Mike made us the most amazing breakfast. We feasted on pancakes with fresh picked blueberries, organic syrup, sausages, fresh fruit and muffins with orange juice, coffee and tea. We found an amazing, accurate map at the Village Marina and after breakfast we headed out to the west side of the lake.
What you should first know about these wineries is that they charge for a tasting. Some are as little as $2 per person and up to $6 depending on the vineyard. Some will credit you back if you buy any of their wine. And, if you go to taste and not consume, some pourers will allow you more than the 5-6 wines you get for your tasting price. When I say taste, I mean, utilizing the spit bucket. Yes, you sip, swish and then spit. By doing this, you don’t get drunk especially when you’re driving, you can taste more and some people will pour you a few more sampless of other wines in their portfolio.
Our first stop was Lakewood Vineyards, where we were the first people in the door. In fact, we were early and we were waved in before opening time. This was probably one of the most educated group of people we met of the day. Our pourer knew everything about his wines and was able to guide us through 15 wines or so. Remember the spitting part? We should have only had 10 wines between the two of us. It was here that I was introduced to a grape called Lemberger. I had never had it before and it was just my style – big, dry and earthy.
One of the other things you should know about the Finger Lakes is that it is a popular venue for Bachelorette parties. So, if you want to avoid these groups meeting you at every other winery, you may consider tasting during the week instead of the weekend.
After leaving Lakewood, we stopped at Rock Stream Vineyards, Glenora, Hickory Hollow Wine Cellars, Villa Bellangelo, Ashley Lynn, Miles and Anthony Roads. Our goal was to head up to Belhurst Castle for lunch so once our bellies started growling, we passed a few others in search of food. Tasting really can make you hungry, so it is very important to eat before you go and don’t skip meals. If crackers are offered while you are tasting, take them!
Belhurst Castle is beautiful former private residence in Geneva at the north side of Seneca Lake. Of course, it is the destination spot for weddings, so we did get to watch a newly married couple take photos outside while we dined at one of their restaurants called Stonecutters. After lunch, we walked around the beautiful property before heading south to visit the wineries on the other side of the road.
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