group gatherings.
You can visit Laurello Vineyards as part of the Grand River Valley wine tour. This self-driven tour allows you to sample wines paired with seasonal cuisine at multiple wineries.
5) The Winery at Versailles
The Winery at Versailles offers a rustic and elegant wine experience in rural Darke County, Ohio. You’ll find it at 6572 OH-47, Versailles, OH 45380.
This winery boasts an impressive selection of over 30 wine varieties, all crafted on-site. You can enjoy tastings and seating both indoors and on the covered patio.
Tours of the facility and vineyard are available. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the winemaking process, from vine to bottle.
The winery hosts various events throughout the year. You might catch a wine and pizza night or join an ultimate taste and tour experience.
Reservations are required for tastings and seating. The winery is open year-round, with hours varying by day. You can visit Monday through Wednesday from 10 am to 6 pm.
Ohio’s Wine Regions
Ohio has two main wine regions that offer unique tasting experiences. These areas boast beautiful scenery and high-quality wines for you to enjoy during your visit.
Lake Erie Shores & Islands
The Lake Erie region is home to many award-winning wineries. You’ll find a variety of wines here, from sweet to dry. The area’s climate is perfect for growing grapes.
Visit family-owned wineries along the southern shores of Lake Erie. Many offer cozy tasting rooms with fireplaces. You can enjoy wine flights to sample different varieties.
Some wineries have restaurants on-site. Try pairing local wines with Italian cuisine for a full experience. Opening hours vary, but most are open Wednesday through Sunday.
Geneva-On-the-Lake
Geneva-On-the-Lake is a charming resort town known for its wineries. You can take a wine shuttle tour to explore multiple vineyards safely.
Tours run daily, with more options on weekends. You’ll visit 3-4 wineries in one trip. It’s a great way to taste different Ohio wines without worrying about driving.
The area offers beautiful views of Lake Erie. Many wineries have outdoor seating where you can relax with a glass of wine. Some even host live music events in the summer.
Don’t miss the chance to try ice wine, a local specialty made from frozen grapes.
Planning Your Wine Tour
When organizing a wine tour in Ohio, careful planning can enhance your experience. Consider your transportation and the wineries you want to visit.
Transportation Options
You have several choices for getting around Ohio’s wine country.
Wine shuttles offer a convenient and safe option. The Lodge at Geneva runs daily shuttles year-round for both guests and the public. This allows you to enjoy tasting without worrying about driving.
For a more personalized experience, you can book a private tour.
Companies like NextFlight Tours offer customized itineraries. Their tours range from 3 to 6 hours, with prices starting at $250.
If you prefer more flexibility, you can drive yourself. Just make sure to have a designated driver who won’t be drinking.
When choosing your transportation, think about:
- Group size
- Budget
- Desired level of customization
- Time available for your tour
