Did you know Seneca County has over 35 wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries? Explore the craft beverage scene and enjoy fun tasting rooms, amazing views, locally sourced food and of course, incredible drinks.
Breweries
If you’re looking for somewhere to relax with good company, Fleur De Lis Brew Works in Seneca Falls is the place for you. A farm brewery with beers ranging from IPAs to Wild Ales and Saisons, you will also see cider, wine and root beer floats on the menu. Existing on hundreds of acres of farmland and forest, Fleur De Lis Brew Works is the perfect spot to escape the busyness of daily life. If you prefer exploring craft beers to pair with a tasty meal, try Fall Street Brewing Co., also located in Seneca Falls. With their impressive variety of craft beers, as well as wines, house-inspired cocktails, kombucha and café beverages, you’re sure to find something unique to enjoy. While you’re there, try one of the mouthwatering breakfast options or sandwiches.
Distilleries
One of the two distilleries in Seneca County, located in Ovid, is Meyer Farm Distillers, where the building was designed to reflect the old distilleries of Scotland. This distillery grows its own organic grains to produce vodka, gin, whiskey and liqueurs. Be sure to try the creative cocktails created with their spirits. Over at Montezuma Winery, you’ll find Hidden Marsh Distillery. This location specializes in hand-crafted spirits such as brandy, bourbon and more. Their tasting room offers both wine and spirits, along with homemade fudge and other goodies!
Cideries
If you’re interested in exploring cider, Seneca County has you covered! Finger Lakes Cider House at Good Life Farms is the definition of farm-to-table. Along Cayuga Lake just north of Ithaca, they operate their farm and grow a wide variety of apples that are perfect for traditional ciders. Visit with your friends and family for organic, fresh, and local ciders, and pair them with the meats, cheeses, or breads from their daily menu. Another must-visit cidery is Bellwether Hard Cider, located in Trumansburg. A member of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, they produce about 10 different types of cider that range from very dry to semi-sweet, as well as carbonated or still.
Wineries
Speaking of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, it is the first organized and longest-running wine trail in the United States. The trail includes 17 wineries, one cidery, one meadery and several distilleries, complete with beautiful sights and views. One of the many stops along the trail is Lucas Vineyards in Interlaken. With grape vineyards covering about 33 acres, they offer a spectacular selection of award-winning wines. Go for a tasting, check out the gift shop, or enjoy a bottle and the view outside. Another stop along the trail is Buttonwood Grove Winery & Cabins, located in Romulus. Here, you are invited to attend an event, tour the facility, or try a blind tasting. They offer outdoor seating with a remarkable view and feature live music throughout the summer. Consider making it an overnight stay and reserve one of their charming cabins with views of the vineyards and Cayuga Lake.
Closer to Seneca Lake? Check out the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, which includes a total of 27 different wineries all around the lake. If you love red wine, Ventosa Vineyards in Geneva is the perfect stop along the trail for you. It has 23 acres of estate vineyards, and they are known for their production of quality dry red wines that have won many awards. Stop at Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery in Lodi for bone dry, dessert wine sweet, or anything in between. Be sure to try one of their 30 award-winning wines during your visit!
No matter what craft beverages you prefer, Seneca County has something for you. Bring your family or friends as you enjoy the beauty of the area and the remarkable drinks it offers.