Ohio Wineries Launch Pinot Trail Project With Special Event

First there was France, then Oregon, then New Zealand. Is Ohio the next great Pinot Noir region?

 

Is Ashtabula The New Burgundy?

Great wine regions around the world are typically renowned for a single (or perhaps two) famous grapes or for their strictly controlled blends: Napa, California: Cabernet, Bordeaux district in France: great reds; Australia: Syrah; Argentina: Malbec; Champagne district in France: sparkling whites; Washington State: Rieslings and great reds, Long Island, New York: Merlot, Finger Lakes, New York and Traverse City, Michigan: Riesling, Austria: Gruner Veltliner, Oregon: Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir. 

Why is that significant for northeast Ohio? The answer: Take a minute and Google "Pinot Belt Map."
 
The amazing fact is that there are two narrow strips of geography in the northern and southern hemispheres, which provide optimal climactic conditions to grow great Pinots. In the northern hemisphere, Burgundy, parts of Italy, Slovenia, part of northern California and Oregon are included in the northern band, but so is the south shore of Lake Erie including Ashtabula, Lake and Geauga counties in Ohio.

Many of the wineries in the region are producing award winning Pinots (along with a myriad of other varieties) and while they will continue to produce and promote a wide spectrum of other wines, they hope to make these grapes the "signature" varieties in the Tri-County region. 

14 Wineries Unite To Promote Pinot

Fourteen wineries in the area have formed a partnership, led by the Tri County Grape Growers Association to promote the great Pinots (Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir) that now growing there.  Their goals are several:  share with the wine world that they are doing some exceptional Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir wines, encourage more plantings of these varieties and drive consumers out to their doors to explore and enjoy all that they have to offer.

They have created a brochure sharing information about Pinots which features a lovely, but somewhat mysterious lady on the cover (reflecting Pinots' reputation as the "Femme Fatale of Wines" ). Beginning June 1 through July 15 the group will host a Pinot Trail special event where by consumers can visit any or all of the 13 including Debonné, Ferrante, Grand River, Harpersfield, Kosicek, LaLeure, Laurello, Laurentia, M, Maple Ridge, Markko, St. Joseph, and South River (the 14th is Silver Crest which will not be open for the trail event, but will be welcoming guests sometime in the fall).

Cost for the special trail event will be $15 per person and will entitle visitors to sample a Pinot complemented by an appetizer at each of the wineries any time during the six weeks. Following the conclusion of the trail, for those who visit all 13 currently open, prizes including crystal wine glasses, Vintage Ohio Wine Festival tickets and wine cork cages will be awarded via a drawing from all those Pinot lovers who visit those participating wineries.

As part of a special promotion, one lucky couple will win an overnight stay in the Pinot Gris Suite at the spectacular, new Vineyard Woods resort in the heart of the Grand River Valley with 25 wineries just a short drive, bicycle ride or walk away.
   

Participation cards will be available at each winery beginning May 18 or can be ordered through the Ohio Wine Producers web site: www.OhioWines.org , or at their offices at 1 South Broadway, Geneva, all beginning May 18th.

In addition to the special trail event, new brochures touting the story of the Pinots grown in the region and upcoming events will be widely distributed around the Tri County area throughout the year.

Photo Credit: Norio.NAKAYAMA Flickr via Compfight cc

13th Annual Grand River Valley Ice Wine Festival Set March 4, 11 and 18 in Northeastern Ohio

Surprise! Chilly weather can mean something good – like the Grand River Valley Ice Wine Festival, now in its 13th year. The festival is located in the Northeastern Ohio in the heart of the Grand River Valley Wine Region. The event will be held March 4, 11 and 18.

Five area wineries come together to celebrate this golden nectar otherwise known as ice wine that can only be made in certain parts of the world. Not only is this wine unique but Grand River Valley ice wines have garnered top awards in international wine competitions.


The festival consists of 5 area wineries all within a 10-minute drive of each other. Each winery will provide a sample of their wines, an ice wine glass, and a complimentary appetizer. The event begins at noon and ends at 5 p.m. The cost is $6 per person at each winery.

Patrons begin at the winery of their choice for this fun, progressive Ice Wine tasting throughout the Grand River Valley wine region. Participating wineries include Debonné Vineyards, Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant, Laurello Vineyards, and St. Joseph Vineyards. Making this event a progressive tasting is one of the reasons the event is such a draw. Patrons will have a unique experience at every winery and will be able to see different sights around the area.

Many wineries have added “extras” for people to enjoy. Some of the extras include special wine dinners featuring local meats, cheeses and vegetables, ice carving, dog sledding, food demonstrations and several artisans. Most of these “extras” are free but some will cost the patron a small additional charge. In addition, many of the winemakers will be on hand for people to talk to and other wines will be available for people to taste.

"This year is especially exciting for us here at Debonne Vineyards," says Tony Debevc, President. "Our 2013 Vidal Blanc Ice Wine garnered the top award at the San Francisco Chronicle wine competition being recognized as the sweepstakes winner for "Best Dessert Wine". In addition, our winemaker, Ed Trebets, garnered the same award for "Best Dessert Wine Maker". The festival provides a great opportunity for patrons to taste this award winning ice wine and the award winning ice wines at the other wineries as well.

In an effort to help the local food banks, the wineries are encouraging everyone to bring in canned food items for which they will receive $1 off at each location. For more information about the Ice Wine Festival call 440-466-3485 or visit www.wggrv.com for a list of details.

