Wine is always a big deal up at Put-in-Bay thanks to Heineman Winery and Put-in-Bay Winery. These are two of Put-in-Bay’s marquee destinations. But if you are a really big wine fan, Put-in-Bay also has a fantastic event to enjoy even more wine! Put-in-Bay Winery plays host to the Island Wine Festival on the same weekend as the big Put-in-Bay Fall Ball Party. There will be hundreds of different wines available for everyone to sample and enjoy. Admission will only be $6, and the event will last from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Samples generally run from $1-4 so you can get an idea of how much money to bring. Additionally, if you find one (or more) samples of wine that you end up really liking, full bottles will be available for purchase to take home with you. Grab a few as gifts to take back to the mainland, or just horde them all for yourself! Admission comes with a commemorative wine glass as well, which you will use to enjoy the samples, and get to take with you at the conclusion of the event.
Island Wine Festival Activities
There will also be entertainment and activities at the event. You’ll be able to tour Put-in-Bay Winery on the majestic Doller House Estate. This beautiful home once belonged to Valentine Doller, a German immigrant who was instrumental in the development of Put-in-Bay and eventually served as it’s mayor from 1880-1889. There will also be a large silent auction benefiting the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society. The Lake Erie Islands Historical Society does critical work in preserving and exhibiting primary documents and photographs that help ensure the rich history of the Lake Erie islands remains accessible to all. The items in last year’s silent auction were fantastic, and included vacation packages and wine-themed baskets. And it all goes to a great cause! Make sure not to miss the Island Wine Festival!