Seneca Lake Wine Trail Presents

Experience fall on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Image above: Wagner Vineyards Valois Vineyard – a must-stop for a photo op!

The Finger Lakes are often high on the list of fall travel destinations and it’s easy to see why. From the gorgeous fall foliage to the buzz of harvest season, fall is full of beautiful scenery and amazing experiences to enjoy. Here are a handful of ways that you can experience fall on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Views for days: take them in from these beautiful locations

Atwater Vineyards

The views at Atwater are hard to beat, and their seated tastings are both fun and enlightening. If a seated tasting isn’t what you’re after, check out their Al Fresco experience, where you’ll find wine by the bottle or glass, wine cocktails, and small bites in their outdoor seating area. Learn more here!

Miles Wine Cellars

National Geographic Traveler once described Miles as, “The most serenely gorgeous setting of any winery in the region.” and it’s hard to argue with that. This 1802 Greek Revival set on a hill overlooking Seneca Lake offers a diverse portfolio, of mostly vinifera, 100% estate grown wines. As the Miles family says, “You’ll feel Miles away…” and that’s the truth.

Boundary Breaks

A bit off the beaten path on the east side of Seneca Lake, Boundary Breaks has established itself as one of the top producers in the region, hauling in 90+ point scores from top wine publications on a regular basis. Their outdoor tastings feature individual stone patios with Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, and umbrellas. Their sweeping westerly views are among the best on the lake.

Sip and stay at these wineries with on-site lodging

Belhurst Castle

At Belhurst Castle and Winery their beautiful lakefront location, sprawling grounds, tasting room, spa, and dining options provide a full-service resort-like experience.

There are actually several lodging options offered at this iconic destination. The historic Chambers in the Castle feel as if you’ve slipped into another time and place. Three free-standing cottages range from one to three bedrooms, perfect for weekend getaways with friends. The Vinifera Inn has modern guest rooms on the second and third floor for breathtaking views of Seneca Lake. 2 ½ miles west of Belhurst Castle, White Springs Manor is a 1900’s Georgian revival farm manor. With 12 guest rooms inside, and one cottage adjacent to the property the peace and serenity of White Springs Manor is soul-filling.

The Inn at Glenora

Every room at the Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars overlooks Seneca Lake with a private patio or balcony. Need a little more space? Their cozy two-bedroom Vineyard Cottage accommodates 4-6 people. Cap it all off with a delicious meal at Veraisons Restaurant, featuring locally sourced cuisine and a wide variety of local wine, beer and spirits.

The Vineyard Cottage at Three Brothers

The Vineyard Cottage is surrounded by 40 acres of vineyards, with breathtaking views of Seneca Lake. It sleeps up to 4 people and boasts a kitchenette, two bedrooms, a private patio, second story loft, and such a relaxing vibe, you’ll never want to leave. But, you must, because you’ll definitely want to explore the wine, hard cider, and craft beer tasting options around the Estate.

Enjoy the flavors of fall with these delicious experiences

Mulled Wine at Toast Winery

Nothing says fall like mulled wine, and you’ll find it served only from September through December at Toast Winery! Made with their Celebration Red, they not only serve it up by the glass in their tasting room, you can purchase the mulling spices and wine in the tasting room or online, to enjoy any time you wish!

Photo of interior of dairy barn at Fox Run Vineyards, high ceilings with exposed beams, small tables with groups of 2-4 people enjoying wine and food pairings.

Tasting Blocks Dinners at Fox Run Vineyards

Enjoy the flavors of the region with this incredible food and wine experience at Fox Run Vineyards. Winemaker Craig Hosbach & Chef Brud Holland guide you through this four course dinner, focused on the principles chefs and winemakers use when collaborating on food and wine pairings. Each portion or “block” is served with a wine that enhances and showcases the intricate flavors of the meal. While you indulge, Craig and Brud will interpret the science behind food and wine pairing.

Quintessential fall experiences on Seneca Lake

Fall on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. Man holding red grape cluster and green grape cluster.

Picking grapes or picking up fresh grape juice at Fulkerson Winery

A 40+ year tradition, at Fulkerson Winery, whether you are a home winemaker, jelly or jam producer, or just want some delicious grapes, they have it all for you! U-Pick Grapes are available seven days a week from 9am-4pm. Call 607-243-7883 before heading over and their staff can update you on what varieties are available. Check in at the Tasting Room when you arrive and you’ll be directed where to pick.

Vineyard Picnic at Chateau LaFayette Reneau

The ultimate in outdoor winery experiences, the private picnic: a picnic box with an assorted selection of savory seasonal fare, a fresh baked demi-baguette, and a chilled bottle of Pinot Noir Rosé. For your comfort, thepicnic area includes: sun umbrellas, a cozy picnic blanket and pillows for lounging. Advance reservations are required for this experience. Book your visit, then get ready to soak in the sun overlooking Seneca Lake’s rolling hills and expansive vineyard views.

Ready to plan your fall visit to the Seneca Lake Wine Trail?

Fall on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. View of colorful fall foliage and Seneca Lake.

No matter what you do or where you go, there is nothing quite like fall on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. With 27 wineries to explore, plus great hiking, gorgeous waterfalls, delicious dining, and so much more, there is no better destination in the region than the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Start planning your visit today!