Something splendid happens to the landscape surrounding Cleveland in the autumn. Our cool verdant region suddenly comes to life with fireworks of warm color as our flora transforms into something mind-blowing. The temperatures begin to drop, but Midwestern comfort foods and cozy jackets keep us feeling warm inside. Do you know what else can keep you feeling warm in the autumn months? A visit to a friendly and charming winery! Fortunately for locals, our entire region is overflowing with splendid places that are well worth visiting this fall. Here are a few of our favorites:
1. Debonne Vineyards (7840 Doty Rd., Madison)
Get ready to embrace the majesty of eastern Ohio's landscape. Located about an hour east of Cleveland, Debonne Vineyards is open from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday through Tuesday in the fall months. You can swing by on Fridays from noon to 11 p.m. or Saturdays from noon to 8 p.m. if you would prefer to fill your weekend up with wine tasting and incredible food. Entertainment and events are offered all year round, but autumn is the best time to take in the colors of Ohio's largest estate winery. Did we mention that you'll get to appreciate a stunning 175 acres of vines?
2. Ferrante Winery & Ristorante (5585 State Route 307, Harpersfield Township)
It is remarkable when you can hold your glass of wine up to the light and match the colors you see against the colors of the surrounding autumn-kissed landscape. At Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, you'll find incredible beauty wrapped up in a tasty package. Events keep visitors entertained as temperatures continue to drop, and monthly specialties like Cranberry Hot Toddy Sangria will keep you feeling cozy inside.
3. Western Reserve Meadery (2135 Columbus Rd., Suite C, Cleveland)
In the heart of our own hometown is a cozy little tasting room with incredible flavors. You can sample and learn about mead in a 1915 industrial building, and flavors like Spiced Pumpkin Mead will bring fall to your taste buds. You can swing by during business hours or book an appointment for your visit. This one is too close to home to pass up!
4. Guggisberg's Doughty Glen Winery (5025 State Route 557, Millersburg)
If you haven't visited Amish Country in the fall, then you just don't know what you are missing! Autumnal hues paint a rolling landscape and wide open fields allow the eye to drift up to patterns in the clouds. Located on the campus of the newly renovated Guggisberg Inn is a charming winery that combines the best parts of Amish country in the flavors of your glass. Rich produce, the colors of autumn leaves, and the sweet aromas reminiscent of the state's best jams will greet visitors. It's never a bad idea to plan an overnight stay at this incredible location.
5. French Ridge Vineyards (2586 Township Rd. 34, Killbuck)
Holmes County is a treat once cooler months arrive in Northeast Ohio. This charming area is overflowing with beauty and colors, and so, too, is the lovely landscape of French Ridge Vineyard. You'll love exploring its property and guided tours are available upon request. Flavors like the spices in their Sweet Apple Table Wine will satisfy your cravings for fall, and true wine aficionados can even camp out on the property.
6. The Winery at Wolf Creek (2637 S Cleveland Massillon Rd., Norton)
Things are always picture perfect at The Winery at Wolf Creek. This quaint vineyard is appropriately festive for each season, perhaps in part due to decades of experience. The charming destination has been in operation since 1980 and it has grown in a remarkable way over the years. There's nothing quite like cozying up with a glass of their Original Sin Apple Wine and enjoying live music. Check out the Winery at Wold Creek website to stay up to date on the latest happenings here.
7. Vermilion Valley Vineyards (11005 Gore Orphanage Rd., Wakeman)
While locals may recognize the name of Gore Orphanage Road from its connection to a local legend, the real story to be told is based on how delicious Vermilion Valley Vineyards' wines are. This boutique winery first welcomed visitors in 2009, meaning its 10th anniversary is just around the corner. Vintage variation is the name of the game at this enchanting vineyard, and there's nothing like watching the fall foliage dance in the cool breeze of Lake Erie. To connect with Vermilion Valley Vineyards, click here.
8. Old Firehouse Winery (Lake Rd. E., Geneva-on-the-Lake)
Geneva-on-the-Lake is an enchanting community that is always abuzz with good vibes, and thanks to one local winery and restaurant, great wines. There's nothing like a heavy and sweet dessert wine to keep you warm as a gentle fall breeze blows over Lake Erie. A seasonal menu offers flavors that pair perfectly with a locally-produced wine.
9. Gervasi Vineyard (1700 55th St. NE, Canton)
This former farm is now an incredible setting that's straight out of Napa Valley. This charming destination is endlessly warm and inviting, and seasonal specialties and Ohio-grown flavors make this destination rival some of the loveliest places in Napa County, California. For the full story, click here.
There's much to love about Greater Cleveland and its surrounding landscape, and many of those qualities are captured on the properties of these pretty wineries. How many have you visited?
If this road trip isn't enough to keep you busy, you should also embark on a wine and waterfalls tour through Greater Cleveland.
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