If you still think Ohio’s wineries only make sweet wine, think again. And if you think wine trails are only worth trekking in California, think again. If you think Ohio’s making a weak entry into uncharted territory, you need to think that one again too.
Many of the vineyards are planted with Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, and Dry Riesling as well as Niagara. Pink Catawba may be the favorite of partiers who don’t like dry red wine, but those who like a heart-healing red will be impressed by Ohio Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. North Bass Island is growing Pinot Noir and Gerwurztraminer in the best place to grow grapes in northern North America.
The Ohio Wine Producers Association shows off wines of Ohio at Vintage Ohio in Kirtland this Fri 8/5 and Sat 8/6. According to their website, 24 wineries will be pouring their representative wines. If you want to experience Ohio wines firsthand, spend a day in the country and give Ohio wines a try. In addition to wine, savor salsas, biscotti, cheeses, nuts, salads, sandwiches, pasta dishes, Euclid Beach custard and gelato from a variety of restaurants including Antone’s, Nader’s Bistro & Grill, Sue’s Pierogies, and Zydeco Bistro.
Over 40 wineries range across Lake Erie’s coastline and islands today. The Lake Erie Appellation is only one of five wine regions in Ohio. Two appellations are close to the Lake Erie appellation — Isle of St. George (North Bass Island) and Grand River Valley. The Ohio River Valley, birthplace of American viticulture, is the second largest wine appellation in America. The Loramie Creek appellation is a distinct wine region with no current wineries operating within it.
In addition, the OWPA has mapped out six wine trails to make it easier to discover Ohio’s wineries (http://OhioWines.org/maps.shtml). Each region and trail has distinct climates and soil conditions that influence how the wines taste, and many of the wineries are making wine from European varietals as well as the native Labrusca wines. Ohio wineries number around 75 wineries at last count. You can pick a trail, like the Grand River Valley, and stop at one winery after another just like in New York’s Finger Lakes.
During the 1860s and 1870s, Ohio was the premier wine producing state. California and other states gradually overtook and surpassed Ohio during the Temperance Movement. Today, Ohio’s wineries are making a comeback.
Experience and support Ohio’s wine industry at Vintage Ohio, Fri 8/5 and Sat 8/6 from 1-10PM. For more information, go to http://VintageOhio.com.
From Cool Cleveland contributor Claudia Taller, whose book Ohio’s Lake Erie Wineries will be on display and for sale at Vintage Ohio and is also available through http://www.OhioLakeErieWineries.blogspot.com.
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