Glenora Winery: A Premier Destination for Wine Lovers

Glenora Wine Cellars is a picturesque winery nestled on the western shore of Seneca Lake in New York's Finger Lakes region. The winery was founded in 1977 by Gene Pierce, who was inspired by his travels to Europe's wine regions. Glenora Wine Cellars is the oldest winery on Seneca Lake and has been producing award-winning wines for over four decades.

Visitors to Glenora Wine Cellars can enjoy a variety of experiences, including wine tastings, tours, and dining at the on-site restaurant, Veraisons. The winery's tasting room offers a selection of red, white, and sparkling wines, as well as ice wines and brandies. Guests can also take a tour of the winery to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the winery.

Glenora Wine Cellars also offers accommodations at their 30-room inn, which features stunning views of Seneca Lake. Guests can relax and enjoy the winery's peaceful surroundings while sipping on a glass of their favorite Glenora wine. With its beautiful location, award-winning wines, and luxurious accommodations, Glenora Wine Cellars is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and travelers alike.

History and Legacy

Edward Miller and Origins

Glenora Wine Cellars was established in 1977, making it the oldest winery on Seneca Lake. However, the winery's origins can be traced back to Edward Miller, a grape farmer who sold his grapes to other wineries in the Finger Lakes region. Miller decided to open his own winery after the Farm Winery Act of 1976 was passed, which allowed small wineries to operate in New York State. Along with Eastman Beers, Howard Kimball, and Edward Dalrymple, Miller opened Glenora Wine Cellars in May of 1978.

Oldest Winery in the Finger Lakes

Glenora Wine Cellars has a rich history and legacy in the Finger Lakes region. As the oldest winery on Seneca Lake, it has been producing award-winning wines for over 40 years. The winery's first vintage won several medals at the New York State Fair wine competition, which helped establish its reputation in the wine industry.

Over the years, Glenora Wine Cellars has continued to innovate and expand its offerings. In addition to its premium red and white vinifera wines, the winery also produces innovative blends, sparkling, dessert, and fruit wines. Visitors can enjoy daily wine tastings and cellar tours, where they can learn about the winemaking process and see where the wine is made.

Overall, Glenora Wine Cellars has a rich history and legacy in the Finger Lakes region. From its origins as a grape farm to its status as the oldest winery on Seneca Lake, the winery has played an important role in the development of the New York State wine industry.

Wine Portfolio

Glenora Wine Cellars offers a diverse wine portfolio that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Their wines are crafted using premium grapes, and the winery is known for producing high-quality wines that have won numerous awards over the years.

Red and White Vinifera Wines

Glenora Wine Cellars' premium red and white vinifera wines are made using traditional winemaking techniques and aged in oak barrels to develop complex flavors and aromas. Some of their popular varietals include Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Gewurztraminer.

Innovative Blends and Fruit Wines

In addition to their traditional varietals, Glenora Wine Cellars also offers innovative blends and fruit wines that are perfect for those who prefer sweeter and fruitier flavors. Their fruit wines are made using locally sourced fruits and are available in a variety of flavors such as Peach, Strawberry, and Raspberry.

Award-Winning Wines

Glenora Wine Cellars has won numerous awards over the years for their high-quality wines. Their Riesling and Chardonnay have won multiple gold medals at the New York Wine & Food Classic, and their Brut has won several awards at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.

Dessert and Sweet Wines

Glenora Wine Cellars' dessert and sweet wines are perfect for those who enjoy a sweet and indulgent wine experience. Their popular dessert wines include Tawny Port, Raspberry Spumante, and Vidal Ice Wine, which has won several awards at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.

Overall, Glenora Wine Cellars offers a diverse wine portfolio that caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer traditional varietals, innovative blends, or sweet dessert wines, Glenora Wine Cellars has something for everyone.

Tasting Experiences

Glenora Winery offers a variety of tasting experiences to meet the needs of all wine enthusiasts. From the tasting room ambiance to guided tastings and tours, Glenora Winery has something for everyone.

Tasting Room Ambiance

The tasting room at Glenora Winery is a warm and inviting space that provides a relaxing atmosphere for guests to enjoy their wine tasting experience. The room is decorated with rustic charm, featuring wood beams and stone walls that give it a cozy feel. The tasting room is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, and guests are welcome to stop by for a tasting at any time during these hours.

Guided Tastings and Tours

For guests who want a more in-depth wine tasting experience, Glenora Winery offers guided tastings and tours. These tours take guests behind the scenes to see the winemaking process up close and personal. Guided tours are available daily at 11 am, 1 pm, and 3 pm, and reservations are recommended. The cost for a guided tour is $20, which includes a wine tasting.

