Where Craft Meets Countryside: The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail
The Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail offers visitors a flavorful way to experience western Ohio through craft beverages, historic venues, and small-town charm. Stretching across Darke County and neighboring communities, the self-guided trail combines wineries, breweries, distilleries, cideries, and unique gathering spaces into one memorable getaway. It is also recognized as the only trail in Ohio to combine whiskey, wine, and craft beer into one experience.
Visitors can begin their adventure at Indian Creek Distillery, one of Ohio’s oldest operating distilleries, where handcrafted whiskey is still produced using historic family recipes and traditional methods. Wine lovers can explore The Versailles Winery, known for award-winning wines and relaxing countryside views, or enjoy the welcoming atmosphere at A.R. Winery and Old Mason Winery & Vineyard, both offering locally crafted wines and regular entertainment. Guests can also experience Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery and the charm of its beautifully restored historic schoolhouse.
Guests looking for something different can stop at Twenty One Barrels Hard Cider & Wine for locally crafted cider and wine selections. Craft beer fans can visit Moeller Brew Barn, where small-batch brews are served in a beautifully restored rural setting. Meanwhile, Sure Shot Tap House has become a favorite downtown gathering spot featuring more than 50 self-serve taps featuring craft beers, cocktails, live entertainment, and the fun upstairs Bulls-eye Lounge arcade experience.
In Versailles, Hotel Versailles has partnered with Hayner Distilling to create an exclusive private-label bourbon, blending Ohio distilling heritage with the hotel’s upscale hospitality experience and giving guests a taste unique to Versailles.
The trail is about much more than beverages. Along the way, guests can shop local boutiques, explore charming downtowns, enjoy seasonal festivals, and discover attractions like Bear’s Mill and Hotel Versailles, a beautifully restored boutique hotel and restaurant that has become a destination of its own. Many trail stops feature outdoor patios, live music, food trucks, and special events throughout the year, making every visit unique.
Visitors are encouraged to pick up an official Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail passport at participating locations or the Darke County Visitors Bureau Welcome Center. Guests who complete the trail can submit their passport for a commemorative trail shirt. Whether planning a couples getaway, friends weekend, or scenic day trip through Ohio’s countryside, the Darke County Whiskey, Wine & Ale Trail delivers local flavor, hospitality, and unforgettable experiences around every corner.
Three Things To Know
🔹Check hours before visiting. Many trail locations have seasonal hours or are only open certain days of the week, so it’s best to plan ahead before heading out.
🔹Not every stop serves food. While some locations offer appetizers, food trucks, or nearby dining options, others focus solely on beverages, so consider planning meal stops along your route.
🔹Take your time and enjoy the experience. The trail passports don’t expire, so the trail is designed to be explored at your own pace. Many visitors spread their stops over a weekend or multiple trips so they can fully enjoy the tastings, live music, shopping, and scenic countryside.
For even more things to do in the area, as well as nearby accommodations visit the Darke County Visitors Bureau website or call 937-548-5158.