Exploring the best Finger Lakes Wineries in Upstate New York’s countryside is an unforgettable experience. You’ll have the opportunity to taste the finest wines the region offers, all while surrounded by breathtaking scenery. This is a four-season destination. The Finger Lakes region is home to more than 100 wineries, so there’s no shortage of great places to explore!
In the winter, the tasting rooms are cozy and comforting with fewer visitors, making tastings more intimate. Spring brings buds to the vines, and crisp days perfect for tours. During the summer months, the weather is absolutely perfect for al fresco wine tastings, picnic lunches, and even arriving by boat. In the autumn, the striking fall foliage of Upstate NY sets such a beautiful tone for a wine tasting getaway.
The Finger Lakes AVA, encompassing the Cayuga Lake AVA and Seneca Lake AVA, was established in 1982. The climate of our wine region is often compared to German growing areas, so you’ll find similar varietals, including Riesling and Gewurztraminer. Thanks to deep, rocky soils, the Finger Lakes region has excellent drainage, and most of the vines are planted on steep hillsides alongside the lakes, where the breeze can cool the fruit during the warmer months.
One of the best ways to enjoy the bounty of the best Finger Lakes wineries is by booking a midweek or weekend getaway in Upstate, NY. That’s where our luxurious Boutique Hotel in the Finger Lakes comes in! We’re in the perfect location in the charming village of Trumansburg, with a lovely selection of local Finger Lakes wineries within a quick drive of our Inn. You’ll have a beautifully appointed room awaiting your return with high-end amenities for the most relaxing and indulgent stay. Reserve your room today!
Wine Tastings at the Best Finger Lakes Wineries
The selection of Finger Lakes wineries is impressive! Including these beautiful, sweeping lakefront vineyards, it’s a picture-perfect way to spend a romantic getaway or girlfriends’ trip in this region. If you’re staying at our Wine Country Hotel and Spa, we suggest heading to the nearby wineries along the Cayuga and Seneca Lake Wine Trails. Each of these has its own local wine trail, and you’ll even find local wine tour companies to best explore these Finger Lakes wineries without worrying about transportation.
Here are 10 of the best Finger Lake wineries to explore on your next visit:
- Fox Run Vineyards is a family-owned Finger Lakes winery that has been making approachable wines since 1989, with a focus on sustainable practices. Grab a spot on the expansive outdoor garden patio for a food-and-wine pairing.
- Located only 15 minutes from our Inn on Cayuga Lake, Sheldrake Point Winery is an award-winning 44-acre winery and an excellent stop along your adventure, especially if you’re a sparkling wine fan or love a dry rosé. You’ll find ample space to enjoy a glass of wine inside the tasting room or outdoors in the vineyard.
- At Frontenac Point Vineyard & Estate, you can relax on the covered deck, overlooking the vineyards and a spectacular view of Cayuga Lake, with a glass or a flight of wines. This winery is just five minutes from our hotel and spa in the Finger Lakes.
- Red Newt Cellars offers many fantastic vintages and varietals at this winery in Hector, NY. They offer stand-up or seated wine tastings and light fare, paired with stunning views, either indoors or on the expansive deck.
- We partner with Six Mile Creek Vineyard for a two-for-the-price-of-one tasting for our hotel guests. It’s one of our favorite stops near Ithaca for a wine tasting. Call ahead to make a reservation and taste these delicious wines at a great price!
- Americana Vineyards is one of the most rustic wineries in the Finger Lakes. This winery fits perfectly into the renovated 1820s swing barn, just about a five-minute drive from our front door. Head here for lively wine tastings out on the lawn, often accompanied by local musicians.
- Explore the stunning grounds and plan for a delicious meal at the on-site bistro at Thirsty Owl Wine Company. Spanning 150 acres on the western shore of Cayuga Lake, this is one of the few Finger Lakes wineries that welcome guests by boat.
- Three Brothers Winery and Estate is one of the largest establishments in the Finger Lakes region. Find a unique tasting experience at this estate that hosts three distinct Finger Lakes wineries, a microbrewery, and a cafe for lunch and early dinner. There’s a lot to discover here!
- On 23 acres overlooking Seneca Lake, Ventosa Vineyards, this Tuscan-inspired winery produces 100 percent of its Italian-style wines with estate-grown grapes. Head here for flights, lunch on the veranda at Cafe Toscana, and intimate vineyard tours.
- Silver Thread Winery is known for producing fantastic Riesling and cool-climate varietals. This is one of the oldest grape-growing sites on Seneca Lake. Explore the beautiful property and discover cozy seating areas with lovely views.
Stay at our Luxurious Boutique Hotel in the Finger Lakes
When you stay at the Inn at Gothic Eves, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore the best Finger Lakes wineries nearby. However, if you prefer to unwind in your luxurious guest suite or out on our award-winning garden grounds, that’s completely understandable! It’s always a good idea to bring back a bottle from the Finger Lakes wineries and enjoy it in the comfort of your own room. During check-in, you’ll discover our love for wine, as most of our guest rooms are named after our favorite grape varietals.
As one of the most romantic Boutique Hotels in the Finger Lakes, we provide an exceptional experience that goes beyond just a place to stay. With eight distinct guest suites, six located in our main house and two in the Potter House, connected by a charming patio space, we offer an unforgettable stay. Each of our rooms features contemporary, chic decor and fixtures, along with all the essential amenities for a comfortable, peaceful stay. For an even more rejuvenating experience, guests can book a treatment (or two) at our exceptional on-site spa and then unwind with a soak in our hot tub.
Every morning, you will wake up feeling refreshed and greeted by the delightful aroma of freshly baked goods and hot coffee coming from the kitchen downstairs. Our farm-to-table breakfast service is the perfect way to kickstart your day. As a guest of our hotel and spa, you will be treated to exquisite homemade dishes made with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, many of which are from nearby farms. Find out more about the experience at our Inn on our social media channels: Facebook & Instagram. We are excited to have you as our guest; reserve your stay today!
