Meranda-Nixon Winery

If you’re lucky, like I was, when you arrive at the Meranda-Nixon Winery, you’ll be greeted by one of the proprietors’ friendly dogs.  You may even see one of their beautiful horses as you gaze at the lush vineyards.

Once seated inside the tasting room, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to an Italian cafe, with its European flavored décor.  Located an hour from Cincinnati, in the quaint and historic town of Ripley, Meranda-Nixon Winery has been pouring their flavorful wines since 2007.  Originally the property grew tobacco and grain crops on the 11 acres, planted by the current owner’s great-grandfather.  Seth and Maura Meranda continue the tradition of farming, but now it’s grapes!

Awarded one silver and two bronze medals from the Finger Lakes International Lakes Association, you’ll not only savor the wine, but also enjoy the peaceful rural setting from one of their covered patios and on the second Saturday of each month, stop by for a delicious steak and salmon dinner with reservations.  If you happen to fly into the Brown County Airport, they’ll pick you up.  Talk about door-to-door service!

Harmony Hill Vineyards

Harmony Hill Vineyards & Winery, located forty minutes East of Cincinnati in Bethel, was given its name by the owners after witnessing the abundant wildlife on their farm existing in perfect harmony.  Not only do they offer an outstanding selection of award-winning wines to savor, you’re permitted to bring a picnic lunch or dinner and find a spot in one of the seating areas or under a tree in the vineyard!  Surrounded by lavish gardens while listening to some of Ohio’s best regional entertainers, featured Friday evening and Saturdays, you’ll never want to leave!

Bringing your dog is encouraged and with miles of walking trails to explore, you and Fido will work up a thirst!

Hay and medicinal herbs are grown in addition to grapes on their 70 acres of sustainable farmland and in 2006 they were certified as a National Wildlife Federation Remote Wildlife Habitat!  You have to meet their friendly donkey!! There’s something for everyone to enjoy at Harmony Hill Vineyards!

Vinoklet Winery

Situated on 30 acres of rolling hills in the suburb of Colerain, Vinoklet Winery has been in operation since 1985, and their White Wines were bestowed the honorary title of “Best Ohio Wine 2012” by the Ohio Department of Agriculture.  Relax on the gazebo, patio, or within the solarium dining room, sipping one of their 8 award-winning wines, with a view of the verdant and serene grounds.

Every Wednesday through the end of the year (except Christmas Eve), join the festivities of their Cigars and Guitars event.  Dinner specials offered every Wednesday and Thursday evenings and on Friday or Saturday evening, have some fun grilling your food exactly how you like it.

With its humble beginnings as a dairy farm, Vinoklet Winery has transformed itself into a unique and delightful destination!

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