Appetizer Menu & Events include:

DEBONNE VINEYARDS

• APPETIZER:  Smokey Salmon Pate on Cracked Pepper Crackers
• Sled Dog Demonstration all day
• Live music Friday night and Saturday afternoon.
• Winter Glow Progressive Dinner – each Friday evening.  Call 440-466-3485 or www.debonne.com for more information on the dinner or to make reservations.

FERRANTE WINERY & RISTORANTE

• APPETIZER: Pound Cake with a  Peach Ricotta Cream
• Live music Friday & Saturday evenings.
• Take a picture with our giant ice wine bottle.
• Ice Wine Pairing Dinner offered all three weekends.   No Reservations Necessary.  Visit FerranteWinery.com for our menu & additional information.

GRAND RIVER CELLARS WINERY & RESTAURANT

• APPETIZER: White Cheddar, Bacon & Caramelized Onions Mac & Cheese
• Featuring Ice Carving at 12 p.m;
• Delightful Soy Candles featuring Ice Wine Candles
• Ice Wine Marshmallow Roast All Day (small additional fee)
• Winter Glow Progressive Dinner – each Friday evening.  Call 440-298-9838 or www.grandrivercellars.com for menu or more information on the dinner or to make reservations.
• Live music Friday and Saturday evenings from 7:30-10:30.

LAURELLO VINEYARDS

• APPETIZER:  Macaroon with hints of Orange and Dark Chocolate
• Featuring Beach Glass Jewelry by Rita Burns.
• What a video of this years ice wine harvest and pressing.

ST. JOSEPH VINEYARDS

• APPETIZER:  Ohio Apple Strudel Infused with Ohio Maple Syrup
• Krzys Family Maple Syrup Demonstration

5th Annual Glass City Wine Festival March 4 In Toledo

Tickets are now on sale for the Glass City Wine Festival. The fifth edition of this popular event will take place March 4 at the Seagate Convention Center in Toledo.

Admission tickets are from 1:00 to 4:00 PM ($25) and 6 PM to 9 PM ($30). VIP tickets cost $10 more and get you in one hour earlier. All tickets sell quickly, especially the VIP tickets. The VIP tickets are well worth the extra expense and allow you to avoid long lines. You get the hint, if you are planning on going, you should buy your tickets now.

Glass City Wine Festival is an opportunity to taste regional wines, sample gourmet cheese and fare from local restaurants and shop for unique gifts from a number of local, craft businesses. Many popular Ohio wineries will be pouring at the event.

This has turned into a great annual celebration of wine. It’s fun and fashionable with plenty of great wine. Around 20 wineries are expected to participate. You can find the list of confirmed wineries here.

For more information, and to order tickets, visit the Glass City Wine Festival website here.
Photo Credit: torbakhopper Flickr via Compfight cc

Exchange Club of Toledo Sets 5th Annual Wine Tasting February 25

Members of the Exchange Club of Toledo will host a wine tasting with paired appetizers at the historic Oliver House in downtown Toledo 6:00 – 8:00 PM Saturday, February 25.

The event will benefit their Youth of the Year and Accepting the Challenge of Excellence scholarships. Both scholarships benefit seniors in high school from our area with monetary scholarships for either being an exceptional student and young citizen or overcoming a life changing obstacle and achieving success. The Exchange Club works with students from the TPS system.

The event promises tasty wines and food pairings in a comfortable, historic downtown setting. There will be several irresistible silent auction items, the famous “wall of wine” and the company will be just right.  Tickets are $50 per person. For information or tickets, contact Gail Weller at  (419) 343-2426 or at gweller@nationalexchangeclub.org . All major credit cards accepted.

The Oliver House is located at 27 Broadway St Toledo. At 150 years old, the pre-Civil War hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Oliver House is currently the home of a number of Toledo favorites, including Maumee Bay Brewing Co. and Rockwell's Steakhouse.

Island Wine Festival Scheduled October 1 At Put-In-Bay

Mark your calendar now for this unique island wine festival coming up next month.

The Annual Island Wine Festival will be held Saturday, October 1, at Put-In-Bay. Representatives from wineries across the US will be on hand for festival goers to sample hundreds of foreign and domestic wines, including island wines from Heineman Winery and Put-in-Bay Winery. Also featured will be great food, a display on the history of island wineries, winery and grape related merchandise.

Admission is $6 which includes a souvenir wine glass Sampling tickets are $1 each with most samples $1 to $4. Retail sales are available so you can take your favorite bottle home with you. This is a great time to find a wine for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

This event is one of our favorites. The setting of picturesque Put-In-Bay plus the amazing array of wine makes this a stand-out event.

A silent auction will be held to benefit the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society. The event is scheduled 11 AM to 6 PM at Put-In-Bay Winery.

Wines of Meeker Vineyard Brilliant At La Scola Wine Dinner

The wines of Meeker Vineyard presented by Molly Meeker herself plus the cuisine of La Scola Italian Grille created an unforgettable evening.

From Junkyard to Vineyard

The journey of winery owners Charlie and Molly Meeker didn’t take the traditional route. Molly was an actress and Charlie was an entertainment attorney. They met at Norman Lear’s production company, which produced such shows as All In The Family, Sanford and Son and Maude.

