I just returned from a long weekend trip to New York’s Finger Lakes region. My husband and I stayed with friends in an Airbnb on Cayuga Lake. During our stay we visited wineries on Cayuga and Seneca lakes. While each winery offered something unique, we did have a few favorites.

Our first stop on our first full day in the Finger Lakes was to Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery. We had reservations for a tasting and then lunch at the adjacent Ginny Lee Café. The gentleman conducting our tasting was friendly, funny and knowledgeable, which made the experience even better. During lunch we tried beer from Wagner’s craft brewery, Wagner Valley Brewing Company. We packed a lot into our first visit, and it was one of our favorite spots during our trip.

Wagner

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards came up as a popular spot during our winery search. We tried flights here, though not all of the wines were a hit. Before leaving, we noticed they served wine slushies in the restaurant. We each decided to order one and relax on the Adirondack chairs while enjoying our beverages. My bramble berry slushie was delicious and refreshing on the hot day!

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards

Chateau LaFayette Reneau was another highlight during our trip. We sat outside, overlooking the vineyards and Seneca Lake. The winery offers four different flight options: red, white, semi-dry or sweet. I chose white and enjoyed each wine offered. They included a small, complimentary pour of rosé with each tasting. Feeling a little peckish, we decided to share pimento cheese, crackers and olives as a snack.

Chateau LaFayette Reneau

An honorable mention goes to Finger Lakes Cider House, where we didn’t have any wine. The tasting room serves delicious ciders and even more delicious food. We each tried a customized cider flight and shared a cheese and charcuterie board, pickle flight and bread with spreads.

Add these spots to your list on your next visit to the Finger Lakes!

— Katie Skrzek, vice president/digital director