Sat 9/14 @ 1 – 6pm
Join Cool Cleveland contributor Claudia Taller on Sat 9/14, for a wineries tour of three Vermilion wineries. The bus leaves Waterford Crossings Clubhouse in Strongsville to travel to Paper Moon, Vermilion Valley, and Matus Winery for tastings, food provided by The Indigo Connection, and guided tours with the winemaker/owner. I will lead the tour by providing background and history of the Lake Erie wineries and introducing you to the wine makers. It should be a fun afternoon.
Winemaking began as a basement hobby for winemaker Bob Matus of Matus Winery in Wakeman. He started growing grapes in 1998. He opened his winery in 2006 after winning competitions and was named Northern Ohio Winemaker of the Year in 2003. The winery is located on the 75-year-old Matus farm and the part of the building is composed of remnants from an old tavern in Birmingham. He makes native labrusca wines and a number of hybrids, including chambourcin and foche. Expect a tavern feel at this winery.
Paper Moon Winery on Route 60 in Vermilion opened in 2008, and is owned by Richard and Cheryl Cawrse. Their son Adam is a self-taught enologist and is passionate about Rieslings. The family has planted hybrids, including Vidal Blanc and Trimanette, and uses grapes from other growers. Their first vines are now yielding grapes suitable for wine. Before establishing the winery, Richard ran a food services business, so the flatbread pizzas and panninis served to patrons are first rate. Expect to drink wine while viewing the tanks.
Vermilion Valley Vineyards opened in Henrietta in 2009, and David Benzing is the winemaker. The vineyards include Pinot Noir, Dornfelder, and Gewurztraminer; the winery only makes vinifera wines (no labrusca or hybrids). The winery uses efficient design strategies, recycling, solar energy, and has installed a pond for irrigation and storm water management. Expect to learn about trellising and organic growing methods in the high-ceilinged light space with vineyards visible from the inside.
http://tic2013winerytour.eventbrite.com
Claudia Taller is the author of Ohio’s Lake Erie Wineries and has been a Cool Cleveland contributor for many years. She helps writers and other creative people discover possibilities for their lives through Igniting Possibilities events, including Word Lovers retreats. She has written articles for numerous publications over the last decade and blogs at http://ClaudiaTallerMusings.blogspot.com. Her book can be purchased at http://OhioLakeErieWineries.blogspot.com and makes a perfect gift for history buffs and wine lovers.