Charlie became a film producer and ultimately president of MGM. Molly rose to a VP position in Lear’s company. In 1977 they bought a vineyard in Sonoma’s Dry Creek Valley. In 1984 the Meeker Vineyards winery opened.

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Imaginative Food Creations

The recent wine dinner featuring Meeker wines was presented by La Scola Italian Grill along with Esber Beverage Company. I enjoy drinking a great glass of wine, but to propel the occasion through the atmosphere, there’s nothing like scrumptious food. Having Molly Meeker there to discuss her wines was the cherry on top.

We tasted through five different wines paired with amazing dishes, the first being scallop bisque with bacon (I had no idea jowls were so crispy!). This was paired with the 2012 Meeker Dry Creek Valley Chardonnay.

The Chard offers a fresh bouquet. It is barrel fermented in neutral oak and is aged six months sur lee for additional body. It undergoes malolactic fermentation for a nice creamy finish. The bisque was rich and succulent and the chardonnay contrasted nicely. The chardonnay had an enjoyable vanilla finish. It’s a nice value at $25.

We were looking forward to the Meeker Cabs, but we weren’t there yet. First we enjoyed the 2011 Bessie Zinfandel. Dry Creek Valley is famous for Zin and Bessie did not disappoint. Well balanced with nice acidity, it maintained a light and bright profile. There was a dash of black pepper and it didn’t taste “hot” with high alcohol.
Paired with roasted bone marrow topped with red onion marmalade, this was a memorable and unconventional pairing.

The next offering was the 2010 Great Cabs Cabernet, Sonoma Valley. This was paired with a stuffed pork dish topped with wasabi micro greens and roasted red pepper. This is a mid-range cab which features small quantities of Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. It has nice body and great texture.

Molly described the Combination (code three) California Red Wine as a “down and dirty’ California blend. It has 60% Syrah, 20% Petite Sirah and 20% Barbera. This has a beautiful sour cherry flavor with a lilting acidity. It has some herbal notes and blackberry hints. It retails for $37. It was paired with slow-roasted poblano infused short ribs. Happy to say I received a bottle of this as a birthday present!

Hands Down Winner

The next bottle is “hands down” the most recognizable Meeker wine: the 2012 Winemaker’s Handprint Merlot, Sonoma County. The standard bottles bear the colorful handprints of winemaker Lucas Meeker. Also on display were a 3 liter bottle and a magnum.

The Handprint Merlot is a Cabernet drinker’s Merlot. It is robust and complex. It is 84% Merlot with the remainder being a mix of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It explodes on the palate with cherries and red fruit with some toasty caramel.

This was paired with delicious lamb shanks and was divine.This has a SRP of $42 – an excellent bargain.

Chocolate Covered What!?

Our evening concluded with key lime pie with black pepper and chocolate doubloons paired with the 2013 FroZin dessert wine.  One of our dinner partners got me good on this one. I love chocolate and he said, “this chocolate doubloon is great.”

Mouth watering, I took a big bite – it was a jalapeno! Yikes! I enjoy jalepenos with beer and Mexican food, not so much at my wine dinner. Our friend Ann could not say enough about the jalepeno – at least not much I can repeat!

This was a playful finish to a truly magnificent evening of wine, friends and food. Meeker offers a great lineup of diverse wines, from elegant Chardonnay to Merlot with character. We encourage you to uncork at your first opportunity.

Charmed and Cherished Wine Tasting Continues Tradition of Good Times and Compassion

Article by Tasting Team Members Glorious T. and The Cabinator


The Cherished Friends of Ahava’s Charmed and Cherished Wine Tasting Event has been a favorite tradition for the Toledo Wines and Vines team since it began 12 years ago at Cousino’s Navy Bistro at the Docks. Since that time, the team has only missed a couple of the annual events, and it has grown to over 400 people filling Fifth Third Field’s suite level space.


We have met some great people along the way, and the supporters of the Cherished Friends of Ahava generally have a personal connection, and are a dedicated and enthusiastic group of people.

They have the coordination of this event down to a smooth and efficient production. The array of silent auction and basket raffle items was impressive, with many sought after items, including Ohio State memorabilia, spa treatments, gift cards, and vacation packages. Glorious T was unfortunately outbid on the oil painting of “your favorite pet”. A new carnival-like feature, “Ring Around the Wine” was a fun addition. For $5 you could throw a ring and win the bottle your ring landed around.


The buffet appetizer included a variety of tasty and savory options, along with an area of mini desserts. The food was substantial for those who were there to really sample the wines. The cost of $50 was a fair price. For sponsors of $100 or more, a “reserve” wine tasting was available. This had changed from a Reserve tasting of interesting wines to a small selection of mass market wines. The sparkling wine table included Piper Sonoma Brut, La Marca Prosecco, and a unique Rosa Regale sparkling red wine.

Meanwhile, Sara was featuring Mondavi Cabernet, La Crema Chardonnay, Davis Bynum Pinot Noir, and a very mineral focused Chateua Thunevan white Bordeaux. Sponsors also had, in addition to the appetizer buffet, shrimp cocktail and hummus.

Back in the main area, the place was hopping. Stony Ridge winery’s table had a steady stream of sweet wine fans. Other tables featured Meiomi Pinot Noir, Wild Horse, Joel Gott and other varietals. We had met wine rep Dave Weiden back at an early Charmed and Cherished Event, and he returns as an annual supporter. It was good to see him, and he was pouring a fabulous and popular selection of Chalk Hill Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Sebastiani Zinfandel, Guenoc Claret, and Lost Angel Moscato. The very generous Heidelberg Distributing Company donated all wine for the event.

