Oct 30thElk Creek Vineyards

If you are ever near Owenton during the day, I really recommend a stop at Elk Creek Vineyards. They offer lunch and wine tastings in some of the most beautiful surroundings you’ll find in northcentral Kentucky. Located just an hour from Lexington, Louisville, and Cincinnati, the vineyards are worth the visit. I had a friend visiting from Florida and took her to lunch at the Elk Creek Café. Even though the weather was damp and gloomy, the view was still spectacular.  Inside the beautiful tasting room a fire was burning in the fireplace to warm us and make for a cozy lunch.

After a drive through country roads, first-time visitors arriving at Elk Creek Vineyards are impressed by the vineyards on the rolling hills of Owen County, the winery set on a hill in a wooden and rock building, with a view of the Lodge across the vineyards on another hilltop. Once inside, the beauty of the tasting room, the impressive gallery filled with the art of local artists, and the hospitality of the employees will make anyone want to come back.

We were offered tastings of two new wines, made by the winemaker, Brandon O’Daniel, which features the art of Carey Chen on the label. I purchased the Cabernet Sauvignon, a very good red wine. After lunch, we walked around outside a bit, but not for long, as it was cold. We went inside and toured the gallery where my friend purchased a pottery dish.

Though I have been a fan of Elk Creek for quite some time (love their Gewurztraminer), my friend was quite impressed that Kentucky could offer visitors such a destination.