Best Seneca Lake Wineries
Where to Taste, Stay, and Explore on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail
New York | Finger Lakes
Seneca Lake Winery Guide
This guide to the best Seneca Lake wineries highlights the depth, diversity, and quality that define the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. While Seneca Lake is not the longest of the Finger Lakes—that distinction belongs to Cayuga—it is the largest by volume and reaches a depth of 618 feet. That depth plays a major role in shaping the wine. The lake’s deep waters resist freezing and act as a natural temperature regulator, absorbing and slowly releasing heat to prevent extreme temperature swings. These moderating effects allow grapes to ripen fully while preserving acidity, a hallmark of many of the best Finger Lakes wineries. The result is a region known for precise Riesling, structured Chardonnay, and increasingly compelling Finger Lakes red wine. The Seneca Lake AVA, established in 2003 as a nestled-AVA of the broader Finger Lakes AVA, spans 320 square miles and contains the highest concentration of wineries in the region. If you’re planning a focused wine trip, this trail delivers both scale and quality.
This site contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we believe in.
You Might Also Like These Finger Lakes Guides
Best Towns to Stay When Visiting the Best Seneca Lake Wineries
Choosing where to stay can shape your entire experience along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. From walkable downtown energy to vineyard immersion and lakefront sunsets, each town offers something different. Below are the best places to base yourself when exploring the best Seneca Lake wineries, along with curated lodging suggestions for different travel styles.
Geneva, New York
Best for Walkability, Dining & Access to All Three Wine Trails
Located at the northern tip of Seneca Lake, Geneva offers the most energy, dining options, and central access. It’s ideal if you plan to visit multiple lakes, as you’ll be within reach of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Keuka Lake Wine Trail, and Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. Linden Street anchors the nightlife with wine bars and restaurants, making evenings easy and walkable.
Where to Stay in Geneva
41 Lakefront Hotel (Best for Couples & Pet Owners)
A lakefront hotel within walking distance of restaurants and bars. Features include an indoor pool, gym, onsite restaurant, and pet-friendly rooms. Ideal if you want convenience and hotel amenities while exploring the best Finger Lakes wineries.
Historic 98 (Best for Groups & Families)
A restored 4-bedroom historic home that sleeps 8, complete with a game room, firepit, and backyard. Walkable to downtown. Great for wine weekends with friends.
Drift Away Cottage (Best for Relaxed Lakefront Stays)
A 2-bedroom lakefront cottage with a hot tub, kayaks, Pac-Man game, and private dock. Perfect for smaller groups wanting lake views after wine tasting.
Geneva works best if you want nightlife, restaurants, and flexibility across multiple wine trails.
Watkins Glen, New York
Best for Southern Seneca Wineries & Waterfall Scenery
Watkins Glen sits at the southern end of Seneca Lake and pairs wine tasting with dramatic outdoor scenery. It’s the gateway to the southeastern “Banana Belt,” where warmer conditions help produce standout Finger Lakes red wine. It’s also home to Watkins Glen State Park and the Finger Lakes Wine Festival.
Where to Stay in Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel (Best for Upscale Comfort)
Lakefront hotel with indoor pool, gym, onsite dining, and walkability to town. Ideal for couples or travelers wanting a polished stay near southern wineries.
Idlwilde Inn (Best for Romantic Getaways)
A charming bed & breakfast with lake views and included breakfast. Quiet, cozy, and perfect for couples exploring the best Seneca Lake wineries.
Lakeview Cottage with Waterfall (Best for Groups)
A 3-bedroom home with private waterfall views, large deck, and space for gatherings. Great for wine-focused friend trips.
Village Apartment (Best for Budget-Friendly & Pet-Friendly Stays)
A 2-bedroom, pet-friendly apartment within walking distance to restaurants. A practical option for casual wine weekends.
Watkins Glen is ideal if you want hiking by day and wine tasting in the Banana Belt by afternoon.
