Sip, Savor & Celebrate at the Island Wine Festival
Date: TBD – Fall 2025 | Location: Put-in-Bay Winery at the Historic Doller House Estate
Fall is a magical time on South Bass Island — the crisp breeze, golden leaves, and the scent of grapes in the air. And there’s no better way to soak it all in than at the Island Wine Festival at Put-in-Bay, where local charm meets global flavor.
Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier, a casual wine lover, or just someone looking for a fun autumn getaway, the Island Wine Festival promises a one-of-a-kind experience that pairs perfectly with good company and great views.
Why You’ll Love the Island Wine Festival
Put-in-Bay’s winemaking legacy stretches back generations, and this event brings that history to life with an unforgettable day of wine tasting, cultural celebration, and scenic island vibes.
Heineman’s Winery, established in 1888, continues to carry the torch for local wine heritage. Meanwhile, the Island Wine Festival offers you a chance to sample wines from across the globe, making it a perfect fusion of local pride and international flair.
🍷 What to Expect at the Island Wine Festival:
– Hundreds of Wines to Sample: From bold reds and crisp whites to sweet dessert wines and bubbly proseccos, the variety is staggering.
– Bottles for Purchase: Love something you tasted? Buy a bottle (or three) to take home and relive the memories with every sip.
– Commemorative Souvenir Wine Glass: Your entry includes a beautifully branded wine glass to use for sampling — and to take home as a keepsake.
– Intimate Island Setting: Held on the picturesque grounds of the Put-in-Bay Winery at the Doller House Estate, the ambiance is relaxed, romantic, and quintessentially Put-in-Bay.
Pro tip: bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the beautiful fall foliage while you sip and savor.
Explore History Where It Happened
The Doller House Estate is not just a venue — it’s a story in itself. This stately Victorian mansion was once home to Valentine Doller, a German immigrant who became the mayor of Put-in-Bay in the 1880s and played a key role in the island’s economic boom.
During the Festival, you’ll have the chance to tour the home, explore the historic wine cellar, and walk the grounds where history was made. It’s a chance to experience the cultural richness of the island while enjoying modern-day pleasures.
Silent Auction & Unique Island Activities
Beyond the wine tasting, the Island Wine Festival includes exciting attractions that support a great cause:
– Estate Tours: Take a guided walk through the historic home and learn about the island’s deep-rooted history.
– Silent Auction: Bid on exclusive island-themed items like vacation getaways, wine baskets, gift certificates, and artisan-crafted goods.
— All proceeds go to the Lake Erie Islands Historical Society, which works year-round to preserve the stories, photographs, and documents that make our island history so special.
The auction is a great way to take home something meaningful while contributing to the community.
Put-in-Bay Dining: From Barbecue to Biergarten
Feeling hungry after a few samples? Luckily, Put-in-Bay is full of restaurants to suit every taste:
– T&J’s Smokehouse – Serving up mouthwatering ribs, brisket, and pulled pork in a rustic, welcoming atmosphere.
– Biergarten at the Boathouse – Enjoy German fare and a cold brew under the stars with patio seating and live music.
– The Boardwalk – For fresh Lake Erie perch or walleye with a waterfront view.
– The Old Forge – Known for its gourmet crepes and elevated comfort food.
Whether you’re in the mood for hearty eats or light bites, the island’s restaurant scene is sure to impress.
Make a Weekend of It — Book Your Stay Early!
The Island Wine Festival is more than a one-day event — it’s a reason to escape for the weekend and experience all that Put-in-Bay has to offer in the golden glow of fall.
Pro tip: Lodging fills up FAST this time of year, so book your accommodations now to avoid missing out on a room!
Recommended Lodging:
🏡 Island Club Rentals – 216-898-9951
🌊 Put-in-Bay Condos – 216-898-1105
🏨 Commodore Resort – 419-285-3101
🛎️ Victory Station Hotel – 419-285-0120
🌿 Bird’s Nest Resort – 419-285-6119
🍁 Cheers to fall, friendship, and fabulous wine!
Grab your tickets, plan your trip, and prepare for a day of elegance, education, and entertainment — only at the Island Wine Festival at Put-in-Bay.
Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier, a casual wine lover, or just someone looking for a fun autumn getaway, the Island Wine Festival promises a one-of-a-kind experience that pairs perfectly with good company and great views.
This is a Put-in-Bay Chamber of Commerce sponsored event.
See you at the bay! 🙂