EXPLORING THE OHIO WINE TRAIL: BEST WINERIES & SCENIC STOPS

When most people think of wine country, their minds jump to California or France, but our minds go right to the shores of Lake Erie. Ohio has been quietly growing its wine scene for centuries, and it’s finally getting the spotlight it deserves. Along Lake Erie’s coastline, the Ohio Wine Trail is proof that you don’t need a plane ticket to Napa to sip something special. 

The lake’s cool breezes and fertile soil make this region surprisingly perfect for vineyards. That’s why you’ll find everything from rustic, family-run wineries that feel like hidden gems to award-winning estates with live music and views that rival anywhere else. 

Ohio wines have their personality—sometimes bold, sometimes sweet and often a little unexpected (much like Ohio weather). That mix is exactly what makes the Wine Trail such a fun adventure. You can approach it like a sommelier, analyzing every note or simply kick back and enjoy the wines local makers are proud to pour. 

If you’re headed toward Lake Erie, make sure to leave room in your itinerary for a winery stop. To help you get started, we’ve rounded up some local favorites worth a visit. 

Top Wineries on the Ohio Wine Trail 

The best way to experience the trail is to visit every stop, but if you’d rather narrow it down, here’s what to expect at some of the standouts. 

Firelands Winery
As one of Ohio’s oldest wineries, Firelands has been crafting wine since the 1880s. Located just outside Sandusky, it combines rich history with modern winemaking. You’ll find European-style blends, crisp whites and sweet local favorites. The patio is perfect for lingering over a glass (or two) after a Lake Erie adventure. 

Ferrante Winery & Ristorante
Ferrante is where wine meets hearty Italian cuisine, which is pretty much a dream combination. Their award-winning wines pair perfectly with handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas. Visit hungry, because this stop is as much about the food as it is the pours. 

Debonné Vineyards
Debonné is the largest estate winery in Ohio and one of the liveliest. Beyond their extensive wine list, the vineyard hosts regular live music and events that turn a tasting into a full-on evening. It’s the kind of place where you might show up for the wine but end up staying for the atmosphere. 

Harpersfield Vineyard
Harpersfield Vineyard feels like you’ve been transported to a cozy French countryside escape. Known for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, this vineyard has a warm, homey vibe, especially in the winter when the fireplace is roaring. It’s less about grand estates and more about comfort and character. 

South River Vineyard
This one is pure wow-factor. Housed in a repurposed 1800s church, South River Vineyard blends history, scenery and wine into one unforgettable stop. Sip a glass of their dry red on the outdoor terrace overlooking rolling vineyards, and you’ll understand why this is one of the most photographed wineries in Ohio. 

Though not technically part of the official Ohio Wine Trail, Lake Eries Islands also have a few gems to visit:  

Heineman’s Winery
A Put-in-Bay classic, Heineman’s has been family-run since 1888 and is the oldest winery on the island. Beyond the tasting room, you can also tour Crystal Cave, the world’s largest geode, right beneath the winery. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that pairs history, geology and (of course) a good glass of wine. 

Put-in-Bay Winery
Located on the grounds of the historic Doller Estate, the Put-in-Bay Winery is as much about the views as the vintages. Enjoy a tasting on the waterfront lawn while watching boats drift across Lake Erie or take a tour through the estate house for a little history with your glass. 

Kelleys Island Wine Co.
Casual and welcoming, Kelleys Island Wine Co. is the go-to spot for laid-back tastings. With a mix of locally crafted wines, craft beer and a full restaurant menu, it’s a great stop for groups with a variety of tastes.  

Tips for the Best Wine Tasting Experience 

A wine trail trip should feel fun, not fussy. Here are a few ways to help you get the most out of your Ohio Wine Trail adventure: 

• Pair wines with food: The golden rule? Drink what you like, eat what you want. That said, a crisp Ohio Riesling with local perch or a smooth red with Ferrante’s wood-fired pizza is tough to beat. Many wineries offer small plates or full restaurants on-site, so don’t be shy about asking staff for pairing suggestions; they love helping you find that “wow” combo. 

• Taste Ohio’s must-try grapes: Ohio has signature grapes that give the region’s wines a distinct personality. Concord and Catawba bring sweet, fruity flavors that locals have loved for generations. At the same time, Riesling thrives in the cool Lake Erie climate and produces everything from dry, refreshing whites to dessert-worthy pours. Make sure you sample at least one of each to taste what makes Ohio unique. 

• Travel smart: The biggest buzzkill on a wine trail trip? Not having a plan for getting around. Consider a guided shuttle, a designated driver or even splitting tastings with your group so everyone can enjoy safely. Some wineries are close enough to each other that you can mix in short walks or bike rides, but when in doubt, always plan transportation first and tastings second. 

Planning Your Ohio Wine Trail Trip 

Part of the fun of the Ohio Wine Trail is that no two visits feel the same. A little planning goes a long way in making your trip is both relaxing and memorable. 

• Best times to visit: Summer and fall are the best times to visit if you want sunny afternoons on winery patios, grape harvest festivals and vineyards lined with golden leaves. However, winter tastings can be just as magical, especially when wineries like Harpersfield and Firelands lean into cozy vibes with fireplaces and mulled wines. 

• Guided tours vs. self-guided trips: If you’d rather leave the navigation to someone else, there are guided wine tours that shuttle you between wineries so you can simply sip and enjoy. But if you like exploring at your own pace, a self-guided trip gives you the flexibility to linger where you want (or sneak in a second dessert at Ferrante). Either way, pacing yourself is key; most wineries are within easy driving distance of each other, so you don’t have to rush. 

• Nearby attractions and stays: Lake Erie itself is one of the best side attractions. For a weekend getaway, you’ll find everything from quaint bed-and-breakfasts tucked near the vineyards to full-service resorts along the shoreline. Staying overnight is always a smart idea, especially if you’re planning on tasting your way through several stops. 

Travel to Ohio Wine Country with the Jet Express 

You don’t have to travel far for a world-class wine experience. With historic vineyards, award-winning bottles and scenic views along Lake Erie, Ohio is a destination that combines relaxation with discovery. Each winery has its own character, so there’s bound to be one with everything you’re looking for. 

So gather your friends, plan your route and raise a glass to Ohio’s growing wine scene. And if your travels take you to the islands, don’t forget that a Jet Express ferry is the perfect way to add a little adventure to your trip and make winery-hopping along Lake Erie even easier. 

Ready to explore? Grab your ferry tickets.