The following wineries are located on or just-off the Back Roads and Beaches bike and multi-sport route. All are welcoming to cyclists and the general public alike.
Located just south of beautiful Lake Erie in Avon Lake is John Christ Winery. With over 60 years experience John Christ wine is produced and bottled on-site. Several upcoming events will feature their award-winning wine. John Christ is preparing to cookout this June at their Steak Grill on Saturday the 18th at 6:30. There will be live music entertainment and tastings of their many different varieties of reds and whites. For summer event listings, location, hours, and contact information visit http://www.johnchristwine.com/. Also hidden within Avon Lake is the third-generation Klingshirn Winery. Devoted to presenting home- grown quality grapes and award-winning wines, the Klingshirn Winery staff is getting ready for their summer steak cookout series. The cookout dates include July 22nd and August 26th from 5:30–8pm. Reservations are required and can be made by phone or email. For more information on Klingshirn Winery please visit their website http://www.klingshirnwine.com/.
Matus Winery rests on the west side of Lorain County. Located on the 75 year-old Matus Farm, this vineyard was designed for countryside relaxation. With happy-hour featured every Thursday from 5–9pm, Matus is the perfect place to unwind. On Saturday, June 18th Matus will be welcoming friends for a Steak Fry at 6pm. The Steak Fry will include live entertainment by Strukely and Cole at 8pm. For event details and pricing visit their website at http://www.matuswinery.us/. Their website also contains contact information and hour listings.
Committed to culture and the environment, Vermilion Valley Vineyards provides not only quality wine but educational wine tasting and explanations of the wines of Ohio. The winery includes beautiful views of the Vermilion Valley, tasting room, covered patio and pond-side fire pit. You may consider preparing your own picnic meal at Vermilion Valley’s tables and grills installed around the pond. Meats and accompaniments are available, including pick-it-yourself sweet corn, salad fixings, and blueberries and other fruits in season. Vermilion Valley also features a full menu of appetizers, sandwiches, pizza, salads and desserts from 5–10pm. Upcoming musical events at VVV include Dann and Lilly, featured on June 10th and Men of Steele on the 11th. Mark your calendars now for their upcoming Seafood Grill on July 2. For more details and information about Vermilion Valley Vineyards visit http://www.vermilionvalleyvineyards.com/.
Paper Moon is a newer addition to north central Ohio’s list of vineyards. They’re preparing for a summer full of musical weekends, with live bands and entertainment. Also, beginning this month — the Second Saturday Supper-Steak Fry. Every second Saturday starting June through August, from 5–8pm, join Paper Moon Vineyards for outdoor grilling fun. Paper Moon Winery includes a regular menu of paninis, flat bread pizzas, ciabatta bread with oil, cheese plates, hummus and more. For more details or vineyard information on Paper Moon visit http://www.papermoonvineyards.com/.
Look for all your favorite wining and dining locations at the Back Roads and Beaches 5K Run Wine and Dine event on Saturday August 20th starting at 5pm. The cost to compete is $20 if registered by August 11th. Come out to Oberlin and enjoy this unique course traveling through Oberlin’s friendly community and get the opportunity to taste from local vineyards. Following the 5k run, participants, their family and friends, and the general public can enjoy great local food, wine and live musical entertainment outside in the gardens of the Oberlin Inn. For more information visit http://www.visitloraincounty.com/BRaB5K.Let’s raise a glass to another season of great friends and great wine!
While you're here, visit the beautifully decorated downtowns of 
Finwood Estate, photo by 
