CLE Urban Winery

I stopped out to CLE Urban Winery last week on Lee Road. They've been open a year now, bringing the area a modern, boutique winery that celebrates all things Cleveland.

From the custom wall art...

...to their Cleveland-themed wine names and labels, it's all things Northeast Ohio here.

The space was much larger than it had appeared in pictures on social media. There's a couple of intimate soft-seating areas near the front, a very large bar, bar seating looking into the production room, and additional options scattered throughout the converted garage. I settled in at the main bar for a Flight ($7) of five 1 oz. pours.

I tried the Murray Hill Pinot Grigio, Shoreway Viognier, Lake Erie Riesling, Cedar-Lee Chardonnay, and Hometown Heroes Peach Chardonnay. The two that stood out for me were the Pinot Grigio, bright and dry, and the Peach Chardonnay. It was sweeter than I'd usually purchase, but the bold peach flavor was unique and I can picture drinking a chilled glass on these last summer days. I took home a bottle of each.

I didn't care for a couple of them as much, but all of them were better than many other local wines, in my opinion. With 12 - 15 different styles, there is something for everyone. Most of their grapes are coming from California, Oregon, Washington, and NY, with some Ohio in there as well.

They also have a great space for events. You can bring in your own food, create different seating arrangements, and the rental fee is only $25. Or, you can come in and make your own wine label as a private group with the winemaker himself!

I don't find myself in that area often, but this will stay on my radar as a spot to grab a drink before or after dinner. You can also find the wines in several wine retail and local grocery store chains now.

CLE Urban Winery
2180 Lee Road
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118