Discover the Unique Charm of The Put-in-Bay Heineman Winery
A Timeless Taste of Put-in-Bay
A visit to Put-in-Bay isn’t complete without stopping by Heineman Winery, a one-of-a-kind destination where fine wine, natural wonder, and local legacy come together. Located in the heart of South Bass Island, this family-owned gem is home to delicious wines, lush vineyards, and the world’s largest geode—all wrapped up in rich island history.
A Legacy of Winemaking Since 1888
Founded by Gustav Heineman, a German immigrant from Baden, Heineman Winery is the oldest winery on the island—and the only one that survived Prohibition. Gustav’s son, Norman Heineman, cleverly kept the winery alive by:
– Selling tickets to Crystal Cave, a natural underground marvel located beneath the winery
– Offering unfermented grape juice to locals and tourists alike
– Later, mining strontium sulfate minerals from the cave for fireworks production
Thanks to their resilience and creativity, the Heineman family has been producing wine on the island for over 135 years, with the third, fourth, and fifth generations still at the helm today.
From Vine to Wine
Heineman Winery is the only winery on Put-in-Bay that grows its own grapes on over 50 acres of vineyards. This allows for full control over the winemaking process—from the vine all the way to the bottle.
Grape Varieties Grown:
– Concord – bold, sweet, and rich in flavor
– Catawba – famously used for their iconic Pink Catawba wine
🍷 The Delicious Wine Selections
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a casual sipper, Heineman offers something for every palate:
– Merlot
– Watersnake Noiret
– Sweet Catawba
– Island Chablis
– White Riesling
– Crystal Cave Champagne
– And of course, the crowd favorite: Pink Catawba
Visitors during bottling season may even get a chance to see (or participate in) the bottling process—an extra special treat!
Visit & Taste in the Wine Garden
After your tour, relax in the peaceful Wine Garden, surrounded by lush greenery and rustic charm. Sample a variety of wines, enjoy a glass of your favorite, and pair it with artisan cheese plates and light snacks. It’s the perfect place to soak in the spirit of the island.
Explore the Crystal Cave
A Natural Wonder Beneath the Winery
Discovered in 1897 by workers digging a well, Crystal Cave lies directly under the winery. Inside, you’ll find:
– The world’s largest geode
– Celestite crystals lining the cave walls—some up to 18 inches long
– A cool, otherworldly environment perfect for hot summer days
Crystal Cave Gift Shop & Wine Sales
Before you leave, stop by the gift shop for:
– Bottles of wine to take home (or ship within Ohio)
– Crystal Cave souvenirs
– Wine accessories, gifts, and Put-in-Bay keepsakes
Tour Information
Winery & Crystal Cave Combo Tour:
– Adults: $8
– Children (under 12): $4
Tours include access to both the wine cellar and Crystal Cave, plus a brief history of the winery and its winemaking process.
Why Heineman Winery is a Must-Visit
🍷 Family-run for 5 generations
🧬 Rich history dating back to 1888
🌿 Vineyard-grown grapes = fresh, high-quality wine
💎 Home to the world’s largest geode
🧺 Beautiful outdoor wine garden for tastings
📦 Wine shipping available within Ohio
🎁 Great place for gifts, souvenirs, and local treasures
📍 Plan Your Visit
Whether you’re a wine lover, history buff, or nature enthusiast, Heineman Winery offers something truly unique. Make it part of your Put-in-Bay itinerary for an experience that combines taste, tradition, and natural beauty.
📍 Located just minutes from downtown Put-in-Bay
🛳️ Easy to reach by ferry or golf cart
⏰ Open seasonally—visit early for the full experience!
See you at the bay! 🙂