Hector, New York
Best for Staying in the Heart of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail
Hector places you directly in the vineyard corridor along the eastern shore. Many of the best Seneca Lake wineries are within minutes, making it easy to minimize driving. This area is known for some of the best Finger Lakes sunset views, especially from winery patios overlooking the lake.
Where to Stay in Hector
Single Island Shores (Best for Lakefront Cabins & Groups)
Lakefront cottages in multiple sizes, from cozy cabins to a large chalet that sleeps 14. Private dock, sunset views, and pet-friendly options make it ideal for group wine trips.
Christine’s Cabin (Best for Couples)
A romantic 1-bedroom cabin with fireplace and private outdoor space. Perfect for quiet evenings after exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
Vineyard Hideaway at Hazlitt 1852 (Best for True Vineyard Immersion)
A 2-bedroom cottage located within a working vineyard. Includes a fire pit, full kitchen, and even a complimentary bottle of wine. Ideal for guests who want to wake up surrounded by vines.
Hector is best if your priority is proximity to the wineries and staying fully immersed in wine country.
Seneca Lake Wine Tour Companies and Drivers
If you would prefer a wine tour company or private driver to make your experience along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail completely worry free, consider one of these options when visiting Seneca Lake wineries.
Group Tour of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail (From Watkins Glen) – A guided group wine tour focused on the southern end of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, visiting four wineries such as Château LaFayette Reneau, Castel Grisch Winery, Magnus Ridge Winery, Tabora Farm & Winery, and Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards. Departs from Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel and is ideal for visitors staying in Watkins Glen or exploring the Banana Belt region known for standout Finger Lakes red wine.
Group Tour of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail (From Geneva) – A guided group wine tour exploring the northern side of Seneca Lake, with stops at wineries such as Fox Run Vineyards, Ventosa Vineyards, Anthony Road Wine Company, and Torrey Ridge Winery. Departs from 41 Lakefront Hotel in Geneva and is a convenient option for those staying in Geneva or visiting from Syracuse or Rochester.
Private Customized Wine Tour (Private Finger Lakes Car Service) – A fully customizable private wine tour with a dedicated driver for up to six guests. Pick-up is available throughout Seneca Lake, Cayuga Lake, or Keuka Lake. Best for couples or small groups seeking flexibility, access to reservation-only wineries, or a personalized itinerary focused on the best Finger Lakes wineries, sparkling wine, or Finger Lakes red wine.
Group Craft Brewery Tour (From Geneva) – A guided group tour exploring the Seneca Lake Beer Trail, with stops at Climbing Bines Hop Farm, Fleur De Lis Brew Works, Big aLICe Brewing Finger Lakes, and Fall Street Brewing. Departs from Ramada Plaza by Wyndham in Geneva and is ideal for visitors who want to mix craft beer with their wine weekend or accommodate groups with diverse tastes.
Find Finger Lakes Hotels
Best Seneca Lake Wineries
This map features a curated selection of the best Seneca Lake wineries, showcasing the range of styles and tasting experiences found along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. From historic estates and benchmark Riesling producers to small, owner-operated wineries and sparkling specialists, these stops represent some of the best Finger Lakes wineries for Seneca Lake wine tasting. Many offer elevated vineyard sites with scenic lake views and sunset patios. The interactive Seneca Lake Wine Trail map makes it easy to locate wineries, plan efficient routes, and build a well-balanced Finger Lakes wine tour itinerary.
