From the Finger Lakes to Long Island, New York’s wineries are creating remarkable reds, whites, and everything in between. Wineries are great places to visit year-round. Here is a short sampling of New York wineries to whet your palate. Be sure to also check out regional wine trails to experience the diverse and exceptionally delicious wines of New York!
1) Brotherhood Winery (Hudson River Valley): Recognized as the oldest operating winery in the U.S. (operating since 1839!), Brotherhood Winery is based in a network of historic wine cellars. During your visit, tour the cellars and taste a selection of wines ranging from the winery’s iconic merlot and cabernet sauvignon to a yummy Riesling dessert wine. Pair your wines with snacks from the Vinum Café.
2) Bully Hill Vineyards (Finger Lakes): The Finger Lakes region has a number of excellent wineries, but you can’t go wrong with Bully Hill, another historic winery. Make sure to take the 30-minute estate tour in addition to picking up an artistically decorated bottle of fruity rose or blush wine. Bully Hill tour guides are known for providing exuberant and informative tours.
3) Paumanauk Vineyards (Long Island): If you love nothing more than the ambiance of a winery in a refurbished barn, this one’s for you! Savor a glass of barrel-fermented chardonnay while enjoying a spectacular view of the vineyards from Paumanok’s outdoor deck. In chilly seasons, the rustic tasting room provides a cozy spot to hang out.
4) Dr. Konstantin Frank (Finger Lakes): Keuka Lake is a winery hotspot, with Dr. Konstantin Frank one of the most award-winning wineries in the entire state. A Ukrainian immigrant with a Ph.D. in viticulture, Dr. Frank revolutionized the wine-making process in the Finger Lakes region. His vision and wine recipes live on here, where visitors can embark on tastings in multiple tasting rooms. Try the dry riesling – it’s a favorite.
5) Spring Lake Winery (Western New York): One of the best wineries on the Western New York Wine Trail, Spring Lake is a sprawling 78-acre winery. If you have an entire afternoon available, book a seat on the Vineyard Express, a train that takes visitors across the countryside. Upon arriving at Spring Hill, you’ll enjoy dinner, music, and wine. Try the buttery chardonnay in the summer and the clove-flavored merlot in the winter.