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Forget Napa Valley: 10 breathtaking wine trails to explore in Upstate NY

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2025/09/22 .. taking-wine-trails-to-explore-in-upstate-ny.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Monday, September 22nd 2025 at 16:18 GMT by syracuse.com
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Upstate New York’s Hidden Vineyards: A 10‑Trail Road‑Trip Guide That Outshines Napa

When people think of American wine, their mind usually flashes images of rolling vineyards in Napa Valley or the sun‑kissed hills of Sonoma. But a recent feature on Syracuse.com turns that expectation on its head, arguing that Upstate New York’s diverse terroir, cooler climate and historic roots make for a wine‑drinking experience that is as compelling—if not more so—than the famed California corridor. The article, titled “Forget Napa Valley: 10 Breathtaking Wine Trails to Explore in Upstate NY,” is essentially a travel planner for the discerning oenophile, complete with links to each trail’s official website, tasting rooms, and insider tips.

Below is a concise rundown of the ten trails highlighted in the piece, along with the key wineries, scenic highlights, and practical advice that the article offers to help you plan your own wine‑trail adventure.

1. Finger Lakes Wine Trail

Overview: The Finger Lakes region is the crown jewel of Upstate wine country. Spanning 12 counties and boasting over 70 wineries, the trail winds through picturesque lakes, limestone cliffs, and rolling hills.

Highlights:
- Hones Creek – A family‑owned estate known for its robust Chardonnays and the stunning “Chapel of the Vines.”
- Dr. Konstantin Frank’s Domaine – A pioneer of cool‑climate viticulture; his vineyard showcases the region’s signature Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
- Finger Lakes Winery & Museum – Offers a guided tasting that doubles as a history lesson about the local wine industry.

Travel Tips: The article suggests stopping at the Seneca Lake State Park for a picnic between tastings, and notes that most wineries open at 11 a.m. and close by 5 p.m., so plan accordingly. The linked website offers a downloadable map and recommended itineraries.

2. West Seneca Wine Trail

Overview: A more intimate alternative to the Finger Lakes, this trail is concentrated around the small towns of West Seneca and Marcellus.

Highlights:
- Wright’s Ridge Vineyards – Specializes in organic Pinot Noir.
- Stonelake Vineyards – Offers a scenic overlook of the West Seneca Reservoir.

Travel Tips: The article emphasizes the trail’s suitability for a weekend getaway. It includes a link to the West Seneca Chamber of Commerce for accommodation suggestions.

3. The Great Lakes Wine Trail

Overview: Spanning the shores of Lake Erie, this trail showcases wineries that blend the lake’s moderating climate with innovative techniques.

Highlights:
- Erie Ridge Winery – A boutique operation that pairs local craft beer with its own wines.
- GrapeVine – Known for experimental blends that incorporate lake‑water‑infused grapes.

Travel Tips: The Syracuse.com feature includes a link to the Great Lakes Wine Trail’s official site, which offers a “Wine & Dine” calendar and a map that pinpoints the exact location of each winery.

4. Rochester Wine Trail

Overview: Near Rochester, this trail highlights urban wineries that integrate contemporary design with classic vinification.

Highlights:
- Rochester Cellars – A rooftop tasting room with panoramic views of the city skyline.
- East River Vintners – Features a “farm-to-table” tasting menu that changes seasonally.

Travel Tips: The article notes that the trail is walkable, with a dedicated “Rochester Wine Trail” map that can be printed or accessed via QR code. A link to the city’s tourism board offers public transit routes.

5. Southern Tier Wine Trail

Overview: In the Southern Tier’s foothills, this trail offers a mix of classic varietals and bold, “noble” blends.

Highlights:
- Oro Valley Winery – The region’s oldest winery, famous for its red blends.
- Mason’s Mill – Known for its barrel‑age “Sierra” series.

Travel Tips: The article recommends stopping at the nearby Tanner’s Lake for a scenic boat ride. The Southern Tier Wine Trail’s website offers a downloadable guide to the 10 wineries.