Forge Cellars
Single-Vineyard Riesling, French Influence, and Elevated Tastings
Forge Cellars consistently ranks among the best Seneca Lake wineries for dry, terroir-driven wines. Founded through a collaboration with a renowned French Rhône winemaker, Forge approaches Finger Lakes Riesling with precision and restraint. The focus is on single-vineyard bottlings, which makes this one of the best places to compare how soil and site influence aroma, acidity, and minerality. Tastings are offered in two formats: the appointment-based Summer House experience for deeper, guided exploration, and The Salon for more flexible flights and wines by the glass with sweeping lake views. The Salon also offers wines from Forge’s sister estates in France, creating a rare side-by-side Old World comparison. Guests can build custom flights, explore vertical tastings when available, and pair wines with artisanal tinned fish in a nod to European wine bar culture. The setting provides some of the best Seneca Lake views, especially at golden hour. Forge is ideal for wine travelers who want detail, structure, and a focused tasting experience rather than a high-volume stop.
Address: 3775 Mathews Rd, Burdett, NY 14818
Kemmeter Wines
Intimate, Appointment-Only Tastings with Estate Precision
Kemmeter Wines offers one of the most personal experiences among the best Seneca Lake wineries, with tastings led directly by owner and winemaker Johannes Reinhardt. Reservations are required and limited to small groups, ensuring each visit feels unhurried and educational. Riesling is the foundation, but the lineup also includes estate Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, and Gewürztraminer, all planted and farmed by hand. For guests seeking more depth, vineyard and cellar tours include current releases plus a special pour—often a library wine or a preview from tank or barrel. Each experience may include a savory bite from Sans Dumplings, the on-site dumpling shop operated by Johannes’ wife. The tasting atmosphere is quiet and vineyard-centered rather than view-driven, making it ideal for serious tasters. Occasional limited “SanSan” bottlings showcase exceptional vintages and are worth asking about. This is a book-ahead winery for those building a curated list of the best Finger Lakes wineries.
Address: 1030 Larzelere Rd, Penn Yan, NY 14527
Elevate your Finger Lakes winery experience by skipping the steering wheel—our guide to wine tour companies and drivers breaks down the best services for personalized, stress-free tasting adventures. Enjoy insider tips on local chauffeurs, customizable itineraries, and seamless logistics, so you can focus on the wine, while someone else handles the driving.
👉 Finger Lakes Wine Tour Companies and Drivers
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard
Legacy Riesling and Sparkling Wine Leadership
Hermann J. Wiemer is widely regarded as one of the best Finger Lakes wineries, particularly for dry, age-worthy Riesling and traditional-method sparkling wines. The tasting room offers standard flights as well as specialty options like the Riesling Deep Dive, which explores vintage variation and aging potential. Sparkling wines are produced using the Méthode Champenoise, including extended lees-aged bottlings that rival top cool-climate regions. Seasonal offerings may include library releases or limited sparkling disgorgements. The tasting experience is polished and efficient while still grounded in vineyard history. Wiemer also participates in regional wine events and educational programs that highlight Finger Lakes terroir. This is a cornerstone stop for understanding why Seneca Lake produces some of the best Seneca Lake wineries in the region.
Address: 3962 NY-14, Dundee, NY 14837
Standing Stone Vineyards
Historic Old Vines and Bold Saperavi Innovation
Standing Stone combines historic vineyard roots with innovative red wine production, making it one of the most dynamic Finger Lakes wineries with views. The tasting room deck offers some of the best Seneca Lake views, creating a relaxed setting to explore old-vine Riesling and Chardonnay. The estate is also the region’s leader in Saperavi, a high-acid Georgian red grape grown here in multiple formats. The Teinturier Series includes dry red, rosé, and even sparkling expressions of Saperavi. Seasonal events and occasional special tastings highlight vertical comparisons and vineyard discussions. Managed by the team behind Hermann J. Wiemer, quality control is consistent. If you're exploring Finger Lakes red wine beyond Cabernet Franc, Standing Stone offers something distinct.
Address: 9934 Route 414, Hector, NY 14841
Shaw Vineyards
Age-Worthy Reds and Minimal-Intervention Craft
Shaw Vineyards is a quiet standout for Finger Lakes red wine, especially structured Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. The tasting room is simple and vineyard-focused, keeping attention on the wines. Reds here are aged extensively before release, often spending five or more years in neutral oak. Whole-berry fermentation, long cold soaks, and minimal intervention define the style. Shaw also produces Chenin Blanc and skin-contact wines for guests seeking variety. Tastings are straightforward and focused, without large events or entertainment. This is a stop for serious red wine enthusiasts building a list of the best Seneca Lake wineries for cellar-worthy bottles.