Proceeds benefit the Cherished Friends of Ahava’s Special Guest Program that provides spa and wellness services, at no charge, to men and women undergoing cancer treatment. Cherished Friends of Ahava, a non-profit organization based in Toledo, has provided services to more than 1,200 special guests in the last 12 years. This year’s event was held in memory of Mary Elizabeth Hammond.

Pioneer Wine Trail Art Along The Trail Event Scheduled April 9-10 in Southeast Michigan

Art Along the Trail, a unique self-guided wine tour on Michigan’s Pioneer Wine Trail, is scheduled April 9 and 10. Eight Michigan wineries will be feature a new release wine along with a focus on art with painters, musicians and artwork to entertain. Ticket prices are $35 and are expected to sell quickly.

The Pioneer Wine Trail is conveniently located about 45 minutes from Toledo or Ann Arbor. The official hours for this event are 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM on Saturday and 12:00 to 5:00 PM on Sunday. The tickets are $35 each and can be purchased online here.  

Guests provide their own transportation and choose their itinerary, visiting the wineries in any order. Pick up a souvenir glass at your first winery and enjoy food and wine pairings at all the wineries along the trail.

Here’s the information on participating wineries:
Burgdorf's Winery will be serving Creole Shrimp Bruschetta paired with Burgdorf's 2013 Syrah or for those with sweeter palates - Burgdorf's 2014 Semi-Sweet Spartan Red. Local art will be on display throughout the production area as well as the tasting room.

Chateau Aeronautique Winery will be serving Mediterranean Turkey-Cumin-Pineapple Meatballs with Spring Flowers paired with Cabernet Franc & Semi-Sweet Pinot Gris. Melissa Morse is hand painting a 31' x 8' vineyard mural on the tasting room addition west wall.

Cherry Creek Cellars will be serving Cider Braised Wings paired with your choice of Hard Cider or Traminette. Saturdays featured artist will be Chip Mezzo, Sunday is Kevin Krieger on the saxophone.
Flying Otter Winery will be serving a Frontenac Italian Beef sandwich with blue cheese dressing and spring greens on a toasted baguette paired with 2013 Frontenac. Sculptor Steve Million will amaze you with his works of art.

J. Trees Cellars will be serving Roasted Asparagus Gruyere Cheese Paninis paired with their 2016 House White made from Vignole & Aromella. Artist Greg Perez will be doing various letterpress prints of his original work.

Pentamere Winery will be serving Italian Sausage Ravioli with Cabernet Marinara Sauce paired with Cabernet Sauvignon. Saturday, Sharon Miller of Something Different will be making various wine bottle stoppers and Sunday, Michelle Cherne will be Tole painting.

Sandhill Crane Vineyards will be serving Crostini - toasted Zingerman's baguette slices topped with brie and homemade Mystic blueberry chutney paired with Mystic ( semi-sweet blueberry/Chancellor blend). Saturday musicians Jason Cross 12 to 12:30 and Chey Halliwell 2:30 - 5:00. Sunday - Paul Schmidt on the piano. Also, art by the Sandhill Crane staff.

Sleeping Bear Winery (located inside Grand River Brewery) will be serving Smoked Local Trout Dip with Capers, Onions, Jalepenos and Club Crackers paired with Sleeping Bear Riesling. There will be an art show in the Private Event room.

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Toledo Exchange Club Scores With Fine Wines And A Charity Boost

Each year the Exchange Club of Toledo Annual Wine Tasting continues to unite wine lovers with a great charitable cause. With a swanky setting and top flight wines, it makes for just the right blend of fundraising and fun.

Wine and Education

Last weekend was the 4th Annual Exchange Club of Toledo Wine Tasting. We wouldn’t dare miss it for a couple of reasons. First, it is a fun event at the historic Oliver House and secondly, the Cabinator (a member of our TWAV tasting team) is the organizer and his wife Glorious T is the top official with The National Exchange Club. The money raised helps support the Toledo Exchange Club’s youth scholarship program. And, did I mention the wine?

The soiree featured wines from Wine Trends with an international flair. While guests mingled, sipped wine and noshed on tasty appetizers, they could also buy tickets for the “wall of wine,” bid on silent auction items or just chat with interesting people.

The first featured wine was the Colomé Torrontes from Argentina. Torrontes is a crisp white and an underappreciated grape in the US. In Argentina it is the signature white wine. Colomé is a favorite winery of ours and produces a stellar reserve Malbec. The Torrontes was a great opener, with refreshing, light citrus flavors.

My wife, the Green Dragon, loves Sauvignon Blanc, so the next wine was right down her alley. The Mouton Cadet White Bordeaux is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. It has flavors of lime and grapefruit and a tart finish minus the teeth-shattering acidity of some Sauvignon Blanc wines.

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With moderation always in mind (wink, wink) I bypassed the Moscato, which I heard was good, and moved directly into the reds. Next on the wine menu was Santa Ema Reserve Merlot, another winner from Argentina. This is a wine that scores with rich, beautiful berry flavors and amazing value. Some of the guests tried the Santa Ema and decided to drink only that the rest of the evening.

