When Joe made his first batch of rosé in 1973, he didn't know that winemaking would become his life's work and passion. But in 1996, he and his wife, Joan, took the plunge. Today they produce 14 different wines from locally sourced grapes, while their popular onsite restaurant serves a full menu. Joe has found that over the years, "people are more willing to try Ohio wines. They're giving them a chance -- and we're seeing a lot of smiling faces." His favorite? "They're like children," he says. "How can you choose?" (Michael Schiaparelli)

CityBeat: Where did you eat your last great meal and what was it?

Joe: Joan and I work seven days a week. We don't get out much. Basically, it's a trip to Skyline at 1 in the morning.

Joan: Actually our last great meal was here. Monday was our 35th anniversary and the staff prepared a special meal: lobster tails with haystack potatoes and broccoli in a cheddar-herb sauce. It was phenomenal!

CB: Did you see a Sideways effect following the release of the movie? Sure. Merlot sales dropped 10 percent, but that didn't stop us. Ours is terrific and once we get people to just try it, they walk away with several bottles! We sell out every year.