Because we care… the Seneca Lake Wine Trail member wineries encourage you to taste responsibly! We’re happy to offer these five tasting tips to help plan your wine tasting trip while making sure your visit is safe and enjoyable

1. Pace yourself.

Our wineries aren’t going anywhere! It is feasible and recommended to visit 3 or 4 wineries in a day, maximum. Take your time, ask questions, learn about the wines you’re drinking. Our tasting room staffers are well-trained, passionate about wine, and excited to share their knowledge with you. It’s all about the experience!

2. Pack some snacks (or purchase them along the way). 

It’s nice to have a small cooler in the car stocked with cheese, crackers, granola bars, and other tasty treats to help curb your appetite and absorb the wine you’re tasting. Most wineries these days have cheese and charcuterie trays as well as other small snacks available for purchase.

3. Stay hydrated with water. 

It’s important to drink water (or another non-alcoholic beverage) throughout the day. This will help balance out any effects of the alcohol and will also help keep you hydrated – both very important!

4. Spit. 

Don’t worry, we won’t tell your mother! Did you know that it’s perfectly okay to swirl, sniff, sip… then spit?! Yes, it’s true. In fact, most professional wine writers and judges will do just that. Why, you might be wondering? Well, it helps preserve their taste buds and prevents them from becoming intoxicated while trying to seriously taste wine. Try it, you just might like it and we promise, you’ll be better able to taste the wines as you go, because the alcohol won’t be dulling your senses.

5. Taste responsibly. 

It is illegal to serve someone who is visibly intoxicated, even if that person has a designated driver or is on a bus or in a limo. If you appear intoxicated, you will be refused service. Please understand that our staff is professionally trained to assess intoxication. If you are refused service, the decision is not meant to offend. Take the time to sit back and relax for a bit, sip on some water, or just get some fresh air. We don’t like turning people away, but we have a responsibility to follow the law. Also, please be sure to carry your government-issued, valid (ie, not expired) photo ID at all times.

We want you to have a fun and enjoyable experience on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. We care because this isn’t just where we work, it’s where we live. We want to keep everyone safe, healthy, and happy while enjoying this beautiful slice of paradise! If you have any questions about wine tasting at Seneca Lake please don’t hesitate to contact the Seneca Lake Wine Trail Office: 877-536-2717.1.