Jessica
According to Statistic Brain, California is the most visited state in the United States. And for ages, the West Coast has been considered the “Best Coast” for wine in the U.S., but that’s simply a matter of opinion. Just because you don’t live in California does not mean you can’t enjoy a true American fine wine experience. When you’re looking for a fun, relaxing summer adventure, look no further than these 10 best wineries in the Northeast.
10 Must-Visit Wineries in the Northeast United States
Fox Run Vineyards: Penn Yan, NY
You can’t talk about the best wineries in the northeast without mentioning New York. New York State is the U.S.’s third-largest wine producer thanks to the high-quality vintages of the Finger Lakes American Viticultural Area near Lake Ontario, Rochester, and Syracuse. Fox Run is a family-owned vineyard that “strives to make wine approachable” by providing various educational and entertainment offerings. The vineyard is environmentally-friendly and lake-friendly, operating on solar-powered energy. And their outdoor seating area features comfortable furniture on a deck overlooking Seneca Lake as well as a patio with a view of the grapevines.
Red Newt Cellars: Hector, NY
Another Finger Lakes favorite, Red Newt Cellars specializes in Rieslings and other elegant white wines. They also feature a small local American food menu of light fare and coffee to perfectly complement your favorite wines.
Castello di Borghese Vineyard: Cutchogue, NY
Established in 1973, Castello di Borghese is Long Island’s oldest vineyard. Believe it or not, the East End of Long Island has a microclimate comparable to the Bordeaux region of France, making it the perfect environment to cultivate some of the best French grape varietals.
Bridge Lane Wine: Mattituck, NY
Also located on Long Island, Bridge Lane is a modern take on an old favorite. Their “craft wines” are unique, dry wines that are made in small batches from grapes that are sustainably farmed. And their packaging is eco-friendly — all of their wines are available in four different containers: 750ml bottle, 3L box, 375ml can, and 20L keg.
Westport Rivers Winery: Westport, MA
The largest vineyard in all of New England, this winery spans 80 acres and offers gorgeous views. Westport Rivers Winery boasts wines that are minimally processed, using ancient and traditional methods from the Champagne and Burgundy regions of France.
Willow Spring Vineyards: Haverhill, MA
Cindy and Jim Parker spent seven years disassembling and rebuilding a dilapidated 18th-century barn, clearing the land, and planting their first vines. And in 2007, they opened up Willow Spring Vineyards with that gorgeous refinished barn as the winery’s shining centerpiece. They specialize in French hybrid grapes suitable for the region’s short growing period.
Truro Vineyards of Cape Cod: North Truro, MA
Located on the scenic peninsula of Cape Cod, this vineyard pioneered the art of maritime grape growing, producing unique wine with intense flavors and rich varietal character due to the area’s sandy soil and temperate climate.
Shelburne Vineyard: Shelburne, VT
The expansive patio and large commercial windows provide the perfect view of the breath-taking Vermont landscape — the mountains, rivers, lakes, and valleys that inspire the complex flavors of Shelburne Vineyard’s wine. If you think the best wineries in the northeast can’t be found in the rugged terrain and harsh climate of the Green Mountain State, you’d be wrong. Shelburne Vineyard has pioneered the development of Vermont wine through experimentation and a passion for creating high-quality wines from cold-hardy grapes.
Diamond Hill Vineyards: Cumberland, RI
A second generation family-run vineyard and winery settled in over 30 acres of vineyards, gorgeous gardens, and untouched woodlands, Diamond Hill specializes in the old New England tradition of creating wine from not just grapes but also local fruits like apples, blueberries, and cranberries. They also boast that no herbicides, insecticides, or chemical fertilizers have ever been used in the growing of their fruit or making of their wines.
Alba Vineyards: Milford, NJ
A picturesque winery with an expansive patio and sweeping scenic views, Alba Vineyards is the perfect getaway for both private events and weekend visits. Their wines come from sustainably farmed premium grapes.
From the Fingerlakes region of New York — where you’ll find extensive outdoor advertising for some of the best wineries in the Northeast — to the hidden gems of Rhode Island, Vermont, New Jersey, and Massachusetts, high-quality vineyards and wineries can be found all across the Northeast United States. Sure, the climate can be a little chilly in the fall and winter months, but cozy outdoor fireplaces and heaters provide a welcome atmosphere for locals and travelers alike.
Looking for a Romantic Spot for a Special Occasion?
The COVID-19 pandemic may have thrown a wrench in your travel plans and temporarily closed down a number of popular tourist spots, but many wineries and vineyards are making adjustments to safely invite guests back for an enjoyable, relaxing getaway.
Looking for a romantic spot to celebrate your love and pop the question? With your diamond engagement ring in hand, any of the 10 above-listed wineries make a memorable location for your proposal. Whether you and your partner are fine wine connoisseurs or you simply enjoy an inexpensive bottle of red, you can’t go wrong with one of the best wineries in the Northeast. One benefit of using a winery as a destination to propose to your special someone is that minimal decoration is required. Most wineries are already well-decorated with a classy ambiance. And with views of the vineyard, the natural scenery is simply breathtaking. This is especially true for establishments in the mountainous regions of the Northeast United States. And, many wineries serve food that pairs perfectly with their wines; follow up your proposal with a romantic dinner.
If you live in New England or the Tri-state area, you don’t have to travel far to find the best wineries in the Northeast. Wineries and vineyards are some of the best places to visit in search of a fun, relaxing adventure. Get educated on the proper wine and food pairings, taste-test new and delicious wines, take a tour and learn how grapes become wine, buy a bottle (or a few!) while you’re at it, and of course, celebrate a special occasion in a scenic locale.
You don’t need to be on the West Coast to enjoy the best wine America has to offer. There are plenty of great wineries up here in the Northeast, as well. What are your favorite wineries and vineyards in the Northeast United States? Let us know in the comments below!
