The South River Vineyard has been producing grapes for over 100 years and lies at the heart of a large fruit farming district stretching along the shore of Lake Erie. Traditionally, farmers raised apples, plums, pears, and concord grapes.

Concord grapes came to dominate fruit farming after WWII along South River Road, as most farmers planted Concords under contract to Welch's and Coca Cola.

This concord grape market came on hard times in the 1970's, and for the last 30 years many of the grape farms along the road have slowly faded into disrepair and decline.

At South River we set out to plant a different kind of grape: old world European varieties like Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet, and Pinot Grigio. These vines are more difficult to grow, and much more risky, because the tender vines can be damaged by cold winters. The South River Vineyard site was specifically chosen because it has proven to be one of the warmest farms in the neighborhood.

The "old-timers" had always said that the warmest farms are high on the ridges, where you can see the lake off on the horizon. The warm breezes flow in off the lake and prevent frost in the Spring, while keeping the vineyards warmer in the winter as well. South River Vineyard has one of the best views of Lake Erie on the whole road.

In the Spring of 1995, an experimental 2-acre field was leased along the road next to the tiny farm house and planted to Riesling. In October 1998, that field along with 26 acres adjacent was sold to South River Vineyard by Jule Pealer, pictured on the forklift. This new farm was planted almost completely with concord grapevines.

Two weeks after purchasing the farm, the 10,000 concord had been chainsawed, ripped from the trellis and burned in piles. Miles of rusty wire were rolled up, and the old posts were pulled and piled.

Over the next two years, the old barn was burned down to make way for the winery. Bulldozers were brought in to shape and level the farm and install nearly 20 miles of underground drainage pipes.

In April of 2000, 10,500 vines were planted behind the building in a 2-day period. In April 2002, another 2,500 vines were planted. Finally, this April (2003) the last 5,000 vines will be planted.






Our winery permit covers a large portion of the vineyard, allowing winery patrons to grab a bottle of wine at the chapel and then stroll out through the vineyards as they sip wine. Throughout the year, we offer guided tours on foot and by hay wagon through the vineyard. Check our event page for details.