My Pick Of The Night

In the interest of journalism, I pressed on. In my glass next was the Vina Eguia Rioja Reserva. To me, this was the wine of the night – a dynamite Tempranillo from Spain’s most famous region. The wine is complex with elegant red fruit flavors liberally laced with vanilla notes. The Vina Eguia is aged for 24 months in French and American oak and is a ruby red color.

Somewhere between the Rioja and my last wine, I ended up bidding on and winning a wine dinner in the silent auction. To savor my auction win, I celebrated with a glass of The Count from California’s Buena Vista Winery. This is a unique Merlot, Syrah and Zinfandel blend with an explosive rush of flavor.

Cheers to the Exchange Club of Toledo for another outstanding event. Fine wine and supporting a worthy cause is a pairing we really appreciate.

Glass City Wine Festival Is Saturday, March 5

Don’t miss out. The Glass City Wine Festival is Saturday, March 5 at the Seagate Convention Center in Toledo. It’s the largest wine event in the community and tickets are going fast.

Admission tickets are from 1:00 to 4:00 PM ($25) and 6 PM to 9 PM ($30). VIP tickets cost $5 more and get you in one hour earlier. The VIP tickets for the afternoon session are sold out, but VIP tickets are available for the evening session. The VIP tickets are well worth the extra expense and allow you to avoid long lines. You get the hint, if you are planning on going, you should buy your tickets now.

Glass City Wine Festival is an opportunity to taste regional wines, sample gourmet cheese and fare from local restaurants and shop for unique gifts from a number of local, craft businesses. Many popular Ohio wineries will be pouring at the event.

This has turned into a great annual celebration of wine. It’s fun and fashionable with plenty of great wine. There are 19 different wineries participating. You can find see them here. The tasting guide shows all the wines being poured and you can see it here.

For more information, and to order tickets, visit the Glass City Wine Festival website here.

Fourth Annual Glass City Wine Festival Scheduled March 5 At Seagate Center

Tickets are now on sale for the Glass City Wine Festival. The fourth edition of this popular event will take place March 5 at the Seagate Convention Center in Toledo.

All VIP tickets have been sold out, but regular tickets are available. Admission tickets are from 1:00 to 4:00 PM ($25) and 6 PM to 9 PM ($30). VIP tickets cost $5 more and get you in one hour earlier. All tickets sell quickly, especially the VIP tickets. The VIP tickets are well worth the extra expense and allow you to avoid long lines. You get the hint, if you are planning on going, you should buy your tickets now.

Glass City Wine Festival is an opportunity to taste regional wines, sample gourmet cheese and fare from local restaurants and shop for unique gifts from a number of local, craft businesses. Many popular Ohio wineries will be pouring at the event.

This has turned into a great annual celebration of wine. It’s fun and fashionable with plenty of great wine. There are 19 different wineries participating. You can find see them here.

For more information, and to order tickets, visit the Glass City Wine Festival website here.

Technorati Tags: wine,festival,Ohio wine,Toledo

Grand River Valley Winegrowers Host Annual Turkey Trot November 7

What’s better than a progressive food and wine event? One that benefits local food banks and features wine from the Grand River Valley in Ohio.

 

8th Annual Turkey Trot is November 7

The leaves are in full bloom which means it's time to start thinking about the 8th Annual Grand River Valley Wine Region Turkey Trot. Join Debonné Vineyards, Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant, Laurello Vineyards, and St. Joseph Vineyards on Saturday, November 7, from Noon to 5:00 PM for this drive yourself tour of wine tasting paired with food samples for your Thanksgiving meal.
All five participating wineries are within 10 minutes of each other making this a very convenient excursion for travelers. Each winery will feature a different part of the Thanksgiving meal and pair two wines that compliment it. In addition, recipes will be given out. The cost is only $5 per person at each winery and if you bring in a canned food item to each winery you will receive $1 off. These food items will be donated to the local food banks just in time for the holidays.
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Celebrate The End Of Harvest

"The Turkey Trot is really our celebration of the end of harvest and the beginning of the holiday season," says Kim Laurello, owner of Laurello Vineyards. "Locally made wines are a great way to celebrate with friends and family and makes for great conversation at the dinner table." Whether you are tasting new releases or old time favorites, the purpose of the tasting is to take the guess work out of the wine and food pairing for the Thanksgiving meal.
"We are still recovering from that last two harsh winters,' states Nick Ferrante, winemaker and owner of Ferrante Winery & Ristorante. "But the wineries in the Winegrowers of the Grand River Valley group are committed to continue to bring locally grown and produced, and internationally award winning wines to the consumer."

 

Grand River Valley One Of The Fastest Growing Wine Regions

The Winegrowers of the Grand River Valley formed a group several years ago when they began to realize how quickly their wine region was growing. The Grand River Valley Wine Region is one of the fastest growing wine regions in the United States and has the quality wines to prove why. The majority of the wines produced at these member wineries come from local grapes that they have grown. Member wineries have achieved national and international recognition with award winning wines. These wineries must adhere to strict standards.
While visiting the area the group encourages travelers to take a mini-vacation and spend their weekend in wine country. There are lots of shops to visit and beautiful covered bridges to check out in the area. For those looking for other things to do in the area contact the Ashtabula County Conventions & Visitors Bureau (www.visitashtabulacounty.com) or the Lake County Conventions & Visitors Bureau (www.lakevisit.com).
The Turkey Trot is just one of a series of events The Winegrowers of the Grand River Valley host each year. Other events include the ever-popular Ice Wine Festival and the Cask Tasting.
For more information about the Turkey Trot call (440) 466-3485 or go to www.wggrv.com  

