All the Best Things You’ll See on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail
Enjoy world-class wineries, fun events, and plenty of gorgeous scenic views when you explore the Keuka Lake Wine Trail! The smallest of the trails in the Finger Lakes Wine Region, this route features five outstanding family-owned wineries. Learn about the businesses on this path and discover where you want to stop along your Finger Lakes getaway!
Tour the Keuka Lake Wine Trail
The Keuka Lake Wine Trail is the smallest of the Finger Lakes Trails. When compared to the Seneca Lake Wine Trail (which boasts a whopping 26 wineries) or Cayuga Lake Wine Trail (with 12 members), Keuka Lake has only five wineries. However, the trail’s small size means that it’s more manageable for guests to explore the entire route in just one day. In regards to driving time, it only takes about an hour to drive to every location. That means that you’ll have plenty of time to visit each winery and enjoy samples or an entire glass of wine.
The wineries on the trail have been in business for an average of 25 years, and have been awarded some of the most sought-after prizes in the industry. Best of all, these wineries are mostly family-owned-and-operated, so you’ll be supporting a piece of Keuka history! Preview the five wineries below:
Heron Hill Winery
Since 1977, Heron Hill Winery has been recognized as one of the premier producers of Rieslings in the region. Heron Hill has taken this flagship varietal and perfected it, earning recognition as one of the best tasting rooms in the world from Travel + Leisure Magazine! On the grounds at their Keuka location, you’ll find their tasting room and the Blue Heron Cafe, which is open in the warmer months. Stop by their gift shop while you’re there to pick up a unique souvenir and be sure to check their calendar of events, so you don’t miss out on any of the fun!
Hunt Country Vineyards
Hunt Country Vineyards is the perfect example of old meeting new on the Finger Lakes. The winery has been in the farming business for seven generations, always remaining on the cutting edge of new and innovative technology. Currently, they have a 348-panel solar system providing most of the farm’s electricity, as well as a geothermal heating and cooling system. They even have five electric vehicle chargers for their customers! During your visit, head to The Cafe to enjoy a nice glass of Hunt Country wine and a delicious meal. Tours of the vineyard are available twice a day on Saturday and Sunday from Memorial Day to Labor Day. They also offer three different types of tastings: a standard tasting, an ice wine tasting, and a chocolate and wine pairing.
Keuka Spring Vineyards
Keuka Springs Vineyards is the perfect example of a passion turning into a lucrative venture! In the late 1980s, Judy and Len Wiltberger transformed their love of wine into a family-operated vineyard and winery. Today, this award-winning winery is still run by Len and Judy, as well as their children. Their tasting room overlooks the east side of Keuka Lake, giving guests a stunning view of this gorgeous body of water. There’s nothing more relaxing than sipping a delicious glass of chilled wine with the warm sun reflecting off the calm surface of Keuka Lake.
Weis Vineyards
Founded by the dynamic duo of Hans Peter, hailing from the picturesque Zell Mosel in Germany, and Ashlee, a proud native of Hammondsport, NY, Weis Vineyards beautifully merges their shared passion for winemaking. Drawing inspiration from Peter’s family’s time-honored winemaking traditions and Ashlee’s deep-rooted connection to the region, Weis Vineyards produces exquisitely handcrafted wines that showcase the exceptional terroir of the Finger Lakes. With meticulous attention to detail and an unwavering commitment to quality, each bottle is crafted to be savored by all who seek a truly remarkable wine experience. Discover why we were named New York State’s Winery of the Year in 2022!
Vineyard View Winery
Like many of the other establishments on this list, Vineyard View Winery is all about family and creating an exceptional product. You’re sure to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and refined wines. They offer a wine tasting, which is just $5 for five wines, or pre-selected flights. If you’re hungry, order a boxed lunch, which is provided by Flour Shop.
Attend an Event Hosted by the Keuka Lake Wine Trail
Savoring Sweets
If your favorite part of any meal is the dessert? You’ll have a custom itinerary for the day where you’ll be treated to special tastings, wine samples, and light food pairings featuring items curated by a local chef with a sweet inspiration in mind.
Wine & Cheese Lovers
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway, book your tickets to Keuka Lake for mid-April! This event showcases local cheeses and the best wines from the Keuka Lake region. Tickets to this event always sell out fast, so be sure to plan ahead.
Handcrafted Holiday
Book your tickets early for Keuka Holidays! This event is the perfect time to go shopping for the wine-lover in your life. You’ll sample some hearty winter dishes and receive a seasonal gift at each of the locations.
Book a Stay at the Vineyard Inn and Suites
After your day of exploring the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, return to one of our beautiful suites at the Best Western Plus Vineyard Inn and Suites! We offer the best selection in the region, with top-notch customer service. We offer 6 different room types to host you.