The Winerie
From the Soil to Your Glass
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.
Bar Space
Wine Wall
Dining Space
Fast Facts
  • The Winerie is an Estate Vineyard, meaning all the wine produced is made and owned locally.
  • 70 acres of grapes being grown - 14 at the newly expanded Route 4 site
  • Over 30 varietys produced by the business
The Winerie at Sandusky strives to produce world-class quality wines within its rural landscape in the Center of Erie County. With 15,000 grape vines planted onsite, The Winerie takes great pride in its 100% estate grown business model. From the soil to the finished wine in your glass, the process is done entirely in-house. With more than 20 wines offered ranging from white to red and dry to sweet, they are sure to have something to suit any palate. With several wines such as their Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris carrying critical acclaim, The Winerie is bringing new light to grape growing and winemaking in North Central Ohio.
Did You Know?
In today's competitive market, every advantage counts. As companies are deciding where to invest, we know they think about speed, risk, and money, but as the labor market becomes more and more squeezed, quality of life characteristics in a community have also become more and more important in a business' decision. ECEDC works hand in hand with leaders across all Erie County communities to ensure a unified vision and message when it comes to the attractiveness of Erie County. Contact us to join the discussion.
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The 12 Days of Development email series recognizes and celebrates another year of progress in Erie County, Ohio. Throughout the weeks of December, you will receive email spotlights on a company investing, improving and innovating in our community. We can't capture it all, so let us know a neighbor we missed or what activities you've got planned to make the 2022 list! #ErieCounty12Days