Although much longer than Napa, the 100 miles along Interstate 90 travel through Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York. Along this stretch from Madison, Ohio to Dunkirk, New York there are more than 35 wineries close to the interstate. However the acreage of grapes is much larger than one would expect. From locations along the interstate, one can observe acres upon acres of vineyards. This is also Welch’s country. Many grape growers are part of the National Grape Cooperative who sell the grapes to Welch’s.

Think for a moment of all the products made by Welch’s. Grape juice, jellies and jams are among the over 400 products that are made from grapes. Just like wine grapes, those grapes grow on vines in vineyards. One winery owner told us that one can smell the grapes in the air in North East, Pennsylvania around harvest time. It was an aroma that brought him back to North East to begin a second career as a winemaker.

Compared to Napa, there are many acres of vineyard in this area but much fewer wineries spread out over 100 miles. Although the wineries do make wines from Concord and Niagara grapes, they also have a portfolio of vinifera wines. The area is quickly learning about the varieties of vinifera that tolerate the harsh snowy winters.

Check out these Ohio trip itineraries:
Conneaut
Geneva/Madison