Kentucky Doc Summer 2014 | Page 29

doc Lifestyle Section • Summer 2014 • Kentucky by Jan Ross, Staff Writer 29 You will think you have taken a wrong turn trying to find the Gervasi Vineyard because it’s hidden away in an unlikely urban neighborhood in Canton, Ohio. But behind those elaborate gates is a sprawling 55-acre estate which includes five acres of vineyards producing a variety of grapes, two restaurants, an outdoor pavilion for weddings and other events, a cozy shop, an event center, and 24 guest suites housed in some amazing, Tuscan-influenced villas. The Tuscan influence indicated by the name is felt throughout the property in every little detail. Gervasi offers popular culinary classes at The Cucina, in the Villa Grande. With a large, professional, working kitchen and a dining area to enjoy what you prepare, there are classes on the cuisines of a number of countries. Wine appreciation, demystifying wine tasting, wine and food pairings, or looks at vintages of Italy or France, are also taught in the tasting room at The Crush House, where you can take a tour of the amazing state-of-the-art winery facilities. The Crush House restaurant is designed to resemble a contemporary restaurant similar to those you might One of the best things about Gervasi is staying in the amazing and unique villas. find in a big city, with lots of open spaces, red walls, and a staircase to a second level. After your wine tasting, try one of their small plates or their famous short ribs. Another choice for lunch or dinner, The Bistro restaurant resembles a rustic, Tuscan farmhouse with lots of wood, comfortable seating, a fireplace and an Italian menu. Using fresh, seasonal ingredients, they offer antipasti, salads, and wonderful brick-fired artisan pizzas. Pop into The Marketplace, a little shop right beside The Bistro, where you can buy wine to take home as well as an assortment of interesting gifts. One of the best things about Gervasi is staying in the amazing and unique villas. An upscale boutique inn which has six villas, each having four individual suites and a cozy, spacious lobby area complete with a small kitchen, comfortable furniture, a fireplace, and doors out onto a furnished patio. It’s a wonderful place to stay. Many of the villas overlook the spring-fed lake where ducks and swans swim. The gorgeous suites each have their own fireplace, stucco walls, heated floors, and rustic wood interiors. The small kitchen in the lobby is furnished with a microwave, ice maker, sink, and refrigerator stocked with complimentary drinks including bottled water, teas, juice, and sodas as well as yogurt. A fresh, hot breakfast is delivered every morning at a time you specify. A large wooden box with a lid and the number of your suite on is left on the kitchen counter. The food is different every day but features freshly made pastries stuffed with meat, cheese, and vegetables, baked goods, and fruit. So, whether you want to cook, eat, drink wine, stroll around the beautiful property which adjoins local hiking trails, or just relax in front of the fireplace, Gervasi Vineyard provides the perfect getaway! To find out more information, visit http://www.gervasivineyard.com/