Kentucky Wineries
Did you know that Kentucky has over 70 wineries? We decided to make a few road trips and see what these wineries have to offer. As we embark on this adventure, we plan to delve into the rich history and unique flavors that each winery has to offer. From the rolling hills of the Bluegrass region to the scenic landscapes of the Ohio River Valley, each destination promises a distinct experience. We will be meeting passionate winemakers, sampling a variety of wines, and learning about the art of viticulture in this diverse state.
Along the way, we will share stories of our encounters, the flavors that tantalize my taste buds, and the hidden gems we uncover. Whether you're a wine enthusiast or simply enjoy a good tale, we hope our journey inspires you to explore the vibrant world of Kentucky wines. Cheers to new adventures and the delightful discoveries that await!
A Visit to Brianza Gardens and Winery
Written by Patti Bailey
Today, we embarked on a delightful adventure at Brianza Gardens and Winery. Despite the address claiming Crittenden, Kentucky, the sneaky entrance is best via the Walton exit, just a hop from the highway. We rolled up to the tasting room, parking our chariot behind the building. Inside, we were met with a warm welcome from the dynamic duo: Tommy, the tasting room maestro, and Tony, the owner extraordinaire.
Tommy was an absolute gem, radiating joy and passion for her work. She expertly navigated us through the wine flights, sharing the tale of Brianza Winery, born in 2010. The current owners have been expanding their offerings like a grapevine on steroids, boasting a staggering selection of wines. My taste buds did a happy dance at the impressive array of dry reds.
As Tommy poured my chosen wines, I spied an army of engraved wine glasses, each with a name tag, a tribute to the devoted wine club members. These personalized goblets, engraved with unique identifiers, were a brilliant concept embraced by many, as evidenced by the hundreds adorning the tasting room.
I decided to savor my wine flight on the patio and enjoy the beautiful weather. My first glass, a Cabernet Sauvignon, stole the show, proving Tony's mastery of the grape. Even after tasting the others, this one remained the apple of my eye. With the sun gracing us, I indulged in a hearty glass of Cabernet, immersing myself in the vineyard's serene ambiance.
Tony, my husband, took the opportunity to explore and photograph the picturesque grounds. As he paused to admire the view, Tony marveled at the meticulous care that went into each vine—a true testament to the dedication and passion of the winery team.
After my wine rendezvous, we ventured indoors.
Next to the main tasting room, there is another cozy area to relax with friends.
There is also an event space that is used for wine classes and events. It can also be rented out for private parties.
We discovered a wine barrel adorned with signatures and messages. Tommy informed us that it commemorated their tenth anniversary, with all the wine club members contributing their signatures.
We met up with Tony, the owner, who led us on a tour of the processing room. His enthusiasm for winemaking was infectious, and it was clear he poured his heart and soul into every bottle.
Where the magic happens.
We expressed our gratitude to Tommy and Tony for their warm hospitality before continuing on our journey. Knowing we would be back soon, as the wine was exceptional and it was conveniently close to home, I, for one, eagerly anticipate my next visit.
Brooks Hill Winery
The Little Winery Up On a Hill
We were in Louisville for a photoshoot and decided to explore nearby wineries. We discovered Brooks Hill Winery, located about 30 minutes from the Clifton area where we were staying.
Morgan was our host, and it was a delight to chat with her. She was incredibly knowledgeable about the wines and shared her enthusiasm for both the wines and the winery itself. Established in 2007, Brooks Hill has been offering a distinctive selection of wines ever since.
The tasting room features a spacious bar for tastings and cozy seating around a fireplace for those chilly days.
From May to October, they host live music and food trucks on weekends, which attract a good crowd. Unfortunately, we were there too early to enjoy the music but plan on returning in the future.
Morgan enthusiastically explained the tasting and was more than willing to answer any questions. I opted for the dry reds, as I typically do, and I was thrilled with my choice. They were exceptional. I began with the Estate Reserve, a balanced blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Lemberger. The grapes are cultivated at Brooks Hill and aged in Kentucky White Oak barrels for 14 months. This wine would pair perfectly with a steak dinner.
