With more than 100 wineries in the Finger Lakes, it’s not always easy to narrow it down to a modest and doable tasting itinerary; thankfully, there’s a great selection of wineries on Seneca Lake, which is a great place to start to get an idea of the terroir and our cold-weather varietals that thrive here. The large size and deep depths of Seneca Lake make it the perfect place for vineyards, so it’s no surprise that Seneca Lake is home to more wineries than any of the other Finger Lakes.
The Seneca Wine Trail is a collection of 27 wineries on the shores and hills along the lakeside. The wineries on Seneca Lake NY are known for stellar wine tastings with stunning views, knowledgeable wine ambassadors, and yearly events that you won’t want to miss. Spring is a lovely time to explore these wineries on Seneca Lake, as the vineyards will just be budding with green, the crowds of summer are still to come, and the crisp sunny days set a beautiful backdrop.
Due to the sheer number of Finger Lakes wineries, it’s best to make a full weekend or multiple weekday getaway out of it! And our Bed and Breakfast in the Finger Lakes is in the ideal location to enjoy these wineries on Seneca Lake. The majority of these local vineyards are under a 20-minute scenic drive, and you’ll even find guided touring options where transportation is included (some will even do door-to-door service at the Inn!) You’ll taste the day away and have luxurious accommodations awaiting your return. Book your stay today!
The Top Ten Wineries on Seneca Lake
The associate members of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail span the East and West sides of the nearly 40-mile lake. Due to the miles of shoreline and deep water of this Finger Lake, the climate is ideal for grape cultivation. This body of water is too deep to freeze in the winter months, so it acts as heat storage for the vineyards along the shores.
Our list will narrow down the best Seneca Lake wineries to the east side of the lake, as these choices are all about 20 minutes from our Bed and Breakfast in the Finger Lakes.
Here are ten wineries on Seneca Lake to check out during your visit to the Finger Lakes:
- Atwater Estate Vineyards offers one of the most panoramic views of Seneca Lake. The vineyards at this Finger Lake winery were planted in 2000 and now grow 16 varieties and produce 7000 cases of wine each year.
- The winemakers at Chateau LaFayette Reneau use European techniques to create delicate white wines and rich, bold reds. Tastings take place in a fully restored barn from the early 1900s.
- You’ll find a range of dry to semi-dry whites and delicate to big and bold reds at Damiani Wine Cellars, considered one of the best Seneca Lake wineries. Stop in for a tasting, play a round of bocce ball, and you might even catch some live music at this.
- Hazlitt 1852 is one of the oldest wineries on Seneca Lake NY. The Hector location offers three distinct tasting areas on the property. You can head to the horseshoe-shaped bar and indoor or outdoor tables, or explore the beautiful landscape.
- Idol Ridge Winery is the perfect place for wine and spirits lovers to come together. You can enjoy a wine or liquor tasting.
- The hundred percent solar-powered Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars, often ranked among the best Seneca Lake wineries, offers 20 unique vineyard blocks with ten varietals. Their wines often earn more than 90-plus points from Wine & Spirits magazine.
- Three Brothers Wineries & Estates offers four unique tasting opportunities at this local estate. Choose from singular tastings of wine, beer, or cider, or get a bundle pack and enjoy all. You can also grab lunch at the Iron Heart Cafe.
- Enjoy a taste of Tuscany at Ventosa Vineyards. This Finger Lakes winery is a beautiful estate that regularly hosts live music and serves traditional Italian classics at the on-site Cafe Toscana.
- One of the stalwart wineries in the Finger Lakes, Wagner Vineyards offers great tasting opportunities. We love the library tasting, which shows how wines can age from vintage to vintage.
- Zugibe Vineyards has a lovely selection, from wine to mimosas and beer to cider; they’ve got you covered. For a Mediterranean menu, pop into the Phoenician Bistro
The Best Bed and Breakfast in the Finger Lakes
After thoroughly exploring the region’s beautiful wines at the best wineries on Seneca Lake near our Bed and Breakfast in the Finger Lakes, you’ll be ready to retreat to your luxurious accommodations back at the Inn. From our cozy common rooms with fireplaces and ample seating to your own private guest room, there are plenty of spaces to unwind and relax. If the weather cooperates, lounge away in our hammocks or Adirondack chairs around our garden property.
Every morning at our Bed and Breakfast in the Finger Lakes is a celebration of local produce and products with our farm-to-table-style breakfast service. When possible, we use ingredients from our own vegetable garden on-site. We also feature proteins and cheeses from nearby Finger Lakes farms. You’ll also enjoy French press coffee, teas, and fresh juices. We’re happy to accommodate dietary restrictions when we can; alert us as soon as you book.
Other than tasting and touring the wineries on Seneca Lake, another fantastic addition to your couple’s getaway or friend’s retreat is a trip to the Spa at Gothic Eves, the premier Finger Lakes spa for massages and whole-body wellness. We also offer infrared sauna sessions and energy healing!
Our on-site spa offers something relaxing for everyone; not all lodging properties in the Finger Lakes offer these services. Find out more about the experience at our Inn on our social media channels: Facebook and Instagram. Reserve your room today!
