Best 2 Wineries in Catskills NY: A Guide to the Top Vineyards in the Region

ByTony Parker Last Updated:

The Catskills region in southern New York is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and growing wine industry. With over 100 wineries in the area, the Catskills have become a popular destination for wine enthusiasts from all over the world. From family-owned vineyards to large-scale wineries, the Catskills offer a diverse range of options for wine lovers.

For those who are looking to explore the best wineries in the Catskills, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some of the top-rated wineries in the area include Tousey Winery, Whitecliff Vineyard, and Hudson-Chatham Winery. These wineries offer a variety of wines, from reds to whites, and are known for their exceptional quality and taste. Visitors can also take a tour of the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and enjoy a tasting of their favorite wines.

Exploring the Catskills Wineries

The Catskills region in southern New York is home to some of the best wineries in the world. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wines and breathtaking scenery, making it the perfect destination for wine lovers. Here are some of the top wineries to explore in the Catskills.

Hudson-Chatham Winery

Located in Ghent, New York, the Hudson-Chatham Winery is a family-owned winery that produces award-winning wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their handcrafted wines, including reds, whites, and dessert wines. The winery also offers tours of their vineyard and production facility.

Website: https://hudsonchathamwinery.com/

Address: 6036 Main St, Tannersville, NY 12485, United States

Eminence Farm Road Farm Winery

Eminence Farm Road Farm Winery is a family-owned winery located in the town of Long Eddy, New York. The winery produces a variety of wines, including reds, whites, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a tasting of their wines and take a tour of their vineyard and production facility.

Website: http://www.eminenceroad.com/

Address: 3734 Eminence Rd, Long Eddy, NY 12760, United States

Whether you are a seasoned wine connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of wine, the Catskills wineries offer something for everyone. With breathtaking scenery and award-winning wines, it’s no wonder why the Catskills are a top destination for wine lovers.

Tasting the Wine

Chardonnay

When it comes to tasting Chardonnay, one of the most popular white wines in the world, it is important to pay attention to its aromas and flavors. A good Chardonnay should have a balance of fruit, acidity, and oak flavors. In the Catskills region, there are several wineries that offer Chardonnay for tasting. Some of the best Chardonnay wineries in the area include Tousey Winery and Whitecliff Vineyard.

Merlot

Merlot is a red wine that is known for its smoothness and versatility. When tasting Merlot, it is important to look for its tannins, acidity, and fruit flavors. The best Merlot wineries in the Catskills region include Hudson-Chatham Winery and Eminence Road Farm Winery.

Napa Valley Products

Napa Valley is known for producing some of the best wines in the world. When visiting wineries in the Catskills region, it is not uncommon to find Napa Valley products available for tasting. Some of the best wineries that offer Napa Valley products include Hudson-Chatham Winery and Whitecliff Vineyard.

When visiting a winery’s tasting room, it is important to follow proper wine-tasting etiquette. This includes holding the glass by the stem, swirling the wine to release its aromas, and taking small sips to fully appreciate the flavors. Additionally, it is important to take notes on the wines tasted to remember which ones were enjoyed the most.

The Distillery Scene

The Catskills region has a thriving distillery scene that produces some of the best spirits in the country. Visitors can explore the distilleries, taste the spirits, and learn about the distilling process. Here are some of the top distilleries in the Catskills:

Unfiltered Dry Meads

One of the best distilleries in the Catskills is Unfiltered Dry Meads. This distillery specializes in mead, a fermented honey-based drink that has been enjoyed for centuries. Unfiltered Dry Meads produces a variety of meads, including traditional meads, melomels (fruit meads), and metheglins (spiced meads). Visitors can taste the meads, learn about the mead-making process, and purchase bottles to take home.

Unfiltered Dry Meads also produces gin and vodka. The gin is made with a blend of botanicals, including juniper, coriander, and citrus peel. The vodka is made with locally sourced wheat and is distilled multiple times for a smooth, clean taste.

Food and Beverage Pairings

When visiting the wineries of Catskills, NY, visitors will be delighted to find a variety of food and beverage pairings that will enhance their wine-tasting experience. Many of the wineries offer food options that are made with locally sourced ingredients, including cheeses, meats, and produce.

For those who enjoy cheese, a visit to Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery is a must. They offer a cheese plate that includes a selection of artisanal cheeses that are perfectly paired with their wines. The cheese plate includes a variety of cheeses, including cheddar, brie, and blue cheese.

For those who are vegan or gluten-free, the tavern at The Arnold House offers a variety of options that will satisfy their dietary needs. They offer a seasonal menu that includes dishes made with locally sourced produce and ingredients. The menu changes frequently, so visitors are encouraged to check their website for the latest offerings.

