Kentucky Wineries

Kentucky is home to the first commercial vineyard in the United States. There are over 50 wineries and vineyards located in Kentucky, most in the central and northern parts of the state. Kentucky's wineries took home 32 combined medals at the August 2010 Indy International Wine Competition. Many of Kentucky's vineyards and wineries feature pavilions and outdoor amphitheaters, concerts, and catering.

The Acres of Land Winery in Richmond, KY won a double gold for Best of Class medal and a silver medal at the Indy competition. Some of the features the winery offers include catering services, a restaurant that seats 150, a tasting room, and gift cards. The winery is owned by Lowell and Katherine Land who began selling wines made from the vineyards on their eight acres in 2004. Their wines include, but are not limited to, Kentucky Chardonna, Vignoles, Maggie Adams Blush, and Willie Mae's Blackberry wine.

Two gold medals, two silver, and one bronze medal were awarded to the Purple Toad Winery in Paducah, KY. It is owned by Allen and June Dossey. Some of the highlights offered by the winery include gift baskets, a gift shop, Kentucky made cheese, and free wine tastings everyday. The selection of wines includes Steven's Strawberry, Paducah Red, Paducah White, Paducah Blue, Lauren's Blackberry, Pinot Noir, and Merlot, among others.

Kentucky's largest producing vineyards are located at the Lover's Leap Vineyards and Winery in Lawrenceburg, KY. With thirty acres of vineyards, this winery has a vast array of wines to choose from including Vidal Blancs, Rieslings, Blackberry, Merlots, and others. The first vineyards were planted in 1994 by Jerry and Ann Holder, who then began producing and selling wine in 2000. The winery is now owned by Pam and Logan Leet. In addition to producing fine wine, the winery also hosts weddings and concerts. At the Indy competition Lover's Leap brought home one bronze medal.

To see a list of all 55 Kentucky wineries and vineyards, as well as upcoming winery events, go to Kentucky Wine.