Next, I sampled the Lemberger, a robust and spicy wine aged in American oak. It’s a must-have for your next pasta night. Following that was the Cabernet Sauvignon, which is also aged in Kentucky White Oak barrels. With its dark berry and fruit aromas, accompanied by flavors of black cherries and spices, it would complement a steak dinner wonderfully. The Merlot followed and was my favorite—at least until I tasted the Tempranillo. I knew a bottle of that one was definitely coming home with me.
While we were there, a group of girls arrived, excited to kick off their bachelorette party. They were thoroughly enjoying the wine tastings and perusing the gift shop for souvenirs.
During the tasting, Chris, the winemaker, made his entrance. He has been with the winery since his grandparents acquired the property in 2006. In 2021, after honing his skills, he earned a promotion to the role of winemaker. Following 17 years of ownership, the original proprietors decided to retire, leading to the sale of the winery. Chris continues his journey there as the winemaker. He brings a youthful energy and innovative approach to the winemaking process, while still honoring the traditions that his grandparents established. His passion for crafting unique and high-quality wines is evident in every bottle. As he joined us, Chris shared some fascinating insights into the winemaking process, from selecting the perfect grapes to the art of barrel aging.
It was clear that Brooks Hill Winery was not just a place for tasting wine, but a community rooted in tradition, innovation, and a love for the land. We left with fond memories and a few bottles of our favorite wines to enjoy at home, eager to return for another visit in the future.
Brooks Hill Winery
2746 Brooks Hill Road
Brooks, Kentucky 40109
Prodigy Vineyards and Winery
After departing from Lawrenceburg, we made a stop in Frankfort for a meal. It’s never a good idea to drink wine on an empty stomach. While in Frankfort, we decided to visit Prodigy Vineyards and Winery, and it turned out to be an excellent choice.
Upon entering the winery, we were warmly welcomed and invited to choose any seat we liked, assuring us that a server would attend to us shortly. Almost instantly, Eric arrived with the tasting menu and provided a detailed explanation.
Once again, I opted for the selection of dry reds, which featured six varieties of dry red wine. To our delight, there was live music performed by Mo Bell Music, covering genres like Blues, R&B, and Rock ’n’ Roll, which added to the enjoyable atmosphere. We chose to step out onto the deck to take in the stunning scenery, where we could still hear the music playing, which was a delightful bonus.
Eric soon brought out our flight of wines and elaborated on the selections. He even provided a cheat sheet to help me remember each wine. The wine flights were served in test tubes, which were then poured into a glass. This was a novel experience for me, and I found it to be a wonderfully unique way to present the wines.
The wines were truly delightful, making it quite challenging to choose a favorite. However, I did indulge in a glass of the 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon.
I also discovered that they offer slushies, and when I inquired about them, Eric kindly brought out samples of the flavors available that day. They are a fantastic treat for a hot summer day. You can even purchase the mix to enjoy at home. I ended up taking home the Old Fashion Slush mix—yes, I know, a surprising choice since I got something other than wine, but it was simply too tempting to resist.
I was a bit disappointed that I hadn’t done my research before visiting the winery, as they also serve pizzas and cheese trays. Had I not already eaten, I would have loved to try the pizza. That’s definitely on my list for our next visit!
Whether you're a wine enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing afternoon, this charming winery offers something for everyone. From the enchanting live music to the picturesque views from the deck, Prodigy creates an ambiance that perfectly complements their exquisite wines. Plus, with their unique offerings like wine slushies and the chance to savor pizzas and cheese trays, there's no shortage of treats to enjoy. So gather your friends or family, and prepare for a memorable outing that celebrates the simple pleasures of good company, great wine, and beautiful surroundings. Cheers to unforgettable moments!
You will find Prodigy Vineyards and Winery at:
4686 Versailles Rd.
Frankfort, KY 40601
Lovers Leap Vineyards and Winery
Our winery tour this week led us to Lovers Leap Vineyard and Winery, situated in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. As we drove through the entrance, we passed by numerous grape fields before reaching the main building that contained the tasting room.
