America’s first wine trail. That’s not a marketing claim — it’s a fact. The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail has been running since 1983, and it remains one of the best day trips the Finger Lakes has to offer. It follows the 40-mile length of Cayuga Lake through some of the most beautiful scenery in Upstate New York. And the wines along the way have collectively earned over 6,000 national and international awards.
The microclimate here is what makes it all work. The lakes moderate New York’s extreme winters and create warm summer breezes that ripen grapes in ways the rest of the state simply can’t replicate. As a result, the Finger Lakes produces some of the finest cool-climate wines in the world. Riesling is the star — crisp, expressive, and unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in the US. But Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Traminette all thrive here too.
The trail gives you options for every kind of day. Some wineries are intimate and rustic. Others are grand operations with restaurants, live music, and lake views from the deck. Sheldrake Point is beloved for its Dry Rosé and its stunning lakeside setting. Thirsty Owl draws crowds for its award-winning Pinot Noir and its bistro. Hosmer and Cayuga Ridge suit those who prefer serious, food-friendly reds. And for something truly scenic, Taughannock Falls State Park sits right along the route — home to the largest free-drop waterfall east of the Mississippi.
The trail is open year-round. However, the warmer months bring the liveliest atmosphere, with events running throughout the season — from chocolate and cheese pairings to harvest festivals and live music weekends. Pick up a trail map before you go, plan three or four stops, and take your time. This is not a day to rush.