Lake County Times

On Monday, the Ohio Controlling Board approved funds to support the efforts of the Ohio Grape Industries Council in advertising Ohio’s expanding wine industry, announced State Representative Jamie Callender (R-Concord). These funds, awarded following a competitive bidding process, will be used for both local and national advertising.

The Ohio Grape Industry Council, established by the Ohio General Assembly in 1981, aims to promote Ohio’s wine industry through marketing, research, and business support. Great Lakes Publishing was selected to produce the advertisement after a request for proposal was sent to five companies across Ohio. The $100,735 request, funded through the Ohio Department of Agriculture, will be allocated towards digital and print advertising. This includes advertisements in Cleveland Magazine, Ohio Magazine, Sip magazine, and digital ads on the TourismOhio app.

“Uplifting Ohio’s grape growers and winemakers is a key component in supporting the state’s number one industry: food and agriculture,” said Brian Baldridge, Director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture. “The wine and grape industry continues to flourish here, offering the best homegrown products to consumers and bringing in billions of dollars to the state. We will continue to proudly share that message.”

Ohio's wine industry has seen significant growth over the past 13 years with 426 wine manufacturer licenses and 125 vineyard operations currently active. It is estimated that the industry has generated over $6.6 billion for the state’s economy and created 41,000 full-time jobs.

“The Ohio grape and wine industry serves as a shining example of the state's investment in a community of winemakers and growers who are so important to various regions,” said Donniela Winchell, Executive Director of the Ohio Wine Producers Association. “From merely 13 wineries in 1978, this industry has grown into a powerhouse with over 420 wineries across nearly every corner of the state providing jobs, preserving farmland and enhancing quality of life while contributing over six-and-a-half billion dollars to our great state's economy."

Northeast Ohio hosts 35 wineries and has become nationally and internationally recognized for its award-winning red, white, and ice wines. As part of the Ohio Wine Producers Association’s Vines and Wines trail, Lake County attracts thousands annually who come to enjoy locally produced wines.

“Lake County is home to a growing number of internationally recognized wineries,” said Callender. “Through multi-generational efforts, residents can enjoy scenic views of Lake Erie or our Metroparks system while savoring wines grown and produced locally.”