Cayuga Lake is a very popular winery destination, not only because it produces some truly amazing wines, but because of its spectacular views. As a matter of fact, there are so many wineries in the area that there is something called The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. It has made the lake famous, not only for the truly magical nature that surrounds it but for the world-class wineries on the route too. The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is staying fully up to date with the latest wine industry trends, making it a truly hot and happening place to visit.
The first few Cayuga Lake wineries were established between the late 1970s and early 80s. By the 1990s, more than 12 wineries had been built and established on the banks of the lake. The majority of these wineries were gathered around the western border of Cayuga, it took a few years before other intrepid winemakers decided to build and plant in the other parts of the region.
The Cayuga Lake wine trail was established in 1983 and is the first and longest-running wine trail in the United States! There is something on offer for everyone on Cayuga Lake from wineries to distilleries and breweries too. Bring the whole family down to Cayuga Lake for a once in a lifetime holiday experience you are all guaranteed not to forget.
How Many Wineries are on Cayuga Lakes
The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail makes up the eastern part of another larger trail, called the Finger Lakes wine trails. Cayuga Lake itself has only 16 wineries, but each of them has plenty to offer.
The Top 5 Cayuga Lakes Wineries
Buttonwood Grove Winery
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Buttonwood Grove Winery is a truly stunning estate vineyard that is known to be one of the Governers Cup wine winners. They are well established and have a following of fans who know the kind of high quality fine wines that they produce. Their quality of wine is excellent and their classic and most well-known and older vine varieties are Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Riesling. In more recent years, Buttonwood decided to expand their grape horizons and plant: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, and Gewurztraminer.
They have a stunning outdoor, multi-level deck where you can relax and sip away at one of their award-winning wines whilst taking in the wondrous lake views. The ambience, peaceful setting and award-winning wines are not something to be missed.
Shepherdess Cellars
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Shepherdess Cellars is located in the heart of the Cayuga Wine Trail on the west side of Cayuga Lake. This Cayuga Lake winery was opened in 2014 and has a wide array of wines on offer, such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Gruner Veltliner, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc. They offer delightful tastings, beautiful views and a warm welcome at the door.
Six Eighty Wine Cellars
This breathtakingly stunning venue has incredible views overlooking Cayuga Lake. Six Eighty Wine Cellars is known for its unique ability to mix old world winemaking with new world traditions. They pride themselves on interfering with the wine and its process as little as possible, allowing the true nature of the grapes to form the body of the wine. They offer a personal interactive tasting experience, which includes five wines, as well as individual artisanal cheese and charcuterie plates for each guest. They only offer outdoor seating, keep this in mind if the weather is not great.
Hosmer Winery
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Hosmer Winery is a gorgeous 72-acre estate, home to a well-cared for and diverse vineyard. For $10, guests are offered a flight of wines and a souvenir glass to take home. The main wines they focus on at Hosmer are Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Riesling. Reservations are a must, they generally won’t take walk-ins, so ensure you check their website out for any events and call ahead to book.
Knapp Winery
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Knapp Winery is a beautiful spot with endless views and proximity to the lake. This is one of the wineries on Cayuga Lake, New York, that you will not want to miss! They offer delightful tastings and chocolate and wine pairings too. Knapp winery sits less than a mile from Cayuga Lake is open Thursday through Sunday. They’re open all week from 10am to 5pm and have stunning outdoor seating. Some of their favourite wines on offer are Chardonnay, Riesling, Gruner, and Pinot Noir.
What is The Oldest Winery in Cayuga Lakes?
Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery
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If you are keen to enjoy some exquisite estate-grown wines that are loved and cared for from the vineyards to your glass, then search no further than the legendary Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery. This rustic barn winery is full of choices of award-winning wines and has the loveliest ambience whilst it glows under their gothic styled church lights. This stunning venue has so many offerings and is dedicated to farming and creating wine in a sustainable manner, through the responsible running of the land and conscious vineyard cultivation practices.
Cayuga Ridge has a rich history of winemaking that goes back, almost 50 years. It brings you a sense of rustic elegance and makes you feel totally relaxed and at home. They also have a wonderful shop, filled to the brim with urban home décor tidbits. They also sell delicious artisanal cheese and picnic delicacies for you to enjoy, or if you would prefer to order something, they offer small snacks enjoyed on their outdoor deck. Some of the delicious snacks on offer: pulled pork sandwiches and gourmet four-cheese grilled cheese (only available on certain weekends).
- Address: 6800 Route 89, Ovid, NY 14521
- Phone Number: 607-869-5158
- Email: [email protected]
What Wine is Cayuga Lakes Known For?
Cayuga Lake is best known for what the industry like to call: “cool climate” wines. This means they are wines that are made from grapes that can experience and stay strong through long, cold winters. The most popular cool climate wine to come out of this area is Riesling. A vinifera grape that is known for its European origins and for producing both sweet and dry wines. Besides the popularity that Riesling wine has in Cayuga Lake, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc.
Take a trip like no other and come to this uniquely beautiful area, enjoy some world-class wines while soaking in one of the best views in the country. Cayuga Lakes is not a winery destination you want to miss. Whether you are wanting to have a romantic weekend for two, or just a weekend away with the family, Cayuga Lakes has you covered.