Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
Greater Cleveland experiences four very distinct seasons each year, and locals are absolutely enchanted by the brilliant landscapes that they create. Our stunningly diverse landscape here in Northeast Ohio is coveted by residents and visitors alike, and it can transition from the bustling and busy city scene to rural farmland in mere miles. There are plenty of outdoor oases that provide an escape from the monotony of daily life, and many of those spaces include lovely vineyards. Prepare for a road trip, because these charming sites beckon to visitors with their beauty.
1. Silver Run Vineyard and Winery (376 Eastern Rd., Doylestown)
This petite boutique winery is family-owned and its small-town atmosphere is positively endearing. The former farmland was transformed into a winery after husband and wife team Ed Sunkin and Christine Sabo combined their favorite pieces of various wine regions throughout the world. They offer a variety of wines, ranging from traditional reds to fruity table wines.
2. ThornCreek Winery and Gardens (155 Treat Rd., Aurora)
Every trip to this winery is memorable! The flavors of its diverse wine collection are accented by intimate and unexpected places. Their gardens are a dream to explore in the warmer months and visitors have fallen in love with this winery’s ambiance.
The first member of the Kosicek family arrived in the United States from Slovenia in the Roaring Twenties, and he put down roots by opening a vineyard in 1929. Now in its third generation of ownership and its fourth generation of family assistance, this lovely vineyard has maintained its charm over the years. Special events help to make every season interesting and the variety of wines will have you returning time and time again.
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4. Grand River Cellars (5750 S Madison Rd., Madison)
Is there anything better than all-American comfort cuisine and a glass of wine? This winery and restaurant offers up the perfect recipe for a memorable evening: a diverse menu, an impressive selection of wine, and gorgeous surroundings. It's no wonder locals have loved this winery since 1978!
This enchanting vineyard and farm has attracted many visitors since its founding in 1979, and it's no secret why. Their incredible landscape and intimate wine bar are lovely in every season, though their Medieval-inspired fireplace beckons in the coldest months. Their selection of wines is intriguing, and locals enjoy curling up with a glass and listening to live music.
If you think this landscape is lovely in the winter, just wait until you experience it covered in verdant plant life in spring and summer and rust-colored foliage in fall. Since 1980, visitors to this expansive vineyard have enjoyed the flavors of locally-grown wine in the midst of a jaw-dropping landscape. Visitors today enjoy interacting with the winery's resident goats, enjoying a picnic, and enjoying some of the most playfully-named wines around.
Canton is a bit of a drive from Cleveland, but this European-inspired winery is well worth the trip. It's unlike anything else in the area, from its Tuscan flair to its gourmet bistro. And, you'll find yourself mesmerized by its picture-perfect landscape. For more information, check out our previous article featuring Gervasi Vineyard here.
8. Halliday's Winery (2400 NE River Rd., Lake Milton)
If you have yet to visit Lake Milton, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend trip. It was in this sprawling and wild area that Jesse Halliday settled in 1804, establishing a grist mill and building a family. This relaxing winery overlooks his lovely land and celebrates his legacy in a way he would have surely appreciated - with wine, camaraderie, and great food.
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9. Sarah's Vineyard (1204 W Steels Corners Rd., Cuyahoga Falls)
Sarah's Vineyard is surrounded by greenery from Hampton Hills Metro Park and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and its landscape is downright enchanting. Inside, you’ll find an equally impressive art gallery. With a lovely selection of wines and enchanting views all around, this quaint winery is doubtlessly memorable.
10. Laurentia Vineyard & Winery (4599 S Madison Rd., Madison)
This charming wine room is stylized as a log cabin, offering visitors an immersive and rustic experience. Both the dining menu and wine selection feature the best flavors of the season, and the surrounding landscape reflects the wonders of winter, spring, summer, and fall. Construction on this winery began in 2013, so its history isn’t as extensive as others, but its future is undoubtedly bright.
The loveliest features of Northeast Ohio’s landscape come to life at these breathtaking wineries. Which of these pretty places is your favorite? Are there other nearby wineries that you absolutely love? Share your suggestions in the comments below!