Nestled in the western part of Ohio lies Darke County, a hidden gem that is known for its picturesque countryside, charming small towns, and most importantly, its burgeoning craft beverage scene. The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail is a must-experience for anyone looking to indulge in the local flavors and culture. With a variety of wineries, breweries, and distilleries scattered across the county, visitors are guaranteed to find something to suit their taste buds. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a beer lover, or a whiskey aficionado, The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail  offers a unique opportunity to sample locally crafted libations and to explore the natural beauty of Ohio’s countryside.

The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail is an exceptional tasting experience. It combines the age-old art of spirit-making with a casual, relaxed style and educational flare. Come wind your way through the picturesque rural setting of western Ohio. Furthermore, explore the rich history and flavors of the region. Here are just some of stops along the way.

The Winery at Versailles

Mike and Carol Williams, the owners of the Winery at Versailles, have built a successful business and life around a simple motto: “Do well, do good, and have fun.” Their journey began in 1994 when they started a small winery in Wilcox, PA. Since then, their business has grown to include three wineries across two states, with over 75 employees and producing more than 200,000 gallons of wine every year. One of their prized wineries, the Winery at Versailles, has been serving its cherished guests since 2002. Moreover, it’s no surprise that they have been awarded the Best Winery in Ohio five times in a row (2016-2020) by Ohio SIP magazine Reader’s Poll and the Best Winery in Darke County by The Daily Advocate Reader’s poll. The Williams’ commitment to excellence, community, and having fun has made the Winery at Versailles a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts near and far.

Address:
6572 St. Rt. 47 Versailles, OH 45380

Hours:
Monday – Wednesday: 10am-6pm (Kitchen is CLOSED on Mondays)
Thursday: 10am-6pm
Friday – Saturday: 10am-9pm
Sunday: CLOSED

Kitchen Hours:
Tuesday thru Thursday: 11 AM – 2 PM
Friday & Saturday: 11 AM – 8 PM

Tailspin Brewing Company

Tailspin is a brewery that prides itself on offering a unique experience to its customers. Housed in a historic dairy barn that has fed generations of Ohioans since 1933, the brewery has preserved the building’s unique character while making it a warm and inviting place to enjoy great locally brewed craft beer with friends. Additionally, with a focus on community ownership, this unique brewery has renovated the barn to create a one-of-a-kind atmosphere that sets it apart from other breweries. Whether you’re an official beer aficionado or just looking for a fun night out, Tailspin promises to deliver a memorable experience that combines history, community, and, of course, great beer.

Address:
626 S 2nd Street Coldwater, OH 45828

Phone:
419.763.4222

Hours:
Thursday: 3pm–10pm
Friday: 3pm–11pm
Saturday: 1pm–11pm
Sunday: 1pm–7pm

Indian Creek Distillery

Visitors can step back in time and experience the roots of a picturesque Ohio Country Farm Distillery and Tasting Room that dates back two centuries. The natural beauty of the surrounding land and historic surroundings are sure to captivate visitors, telling the story of the farm’s humble beginnings. Also, nestled on a scenic road that winds alongside Indian Creek, the setting is idyllic and perfect for those looking to depart from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Using a farm-to-bottle approach, the distillery crafts handcrafted spirits, allowing visitors to taste the rich flavors while soaking in the serene surroundings of the beloved farm.

Address:
7095 Staley Road New Carlisle, OH 45344

Phone:
937-846-1443

Hours:
Open Tues-Sat 12 pm to 5 pm

Moeller Brew Barn

The Land of the Cross-Tipped Churches is known for its iconic big barns that dot the countryside. If you happen to spot one, chances are you’re in the vicinity of Moeller Brew Barn. The brewery was established on the premise that everyone should have access to Fresh Local Craft Beer, and it continues to stay true to that philosophy today.

Address:
8016 Marion Drive, Maria Stein, OH 45860

Phone:
419-925-3005

Hours:
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday – Thursday: 3-10PM
Friday & Saturday 11AM-11PM
Sunday: 9AM-9PM

Twenty One Barrels Winery & Cidery

It all started with a visit to Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula vineyards in 2013, where Danielle and Shaun Pierce pondered the possibility of making their own wine and growing grapes. The idea quickly turned into a hobby and by the summer of 2014, the couple had won awards for their wines in amateur competitions across the United States. In 2017, the couple tied the knot, and their dream of turning their passion into reality only grew stronger.

Finally, in 2018, the Pierce’s found the perfect location to develop their vineyard and winery: a charming 20-acre farm outside Bradford, Ohio in Darke County. They moved into the 1800’s farmhouse on the property and immediately began the process of remodeling it to fit their vision.

Today, all of the wine and hard cider produced by Twenty One Barrels is handcrafted on site using a mix of estate-grown and locally-sourced fruit and juice. Still, their dedication to quality has earned them several awards and accolades, and they continue to innovate, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with their craft. Whether you’re a a curious beginner or a seasoned wine connoisseur, a visit to Twenty One Barrels promises an unforgettable experience with every sip.

Address:
9717 Horatio-Harris Creek Rd, Bradford, Ohio 45308

​Phone:
937-467-4498

Hours:
SUN-THURS – CLOSED
FRI: 5-9PM
SAT: 2-8PM

FAQ

What is The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail?

The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail is a collection of local distilleries, wineries, and breweries located in Darke County, Ohio. Also, visitors can explore the trail and taste a variety of craft spirits, wines, and ales made by local artisans.

How do I participate in The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail?

To participate in The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail, simply visit any of the participating locations and ask for a passport. Additionally, collect a stamp from each location on your passport as you visit them. Once you have collected all the stamps, turn in your completed passport for a prize.

What are the hours of operation for The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail?

The hours of operation for each participating location on The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail may vary. So, it’s best to check each location’s website or social media pages for their hours of operation before planning your visit.

Ready to explore the craft cocktail scene in the USA? Search our comprehensive list of distilleries on Distillery Nearby and discover the best local distilleries near you. Find your desired spirit trail, filter by location and spirit type, and read reviews from fellow spirit lovers to make informed decisions about your next boozy adventure. Start exploring today!