New York Wine Travel Guide
New York’s wine regions offer a unique blend of world-class wines, picturesque landscapes, and rich history. From the Finger Lakes to Long Island, wine enthusiasts can explore diverse terroirs and taste award-winning vintages.
Towns and Villages
The Finger Lakes region boasts charming towns like Hammondsport and Geneva. These lakeside communities offer quaint B&Bs, local restaurants, and easy access to wineries.
On Long Island, visit Greenport for its maritime charm and proximity to North Fork wineries. Cutchogue is known as the “sunniest spot in New York” and home to several top vineyards.
Wine Producers
In the Finger Lakes, don’t miss Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, pioneer of vinifera wines in the region. Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard is renowned for its Rieslings.
On Long Island, visit Wölffer Estate Vineyard for elegant rosés and Paumanok Vineyards for their exceptional Chenin Blanc.
Top Producers by Region:
- Finger Lakes: Ravines Wine Cellars, Red Newt Cellars
- Long Island: Bedell Cellars, Macari Vineyards
- Hudson Valley: Millbrook Vineyards, Brotherhood Winery
Accommodations
For a luxurious stay in the Finger Lakes, book a room at the Inns of Aurora. This collection of restored historic properties offers stunning lake views and top-notch amenities.
In Long Island’s wine country, try the Harborfront Inn in Greenport for its central location and elegant rooms.
Unique Stays:
- Belhurst Castle (Geneva): Historic castle with winery on-site
- The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel: Lakefront property near Seneca Lake wineries
- The Chequit (Shelter Island): Boutique hotel perfect for exploring both North and South Fork wineries
Dining
Experience farm-to-table dining at FLX Table in Geneva, offering an intimate chef’s table experience. Pair local wines with innovative cuisine at Hazelnut Kitchen in Trumansburg.
On Long Island, savor fresh seafood and local wines at Noah’s in Greenport. For a more casual option, try Love Lane Kitchen in Mattituck for delicious sandwiches and salads.
Wine-Focused Restaurants:
- New York Kitchen (Canandaigua): Culinary center featuring NY wines and local ingredients
- Veraisons Restaurant at Glenora Wine Cellars: Panoramic views of Seneca Lake
- The North Fork Table & Inn: Fine dining with an extensive local wine list
Wine Shops & Bars
Explore Microclimate in Geneva for a curated selection of Finger Lakes wines. In Ithaca, Red Feet Wine Market offers tastings and expert advice.
On Long Island, visit Vintage Mattituck for local and international wines. Greenport Harbor Brewing Company provides a beer break for wine enthusiasts.
Notable Wine Bars:
- F.L.X. Frybird (Geneva): Fried chicken paired with local wines
- Corks & More (Watkins Glen): Extensive Finger Lakes wine selection
- Kontokosta Winery Tasting Room (Greenport): Waterfront views and local wines
Other Shops
Pick up locally-made products at MacKenzie-Childs in Aurora. In Hammondsport, Browsers offers unique gifts and home decor.
On Long Island, explore Riverhead Ciderhouse for craft ciders and local artisanal goods. The Weathered Barn in Greenport features handcrafted jewelry and home accessories.
Specialty Stores:
- F. Oliver’s (Canandaigua): Flavored oils and vinegars
- Finger Lakes Cheese Alliance: Various locations for local cheeses
- North Fork Chocolate Company (Aquebogue): Handmade chocolates using local ingredients
Attractions
Visit the Corning Museum of Glass to explore the art and science of glassmaking. Take a scenic boat tour on Seneca Lake with Captain Bill’s Seneca Lake Cruises.
On Long Island, explore Lavender By the Bay, one of the largest lavender farms in the country. Enjoy beautiful beaches at Orient Beach State Park.
Must-See Attractions:
- Watkins Glen State Park: Stunning gorge and waterfalls
- Taughannock Falls State Park: Home to one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rockies
- Long Island Aquarium: Interactive marine exhibits
Events
Attend the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in July for tastings from over 90 wineries. Harvest Celebration of Food and Wine in September showcases local cuisine and wines.
On Long Island, don’t miss the North Fork Crush Wine & Artisanal Food Festival in June. Dan’s Taste of Summer events feature top chefs and local wines.
