Special Promotion

A Guide to WNY Wineries and Craft Beverages

Wine regions and craft beverage producers are abundant in Western NY and along the Erie Lakeshore
Photography By | September 02, 2023
Share to printerest
Share to fb
Share to twitter
Share to mail
Share to print
grape vineyard with winery barn in background

REGIONS

Lake Erie Wine Country

Nestled along the southeastern shore of Lake Erie lies the largest grape-growing region east of the Rockies. With its loamy soil and a climate moderated by the great lake, more than 30,000 vineyard acres fill the narrow plain that runs 50 miles from Harbor Creek, PA, to Silver Creek, NY.  This is Lake Erie Wine Country, home to more than 20 wineries which produce abundant and diverse wines from dry to sweet, from classic Riesling and Pinot Noir to fruity American, and from port and sherry to award-winning ice wine. Tasting rooms are open year-round and welcome visitors from around the world. 877-326-6561; lakeeriewinecountry.org.

Chautauqua County

Microclimates in Chautauqua County along the Lake Erie shoreline and atop the Allegheny plateau support a variety of agricultural crops from fruits to grains. In recent years, farm wineries, breweries and distilleries have grown and expanded, offering some of New York’s finest craft beverages. Paired with cultural attractions such as the National Comedy Center, Chautauqua Institution and Roger Tory Peterson Institute, and outdoor sporting opportunities, the county offers year-round renaissance experiences for visitors as well as the pinnacle of cultured rural living for residents. #Live CHQ, #Sip CHQ; chqpartnership.org/relocation-guide; tourchautauqua.com.

 

WINERIES & SHOPS

Mazza Wines

Mazza’s family of brands showcase the terroir, climate and viticultural expertise of Western NY and Northwestern PA. Established in 1972 with a single vineyard, Mazza now operates three primary locations in the Lake Erie AVA: Mazza Vineyards and South Shore Wine Company in North East, PA, and Mazza Chautauqua Cellars/Five & 20 Spirits & Brewing in Westfield, NY; enjoymazza.com.

Johnson Estate Winery

As an estate or farm winery, Johnson uses grapes from its own vineyards with varieties selected for their excellent wine-making quality and suitability for the Lake Erie microclimate. 8419 W Main St, Westfield, NY; 716-326-2191; johnsonwinery.com.

Sheldrake Point Winery

Celebrating 25 years on the western shore of Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes Region, Sheldrake Point Winery was twice named New York State Winery of the Year. 7448 County Rd 153, Ovid; 607-532-9401; sheldrakepoint.com.

Bag & String Wine Merchants

Purveyors of unique wines and spirits from around the globe as well as Western NY. They provide unparalleled service, wine education and a selection that meets consumers’ needs and budget including online ordering, local delivery and case discounts. 110 Chautauqua Ave, Lakewood; 716-763-4000; bagandstringwine.com.

Related Stories & Recipes

A Guide to Farmers’ Markets in Western NY

Farmers' markets can be found throughout Western New York during the growing season. Some are even open throughout the year. We've compiled a list with as much information on dates and locations as we...