Craving a quality fresh-from-the vine glass of vino minus the $500 plane ticket to Napa? Us too.
Fortunately, central Kentucky is home to several wineries where you can enjoy a fresh glass (and even take home a bottle). We’re sharing with you eight vineyards so you can kick back, relax, and unwine-d.
Pro tip: Check out this map so you can raise a glass to a sweet Kentucky sips.
Equus Run, 1280 Moores Mill Rd., Midway
Sip + stroll on a self-guided tour or savor the flavors with a private catered picnic that’s nestled among the horse farms of Midway. Pro tip: Keep an eye out for the friendly vineyard cat, Tuxedo.
- Wine varietals include: Chenin Blanc, Pinotage, Reisling, and Sauvignon Blanc
Talon Winery, 7086 Tates Creek Rd.
Cheers to 20 years, Talon. Celebrate by sipping and swaying to the live music it hosts every Friday and Saturday night. It’s open daily and also has a wine club + membership with perks that include a free in-store tasting for two.
- Wine varietals include: Cabernet sauvignon, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Rose
Wildside Winery, 5500 Troy Pk., Versailles
Open every day, this Woodford County winery has multiple award-winning wines including its Cabernet Franc + dry red “Quartet” blend. Stop by for fun events such as “Murder Mystery” game nights and Sangria Sundays.
- Wine varietals include: Pinot Grigio, Rose, Riesling, and fruit-forward like cranberry + blackberry
Let Nini at Harkness Edwards Vineyard plan the perfect picnic. | Photo by @harknessedwardsvineyards
Harkness Edwards Vineyard, 5199 Combs Ferry Rd., Winchester
There’s no shortage of things to do or wine to sip at The Peach House. Pack your own picnic for a breezy afternoon in the garden or check the events page for happenings like cooking + art classes.
- Wine varietals include: Blanc de Noir, Cabernet, Vidal Blanc, and house-made sangrias.
Jean Farris Winery, 6825 Old Richmond Rd.
Go for the wine, stay for the food. The Jean Farris Bistro offers delicious dishes — seared salmon, spaghetti squash ramen, and fresh salads — that pair perfectly with the vineyard’s robust libations menu.
- Wine varietals include: Merlot, Petite Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Rose
1922 House Vineyard, 3155 Keene Rd., Nicholasville
Located next to a true 1922-built home in horse country, this vineyard crafts small-batch artisanal wine. It’s only open on Saturdays serving its award-winning Kentucky Proud bottles.
- Wine varietals include: Chambourcin, Norton, Noiret, and dessert wines
Ghost Fox Winery, 2385 Chrisman Mill Rd., Nicholasville
Taking over the former Chrisman Mill Winery, Ghost Fox is set among the rolling hills of Jessamine County. Stop by to sample for yourself on Saturdays, 12-9 p.m., or check its event calendar for unique offerings like a silent book club + upcoming festivals.
- Wine varietals include: Chardonnay, Sparkling white, Merlot, and Zinfandel
Chenault Vineyards, 2284 Barnes Mill Rd., Richmond
This family-run operation is situated on 500 acres of rolling hills and vines. Take a guided tour, stroll through the vines on the walking trail, or sip a glass on the patio.
- Wine varietals include: Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and cherry wine
