Getting a taste of wine country in Northeast Ohio is a large feat. Luckily, experiencing a variety of wineries is made easy by hopping on an all-inclusive tour that does the heavy lifting for you. Here are three tours to book this summer across different regions.
Company Car & Limousine Tours: For those wanting a swanky, all-inclusive tour, this upscale service will work to make your tour as personal and intimate as possible. Just call to place a reservation and an elegant limousine will pick you up before whisking your party away to various Ohio wine trails. For its Lake Erie Shores & Islands tour, learn about the winemaking process in the cellars of Firelands Winery in Sandusky or try delicious wine pairings at Gideon Owen Wine Co. in Port Clinton. “We spend a lot of time studying the wineries and studying the wine,” says Nina Parson, director of sales and marketing. “We can cultivate a tour that matches your specific needs.” Call for pricing rate, 216-861-7433, companycarlimo.com
Ohio Wine Shuttle by The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake: A convenient shuttle takes your group to three picturesque wineries such as Debonne Vineyards and South River Vineyard. Not only will each stop give you a peek inside each winery, certified wine specialist Lauren Fiala will be onboard for an immersive wine tasting experience along the way. “This is a great tool for people who are learning, as well as the aficionados, because I’m going to tell you some different things about the Ohio wine regions that you might not have known before,” says Fiala. $95 per person, 4888 N. Broadway, Geneva-on-the-Lake, 440-466-7100, thelodgeatgeneva.com
Wine On The Train by Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad: The Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad invites you for a wine tasting onboard, while you’re en route to another winery. This month, enjoy the views of Cuyahoga Valley National Park while tasting four wine samples from L’uva Bella Winery in Lowellville. Guided by chief growth officer and third-generation winemaker, Marisa Sergi, the tasting will include the winery’s popular sweet red, Purple Rain Concord, bursting with a flavor of freshy picked berries. “Wine is personal,” says Sergi. “We like to make wine approachable for anyone.” $240-$280, 234-759-0100, cvsr.org/grape-escape