Wine Tasting Packages

Glenora Winery also offers a variety of wine tasting packages for guests who want to sample a selection of wines. The New York Tasting Experience is a popular option, which features a tasting of six wines paired with local cheeses and chocolates. This experience is available by advance reservation only. Another option is the Sparkling Sundays package, which includes a tasting of four sparkling wines and a souvenir glass. Guests can also customize their own wine tasting package by selecting their favorite wines from the winery's extensive collection.

In summary, Glenora Winery offers a range of tasting experiences to suit every taste and preference. Whether guests prefer a casual tasting in the cozy tasting room or a guided tour of the winemaking process, Glenora Winery has something for everyone.

Culinary Offerings

Glenora Wine Cellars is not just a winery, but also a culinary destination. The winery's Veraisons Restaurant offers a unique dining experience, where guests can savor the regional cuisine and relish the flavors of the Finger Lakes.

Veraisons Restaurant

Veraisons Restaurant is a farm-to-table style restaurant, where the focus is on local and seasonal flavors. The restaurant has been recognized as one of America's "Best Winery Restaurants" by Food & Wine and named to the list of "Top 100 Restaurants in America" by OpenTable. The restaurant's menu changes seasonally to ensure that the freshest ingredients are used.

Regional Cuisine and Menu

The menu at Veraisons Restaurant is a celebration of the region's bounty. The restaurant works with over 30 farms in the Finger Lakes to obtain the highest quality food ingredients. The menu features dishes such as the Roasted Beet Salad, made with goat cheese, arugula, and candied walnuts, and the Pan-Seared Duck Breast, served with sweet potato puree, sautéed kale, and cherry jus.

Wine and Food Pairing

At Veraisons Restaurant, guests can indulge in wine and food pairings, where the winery's wines are paired with the dishes on the menu. The restaurant's wine list features a selection of Glenora Wine Cellars' award-winning wines, as well as wines from other Finger Lakes wineries.

In conclusion, Glenora Wine Cellars' Veraisons Restaurant is a must-visit for foodies and wine lovers alike. The restaurant's focus on local and seasonal flavors, combined with its award-winning wines, makes for a unique and unforgettable dining experience.

Visiting Glenora

Glenora Winery is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and those seeking a relaxing getaway. The winery resort boasts a 30-room inn and offers a wide range of amenities to make your trip comfortable and memorable.

Inn at Glenora

The Inn at Glenora is a charming and cozy 30-room inn that offers breathtaking views of Seneca Lake. Each room is uniquely decorated and features modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can choose from a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and cottages.

Winery Resort Amenities

Glenora Winery Resort offers a wide range of amenities to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable. The resort features an on-site restaurant, Veraisons, which offers farm-to-table cuisine and an extensive wine list. Guests can also enjoy wine tastings at the winery, which produces award-winning Finger Lakes wines.

Other amenities at the resort include a fitness center, outdoor pool, and hot tub. Guests can also take advantage of the resort's complimentary shuttle service, which provides transportation to nearby attractions.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip to Glenora Winery, be sure to check the winery's website for current rates and availability. Guests can also take advantage of the winery's special packages, which include accommodations, wine tastings, and other amenities.

Visitors should also consider exploring the surrounding Finger Lakes region, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. The region is also home to a number of other wineries and vineyards, making it an ideal destination for wine lovers.

Overall, Glenora Winery Resort offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors looking to relax and indulge in the beauty of the Finger Lakes region.

Events and Hospitality

Glenora Winery offers a variety of year-round events and hospitality services. Whether it's a private celebration or a corporate function, the winery provides a beautiful and memorable setting for any occasion.

Year-Round Events

Glenora Winery hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including wine tastings, food pairings, and vineyard tours. Guests can enjoy live music on the weekends during the summer months, as well as special events such as the annual Harvest Festival.

The winery's tasting room is open daily, and visitors can sample a variety of award-winning wines while taking in the breathtaking views of Seneca Lake. The knowledgeable staff is always on hand to answer questions and provide recommendations.

Private Celebrations

Glenora Winery is the perfect venue for private celebrations, such as weddings, anniversaries, and birthday parties. The winery offers a variety of event spaces, including the Vineyard Room, which can accommodate up to 200 guests, and the Champagne Room, which is perfect for smaller gatherings.

The winery's experienced event staff can help plan every detail of the celebration, from menu selection to decor. The catering team can create a custom menu featuring locally sourced ingredients and award-winning wines.

Corporate Functions

Glenora Winery also offers a variety of hospitality services for corporate functions, such as meetings, conferences, and team-building events. The winery's event spaces can accommodate groups of all sizes, and the catering team can create a custom menu to suit any taste.

The winery's picturesque setting and award-winning wines make it the perfect location for a memorable and productive corporate event. The experienced event staff can help plan every detail, from audio-visual equipment to team-building activities.

Overall, Glenora Winery's year-round hospitality and event services provide a beautiful and memorable setting for any occasion. With a variety of event spaces, award-winning wines, and experienced event staff, the winery is the perfect choice for private celebrations, corporate functions, and everything in between.

