Ainoa Winery: Finland's Berry Wine Pioneer

Ainoa Winery, located in the idyllic countryside of Hollola, Finland, is revolutionizing the wine world by producing exceptional wines from locally sourced berries. Founded in 2014 by Paola Guerrero de Cohen and David Cohen, Ainoa was born from a desire to create wines that showcase the unique flavors of Finland. Since Finland's climate isn't suitable for grape growing, they turned to the abundant local berries, with surprising and award-winning results. Tucked away in the small rural village of Miekkiö, about 10 kilometers from the center of Lahti, Ainoa Winery has put Finland on the world wine map. The winery utilizes wild ingredients gathered from Finnish forests and berries grown locally. This commitment to local sourcing allows them to capture the essence of Finnish nature in every bottle. Visitors to Ainoa Winery can experience the winemaking process firsthand with tours of the production facility. Knowledgeable staff guide guests through the winery, explaining their unique approach to winemaking and the characteristics of the different berries used. Wine tastings are also available, allowing visitors to sample a variety of Ainoa's award-winning wines. For a more immersive experience, pre-booked food and wine pairings are offered, showcasing how the right combination can elevate both the food and wine. The winery also has a shop where visitors can purchase Ainoa's wines and other high-quality local products. In the summer, guests can enjoy a glass of wine outdoors in the sun. Ainoa Winery's commitment to quality and innovation has earned them international recognition. Their wines have won awards in Germany, the United States, and prestigious competitions in France. Ainoa is the only winery in the Nordic region commended by the Oenologues de France for the quality of its wines and the only winery in the world to receive this honor using berries instead of grapes. In 2019, Ainoa Winery was awarded the Embla Nordic Food Artisan Trophy for its contribution to Nordic food culture. Ainoa Winery's Kuningatar wine even won a Grand Gold medal at the Vinalies Internationales competition in France in 2025, a first for a Nordic wine.