 

Turkey Trot Menu

• Debonne Vineyards: Turkey Meatballs covered in a Cranberry Glaze made with Harmony Wine
• Ferrante Winery & Ristorante: Turkey Cranberry Chili
• Grand River Cellars Winery & Restaurant: Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes covered in Turkey & Gravy
• Laurello Vineyards: Tomato & Thyme Shortbreads with Olive Gremolata
• St. Joseph Vineyards: Bacon, Caramelized Onion & Pumpkin Tartlet

Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave via Compfight cc

Technorati Tags: Ohio wine,Ohio,wine,Grand River Valley winemakers

Mobile Meals Wine Gala Set November 7 At Parkway Plaza

It’s considered the premier wine event in the Toledo area. Don’t miss the Mobile Meals Wine Gala. The reservation deadline is coming up soon.
The 28th Annual Wine Gala to benefit Mobile Meals of Toledo is scheduled 6:00 PM Saturday, November 7, at Parkway Place, 2500 Parkway Plaza, Maumee. The event will feature wine tasting and appetizers, a sit-down dinner and an auction of fine wines. The black-tie optional event will also feature a silent auction, raffle and entertainment.
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This is the premiere wine event in the Toledo area! Not only is the event outstanding, but it benefits a very worthy cause. In 2014, the Gala netted more than $83,000 to support the Mobile Meals’ Home-delivered Meal Program and Weekender Program. Last year, Mobile Meals delivered 460,685 meals to clients in their homes, and 1,600 children received bags of food each weekend during the school year. The agency also provided more than $177,500 in assistance to clients who could not afford the fee for their meals, which allows them to stay in their own homes.
Tickets are $150 ($100 tax deductible). For information call (419) 255-7806 or email cfox@mobile-meals.org. Your RSVP by October 23 is requested.
Here is the schedule for the evening.

6:00 - 7:30 P.M.
Wine tasting and appetizers
6:00 - 10:00 P.M. Silent Auctions - Tables will be closed for bidding at various times throughout the evening. Bid early and often for your favorite items!
7:30 - 8:30 P.M.
Gourmet dinner with accompanying wines

8:30 - 10:00 P.M.
Live auction of fine wines

10:00 – 11:00Music and Dancing Photo
Credit: fauxto_digit via Compfight cc

Island Wine Festival Scheduled October 3 At Put-In-Bay

Mark your calendar now for this unique island wine festival coming up next month.
The Annual Island Wine Festival will be held Saturday, October 3, at Put-In-Bay. Representatives from wineries across the US will be on hand for festival goers to sample hundreds of foreign and domestic wines, including island wines from Heineman Winery and Put-in-Bay Winery. Also featured will be great food, a display on the history of island wineries, winery and grape related merchandise.
Admission is $6 which includes a souvenir wine glass Sampling tickets are $1 each with most samples $1 to $4. Retail sales are available so you can take your favorite bottle home with you. This is a great time to find a wine for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.

This event is one of our favorites. The setting of picturesque Put-In-Bay plus the amazing array of wine makes this a stand-out event.
A silent auction will be held to benefit the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society. The event is scheduled 11 AM to 6 PM at Put-In-Bay Winery.

Big Grape Tour By Pioneer Wine Trail Set October 31: Trick Or Treat For Adults!

Each year this popular bus tour of Southeast Michigan wineries sells out – in a hurry. This year the event will take place on Halloween. Here’s the scoop on this year’s Big Grape Tour.

 

Pioneer Wine Trail Hosts Five Annual Events

The Pioneer Wine Trail is an alliance of eight wineries in Southeast Michigan that offer some of the best wine in the state. There are wines to suit all tastes, from sticky sweet to bone dry. The Pioneer Wine Trail hosts a series of five special events annually. The Big Grape Tour, which transports you in the comfort of a motorcoach to five different wineries is a highlight.
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Wine Food And Fun Featured

The Big Grape Tour invites you to join a day of wine, food, and fun traveling by motorcoach from one wine trail winery to another, five in all. Each winery will be featuring one of their best wines paired with food. Following the wine and food pairings, you will check into the Marriott at Eagle Crest in Ypsilanti followed by dinner and dancing. Here’s a link to the Pioneer Wine Trail site which profiles all the member wineries.
Your wine excursion includes:
* Deluxe motorcoach transportation
* Dinner & overnight accommodations at the Marriott at Eagle Crest in Ypsilanti    Gluten free and vegetarian needs can be accommodated.  Meal is buffet style.
* A Pioneer Wine Trail glass
* Live entertainment and dancing after dinner
* A generous pour of wine with a food pairing at five wineries
* Additional wine samples at each winery
Tickets are available at www.pioneerwinetrail.com
The cost is $169 per person double occupancy or $219 for a single. The tickets are sold per person, not per room. For two people staying in the same room, you must order two tickets (double occupancy).
The registration deadline is rapidly approaching! The deadline is October 1.

 

Details And Costumes!

