Touring Hudson Valley Wineries Near Rye

RYE, NY—There's a lot of wine history in the Hudson Valley. French Huguenots first planted grapes there in the 17th century and by the mid-19th century, wine making operations were launched in Millbrook, Highland, Marlborough and Washingtonville.

Today, according to Hudson Valley Wineries, there are at least 20 operating wineries in the Hudson Valley. Here are a dozen close enough for a day trip. If you enjoyed a visit to any of these wineries or if we missed your favorites, let us know about your experience in the comments below.

Adair Vineyards, New Paltz

Set against the Shawangunk Mountains, this winery offers a lot more than delicious wine. The site features the kind of vistas prized by Hudson River School painters. There's also a garden and vineyards to wander through, as well as a tasting room and gift shop.

Applewood Winery, Warwick

This rustic scenic winery offers wine and hard cider tastings, a seasonal cafe and live music. It's open Wednesday through Sunday in August, but every day in September and October.

Baldwin Vineyards, Pine Bush

Built on the 1786 Hardenburgh Estate, this vineyard has garnered awards for their Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, Brut Champagne, and Port. The vineyards have a picnic area, so bring your lunch. Check the site for seasonal festivals.

Brotherhood, America's Oldest Winery, Washingtonville

Excavated by hand in the late 19th Century, the winery's cellars house over two hundred oak barrels and feature a crested vault containing some of the oldest vintages in America.

Clinton Vineyards, Clinton Corners

The 100-acre farm winery is on the Dutchess Wine Trail. You can sample the vineyard's Seyval Blanc, Twilight Rosé, Pinot Noir, Reisling and Champagnes against a scenic background of rolling hills. The vineyards are a favorite wedding and event location.

El Paso Winery, Ulster Park

The winery features tastings, a gift shop, summer and autumn winery tours. Some of the varietals they use are Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Rieslings, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Glorie Farm Winery, Marlboro

Residing in a 1913 barn near the top of Mt. Zion Mountain, Glorie Farm Winery is a boutique-style winery, where an average of 1,350 carefully crafted cases of wine are produced. In September and October you can taste five wines for $7.

Palaia Winery, Highland Mills

Besides fine wine and scenic backgrounds, the winery offers live music every weekend. That way you can listen to artists perform while sipping distinctive vintages. There's also snacks, brunch, lunch, pizza and desserts to sample with your wine.

Robibero Family Vineyards, New Paltz

Set on a 42-acre property nestled in and around the breathtaking Shawangunk Mountain ridge, the vineyards specialize in producing premium artisan wines. Along with wine tasting they sell wine by glass and bottle. Relax on the deck while enjoying the Hudson River views and sometimes live music.

Stoutridge Vineyard, Marlboro

The estate has a rich local history. Visitors can learn more through a self guided tour, wine tastings and special tours with owner and winemaker Steve Osborn. Picnic tables have been placed near majestic willow trees and near each of the property's ponds. Tours and tastings take place from Fridays through Sundays.

Warwick Valley Winery and Distillery, Warwick

Nestled between the picturesque Mt. Eve and Mt. Adam, the winery is open year-round except for holidays. Tasting room hours are 11 to 6, with a $5 fee for tasting six wines. There's a bakery cafe, apple picking and live music on Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

Whitecliff Vineyard and Winery, Gardiner

The vineyard offers various tastings. For $8 to $16 you get a souvenir glass. For $35 you get a seated tasting of eight premium wines, a cheese plate, a brief winery tour and a souvenir glass. Picnics are allowed. The vineyard is open daily from June through October and on a limited schedule for the rest of the year.

Salud!

Image via Wikipedia