Address: 3901 NY-14, Himrod, NY 14842
Sawmill Creek Estate
Banana Belt Reds with Vineyard Pedigree
Formerly Hector Wine Company, Sawmill Creek Estate draws fruit from one of the most respected vineyard sites on southeast Seneca Lake. The warmer “Banana Belt” microclimate allows stronger ripening, resulting in standout Syrah and Bordeaux-style blends. The tasting room experience is relaxed and approachable, making it a comfortable mid-route stop. Guests can sample Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, and the popular Essence blend. Occasional seasonal events and collaborations highlight the vineyard’s role across the region. This is a reliable addition when seeking both approachable wines and serious Finger Lakes red wine options.
Address: 5610 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841
Red Tail Ridge
Sparkling Innovation and Sustainable Design
Red Tail Ridge is known for its diverse sparkling program and commitment to sustainability. The Gold LEED-certified winery produces traditional-method wines as well as pét-nat styles, making it one of the most versatile sparkling stops on Seneca Lake. The modern tasting room includes outdoor seating and is among the most dog-friendly on the lake. Visitors can sample Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and lesser-known varieties like Teroldego and Lagrein. Seasonal releases and experimental small lots add variety throughout the year. The winery occasionally hosts educational tastings and special releases focused on sparkling methods. For guests exploring the best Finger Lakes wineries beyond Riesling, Red Tail Ridge offers depth and innovation.
Address: 2770 Ernsberger Rd, Dundee, NY 14837
Boundary Breaks
Riesling Range and Sunset Patio Views
Boundary Breaks is best known for showcasing multiple styles of Riesling, from dry to ice wine. The tasting room offers indoor flights and one of the most comfortable patios on the lake, delivering some of the best Finger Lakes sunset views. Cabernet Franc also performs well here and adds balance to the white-focused portfolio. The winery hosts educational tastings, wine-and-cookie pairings during the holidays, and summer “Sunset Saturdays” featuring live music and firepits. It’s also one of the most dog-friendly stops, with a fenced dog area. For travelers seeking Finger Lakes wineries with views and approachable hospitality, Boundary Breaks consistently delivers.
Address: 1568 Porter Covert Rd, Lodi, NY 14860**
Discover the most charming towns to stay in when exploring Finger Lakes wine country—from the vibrant college-town energy of Ithaca to scenic lakefront Geneva and cozy Hammondsport. This guide helps you choose the best town for your stay and offers accommodation recommendations to make planning your trip effortless.
👉 Where to stay in Finger Lakes Wine County
Apollo’s Praise
Critically Acclaimed, Precision from Lahoma Vineyard
Apollo’s Praise is one of the newest additions to the list of best Seneca Lake wineries, but it has already earned serious national attention. Founded by winemaking couple Kelby James Russell and Julia Rose Hoyle, the winery centers on fruit from Lahoma Vineyard, a higher-elevation site with rare sandstone-derived soils that create a richer, more textured expression of Riesling. Tastings are reservation-only and structured, making this a focused, appointment-driven experience rather than a walk-in stop. The portfolio includes powerful dry Rieslings, Chardonnay, Grüner Veltliner, and Cabernet Franc, all produced with precision and intent. The tasting format is educational and guided, often diving into vineyard detail and vintage variation. This is a strong stop for visitors building a curated itinerary of the best Finger Lakes wineries. Expect small-production wines, critical acclaim, and a tasting that rewards attention.
