Welcome Winerie! - Another experience added to the Shores & Islands region and another producer added to Ohio’s $6.3 billion wine industry. (DYK Ohio is one of the top 10 wine-producing states in the US.) Owned by Dean and Terri Wikel, Suzie and Chris Schaeffer, Larren Wikel and Hannah Booth, and Joe and Kristi Juniper, The Winerie opened its doors in May of 2021.
The newly renovated indoor and outdoor space and vineyard can be found just south of St. Rt. 2 on OH-4 with a full menu and plenty of amazing wines that are made right on site. The Winerie is referred to as an Estate Vineyard, meaning all the wine is made up of grapes grown locally and owned by the same company. This is very unique as most wines require the purchase of grapes from other areas and different companies.
We sat and spoke with Paul, who is the Chief Administrative Office and CFO for a number of business including The Winerie and Suzie, a part owner, about the business, who share the ever-evolving vision for The Winerie. Initially, the team bought The Winerie building simply for the land it sat on. But once purchased and in-hand, a revised vision came into place, one with both active land and an active expanded building. After several stages of renovation over a few years, inside the building you will now find a beautiful dining area and a fully furnished bar. This space not only operates as a restaurant, but also a venue that can be rented out for scenic parties and weddings.