The tasting room was spacious, featuring a bar that could accommodate many wine enthusiasts.
For those who prefer a more intimate setting, a cozy lounge with comfortable couches and chairs is available for tasting flights.
We chose to enjoy our flight on the wrap-around deck, which offered a stunning 180-degree view. Although it was a warm day, a delightful breeze helped us stay cool.
Their wine flights offer a selection of standard and reserve wines, allowing you to choose six for a tasting. The options are vast, spanning from sweet to dry across both red and white varieties.
Although it was a tough choice, I ultimately opted for six dry reds. I understand I should explore beyond my usual preferences, but I found it hard to resist the allure of the dry reds. To be honest, I was thrilled with my selection; the wines were exceptional. To enhance the tasting experience, you can also purchase artisanal natural cheeses that pair beautifully with the wine. For those looking to indulge further, decadent chocolates are available for purchase as well.
It was a delightful afternoon spent on the deck, gazing out at the beautifully maintained vineyard and the serene pond featuring a charming fountain. I could have easily lingered there all day, but sadly, that wasn’t an option.
Lovers Leap also serves as a fantastic wedding venue. The spacious pavilion is tastefully adorned, creating an ideal atmosphere for your reception. For the ceremony, you can choose to say your vows outdoors in the vineyard or at the pergola near the fountain. Either option would make for a perfect backdrop on your special day.
Lover's Leap provides an abundance of experiences for its guests. Additionally, they feature live music on weekends, creating a truly delightful way to spend an afternoon and escape from your worries.
Lovers Leap is located at:
1180 Lanes Mill Rd.
Lawrenceburg, KY 40342
1922 House Vineyard and Winery
Continuing Our Journey on the Jessamin Wine Trail
We chose to proceed along the Jessamin Wine Trail, making our next stop at 1922 House Vineyards and Winery, located in Nicholasville, Kentucky. This charming winery is roughly 28 minutes from First Vineyard, another gem on the Jessamin Wine Trail.
Owner Brian Young
Upon stepping out of our car, I was pleasantly surprised when the owner, Brian Young, came out to greet us warmly.
He invited us into the tasting room, which, despite its small size, was wonderfully stocked. Brian eagerly shared news about some exciting developments on the horizon for the winery.
They are currently constructing a larger tasting room that will feature both indoor and outdoor seating. This enhancement will allow guests to savor a glass of wine while enjoying the breathtaking views of the countryside.
Once we entered the tasting room, Brian began to outline the tasting menu. 1922 House offers a curated selection of wines, ranging from sweet to dry. As you explore the menu, you can opt for either sweet or dry options, but I believe you can't go wrong with either choice.
I must confess that I truly enjoyed the Cherry wine, particularly when paired with a piece of chocolate. However, my favorite was undoubtedly the dry Bourbon Barrel Norton. This distinctive wine artfully combines the spiciness of Norton grapes with notes of butterscotch and vanilla, aged to perfection in Kentucky bourbon barrels. I ended up taking a bottle of that home with me, signed by Brian.
Brian's passion for winemaking was evident as he guided us through the tasting experience, sharing stories of the vineyard's history and the meticulous process behind each bottle. Each sip was a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication poured into every drop. This is evident by the numerous awards that 1922 House has received for their wines
Feeling inspired and with a newfound appreciation for the dedication and love that goes into every bottle, we thanked Brian for his hospitality and promised to return soon. With our bags a little heavier and our spirits lifted, we set off down the Jessamin Wine Trail, eager to continue our journey and discover more of Kentucky's hidden vinous treasures.
1922 House Vineyard and Winery
3155 Keene Rd.
Nicholasville, KY 40356
First Vineyard Winery
A Delightful Weekend at First Vineyard Winery - June 22, 2023
It was a lovely weekend, so we decided it would be a great idea to explore another Kentucky winery. This time, we visited First Vineyard Winery in Nicholasville.