Annual Wine Events:
- Finger Lakes Wine Symposium (March)
- Winemakers’ Cookoff (August, Watkins Glen)
- Long Island Winterfest (February-March)
Appellations
The Finger Lakes AVA is known for cool-climate varieties, especially Riesling. Sub-appellations include Seneca Lake AVA and Cayuga Lake AVA.
Long Island AVA encompasses both North Fork of Long Island AVA and The Hamptons, Long Island AVA, known for Merlot and Cabernet Franc.
Key Appellations:
- Finger Lakes: Keuka Lake AVA, Canandaigua AVA
- Hudson River Region AVA: Oldest wine-producing area in the U.S.
- Niagara Escarpment AVA: Known for ice wines
Grape Varieties
New York’s wine regions cultivate a diverse array of grape varieties. Riesling thrives in the Finger Lakes, while Cabernet Franc excels in Long Island.
- White varieties: Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris
- Red varieties: Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon
- Native varieties: Concord, Niagara, Catawba
Main Wine Styles
New York produces a wide range of wine styles, reflecting its diverse terroir and climate. Sparkling wines from the Hudson Valley and ice wines from the Niagara Escarpment are notable specialties.
- Crisp, aromatic white wines
- Light to medium-bodied red wines
- Sweet and dessert wines
- Rosé wines
Food Specialties
New York’s culinary scene complements its wine industry perfectly. Farm-to-table restaurants showcase local ingredients and pair well with regional wines.
- Finger Lakes: Grape pies, smoked trout
- Hudson Valley: Artisanal cheeses, apple cider donuts
- Long Island: Fresh seafood, duck
- Niagara region: Fruit preserves, maple syrup
Drives & Walks
Explore New York’s wine country through scenic drives and walks. The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail offers breathtaking views and numerous winery stops.
- Seneca Lake Wine Trail
- North Fork Wine Trail (Long Island)
- Hudson Valley Wine Country drive
- Keuka Lake hiking trails
Itineraries
Plan your New York wine adventure with these suggested itineraries. A weekend in the Finger Lakes allows for winery visits, lakeside relaxation, and local cuisine exploration.
- Long Island Wine Country: 3-day tour
- Hudson Valley Wine and History: 4-day trip
- Niagara Wine Region: 2-day escape
- New York Wine Grand Tour: 10-day comprehensive journey
Getting There & Around
New York’s wine regions are accessible by various means of transportation. Major airports serve the different areas:
- Finger Lakes: Greater Rochester International Airport
- Long Island: Long Island MacArthur Airport
- Hudson Valley: Stewart International Airport
- Niagara Region: Buffalo Niagara International Airport
Renting a car is recommended for exploring wineries. Public transportation options are limited in rural areas.
Wine Tours
Consider booking a guided wine tour for a hassle-free experience. Many companies offer transportation between wineries:
- Finger Lakes Winery Tours
- Long Island Wine Country Tours
- Hudson Valley Wine Tours
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit New York’s wine country is during the harvest season, from late August to October. Wineries buzz with activity, and the fall foliage adds to the scenic beauty.
Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities and wine tasting. Winter visits can be rewarding for ice wine enthusiasts.
Sustainability Efforts
New York wineries are increasingly adopting sustainable practices. Many vineyards participate in eco-friendly initiatives:
- VineBalance: A statewide sustainability program
- Long Island Sustainable Winegrowing: Certification for environmentally friendly practices
- Organic and biodynamic farming methods
Look for wineries with sustainability certifications or ask about their eco-friendly practices during your visit.
Language Tips
English is widely spoken throughout New York’s wine regions. However, knowing some wine-related terms can enhance your tasting experience:
- Terroir: The environmental factors influencing grape growth
- Tannins: Compounds in red wines that create a dry sensation
- Body: The weight and texture of wine in your mouth
- Finish: The lingering taste after swallowing
Further Resources
For more information on New York’s wine regions, consult these reliable sources:
- New York Wine & Grape Foundation
- Finger Lakes Wine Country
- Long Island Wine Country
- Hudson Valley Wine Country
Consider downloading wine apps like Vivino or CellarTracker to record your tastings and discover new wines during your trip.