Address: 4181 NY-14, Rock Stream, NY 14878
Damiani Wine Cellars
Banana Belt Reds and Award-Winning Sparkling
Damiani is a key producer on southeast Seneca Lake and a reliable stop for both Finger Lakes red wine and traditional-method sparkling. Located in the warmer Banana Belt microclimate, the estate consistently produces strong Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Sparkling wines have also earned statewide recognition, highlighting the Finger Lakes’ growing reputation as a cool-climate sparkling region. The tasting room offers some of the best Seneca Lake views, with outdoor seating that makes it easy to linger. Standard tastings are available, along with private, reservation-only experiences that may include library wines or vertical tastings. In summer, live music and food trucks create one of the more social atmospheres on the trail, often paired with some of the best Finger Lakes sunset views. Damiani balances serious wine with an approachable, event-friendly setting.
Address: 4704 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818
The U.S. is home to over 250 wine regions — from the Finger Lakes in New York to Sonoita in Arizona, Traverse City in Michigan, and California’s Sierra Foothills. With so many incredible wine destinations, it’s hard to know where to begin.
Take our “Which U.S. Wine Region Should You Visit?” quiz and discover the wine country that best matches your style.
👉Take the Quiz and Start planning your wine trip today
Anthony Road Wine Company
Family-Driven Riesling and Behind-the-Scenes Tastings
Anthony Road Wine Company is a multi-generational winery and a consistent inclusion on any list of the best Seneca Lake wineries. Known for expressive Riesling in multiple styles, the winery also produces Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, rosé, and sparkling wines. Standard seated tastings are available, but the Owner-Guided Tour & Tasting offers a more in-depth experience, including access to the crush pad, cellar, and production areas. Monthly Sunday Suppers provide a three-course, family-style meal paired with Anthony Road wines, making it one of the more immersive culinary experiences on the lake. Sustainability plays a central role in both vineyard and winery practices. The tasting room feels structured and professional, ideal for visitors who want an educational component. For balanced quality across multiple categories, Anthony Road remains one of the best Finger Lakes wineries to include in a Seneca itinerary.
Address: 1020 Anthony Rd, Penn Yan, NY 14527
Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery
High-Capacity Winery with Food, Beer, and Sunset Events
Wagner is one of the most versatile stops on Seneca Lake and works especially well for mixed groups. With over 30 wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc, the tasting lineup is broad and approachable. Guests can choose casual walk-in flights on the deck or reserve guided tastings and library experiences. The on-site brewery and Ginny Lee Restaurant make this a practical lunch or dinner stop. In summer, the Sunset Music Series pairs live music with some of the best Finger Lakes sunset views on the lake. The large outdoor seating area and picnic-style setup make it easy to relax between tastings. If you’re building an itinerary that includes food, scenery, and flexibility, Wagner fits well among the best Seneca Lake wineries for convenience and variety.
Address: 9322 NY-414, Lodi, NY 14860**
Shalestone Vineyards
Red Wine Focus with Boutique, Reservation-Based Tastings
Shalestone stands out for doing one thing exclusively: dry red wine. In a region best known for Riesling, Shalestone has built a reputation among Finger Lakes red wine enthusiasts for Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, and Zweigelt. Production is small, and tastings are reservation-based, creating an intimate and focused experience. The tasting room’s design and surrounding gardens provide a quiet, boutique atmosphere rather than a large-scale setup. Red blends are a highlight, and the wines are structured and age-worthy. This is a must-stop for visitors looking to balance a white-heavy Seneca Lake itinerary. For red wine lovers exploring the best Seneca Lake wineries, Shalestone delivers concentration and commitment.
Address: 4027 NY-14, Himrod, NY 14842**
Each season in the Finger Lakes tells its own story—spring blooms in the vineyards, summer sunsets over the lakes, autumn’s golden harvest, and cozy winter escapes. Our seasonal guide reveals the best times to visit, with events and experiences that showcase the region’s beauty year-round.
