One of the most popular activities that’s grown exponentially over the past decade in the Finger Lakes area is wine tasting! And one of the best places to explore these award-winning wineries is along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. These establishments are nestled along the lake, nearby one another, and offer stunning views and amazing tasting options. Many have lovely food choices, things to do, and tours to explore.
The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is the first-ever organized and continues to be the longest-running wine trail in America. It was established in 1983 to help promote the fantastic wineries within the Cayuga Lake American Viticultural Area (AVA) as a collective. The wineries in this region have earned more than 6,000 national and international medals. The wine isn’t the only draw; tasting here includes breathtaking views of Cayuga Lake, Taughannock Falls, and stunning vineyards along the lakeshore.
If you’re heading to the Finger Lakes region for wine tasting, the best way to truly enjoy yourself is by booking overnight accommodations. The Cayuga Wine Trails is home to ten wineries, far too many to cover in one day, so a multi-day adventure is always the ideal way to leisurely get a grasp of the area and our offerings. That’s where our luxurious bed and breakfast—one of the top-rated places to stay in the Finger Lakes—comes in. We love hosting couples and friends who have an appreciation for the finer things in life. Check out our guest rooms and get your reservation on the books today!
Head to the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail near our Finger Lakes B&B
Each winery along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail has its own unique charm and character, making every stop a memorable experience. The region is known for growing beautiful cold-weather varietals and wines from Germany. The Rieslings, Gewurztraminer, and ice wines are often in the gold medal categories at competitions.
Here are the 10 Cayuga Lake Wine Trail wineries to visit along the trail:
- Americana Vineyards: Known for its rustic charm and laid-back vibe, Americana Vineyards offers a diverse selection of wines to please every palate. Make sure to try their fruity Cayuga White or their bold Cabernet Franc.
- Buttonwood Grove Winery: Nestled among the vines, Buttonwood Grove Winery exudes rustic elegance. Take a leisurely stroll through their vineyards before tasting their superb Chardonnays and Cabernet Francs.
- Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery: Often in the top rankings of wine competitions, this local Cayuga Lake Wine Trail winery is a lovely stop for wine tasting and lunch. The pastoral property has a red barn, sparkling lights, and farm-fresh food options.
- Hosmer Winery: This 70-acre winery on the Western shore of Cayuga Lake is perfect for an afternoon of tastings and tours. You’ll be privy to their sustainable practices and hear more about the history of the Patrician Verona Vineyard.
- Knapp Winery: For over 40 years, this winery on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail has been producing Cabernet franc and their signature Riesling varietals. They offer fun-themed days, including Fry Fridays, Bloody Mary Sundays, and exceptional wine dinners.
- Lucas Vineyards: One of the oldest wineries in the region, Lucas Vineyards is famous for its award-winning Rieslings and fun atmosphere. Don’t miss their scenic deck overlooking the vineyards, where you can sip wine while soaking in the stunning views.
- Montezuma Winery: Whether you enjoy dry or sweet wines, you’ll find them all at Montezuma Winery, along with welcoming hospitality, knowledgeable wine ambassadors, and so much more.
- Six Mile Creek Vineyards: One of our favorite wineries on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, you’ll love tasting the locally grown wines at this stop. Be sure to grab a chair in the sunshine on the outdoor patio space.
- Swedish Hill Winery: This tasting room channels the vibes of a cozy European chalet. Their elegant tasting room and deck are perfect for sampling their exquisite Rieslings and Gewürztraminers.
- Thirsty Owl Wine Co.: The winery has 150 acres nestled on the western shore of Cayuga Lake, a farm-to-table bistro, and a 14-slip dock to park your boat. Cruising on the lake and tasting wine is as good as it gets!
One of the Best Places to Stay in the Finger Lakes
Our romantic bed and breakfast is one of the best places to stay in the Finger Lakes, especially if you plan to explore the Cayuga Lake wine trail. Our Inn is only minutes from the lake and is within just a quick drive from the majority of the best Cayuga Lake wineries. You’ll wake refreshed at the Inn at Gotic Eves, enjoy a beautiful farm-fresh breakfast, take your time and relax, and then set out to taste some of the most exciting wines in the Finger Lakes region.
We even have a guest room named after the lake. The Cayuga Suite is one of the ultimate places to stay in the Finger Lakes and is one of two suites located above our luxurious Spa at Gothic Eves. The suite contains a separate bedroom with a queen-size bed, a sitting room, and a custom-tiled bathroom. The muted color palate, fine furnishings, and elegant setting area create the perfect ambiance for a romantic couples’ getaway. If you happen to be traveling with another couple, be sure to book the Seneca Suite, and you’ll be just across the hall from one another.
As mentioned above, each day at our Finger Lakes Bed and Breakfast begins with a lovely home-cooked breakfast. We aim to create healthful, wholesome, flavorful meals without skimping on the decadence. We use local produce from nearby farms whenever possible, frequent the Trumansburg Farmers Market (also a great outing for our guests), and even grow our own vegetables and herbs. It’s the best way to start the day before exploring the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. Book your stay today!