Those planning on coming in a day early should call the Ypsilanti Marriot at (734) 487-2000 and let them know you are attending the Pioneer Wine Trail event. They will ensure that you have the same room for both nights.
Here is the bus schedule:

• Begin boarding your motor coach at the Marriott Saturday Oct. 31st at 8:30 a.m.
• Depart the Marriott at 9:00 a.m.
• Return at 5:30 p.m. (approx.)
• Check in upon return
• Dinner at 7:00
• Live music after Dinner
• Check out by 11:00 a.m. on the 1st

Since this party takes place on Halloween, you may opt to participate in our costume contest!  Costumes will be judged by the Pioneer Wine Trail winery representatives at the dinner.  Prizes will be awarded!

Pairings Ohio Announces Two Meet The Winemaker Events

Pairings: Ohio’s Wine & Culinary Experience is located in the heart of Ohio’s wine country, Geneva. They have just announced two special winemaker events that promise to be outstanding.

Region is 6th Favorite For Culinary Tourists

Northeast Ohio is home to 68% of Ohio’s nearly 2,000 grape-bearing acres, while the Geneva and Ashtabula County area is home to twenty wineries and counting. In fact, in 2007, Orbitz ranked the Grand River Viticultural Area in Ohio as the 6th favorite destination in the United States for culinary tourists.
Pairings spotlights the area’s abundant wine and agricultural commerce while also providing educational, entrepreneurial and entertaining experiences for guests. If you haven’t yet visited Pairings, here are a couple of great reasons to go.

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Meet Me At Pairings Series Brings Winemakers To You

Pairings offers several types of educational classes and events throughout the year. One of their most popular is “Meet Me at Pairings.” The MMAP events offer a a night of unique wine tasting, fabulous food and friends.
Pairing goes the extra mile and brings the winemaker to you. Admission to the MMAP events are free. Chef Mike Lorah will prepare $5 small plates and flights of wine are only $8.
The center has just announced its latest winemaker events. On Thursday, August 20, the featured winery will be Meranda-Nixon Winery of Ripley, OH. On Thursday, September 3, the featured winery will be Ferrante Winery of Harpersfield, OH, with special guest Nick Ferrante. Both events will run 5:00 to 9:00 PM.

Meranda-Nixon Winery Featured August 20

The Meranda-Nixon Winery opened in 2007. It is located in an area of the Ohio Valley that was one of the largest grape growing regions in the country during the 1800s. Seth Meranda and his wife, Maura, own and operate the winery and vineyard. Their four children, Preston, Austin, Lizzie, and Ben, when not in school, contribute their help. In addition, extended family offers a helping hand when needed.
Meranda-Nixon has a wide range of wines including a Late Harvest Trotter White Wine and Estate Reserve Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon. They also offer an Estate Norton, a rare and delicious grape.

Winemaker Nick Ferrante Special Guest on September 3

The Ferrante Family has been selling wine since 1937 when Anna and Nicholas Ferrante opened their first winery in Cleveland's Collinwood area. In the 1970's, sons Peter and Anthony built state-of-the-art winemaking facilities in the family's Harpersfield Township vineyards.

Nicholas Ferrante, third-generation winemaker, created his Signature Series wine produced from premium estate grown grapes such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Gewürztraminer. The winery also offers  ice wines made from Vidal Blanc and Cabernet Franc grapes.
Pairings is located at 50 Park Street in Geneva, OH. For more information, call (440) 361-2222.

Technorati Tags: Ohio,Winery,Geneva Ohio

Toast of Ohio Wine Heritage Festival Returns July 25

SANDUSKY, OHIO --- Celebrating eleven years, the annual Toast of Ohio Wine Heritage Festival will take place on Saturday, July 25, 2015 in downtown Sandusky ’s Veterans Park , located next to the Merry-Go-Round Museum at 301 Jackson St . The festival will feature ten fabulous Ohio wineries, gourmet food, live musical entertainment, and a juried art show in neighboring Washington Park . The festival grounds are open Saturday from noon - 8 pm.
Admission is just $5.00 per person and includes a souvenir Toast of Ohio wine glass and two complimentary wine tastings. Tickets will also be available to purchase for exchange of wine tastings. Wine tasting tickets are $1 each and glass pours will vary by vendor.  
Participating wineries include Paper Moon Vineyards, Firelands Winery, Ferrante Winery, Maize Valley Winery, Viking Vineyards, Stoney Ridge Winery, Humble Bee Vineyards, Quarry Hill Winery, D & D Smith Winery, and Chateau Tebeau.
Delicious food selections will be offered by: Krav Food Truck, Cold Creek, GessWho Tacos, and Gram’s Goodies.

A variety of musical entertainment and family fun activities will occur throughout the day, including performances from The Brad Walk Trio and Summer of ‘65. The adjacent Merry-Go-Round Museum will offer special $2 admission during the festival from 10 am to 5 pm.

Admission fees benefit the sponsoring Merry-Go-Round Museum . New local retailer Vine & Olive Mediterranean Bakery, Foods & Wine has come aboard this year as a major event sponsor. Other sponsors include Ohio Grape Industries, Ohio Magazine, and Lake Erie Shores & Islands.
The Lake Erie Shores & Islands region once featured huge vineyards that spread from east of Sandusky to the western region near the bay because of the lakeshore climate. The Toast of Ohio event was developed to celebrate the area’s winemaking heritage. Today, dozens of wineries still operate in the region.  Make a weekend of it with lodging packages available at SHORESandISLANDS.com and tour the area’s wineries. Call 1.800.255.3743 for information.
Photo by Angelo Cesare