For those who are looking for a unique dining experience, a visit to Awestruck Ciders is a must. They offer a cider and food pairing that includes a flight of ciders that are paired with small plates of food. The food options include dishes such as smoked salmon, roasted vegetables, and artisanal cheeses.

Tours and Tastings

Visiting wineries in Catskills is a great way to enjoy wine tasting and learn about the region’s winemaking history. Most wineries in the Catskills offer tours and tastings to visitors. Here is a look at one of the wineries that offer tours and tastings.

Bashakill Vineyards

Bashakill Vineyards is a family-owned winery located in Wurtsboro, NY. The winery produces a variety of wines, including red, white, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy a wine-tasting experience at the winery, which includes a selection of five wines.

The winery also offers tours of the vineyard and winemaking facilities. During the tour, visitors can learn about the winemaking process and the history of the vineyard. The tour is conducted by the winemaker, who shares his knowledge and experience with visitors.

Bashakill Vineyards is also a member of the Shawangunk Wine Trail, which is a group of wineries in the region that offer tours and tastings. Visitors can purchase a Wine Trail Passport, which allows them to visit all the wineries on the trail and enjoy a tasting at each winery.

Website: http://www.bashakillvineyards.com/

Address: 1131 S Rd, Wurtsboro, NY 12790, United States

Accommodation Options

When planning a winery tour in Catskills, NY, visitors may want to consider staying overnight in the area. Luckily, there are several accommodation options available to suit different budgets and preferences.

For those looking for a cozy and charming experience, there are several inns in the area, such as the Deer Mountain Inn in Tannersville. This historic inn offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar, all within a beautiful natural setting. Another option is the Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, which offers a luxurious stay with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

For a more modern and trendy experience, visitors can check out the boutique hotels in the area, such as the Roundhouse in Beacon or the Hasbrouck House in Marlboro. These hotels offer stylish accommodations, upscale amenities, and a unique atmosphere that is perfect for a romantic getaway or a weekend with friends.

For those who prefer a more rustic experience, there are several options as well, such as the cabins and cottages in Long Eddy. These accommodations offer a peaceful and secluded stay, with the opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the natural beauty of the Catskills.

The Beautiful Landscape

The Catskills region of southern New York is known for its breathtaking beauty, with lush landscapes and stunning views that stretch for miles. The area’s wineries are no exception, with many situated on sprawling estates that offer visitors a chance to take in the natural beauty of the region while enjoying a glass of wine.

One of the most striking features of the Catskills landscape is the rolling hills that dominate the region. These hills are covered in a thick carpet of green, with trees and other vegetation adding to the lush feel of the area. Visitors to the region’s wineries can take in these stunning views while sipping on a glass of wine, making for an unforgettable experience.

Many of the wineries in the Catskills are situated on estates that have been carefully designed to take advantage of the area’s natural beauty. These estates feature manicured gardens, ponds, and other features that add to the overall ambiance of the wineries. Visitors can stroll through these gardens and take in the beauty of the surroundings, making for a relaxing and enjoyable experience.

In addition to the natural beauty of the region, the Catskills also offer a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking and biking to fishing and kayaking, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors in this stunning region of New York. With so many wineries to choose from, visitors can easily plan a full day of outdoor activities and wine tasting.

Travel Tips

Visiting the wineries in Catskills NY is a great way to spend a weekend or a day trip. Here are some travel tips to help make the most of your experience:

  • Bring cash or a credit card: Most wineries accept both cash and credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to have both on hand. Some wineries may not accept certain credit cards, so it’s best to check ahead of time.
  • Designate a driver: If you plan on tasting multiple wines, make sure to have a designated driver. Driving under the influence is not only dangerous, but it’s also illegal. If you don’t have a designated driver, consider hiring a car service or taking a guided tour.
  • Check the winery’s hours: Before heading out, make sure to check the winery’s hours. Some wineries may be closed on certain days or have limited hours. This information can usually be found on their website or by calling ahead.
  • Plan your route: With over 100 wineries in the Catskills, it’s important to plan your route ahead of time. Consider visiting wineries that are in close proximity to each other to maximize your time.
  • Bring snacks: While some wineries may offer food options, it’s always a good idea to bring snacks. This is especially important if you plan on spending the day visiting multiple wineries.
  • Expect to pay for tastings: Most wineries charge a fee for tastings, which can range from $5 to $18 per person. Some wineries may waive the fee if you purchase a bottle of wine.

By following these travel tips, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the best wineries in Catskills NY.