While the calendar says it’s spring, the weather in upstate New York hasn’t caught up yet. My husband and I were looking for something to do on a dreary, gray, not-so-spring-like Saturday. So we did what we normally do when we’re bored — venture out to discover someplace new! We went on a little road trip to Cayuga Lake. We often visit wineries on Seneca Lake and Keuka Lake, simply because they are closer to our vacation cottage. But this lake just to the east of Seneca Lake, about an hour from our home-away-from-home, offers plenty of wineries to visit.

First, we checked out Sheldrake Point Winery, which boasts being named New York State Winery of the Year twice and has been listed among the Top 100 Wineries by Wine & Spirits magazine. They had a whopping five different Reislings, always my favorite wine to taste.

Buttonwood Grove Winery was the winner of the 2017 Governor’s Cup best wine in New York State. They had a delicious unoaked Chardonnay and a rare white limited release of Cabernet Franc, called Blanc de Franc.

The Thirsty Owl Wine Company has great wine and a great view of Cayuga Lake. During the summer months they offer outdoor dining at The Bistro with a seasonal menu I hope to try this summer when it’s open.

Last, but not least, was my favorite, Goose Watch Winery. In my quest to experience new things, I always try wine varietals I have never had before or that other wineries in that particular region don’t offer. Goosewatch did not disappoint in this area. They had a Pinot Grigio, a common wine but not so common in the Finger Lakes. They also had a Viognier and Aromella, a grape developed by Cornell University and the first of this varietal label in the country. It was well worth the drive.

— Tracey Cullen, art director