Lake Erie isn’t just great for boating, beach parties and the like, it also creates fantastic conditions for vineyards. It sustains summer heat to extend the growing season and creates unbelievable soil for grapes. So, it’s no wonder that we’ve got some pretty amazing wineries here. Check out some of the best spots to sit and sip among the vineyards of The Land.
Every Ohioan knows that if you’re going to Geneva, you’re coming home with wine. Pick up a bottle of Ferrante Winery’s award-winning Cabernet Franc or cozy up on the couch with Mom’s Apple Pie Riesling just in time for autumn. (Trust us…it trumps a PSL any day.)
If you’re only going to Sandusky for Cedar Point, it’s time to expand the plan to include Firelands Winery. As Ohio’s largest producing winery, there’s clearly no shortage of primo pours. Plus, the original wine cellar from 1880 is still in the mix today.
Smack in the middle between downtown and University Circle, this urban vineyard is reimagining wine—and kicking it up a notch with locally-grown grapes. Try a glass of Moxie (a semi-sweet white) or the aptly-named Swoon (a chocolate-strawberry dessert wine designed to make you do just that).
Michael Angelo’s Winery was made to wine down. This casual spot offers indoor/outdoor seating to post up with a charcuterie board and your selection from a rotating wine list (spanning from Bianco to Gewürztraminer to Zinfandel). Got a sweet tooth? Their cakes will leave you in tiers.
A little bit of a drive but a lot worth it, Canton-based Gervasi Vineyard isn’t just a winery…it’s an experience. Go for the ice wine or malbec and stay for the four restaurants, live music, cooking classes, tasting tours and gorgeous view.
The inside of CLE Urban Winery is a hipster’s dream with their wood and metal decor-laden tasting room. You can even see where the magic happens—their wines are produced and bottled on-site! Can’t pick a pour? Get a wine tasting flight and try five.
Your happy ending starts here! Sapphire Creek Winery offers a fairy tale-esque experience with vaulted ceiling seating areas and immaculate gardens. Sip back and relax with one of their house wines (not a bad option in the bunch), and admire the gorgeous grounds amid dinner on the patio.