Indiana’s 5th Annual Uncork the Uplands Scheduled July 25

Summer is in full swing and now is the time to take advantage of early bird ticket pricing for the 5th annual Uncork the Uplands, the signature event of the Indiana Uplands AVA. For one night only on July 25, 2015, wine lovers can enjoy a taste of all nine south-central Indiana Upland Wine Trail wineries against the backdrop of one beautiful location at Huber’s Orchard, Winery and Vineyards in Borden, Indiana.
Uncork the Uplands offers guests the rare opportunity to sample delicious, award-winning wines of all varieties from nine wineries in one place. This year, vino fans can also participate in guided tours of one of Indiana’s largest and oldest vineyards. From vines to orchards, guests can witness some of the many crops growing on Huber’s almost 800-acre farm that have contributed to Indiana’s agritourism for over 150 years. Nationally renowned wine, local cuisine and live music in an idyllic setting are the ingredients that make Uncork the Uplands a perfect summer blend.
This year’s Uncork the Uplands will be catered by Plantation Hall, Huber’s onsite catering company. The evening’s menu will consist of several mouth-watering International food-tasting stations including Italian, Mexican and assorted desserts. Peacetree Mountain Truffles will also provide a special assortment of wine-infused truffles featuring wines from the Indiana Uplands Wine Trail! Guests will also have an opportunity to tour Huber’s new 20,000 square-foot stillhouse and hear from Huber’s own wine experts about the changing face of Indiana agritourism as they continue to explore the production of spirits.
The Indiana Uplands Wine Trail is located within the Indiana Uplands American Viticultural Area, a federally recognized grape-growing region established in 2013. The trail wineries include Best Vineyards Winery of Elizabeth; Brown County Winery of Nashville; Butler Winery of Bloomington; French Lick Winery of West Baden Springs; Huber’s Orchard, Winery and Vineyards of Starlight; Oliver Winery of Bloomington; Owen Valley Winery of Spencer, Turtle Run Winery of Corydon and Winzerwald Winery of Bristow.
Uncork the Uplands will take place on July 25, 2015 from 4-7 pm at Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards located at 19816 Huber Road in Borden, Indiana. Early Bird tickets are $45 (before tax) through July 1 and $60 (before tax) through July 25. For more information about the event, please visit UncorktheUplands.com
Photo Credit: OhKyleL via Compfight cc





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Tickets Now Available For Indiana’s 5th Annual Uncork the Uplands Wine Event

Mark your calendars for the 5th Annual Uncork the Uplands, the signature event of the Indiana Uplands AVA. For one night only on July 25, 2015, wine lovers can enjoy a taste of all nine south-central Indiana Upland Wine Trail wineries against the backdrop of one beautiful location at Huber’s Orchard, Winery and Vineyards in Borden, Indiana. 
Uncork the Uplands offers guests the rare opportunity to sample delicious, award-winning wines of all varieties from nine wineries in one place. This year, vino fans can also participate in guided tours of one of Indiana’s largest and oldest vineyards. From vines to orchards, guests can witness some of the many crops growing on Huber’s almost 800-acre farm that have contributed to Indiana’s agritourism for over 150 years. Nationally renowned wine, local cuisine and live music in an idyllic setting are the ingredients that make Uncork the Uplands a perfect summer blend. 
Uncork will offer a limited number of add-on tickets for an exclusive VIP event that will take place in Huber’s Starlight Distillery’s new 20,000 square-foot stillhouse an hour before the main event. VIP tickets include special cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and personal interaction with the winemakers from around the trail. Guests who do not purchase VIP tickets will still have the opportunity to tour the stillhouse during the main event and hear from Huber’s own wine experts about the changing face of Indiana agritourism as they continue to explore the production of spirits. 
The Indiana Uplands Wine Trail is located within the Indiana Uplands American Viticultural Area, a federally recognized grape-growing region established in 2013. The trail wineries include Best Vineyards Winery of Elizabeth; Brown County Winery of Nashville; Butler Winery of Bloomington; French Lick Winery of West Baden Springs; Huber’s Orchard, Winery and Vineyards of Starlight; Oliver Winery of Bloomington; Owen Valley Winery of Spencer, Turtle Run Winery of Corydon and Winzerwald Winery of Bristow.
Uncork the Uplands will take place on July 25, 2015 from 4-7 pm at Huber’s Orchard, Winery & Vineyards located at 19816 Huber Road in Borden, Indiana. Early Bird tickets are $45 (before tax) starting May 1 and $60 (before tax) after July 1. VIP tickets will also be available for $15 (before tax). For more information about the event, please visit UncorktheUplands.com.
Photo Credit: merfam via Compfight cc

Dine Like A President Dinner May 2 Features Rodney Strong Wines

The Rutherford B. Hayes Presidential Center in Fremont is hosting a wine event in May that offers a rare opportunity: the chance to have a former White House chef cook for you.
John Moeller, who was the chef to Presidents George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush, will prepare special meals and tell stories of his White House years at the events.



At 6:30 PM on May 2, a five-course Dine Like a President dinner will be offered featuring wine pairings from Rodney Strong Vineyards. The cost is $125 per person, with only 100 seats available; advance reservations are mandatory. After the meal, Mr. Moeller will speak on what it was like to cook for presidents and other dignitaries.
The event will be at the Catawba Island Club, 4235 Beach Club Rd., Port Clinton. For reservations, please contact Hayes Presidential Center development director Kathy Boukissen at (419) 332-2081, ext. 226.
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