Seneca Lake Wine Trail - Watkins Glen, NY - Wine by the Lake

The Seneca Lake Wine Trail run by the Seneca Lake Winery Association (SLWA) is a grouping of 35 wineries that make, distribute, and participate in the wine industry in the Finger Lakes Region of New York state. The SLWA invites visitors to the area to experience many events all focused on wine production and consumption. Seneca Lake is the largest of the Finger Lakes and does not freeze over during the wintertime. The surrounding area has at least 40 different wineries and farms. The area is one of 193 in America that are designated as an American Viticultural Area (AVA). To qualify, 85% of the grapes used in a wine's production must be grown in the specified AVA area.

Miles Wine Cellars, located at 168 Randall Crossing Road, Himrod, NY, is one of the 2010 SLWA member wineries. Miles Wine Cellars is open year-round and offers wine tasting and picnic grounds. The mansion on the property is on the National Historic Register and is an example of Greek Revival architecture. The winery produces many wines including: Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Wisteria. Miles Wine Cellars also offers opportunity for weddings and banquets.

Another 2010 member of the SLWA is the Belhurst Winery, located at 4069 State Route 14 South Geneva, New York. Belhurst Castle is on the National Register of Historic Places. It overlooks Seneca Lake and visitors are welcome for wine tasting. Belhurst has won many awards for their wines. In 2009, their semi-dry Riesling won Best in Show, Double Gold, and Silver in seven categories of wine competitions. They also produce merlot and Pinot Grigio wines, among others. There is a gift shop on site.

Throughout the year SLWA presents several "passport events.'' A passport is purchased by the visitor and when shown at any of the participating wineries, entitles the holder to free wine tasting. Each special event passport program is somewhat different, but all are based on showcasing the finest wines from each winery. On April 23-35, 2010, the passport program offers "Wine and Cheese Weekend. This is co-sponsored by Cabot Farms cheese makers. The event attempts combine both wine and cheese tasting at over 30 different wineries in the area.

The SLWA recognizes over 80 different businesses that provide service to the wine trail area. These businesses include dining, lodging, transportation, and attractions. The Montage Italian Grill at the Glen Motor Inn in Watkins Glen is open May through October and serves lunch and supper daily. The main dining room seats 100 and wedding parties and banquets are welcome with reservation. For more information, interested parties can contact 607-535-2706. The Crow's Nest Restaurant in Waterloo, NY specializes in seafood and salads and uses local produce and wines for their meals. They offer waterfront dining and welcome banquets and parties with reservation. Interested parties can call 315-781-0600 for more information.

Event tickets can be purchased online with credit card or by mail by check. Tickets are non-refundable. Participants must also provide proof of age (21 years) and wear the ID wristband during events. The Seneca Lake Winery Association is located at 2 N. Franklin Street, Suite 320, Watkins Glen, NY, 14891. They can be reached by phone at 607-535-8080.