When speaking of the best Ohio wineries, it's impossible to ignore the wineries in northeast Ohio. Sure, the southwest region of the state in and around the Cincinnati was where the industry first began and flourished and the Central and Southeast near Hocking Hills and the beginnings of Appalachia are also worth noting. But the wineries in the northeast part of the state, at least in my opinion collectively win hands down.

So now that we have settled on which area of Ohio has the best wineries, which specific wineries within this region are the best? What are the Top three?

If the rankings were base solely on the quality of wines produced, then the top three wineries in northwest Ohio would read one way. But since wineries are not only about wines but also food, entertainment, customer service and other features offered, such as wedding, private parties and activities and events. The task of ranking the top three becomes a little less clear. But I'll give it a shot, you are free to disagree.

1. Gervasi Vineyards near Canton, Ohio - This one is not a shocker. Visitors come from across the country and even internationally to visit this winery. Great wines, gracious owners, the Italian food is 5 star, this winery even has its own marketplace where you will find an array of hand selected, unique items. To top it off Gervasi Vineyards may be the best wedding venue in the United States.
2. The Lakehouse Inn Winery - Geneva on the Lake area, situated perfectly on the shores of Lake Erie, the wine here is tremendous. This is also a great venue for a wedding. But the Lakehouse is so much more than a winery, its also a bed and breakfast, a Spa, and they also have great events such as their annual Clambake in September. The establishment also serves great food. Their entire food menu is delicious but did you know their Grilled Lake perch entree is recognize as one of the top 25 meals in the world!!! Highly recommended.
3. Al-Bi Winery in Delroy, Ohio - This pick will surprise anyone familiar with the wineries in northwest Ohio. This is a great winery though and picking this establishment is for the people who aren't interested in fancy weddings, food and shopping. This is a small winery, but nonetheless, you will find great wine here and a cozy little wine bar where you will meet a very friendly owner and a lot of great, entertaining regulars at the bar. This is a simple winery but is highly recommended.

There is great diversity in what is offered at the different Ohio wineries. Some offer a total package: great wines, food, entertainment, weddings, shopping, scenery. Others offer only some of these features. And some are just simple wine bars. Overall though, the wineries in Ohio are great places to visit.