There’s only one winery sitting high above Skaneateles Lake with views like this. And that alone makes Anyela’s Vineyards worth the short drive up West Lake Road. But the wines — estate-grown, carefully crafted, and rooted in a family story that spans three generations and two continents — are the real reason to come.
The vineyard sits at higher elevation than most in the Finger Lakes. As a result, the growing conditions here are unique, and the wines reflect that character. The range spans crisp whites — including a dry Riesling and a refreshing Albariño — through to bold, food-friendly reds like a bright Cab Franc and a rich Pinot Noir Reserve. If you lean toward dry reds, this is particularly your kind of place. The tasting options let you either choose from a signature selection or build your own flight, which is worth doing if you want to explore more broadly.
The setting is, frankly, spectacular. The main tasting room has the warm, rustic feel of an Italian villa. The outdoor patio, meanwhile, looks out over the vineyard rows with the shimmering blue of Skaneateles Lake stretching out in the background. On a good day — especially in autumn when the foliage kicks in — it’s one of the prettiest spots in the entire Finger Lakes. Pick up a cheese board, find a table outside, and take your time.
Live music appears regularly throughout the season, which turns a wine tasting into a full afternoon. The vineyard also suits private events and weddings, so it’s worth checking ahead if you’re visiting on a busy summer weekend.
Find them at 2433 West Lake Road, Skaneateles — a short, scenic drive from the village.