New York | Finger Lakes | Keuka Lake Wine Trail

Location

Address: 8843 Greyton H Taylor Memorial Dr, Hammondsport, NY 14840

Phone: (607) 868-3610

Website: www.bullyhillvineyards.com

Email: info@bullyhill.com

State: New York Wineries

Wine Region: Finger Lakes Wineries

American Viticultural Area: Finger Lakes AVA

Wine Trail: Keuka Lake Wine Trail

About Bully Hill Vineyards

Bully Hill Vineyards is a captivating destination in the Finger Lakes, where visitors can immerse themselves in a blend of history, culture, and exceptional wine. The winery offers daily wine tastings and tours, showcasing a diverse range of wines, including dry, rosé, sparkling, sweet, and fruit varieties. With selections such as Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and unique hybrids, guests can experience the full spectrum of Bully Hill’s winemaking expertise.

The Bully Hill Restaurant adds to the experience with its cuisine and breathtaking views of Keuka Lake. Open daily for lunch and Sunday brunch, the restaurant serves a varied menu that includes seafood, BBQ, and other delectable dishes, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely meal.

The Greyton H. Taylor Wine Museum, established in 1972 by Walter S. Taylor, is dedicated to his father and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's winemaking history. The museum complex features two main buildings: the Replica Cooper Shop and the Wine Museum. The Replica Cooper Shop houses an impressive collection of cooper's tools and a film on barrel making, along with memorabilia from the early New York State wine industry. The Wine Museum itself boasts an extensive collection of antique winemaking equipment, Prohibition-era artifacts, and Presidential wine glasses dating back to Abraham Lincoln.

Additionally, the Walter S. Taylor Art Gallery within the museum complex showcases the artistic talents of the winery’s founder, adding a creative dimension to the visit. Bully Hill Winery is more than just a place to taste wine; it is a destination where history, culture, and fine wine converge in a picturesque setting, offering a rich and rewarding experience for all who visit.

History of Bully Hill Vineyards

Bully Hill Vineyards, founded by Walter S. Taylor, has deep roots in Finger Lakes wine history. Walter's grandfather started the Taylor Wine Company on the same land where Bully Hill now stands. The Taylor Wine Company became a leader in the New York wine industry after relocating to Pleasant Valley and surviving Prohibition.

Walter joined the family business but grew disillusioned with the industry's deceptive practices, such as adding chemicals and foreign juice to wines without informing consumers. His outspoken criticism of these practices led to his dismissal from the Taylor Wine Company.

Determined to uphold his family's legacy of honest winemaking, Walter founded Bully Hill Vineyards, focusing on using 100% New York juice. In 1977, when Coca-Cola acquired Taylor Wine, they legally barred Walter from using the Taylor name or implying any connection to his family's legacy. Despite this, Walter continued to champion his family's traditions and values at Bully Hill Vineyards.