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If you enjoy ending your day with a glass of wine, plan a trip to Seneca Lake wineries.
This neck of the woods offers the opportunity to enjoy some incredible wines and equally impressive views. Be careful; these wines are so good you could get tipsy before you know it.
Today, we’ll share some of the best Seneca Lake wineries you should explore. Trust us; your taste buds will thank you!
Grab your favorite wine glass, and let’s get started!
Where Is Seneca Lake?
The rolling hills of west-central New York surround Seneca Lake. At the lake’s northern shore is the city of Geneva, and at the southern shore is Watkins Glen State Park.
It’s approximately three hours west of the state’s capital, Albany, and 45 minutes southeast of Rochester.
The lake sits entirely within New York’s Finger Lakes region, which earned a reputation for its beautiful scenery, outdoor recreation opportunities, and, as you’ll soon see, numerous wineries and vineyards.
About Seneca Lake
Seneca Lake is one of the 11 lakes that make up New York’s Finger Lakes district. It stretches 38 miles from north to south and is 3.2 miles wide.
It’s the largest and deepest Finger Lake. It has an average depth of 291 feet and 618 feet at its deepest point.
It’s become a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy boating, fishing, and hiking. The lake has a healthy population of trout, Atlantic salmon, smallmouth bass, and largemouth bass. In addition, you can use several marinas and boat launches along its shores.
The lake has a reputation for having extremely high water quality, and the state wants to keep it that way. Many efforts are underway to help protect the lake’s water quality and avoid any potential issues affecting the ecosystem now and in the future.
How Many Wineries Are in Seneca Lake?
Seneca Lake has more than 40 wineries near it. The area’s low-elevation lakes and high-lime soil make it an ideal spot for growing grapes. Winemaking has been a historically significant industry in this region since the 19th century.
Many of these wineries provide tours, tastings, and other unique experiences. They attract visitors worldwide due to their proximity to New York and Toronto.
However, they’ve also become a great place for urban residents to escape the hustle and bustle of life for a weekend getaway.
While each winery offers a different experience or specialties, the region has a reputation for its Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir wines. Have a glass or two, but make sure you do so responsibly.
When Is the Best Time to Go Wine Tasting at Seneca Lake?
You can go wine tasting at Seneca Lake wineries year-round. However, the peak season in this region lasts from June to October. This is when the weather is warm, and you can experience the vineyards in full bloom.
Keep in mind that the harvest season runs from August to October. Unfortunately, this is the busiest season, and you should expect crowds and higher prices.
Otherwise, visit during the off-season from November to May. However, not all wineries remain open or operate on reduced hours. They also may not provide tours during this season, so plan accordingly.
If you insist on visiting during the peak season, we strongly encourage you to visit during the week. Many wineries will offer the same experiences as on the weekends but with fewer crowds to battle.
The Best Seneca Lake Wineries
If you’re anything like us, you’re ready to pack your bags and head to Seneca Lake. However, before making reservations, let’s look at some of the best Seneca Lake wineries you’ll want to visit during your trip.
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard has operated since 1979, when Mr. Wiemer produced the brand’s first two wines. It has earned an award-winning reputation for its high-quality Riesling. Many even credit Mr. Wiemer for putting the Finger Lakes region on the map as a Riesling-producing region.
However, Riesling isn’t all Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard knows how to produce. They make some of the finest Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir in a sustainable and eco-friendly manner.
You can experience their eco-friendly farming and organic vineyard through tastings and tours. Additionally, they offer various unique events and classes throughout the year. Eat at the Aurora Inn Dining Room and enjoy a farm-to-table meal with your loved ones.
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Lakewood Vineyards
Lakewood Vineyards is a Seneca Lake winery run by the Stamp family, third-generation winemakers.
The winery, established in 1988, has developed a reputation for Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir. Their award-winning Riesling comes in various styles, from dry to sweet.
One of the best features of Lakewood Vineyards is its tasting room. Here you can taste their excellent wines and enjoy an incredible panoramic view of Seneca Lake. Whether you’re here for a special event or making a night to remember with a loved one, Lakewood Vineyards is an unforgettable experience.
Magnus Ridge Winery
Magnus Ridge Winery was established in 2007 when Matt and Sandy Downey harvested their first batch of grapes.
However, they spent the next four years perfecting their craft and opened the tasting room at Magnus Ridge Winery in 2011. Their 73 acres of land quickly went from a hobby weekend project to one of the best wineries in the Finger Lakes wine industry.
They specialize in Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Lemberger, Traminette, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, and Noiret grapes. The exposed posts and beams and the massive tasting bar of the tasting room make it easy to forget you’re in New York, not France.
Anthony Road Wine Company
Ann and John Martini founded the Anthony Road Wine Company in 1989. However, their son and daughter-in-law, Peter and Elizabeth, now run the show.
The winery sits on the western shore of Seneca Lake and specializes in Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir.
The winery’s tasting room allows guests to experience the flavors they create. In addition, the panoramic views of the western side of Seneca Lake are unforgettable. Take a tour and get an idea of what goes into creating wine in this sustainable and eco-friendly winery.
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Fox Run Vineyards
Scott Osborn started Fox Run Vineyards in 1984 and has a reputation for producing some of the highest quality Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir in the region. They won numerous awards, including the Governor’s Cup for Best New York State Wine in 2017.
Visitors to Fox Run Vineyards can enjoy tastings in the tasting room and views of Seneca Lake. Whether attending a special wine and food pairing event, live musical performances, or a vineyard hike, you’ll have a fantastic time exploring this vineyard.
Make Memories One Wine Glass at a Time
If it isn’t obvious by now, Seneca Lake is home to some of the finest wineries in the country. You’ll find plenty of options if you want to have a memorable and enjoyable time.
The many wineries in the Finger Lakes wine country offer something for everyone. So why not make some memories one wine glass at a time? Just make sure you do so safely and responsibly.
