Kosicek Vineyards

Photos by OHventures

Kosicek Vineyards
636 Ohio 534
Harpersfield, OH 44041
(440) 361-4573

The newest winery in Ohio's "wine capital" of Ashtabula County is Kosicek Vineyards, located in Harpersfield (and pronounced ka-see-check). In an area where there is - almost literally - a winery found on every turn, it takes high quality vino to make one stand out from the rest. Kosicek, even in its infancy, most definitely delivers.

On a recent wine shuttle tour I took while staying at the Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake, our driver Don insisted that our first stop be Kosicek. He said that it is a fantastic up-and-coming winery that people HAVE to check out. Since it's not as well known as some of the bigger-name wineries (yet), he said he wants to expose as many people as possible to this great new spot.

The winery can be found on a beautiful estate, and is set far back from the main road, with lush vineyards going on for what seems like forever. The interior includes a striking brick fireplace, with high tops, bar seating, and even an inviting couch made out of re-purposed wine barrels.

Odds are, you will run into the owner of the winery, Tony Kosicek (who is a 3rd generation grape farmer), or his wife, Mauri (she served us at the bar on my visit). If so, be sure to ask if you can see the cellar. This is where the magic happens! Tony obliged when we visited and gave us a quick tour downstairs where the wine is made. It never gets old to see this process in action, and it is pretty cool that the Kosiceks let their customers get a peek behind the scenes. If you get the chance, do it (it is best to call ahead for a tour to guarantee a slot).

With $1 samples at Kosicek Vineyards, you can easily hone in on what your new favorites are! My personal favorite was the Pinot Noir, which was spicy with notes of black tea. For white wine fans, the Traminette is a winner with sweet honey and floral tones. The most popular seller at Kosicek is the Riesling, which is crisp and summery with flavors of peach, mint and citrus.

In the summer months, nothing beats coming here to sit out on the deck under the green and yellow canopy, overlooking the vineyards (they have live music and even yoga classes on the deck in warm months). But, in the winter, it's great to cozy up by the fireplace and sip on some juice.

Winter hours for January, February and March are: Thursday 12-6; Friday 12-9; Saturday 12-9; and Sunday 12-7.