6. Catskills Wine Trail

Overview: A trail that blends natural beauty with craft wines, the Catskills region’s cooler climate produces crisp, aromatic whites and robust reds.

Highlights:
- Shades & Sips – Offers a “Forest Tasting” experience that includes a guided hike.
- Silver Lake Vineyards – Known for its “Autumn Harvest” wine.

Travel Tips: The article advises visitors to bring a jacket, as the trail’s elevation can drop temperatures. The linked Catskills Wine Trail portal provides a schedule of seasonal festivals.

7. Adirondack Wine Trail

Overview: In the heart of the Adirondacks, this trail showcases sustainable practices and locally sourced grapes.

Highlights:
- Mountain View Winery – An eco‑friendly winery that partners with local farms for fresh produce.
- Blue Ridge Vineyards – Offers a “Ridge Tasting” that includes a panoramic view of the Adirondack High Peaks.

Travel Tips: The article includes a link to the Adirondack tourism board, which offers “stay & taste” packages at nearby cabins.

8. Buffalo Wine Trail

Overview: A lesser‑known trail, Buffalo’s urban vineyards bring a modern twist to traditional varietals.

Highlights:
- The Vine – Features a “Urban Rooftop” tasting room.
- Pioneer Cellars – Offers an interactive “DIY Wine” workshop.

Travel Tips: The article advises travelers to start at Elmwood Park, a historic park that houses several of the region’s wineries. The Buffalo Wine Trail website provides an interactive route planner.

9. Ithaca Wine Trail

Overview: Nestled among the Finger Lakes, Ithaca’s wine trail focuses on boutique wineries and artisanal production.

Highlights:
- Cornell Vineyards – Known for its “Cornell Reserve” and its collaboration with the university’s viticulture program.
- Cedar Falls Winery – Offers a “Fall Harvest” tasting that features local pumpkin wines.

Travel Tips: The article recommends visiting the Cornell Botanic Gardens between tastings. The Ithaca Wine Trail portal includes a list of wine shops that also offer tasting rooms.

10. Lake Erie Wine Trail (Second Mention)

Overview: This is a distinct segment from the earlier Great Lakes trail, focusing more on the Lake Erie shoreline’s unique terroir.

Highlights:
- Gulf Wine Estate – Specializes in “Lake‑Harvest” Riesling and Chardonnay.
- Blue Ocean Vineyards – Known for its “Sea‑Salt” aged Merlot.

Travel Tips: The article includes a link to a Syracuse.com travel guide that offers a day‑trip itinerary including a Gale River Trail walk.

Practical Take‑Away Tips from the Article

1. Seasonal Timing – The article stresses that the best time to visit is late spring to early fall. Late summer harvests provide an excellent opportunity to witness the grape‑picking process.
2. Tasting Fees – Many wineries charge a “tasting fee” ranging from $15–$25, with some offering free tastings for visitors who purchase a bottle.
3. Booking Ahead – The piece advises making reservations a week in advance, especially for popular wineries on the Finger Lakes trail.
4. Transportation – For safety, the article recommends renting a car or hiring a local guide. Several wineries, particularly on the Rochester and Catskills trails, offer shuttle services.
5. Food Pairing – Many wineries feature on‑site restaurants. The Syracuse.com article lists each wine’s recommended cheese or charcuterie pairing, giving diners a richer tasting experience.

Final Thoughts

The Syracuse.com article does more than simply list wineries; it creates a narrative that invites readers to experience Upstate New York’s winemaking heritage as an immersive travel experience. From the lakeside vineyards of the Finger Lakes to the eco‑friendly cellars tucked among the Adirondack peaks, the ten trails collectively showcase a region that thrives on both tradition and innovation.

The piece also functions as a practical guide—complete with links to each trail’s official site, interactive maps, and a calendar of events. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a curious traveler looking to replace the stereotypical Napa weekend with something uniquely American, these trails offer a refreshing alternative. The next time you’re planning a wine‑centric getaway, consider ditching the California coast and rolling downstate toward a region where every sip feels like a journey back to the land’s roots.