About Us
Winemaker J. Simon Watso
For an unforgettable experience, visit J. Simon Watso at the “House of Doepken.”
Schloss Doepken, what does it mean? Schloss, in German means "castle" or "house of" and Doepken (pronounced DEPkin) is the maiden name of Roxann Watso, late wife and winemaking partner of owner John Watso.
The Watsos acquired the property in 1972 and set out the first Vinifera in 1974. These outstanding wine grapes, grown in gravelly soil on an ideal site (the escarpment is closest to Lake Erie right here), produce world class wines.
Wine growing and wine making are still relatively new in this part of the world. The search for improvement in the vineyards and the winery never ceases.
Our selections are varied and include those for the most demanding wine experts as well as those for fledgling wine people who crave something "fun" to drink! Come visit us any time, we're open daily for tastings 11am-5pm and are located right off Route 20 in Ripley!
Schloss Doepken, what does it mean? Schloss, in German means "castle" or "house of" and Doepken (pronounced DEPkin) is the maiden name of Roxann Watso, late wife and winemaking partner of owner John Watso.
The Watsos acquired the property in 1972 and set out the first Vinifera in 1974. These outstanding wine grapes, grown in gravelly soil on an ideal site (the escarpment is closest to Lake Erie right here), produce world class wines.
Wine growing and wine making are still relatively new in this part of the world. The search for improvement in the vineyards and the winery never ceases.
Our selections are varied and include those for the most demanding wine experts as well as those for fledgling wine people who crave something "fun" to drink! Come visit us any time, we're open daily for tastings 11am-5pm and are located right off Route 20 in Ripley!
