A Guide to WNY Wineries and Craft Beverages
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.