Heineman Winery is a historical Put-In-Bay island landmark founded in 1888 by Gustav Heineman. As one of the scheduled stops of the Tour Train here, guests can enjoy expertly crafted wine made and sold locally, as well as tour the winery and learn about the generations of tradition infused in every bottle.

Located 40 feet above the beautiful Crystal Cave, home of the world’s largest geode, sits the multi-generational family winery. Having immigrated from a region of Germany renown for grape growing, Heineman made way to The Lake Erie islands over 125 years ago. The soil quality of South Bass Island was ideal for growing grapes and producing a variety of wines. The conditions were so favorable that a little more than a decade after establishment, more than 17 other wineries made the island home. But the surplus wouldn’t last long. Prohibition proved to be a mighty obstacle for the wineries. Luckily, the Heineman family winery was able to offer tours of the underground Crystal Cave beneath, and outlast the alcohol reform.

Heineman Winery Favorites:

Island Chablis (White)
Crystal Cave Spumante
Cedar Woods Red
Catawba Grape Juice
Niagara (White)

Check Out These Interesting Tour Train Stops:

Perry's Cave Family Fun Center
Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial
Lake Erie Island Nature and Wildlife Area

Today, Put-In-Bay is proud to serve as home to the winemaking tradition of five generations of the Heineman family and the iconic Heineman Winery and Crystal Cave. Catch a ride on the Tour Train and enjoy all the winery has to offer. Stay and experience the inspirational beauty of the Crystal Cave, then cross the street to Perry’s Cave and Family Fun Center for some healthy competition. However you choose to spend your stay, no trip to Put-In-Bay is complete without stopping here.

Visit our things to do page, and plan your next trip. Also, make sure to visit our Put-In-Bay Lodging page to check availability and find the perfect accommodations for your crew.