Our Story
“Chalet Debonné Vineyards” was established during the third generation of the Debevc family’s viticulture history. Anton Debevc, a 1914 immigrant from the Slovenian State of Yugoslavia, purchased a general fruit farm in Madison, Ohio in 1916. Anton’s son, Tony Sr., helped expand the vineyard in the late 1960’s.
In 1971, Tony Sr. and his son, Tony, began their journey as commercial winemakers, establishing world class standards in the Lake Erie and Grand River Valley regions. Chalet Debonné Vineyards was founded as a winery in 1972 with the construction of a winemaking facility and a charming Chalet.
Tony oversees the general operation of the business and Tony Sr. remained as vineyard manager emeritus until he passed away in 2010. Tony, and the vineyard and cellar crews carefully tend 175 plus acres of vines and produce over 85,000 gallons of wine each year, including a variety of delicious and award-winning wines. Debonne Vineyards is best known for Riesling and Ice Wine, but also produces excellent Cabernet Franc and Chambourcin red wines, and Chardonnay and Pinot Gris white wines.
Upcoming Events
- Saturday Oct 5
- Thursday Oct 31
- Friday Nov 1
- Wednesday Nov 20
- Friday Nov 29