There is a fantastic selection of Cayuga Lake wineries in the Finger Lakes, which create beautiful, award-winning, cold-climate wines. Many of these establishments are locally owned by passionate farmers, sommeliers, and wine lovers who are dedicated to sustainable practices and making delicious wines. While there are more than 150 wineries in the Finger Lakes, it’s best to pick a region (or, in this case, a specific lake) and discover the offerings in that section.
The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, established in 1983 as America’s first wine trail, offers a unique journey through the Finger Lakes region of New York. Encompassing over a dozen wineries (as well as cideries, distilleries, and a meadery), the trail provides visitors with a diverse tasting experience amidst the scenic beauty of Cayuga Lake near Taughannock Falls and surrounded by rolling vineyards and sparkling lakefront views.
Before you start filling your itinerary exploring the Cayuga Lake wineries, you’ll want to secure your overnight lodging. There is so much to discover, more than just wine, so a getaway here could span multiple days, and you would still find more new things for your next trip. Our bed and breakfast in the Finger Lakes is located in the charming storybook village of Trumansburg, and you’ll be in the perfect place to relax in the evenings after a busy day out and about. Make your reservations today!
Best Cayuga Lake Wineries in the Finger Lakes
While there are fantastic wineries all over the Finger Lakes region, we’d like to highlight our favorite choices along the west side of Cayuga Lake, which are all very close to our bed and breakfast in Trumansburg. The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is a great place to start for routes, tours, and resources on the wineries on the lake.
We always suggest arranging a tour with Experience! The Finger Lakes has been recognized by USA Today as one of the 10 Best Wine Tour Companies in the country for four consecutive years. They will provide door-to-door transportation to and from our Inn to a lovely selection of Cayuga Lake wineries.
Here are our favorite Cayuga Lake wineries to add to your itinerary:
- Six Mile Creek Vineyard: Established in 1987, this is one of the oldest wineries and distilleries in a restored 19th-century Dutch Colonial barn. They offer a diverse selection of wines and spirits, including award-winning varieties like their 2016 Cabernet Franc, which won the prestigious Governor’s Cup in 2019
- Lucas Vineyard: Always one of the favorite Cayuga Lake wineries for over four decades, visitors are welcomed by friendly staff and stunning vineyards, gardens, and Cayuga Lake views. The winery offers a diverse collection of estate-grown vinifera, méthode champenoise sparkling wines, iced wines, sangria, and their famous nautical-inspired “Tug Boat” and “Nautie” wines.
- Hosmer Winery: This family-owned estate produces award-winning wines from its 70-acre Patrician Verona Vineyard. Known for varietals such as Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir, the winery emphasizes sustainable farming practices to reflect the unique terroir of their site. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings of these artisanal wines in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
- Thirsty Owl Wine Co: Located on 150 acres along Cayuga Lake’s western shore in Ovid, New York, this winery offers a diverse selection of estate-grown wines, including Riesling, Pinot Gris, Malbec, Syrah, and Pinot Noir. Visitors can enjoy tastings in a spacious room with stunning lake views and, during the season, dine at the on-site bistro, which features local ingredients.
- Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery: Perhaps one of the most elegant Cayuga Lake wineries, From the vineyards to the glass, these estate-grown wines reflect the care and passion the winemakers put into every bottle. Step into the charming rustic barn and sip wines under the warm glow of gothic church lights.
- Buttonwood Grove Winery: This lakeside winery offers estate-grown wines from classic European grape varieties such as Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Riesling. Visitors can enjoy tastings on a spacious multi-level deck with scenic views of Cayuga Lake.
The Best Bed and Breakfast in the Finger Lakes
Each morning of your stay at our bed and breakfast in the Finger Lakes, you can start in our elegant dining room or sunroom off the kitchen. You’ll enjoy our housemade sweet and savory treats, always paired with hot coffee, teas, and more. We take pride in our dedication to serving fresh, organic, and local food whenever possible. We look for the best of the best in everything we do, and you’ll see that in plenty of ways during your stay.
The guest rooms at our bed and breakfast offer a luxurious and intimate retreat in the heart of the Finger Lakes. Each elegantly designed room features plush bedding, modern amenities, and private baths. Select rooms offer cozy fireplaces, spa tubs, or private outdoor seating. Thoughtfully decorated to blend historic charm with contemporary comfort, the rooms provide a relaxing atmosphere perfect for unwinding after exploring nearby Cayuga Lake wineries, hiking trails, and local attractions.
Guests can also enjoy spa services, making your stay at our bed and breakfast in the Finger Lakes both rejuvenating and memorable. The Spa at Gothic Eves offers specialized healing services, including Eden Energy Medicine, Reiki, Crystal Therapy, and personalized massage therapy, as well as an infrared sauna with mood light therapy and an integrated sound system to enhance relaxation. Book your lodging today!
