Heineman Winery Tours

Founded in 1888, Heineman Winery is a historical Put-In-Bay island landmark originally developed by Gustav Heineman. As one of the designated stops of the Tour Train, guests can explore the winery, learn its history, and enjoy expertly crafted wine made and sold locally. As guests tour the winery they will also learn about the generations of tradition that are infused in every bottle.

Located 40 feet above the magnificent Crystal Cave, home of the world’s largest geode, lies the multi-generational family winery. Having immigrated from a region of Germany best known for grape growing, Heineman traveled to The Lake Erie islands over 125 years ago. The rich soil quality of South Bass Island was ideal for growing grapes and producing wines of every variety. The conditions were so favorable that roughly a decade after the Heineman Winery establishment, 17 other wineries choose to make the island their home.

But their stories aren’t nearly as successful. Prohibition proved to be an impossible obstacle for the wineries around the country. Luckily, the Heineman family winery was able to go underground… Literally. The Heineman Winery sits atop one of the world’s most beautiful caves, so they used it as Prohibition collateral. They offered tours of the underground Crystal Cave to make ends meet and were able to outlast the alcohol reform.

Heineman Winery Favorites:

• Island Chablis (White)
• Cedar Woods (Red)
• Crystal Cave Spumante
• Catawba Grape Juice
• Niagara (White)

 

Nearby Tour Train Stops:

• Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center
• Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial
• Lake Erie Island Nature and Wildlife Area

 

Put-In-Bay is proud to still serve as the home to this amazing treasure. There are few establishments in this region of the United States with such a rich history of winemaking traditions. Five generations later the Heineman family, the Heineman Winery, and Crystal Cave are still standing strong. Catch a ride on the Tour Train and indulge in all the winery has to offer or take your own golf cart rental Put-in-Bay to see everything that the Heineman Winery has to offer. Once you’ve sampled all the delicious locally-produced wines make your way across the street to Perry’s Cave and Family Fun Center. If you’re up for a little island exploration, rent a moped and go for a ride. Out of all the Put-in-Bay attractions, no trip to the island is complete without visiting this amazing winery!

Testimonials

Lauren B: “I really enjoyed the in-depth tour that walks you through the steps of production. I appreciate that they happily answer questions. I’m amazed at what it takes and how this small team produces so much. The family is very friendly and takes pride in their product. The tasting room is very popular. You get a small sample with the tour. Grape juice is available for kids and non-drinkers. The ice wine is the most expensive, being made out of frozen grapes from the first frost. Many wines of differing dryness available. Shipping to any location in Ohio only and delivery to the boat available. The over 21 crowds can enjoy the beer garden. There is also a small gift shop.”

Nicholas T: “Fantastic experience and family-friendly too! The tour is $8 and includes the cave tour, wine tour, and a glass of wine or grape juice – the grape juice is divine. And they have wines for even the most stubborn of “I don’t like wine” people. Highly recommend this stop if you are going to Put-in-Bay.”

Jasmine: “I loved the wine tour and the Crystal Cave tour! Their wines are fabulous, especially the sweet Catawba wine! Beautifully located and just loved the whole atmosphere and the nearby Put-in-Bay was so glorious! Go there I recommend it highly. You won’t be disappointed”

 

Visit our things to do resource page and plan your next trip. Also, make sure to visit our Put-In-Bay Lodging page to check availability at our Put-in-Bay resort, hotels, condos, and rentals and find the perfect accommodations for your crew. The sooner you book the sooner you can get on a Put-in-Bay ferry!