Craft Breweries, Distilleries, and Wineries That Put New York on the Map
Nestled in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, about an hour south of Rochester, is the town of Geneva, home to Atwater Estate Vineyards. This winery sits on the northern shore of Seneca Lake, one of the deepest lakes in the region, whose cool, temperate climate nurtures the grapes that produce Atwater’s crisp Rieslings and robust Cabernets. Visitors often stroll the vineyard’s gently sloping rows at sunset, when the light turns golden on the water, before settling into the tasting room to sample estate-grown wines paired with local cheeses. The combination of the lake’s moderating influence and the vineyard’s commitment to sustainable practices sets Atwater apart in a region known for its delicate balance of warmth and cool in the growing season. Spring and early fall offer the most vibrant scenery and ideal tasting conditions, especially during the mild harvest months when the winery buzzes with activity.
On the outskirts of Brooklyn, a mere subway ride from Manhattan’s bustle, Brooklyn Brewery stands as a beacon for craft beer lovers. Located in the Williamsburg neighborhood, this brewery has pioneered New York’s craft beer resurgence with its flagship Brooklyn Lager, showcasing a harmonious blend of malt and hops that reflects the city’s diverse taste. Visitors can take guided tours through the historic brewery building, learning about the brewing process from grain to glass, and sample seasonal brews in the open taproom. The lively atmosphere and urban-chic setting highlight Brooklyn’s role as a creative hub. Early evenings, especially on weekends, bring out a vibrant crowd and often feature live music or food trucks, making it a social hotspot that captures the city’s energetic spirit.
Farther north, in the Hudson Valley, about 90 minutes north of New York City, sits Hudson Valley Distillers in the town of Gardiner. This distillery excels in crafting artisanal apple brandies and whiskey expressions that pay homage to the area’s rich agricultural heritage. Guests at Hudson Valley Distillers can tour the copper stills and barrel-aging rooms, witnessing first-hand the transformation of locally sourced apples into smooth, fragrant spirits. The distillery’s proximity to the Shawangunk Ridge provides a stunning backdrop, with rolling hills and orchards stretching as far as the eye can see. The distillery’s signature commitment to small-batch production distinguishes it from larger operations. Fall is a particularly enchanting time to visit, as the surrounding orchards burst into vivid reds and oranges, aligning perfectly with the apple-centric spirit offerings.
In the heart of Manhattan’s West Village, the Greenwich Village neighborhood vibrates with history and modern craft culture, home to the pioneering craft cocktail bar, Death & Co. Known for elevating spirits into art, here visitors discover a curated menu of expertly mixed drinks, each telling a story rooted in classic techniques and innovative twists. The dimly lit, speakeasy-style setting offers an intimate atmosphere where bartenders double as storytellers, explaining the provenance of rare liquors and the inspiration behind each cocktail. This place stands out for its blend of old-world elegance and progressive mixology that has influenced bars nationwide. Evenings, especially on chilly winter nights, provide the coziest moments to savor warming concoctions, from smoky bourbons to herbal infusions.
Out in the picturesque Hudson Valley town of New Paltz, about two hours northwest of New York City, the Millbrook Vineyards & Winery offers an exquisite experience perched on gently rolling hills. This estate showcases a variety of vinifera grapes that thrive in the region’s unique microclimate, producing vibrant whites and reds with a New York twist. Visitors can explore the vineyard grounds or embark on a peaceful stroll along the nearby Shawangunk Ridge Trail, then return for a tasting in the airy, glass-walled tasting room overlooking the vines. Millbrook’s dedication to minimal intervention winemaking highlights the purity of its terroir, setting it apart from more commercial wineries. Spring and early autumn, when the estate’s gardens are in full bloom or the leaves turn fiery, create a captivating backdrop for sipping wine outdoors.
Heading into the Adirondacks, about three hours north of Albany near Lake George, is the Adirondack Winery in Queensbury. It’s a delightful stop for those venturing into the region’s natural beauty and seeking to pair it with refined tastes. The winery’s tasting room is housed in a rustic yet modern space that emphasizes local ingredients and creativity, offering fruit-forward wines and experimental blends that reflect the diverse Adirondack environment. Visitors can sample wines inspired by native berries and apples, connecting the beverage to the natural bounty surrounding the area. The Adirondack Winery’s unique appeal lies in its balance between innovation and tradition, making it a must-visit for adventurous palates. Summer months, when outdoor patios open up with views of the foothills, amplify the tasting experience.
A drive about two hours west from Albany takes travelers to the village of Cooperstown, famous beyond baseball for its cozy craft beer scene centered around Brewery Ommegang. This Belgian-style brewery is set on a sprawling estate with gardens and a scenic outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and festivals. Brewery Ommegang’s commitment to traditional Belgian brewing techniques, combined with New York’s local ingredients, creates a lineup of ales with complex flavor profiles. Visitors can tour the brewhouse, wander the flowering grounds, and enjoy a tasting flight overlooking rolling pastures. Its distinct European influence amid the pastoral setting distinguishes it from other New York breweries. Late spring and early summer, when the festival season kicks off and the weather invites lingering outdoors, are ideal times to soak in the full experience.
In the historic town of Ticonderoga, situated between the Adirondacks and Vermont about two and a half hours north of Albany, Ticonderoga Distilling crafts spirits that channel the rugged character of the region. Known for its flavorful whiskeys and botanical gins, the distillery offers tours that reveal the meticulous attention to grain selection and distillation processes. Visitors are invited to taste and compare small-batch spirits in a cozy tasting room that evokes the frontier spirit of the Champlain Valley. The proximity to the nearby Fort Ticonderoga adds a layer of historical resonance, making the distillery part of a broader narrative of place and tradition. Autumn, with its crisp air and foliage, enhances the appeal of sampling warming spirits here.
Far to the eastern tip of Long Island, about two hours from New York City, lies the North Fork, a celebrated wine country with estates like Bedell Cellars. Bedell is renowned for its elegant Merlots and Chardonnays, nurtured by the Atlantic’s cooling breezes and sandy soils. Visitors can wander the manicured vineyards, enjoy tastings in a sleek yet welcoming tasting room, and explore art installations that merge culture and viticulture. The scenic North Fork drives through quaint towns and waterfronts add to the sensory experience. Bedell’s emphasis on sustainable farming and terroir expression distinguishes it within the region’s burgeoning wine scene. Late summer