In 1916, a Yugoslavian immigrant named Anton Debevc bought a fruit farm in Ohio. Little did Anton know at the time but this purchase would plant the seeds to the development of one of the largest and most popular wineries in the state, if not in the nation.

In 1971-1972, the land originally purchased as a general fruit farm, finally sprouted into Debonne Winery sprouted. This winery now produces over 85,000 gallons of great wine varieties annually.

But is the wine at Debonne's quality wine? Most people would not think of a winery in Ohio producing world class wines. But the Debonne winery and vineyards does just this and they have the awards to prove it. They specialize in Riesling and ice wine but also produce many delicious varieties of red and white wines.

If you have never heard mention of the Debevc family and their winery, you may want to pick up a copy of Vineyard & Winery Management magazine. You will surely see mention of this family numerous times throughout this magazine. In fact, the family and their winery were the first ever to be named as the "Wine Family of the Year" in this highly respected wine magazine.

Debonne Winery Activities

If you visit this winery it's true you might have the best wine of your life and leave with a bottle of your new favorite wine. However, this is more than just a winery, so if you visit, you also might have the best time of your life. Many people visit once and return many times. The activities this winery plans throughout the year are top line and they are always looking for ways to improve their visitors enjoyment.

What type of events do they schedule? There are dinners and lunches throughout the year such as: Valentine's dinner in February, in March they have a winter glow progressive dinner and a St. Pat Day dinner. In April they have an Easter lunch planned and the Easter Bunny will be there, go give him a kiss! In June they have a dinner called Hot Air Balloon Night Glow Dinner. I could go on and on about the dinners each month of the year. But they have more than dinners.

The Debonne winery and vineyards also have a Carnival for kids in June, a Bocce Ball Tournament in August, Classic car shows, a pet day, a "Hallowine Party", a turkey trot. There are actually too many activities to list. There is also live musical!

The Debonne winery is located in Madison, Ohio and open year round. If you ever happen to be in Madison, Ohio stop on by this winery you will have a memorable experience. Visiting a winery is not only fun and relaxing but you also have the chance to become educated in wine making from people with real life experienced.