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Niagara County Camping Resort Lockport, New York |
New York: Follow this wine trail to tantalizing vintages
Go on the hunt for great wine flavors in a trip that encompasses laid-back agricultural communities and bustling resort destinations. Along the way, stop in a spot renowned for horse racing and natural springs.
Drive 69.5 miles, 1 hour, 15 minutes
1. Valley Falls
Starting Point
This rich, rolling farm ground, located on the banks of the pastoral Hoosic River, has been producing agricultural products for three centuries, making it the perfect location for a family farm winery. Amorici Vineyard crafts vinos from estate-grown grapes—Aromella, Fontenac, Kay Gray and Marquette—along with others sourced from within the state. Over a dozen wines are available for tasting and purchase, including a Cayuga made from New York’s favorite grape.
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2. Saratoga Springs
21.6 miles, 31 minutes
Natural-spring spas and world-renowned horse racing may bring you here, but spend a day winery hopping, and you’ll have a new appreciation for local vinos. Halfmoon Cellars crafts several Old-World classic wines and pairs them with chocolate or cheese; the Saratoga Winery has a downhome rustic vibe with unpretentious wine names like Torched Cherry Bomb, Saratoga Spitfire and Hillbilly Mountain Mash; Thirsty Owl Outlet & Wine Garden is located on the shores of Cayuga Lake with a roster of more than 20 wines to choose from.
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3. Lake George
47.9 miles, 44 minutes
This quaint Adirondack town has it all: unique shopping, delectable food and a steamboat cruise. Visitors can shop in town or hike the trails that follow the shores of this world-famous destination. When it’s time to unwind and soak up the local ambience, head for the Adirondack Winery. Over two dozen wines are crafted here, running the gamut from traditional grape varietals to fruit-infused vinos to Port-style dessert wines. Tasting possibilities include the standard offering, an upgraded session for two, a premium wine tasting, or a group session for eight or more. If you feel the urge to wander, check out more wineries on the state’s newest trail, the Upper Hudson Valley Wine Trail.