A Brief History of First Vineyard
First Vineyard holds the distinction of being the first commercial vineyard in the United States, established in 1799 under Kentucky State Statute and operating until 1809. Founded by Swiss immigrant John James Dufour, the 750-acre vineyard received financial support from notable figures, including US Secretary of State Henry Clay, US Secretary of the Treasury George Bibb, Kentucky Governor Garrard, and US Senators John Brown and John Edwards, among others. Notably, Daniel Boone conducted the property's initial survey, and Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison enjoyed wine from First Vineyard during their terms, highlighting its historical significance.
Dufour made a promise to the US Congress to write a book on vineyard planning and winemaking. His work, American Vine-Dresser’s Guide, was completed by 1803 but was not published until 1826, becoming a key reference for grape growing and winemaking in America for over five decades.
Although none of the original buildings remain today, a stone foundation marks the site of the winery. The winery was reopened by the current owners in August 2012, with the tasting room constructed to reflect the size and materials typical of 1799. In 2013, a pavilion was added to accommodate weddings and retreats.
Today, First Vineyard also features a cozy Bed and Breakfast, offering options that include a one-bedroom with a bath, a two-room suite, or a 2-3 bedroom apartment, making it a delightful vacation destination.
Experiencing First Vineyard Today
I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the Bealls, the current owners of First Vineyard. Tom kindly gave me a tour of the property in his four-wheeler, allowing me to see the foundation of the original winery alongside the picturesque rolling acres of vineyards.
Tom’s wife oversees the wine tastings, with most offerings leaning toward the sweeter side. Although I typically prefer dry wines, I decided to sample a few of the sweeter varieties. The Cherry Cordial was absolutely delightful, and I look forward to enjoying it chilled on my deck at home. They also provide a Kenkoola Slushie Kit, featuring a refreshing peach mango wine slushy, which I took home as well.
As an added perk, First Vineyard Winery is one of the three participating wineries in the Jessamine Wine & Vineyard Trail. When you visit, they will stamp your brochure to confirm your stop. After collecting stamps from all the wineries, you'll receive a special gift from the final winery. If you complete all the stops and attend the annual Kentucky Wine & Vine Festival, you’ll earn another exclusive gift for wine enthusiasts. I look forward to writing about the other two wineries, 1922 House Vineyards and Winery and Ghost Fox Winery, in the near future.
First Vineyard Winery offers a wealth of experiences for visitors. You can immerse yourself in a bit of history while savoring a lovely glass of wine. To discover more about the history of First Vineyard, be sure to check out the video available on their website: firstvineyard.net
First Vineyard Winery
5800 Sugar Creek Pike
Nicholasville, KY 40356
Chenault Wineries
Discovering Chenault Vineyards
Nestled on 470 acres of breathtaking Kentucky countryside, Chenault Vineyards is located just a 30-minute drive south of Lexington, amidst the charming hills of Richmond, Kentucky. I assure you, an extraordinary experience awaits.
Vision and Community
Chenault Vineyards was brought to life by local husband-and-wife duo Ed and Becky Chenault, who aspired to create a stunning destination within the enchanting rolling hills of Kentucky. Their vision was to enjoy this space with their daughters, family, and friends, while also sharing it with the Madison County community.
A Unique Experience
Unfortunately, during my visit with my wife, wine tastings were not available as they were offering Bourbon Flights in celebration of Father’s Day. My wife chose to skip the bourbon and opted for a glass of Rebecca’s Reserve, which she said was an absolute delight.
We took our wine to the spacious patio, which was conveniently covered as it began to rain. I ventured briefly into the vineyards but had to return when the downpour started. Back on the patio, we decided to order a pizza from their extensive menu of pizzas, sandwiches, and salads. The pizza was delicious and more than enough for the two of us.
Exciting Developments
During our visit, we spoke with a knowledgeable employee who shared that the bar area would be undergoing upgrades within the next year. She was genuinely enthusiastic about the enhancements, which promise to be an exciting addition.
Looking Ahead
We eagerly anticipate our return to Chenault Vineyards for a full tasting experience and to enjoy some live music. I highly recommend gathering a group of friends or your significant other and making the trip to Chenault Vineyards—you won't be disappointed!
2284 Barnes Mill Rd
Richmond, KY 40475