Heineman Winery Tours

Heineman Winery: A Unique Experience on Put-in-Bay.

Heineman Winery is truly one-of-a-kind, offering a memorable experience that blends history, winemaking, and natural beauty. Established in 1888 by Gustav Heineman, it is the only winery on Put-in-Bay that grows its own grapes, ensuring a “vine to wine” quality.  Adding to its uniqueness, Heineman’s is home to the world’s largest geode, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the island.  Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy a relaxing day in a picturesque setting, Heineman Winery offers a special experience you won’t find anywhere else.

Heineman Winery History.

Founded in 1888 by Gustav Heineman, a German immigrant from the wine region of Baden, the winery has grown to become a beloved destination on Put-in-Bay.  Thanks to the tempering effect of Lake Erie, the island’s longer growing season paired with its ideal soil conditions created the perfect environment for viticulture.

By 1900, there were 16 wineries on the island, but Prohibition led to the closure of most.  However, Heineman’s survived due to Norman Heineman’s, Gustav’s son, innovative thinking. During Prohibition, Norman began selling tickets to the Crystal Cave, home to the world’s largest geode and a variety of stunning geologic features.  Heineman Winery continued to thrive through unique offerings like unfermented wine juice and later by harvesting minerals for fireworks production.

The Delicious Wine at Heineman Winery.

Today, Heineman Winery is run by the third, fourth, and fifth generations of the Heineman family.  They cultivate their own grapes, ensuring top-tier wine production.  The two primary varieties of grapes grown are Concord and Catawba, used to create their most popular wine—Pink Catawba.

Heineman Winery offers a variety of wines:

• Merlot
• Watersnake Noiret
• Sweet Catawba
• White Riesling
• Island Chablis
• Crystal Cave Champagne

Additionally, they produce a range of blends like Sauterne and Burgundy, paying homage to their classical winemaking heritage. Known for their sweet wines, they offer options in various degrees of sweetness to suit every palate.
During bottling season, visitors have the chance to participate, making the experience even more special.  The winery’s charming Wine Garden provides a serene space to enjoy tastings, glasses of wine, and delicious cheese plates.

Crystal Cave & Winery Tours.

Visitors can tour both the winery and the Crystal Cave, with tours available for $8 for adults and $4 for children.  The Crystal Cave is an awe-inspiring natural wonder, housing the world’s largest geode along with striking mineral formations.
The gift shop offers a variety of Crystal Cave souvenirs and bottles of wine for purchase.  Heineman’s can ship wines within Ohio, allowing visitors to take home a taste of Put-in-Bay.

Experience Heineman Winery.

Whether you’re sampling sweet Catawba wines, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the Wine Garden, Heineman Winery provides a unique experience unlike any other.  Visit during your time on Put-in-Bay to soak in the rich history, natural beauty, and fine wines offered by this iconic island destination.
For more information, visit: Heineman Winery.

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