Shopping and Accessibility

Retail Shop and Merchandise

Glenora Wine Cellars has a retail shop on-site where visitors can purchase a variety of merchandise, including wine glasses, t-shirts, and other wine-related items. The shop is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Visitors can also purchase Glenora wines at the shop, including limited edition and reserve wines.

Online Store and Direct Shipping

For those who cannot visit the winery in person, Glenora Wine Cellars has an online store where customers can purchase wines and have them shipped directly to their door. The online store offers a wide selection of wines, including reds, whites, and rosés. Customers can also purchase gift baskets and other wine-related items online.

Winery Accessibility

Glenora Wine Cellars is committed to providing a welcoming and accessible environment for all visitors. The winery is wheelchair accessible and has designated parking spaces for visitors with disabilities. Visitors who require additional assistance are encouraged to call the winery in advance to make arrangements.

In addition, Glenora Wine Cellars offers a bus tour program for visitors who prefer not to drive. The program includes transportation to and from the winery, a guided tour of the winery and vineyards, and a wine tasting. Visitors interested in the bus tour program should contact the winery for more information.

Overall, Glenora Wine Cellars strives to provide a positive shopping and accessibility experience for all visitors.

Sustainability and Innovation

Glenora Winery has been a pioneer in sustainable vineyard practices and innovative winemaking techniques. The winery has always been committed to reducing its environmental footprint and improving the quality of its wines.

Vineyard Practices

Glenora Winery's vineyard practices are focused on sustainability. The winery uses natural methods to control pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical pesticides and herbicides. They also use cover crops to improve soil health and prevent erosion. The winery has implemented a drip irrigation system that reduces water use and ensures that the vines receive the right amount of water at the right time. This system also reduces the amount of fertilizer needed, as it helps to deliver nutrients directly to the roots of the vines.

Innovating Winemaking Techniques

Glenora Winery has also been at the forefront of innovating winemaking techniques. The winery has implemented a number of techniques to reduce the amount of waste produced during the winemaking process. For example, they use a gravity-fed system that eliminates the need for pumps, reducing energy use and the risk of oxidation. They also use a high-pressure water system to clean barrels, reducing the need for harsh chemicals.

In addition, Glenora Winery has been experimenting with new winemaking techniques to improve the quality of their wines. For example, they have been using wild yeasts to ferment some of their wines, which can add unique flavors and aromas. They have also been experimenting with aging wines in different types of barrels, such as oak, acacia, and chestnut, to see how the different woods affect the flavor of the wine.

Overall, Glenora Winery's commitment to sustainability and innovation has helped to improve the quality of their wines while reducing their environmental impact.

Affiliations and Recognitions

Glenora Wine Cellars has been a member of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail since its inception in 1986. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is the oldest wine trail in the United States and includes over 30 wineries. Glenora Wine Cellars is proud to be a part of this trail and to contribute to the vibrant wine culture of the Finger Lakes region.

In addition to being a member of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Glenora Wine Cellars is also a member of Finger Lakes Wine Country, a regional tourism organization that promotes the wineries, restaurants, and other attractions of the Finger Lakes region. Finger Lakes Wine Country is dedicated to promoting the region as a premier wine destination and has been instrumental in bringing attention to the award-winning wines produced in the area.

Glenora Wine Cellars has received numerous awards and accolades for its wines over the years. Some of the most notable awards include the Governor's Cup for Best New York State Wine in 1993, 2001, and 2008, and the Winery of the Year award at the New York Wine and Food Classic in 2012. These awards are a testament to the quality of the wines produced by Glenora Wine Cellars and the dedication of its winemakers.

Seneca Lake Wine Trail

As a member of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Glenora Wine Cellars participates in the events and promotions organized by the trail. These events include the annual Deck the Halls weekend in November, where visitors can sample wines and holiday treats at participating wineries, and the Pasta and Wine weekend in March, where visitors can sample pasta dishes paired with Finger Lakes wines.

Finger Lakes Wine Country

As a member of Finger Lakes Wine Country, Glenora Wine Cellars is part of a larger network of wineries, restaurants, and attractions in the Finger Lakes region. Finger Lakes Wine Country promotes the region as a premier wine destination and provides resources for visitors to plan their trips. Glenora Wine Cellars is proud to be a part of this organization and to contribute to the growth of the Finger Lakes wine industry.

Wine Awards and Accolades

Glenora Wine Cellars has received numerous awards and accolades for its wines over the years. These awards include the Governor's Cup for Best New York State Wine in 1993, 2001, and 2008, and the Winery of the Year award at the New York Wine and Food Classic in 2012. Glenora Wine Cellars has also received recognition for its Rieslings, including a Gold Medal at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition in 2018 for its 2016 Dry Riesling. These awards are a testament to the quality of the wines produced by Glenora Wine Cellars and the dedication of its winemakers.