👉Best Time of Year to Visit the Finger Lakes
Trestle Thirty One
Downtown Geneva Tasting Led by a Master of Wine
Trestle Thirty One offers a curated tasting experience in downtown Geneva, providing a different feel from vineyard-based Finger Lakes wineries with views. Led by Nova Cadamatre, one of the few Masters of Wine in the United States, the winery emphasizes technical precision and thoughtful production. Tastings are reservation-recommended and structured, often seated in intimate spaces within the tasting room. The lineup includes Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, rosé, and sparkling. While it does not offer vineyard scenery, it makes up for it with wine credentials and polished hospitality. This is a smart addition to an itinerary for travelers staying in Geneva or looking for a more refined, guided tasting. Among the best Finger Lakes wineries, Trestle Thirty One stands out for leadership and expertise.
Address: 31 Castle St, Geneva, NY 14456
Château LaFayette Reneau
Estate Vinifera and Some of the Best Seneca Lake Views
Château LaFayette Reneau is one of the most scenic stops on the trail, offering some of the best Seneca Lake views from its expansive deck. The estate grows its own vinifera grapes, including significant plantings of Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Standard tasting flights are available, along with wines by the glass for guests who want to relax and take in the scenery. The Vineyard Picnic Experience allows guests to reserve a private outdoor space with curated food and a bottle of wine, making it ideal for couples or small groups. The winery’s Banana Belt location contributes to reliable ripening and consistent quality. For visitors prioritizing Finger Lakes wineries with views, this is one of the strongest visual stops. Plan this for a clear day to fully enjoy the landscape.
Address: 5081 NY-414, Hector, NY 14841
Ryan William Vineyard
Estate Wines and One of the Best Winery Restaurants on Seneca Lake
Ryan William Vineyard combines estate-grown wines with a full farm-to-table restaurant experience. The Tasting Barn serves tapas-style snacks, brunch, and lunch options designed specifically for pairing, making this one of the most strategic mid-day stops on the lake. Indoor and outdoor seating offer lake views, and the modern barn setting feels open and welcoming. The winery has received recent recognition for both its dry Riesling and restaurant program. All wines are estate-grown and bottled, reinforcing a strong vineyard identity. This is an ideal stop for visitors who want more than a quick tasting—plan to stay for a meal. For food-focused travelers exploring the best Seneca Lake wineries, Ryan William delivers one of the most complete wine-and-dining experiences.
Address: 5108 NY-14, Dundee, NY 14837
Ravines Wine Cellars
Dry Riesling Leader with Elevated Food Pairing Experiences
Ravines remains one of the most respected producers among the best Finger Lakes wineries, particularly for dry, mineral-driven wines. The Seneca Lake tasting room at White Springs offers a polished environment with reservation-recommended tastings and elevated food pairing options. Riesling is the flagship, supported by Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and refined red blends. Sparkling wines made in the traditional method further highlight the winery’s precision. Guests can book curated experiences that may include barrel room access or vertical tastings. The focus here is on balance, terroir expression, and food-friendly structure. For serious wine travelers building a list of the best Seneca Lake wineries, Ravines is a foundational stop.
Address: 400 Barracks Rd, Geneva, NY 14456
Final Thoughts
Explore the Best Seneca Lake Wineries
This guide to the best Seneca Lake wineries reflects what makes the region stand out: climate advantage, vineyard diversity, and a wide range of tasting experiences. The southeastern “Banana Belt,” stretching from Watkins Glen toward Valois, benefits from warmer temperatures, steep hillsides, and extended sunlight exposure. This microclimate supports red varieties like Syrah, Pinot Noir, and Merlot, adding depth to a region already known for high-acid whites. Combined with the lake’s temperature-regulating influence, these conditions help produce some of the best Finger Lakes wineries overall. Whether you’re exploring bold reds from the Banana Belt or mineral-driven whites along cooler slopes, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail offers consistency and variety in equal measure. Plan ahead, build a balanced itinerary, and leave time to enjoy the views—Seneca Lake rewards both serious tasting and relaxed afternoons.
