Niagara USA Wine Magazine Premier Issue 2013 by Niagara USA Wine Magazine

COMPLIMENTARY

NIAGARA USA

R E I M E R P ISSUE

WINE

2013

Re s o u r c e g u i d e t o t h e N i a g a r a W i n e Tr a i l U S A

INSIDE: Destination: Niagara Wine Trail USA PLUS In-Depth Profiles 16 wineries & cidery

WELCOME Welcome to the premier issue of Niagara USA Wine Magazine! We are pleased to present—for the first time—a new and invaluable reference guide to the wineries of the Niagara Wine Trail USA. This is a great time for the Niagara Wine Trail USA and Western New York! With its recent expansion connecting wineries in Buffalo, Niagara, and Rochester, the Niagara Wine Trail USA is the fastest-growing wine region in the State. We believe it’s also poised to become a major culinary destination on the international stage. And why not? The Niagara region possesses all the attributes of a burgeoning wine region—dazzling wine and food events, an exciting restaurant scene, and most importantly, the ability to grow quality fruit to create world-class, awardwinning wines. Niagara USA Wine Magazine is your complete, twice-yearly resource guide to the wines and craft beverages, wineries, and winemakers of the Niagara Wine Trail USA. In each issue you’ll find: ● Detailed profiles on the Trail’s wineries and cidery. We’ll introduce you to the people and their products, and what’s new or noteworthy. You’ll learn about their beginnings, and what’s ahead. Plus you’ll find “The Essentials”—pertinent information for visiting each location on your own. ● Informative and entertaining columns and features highlighting the Niagara Wine Trail USA. Winemaker, expert and enthusiast Bryan Calandrelli brings us Beyond the Bottle (page 8), a look at regional grape growing and winemaking. Our food pairing column, The Convivial Table, (page 47), teams WNY chefs and sommeliers with food writer Christa Glennie Seychew for local wine pairing ideas and make-at-home, restaurant-style recipes. On the last page you’ll find The Finish, Teresa Sharp’s final takeaway on wine and the region. ● The Seedlings section, spotlighting what’s new to try, buy or do along the Trail, as well as a helpful map to navigate your way from winery to winery, upcoming events, and ads from some of the best businesses in Western New York. In this issue, our feature story begins on page 4. Destination: Niagara Wine Trail USA, by wine and food specialist Wendy Crispell, recounts her experiences when she visited the region for the first time earlier this year. We invite you to explore the debut edition of Niagara USA Wine Magazine, and we look forward to becoming your trusted resource to the Niagara Wine Trail USA. Cheers!

CONTRIBUTORS Bryan Calandrelli (Beyond the Bottle) is a winemaker, wine writer and

cinematographer working in the heart of the Niagara wine region. As a consultant, speaker, enthusiast and promoter of wine, part of his focus is on improving quality and awareness of the region’s wine industry. Wendy Crispell (Destination: Niagara Wine Trail USA) is a wine and food pairing specialist based in New York City whose passion is to share her culinary experiences with others. Although her travels have taken her palate on a journey from California to Cappadocia, she has a soft spot for the wines of her home state of New York. You can read about her gourmet adventures online at sassysipsnyc.com. Christa Glennie Seychew (The Convivial Table) is a Seattle native

who has considered Buffalo her home since moving to the area in 1992. She operates Feed Your Soul Productions, best known for creating the Nickel City Chef series. Teresa Sharp (The Finish) is a freelance writer and editor based in

Linda Pierro Managing Editor PS: If you prefer, you can read the online version at www.niagarawinemag.com.

Lewiston, New York who has worked for numerous publications both local and national, covering news, features, business, and sports. She is grateful to live on the beautiful Niagara Wine Trail USA.

NIAGARA USA WINETM Volume 1 Issue 1 Premier 2013

ROBERT BEDFORD EXECUTIVE EDITOR LINDA PIERRO MANAGING EDITOR / DESIGN DIRECTOR

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WINE

M AG AZ I N E

INSIDE

DAVID LICATA, MICHAEL LICATA ADVERTISING SALES ELIZABETH ROSE MAUTE NIAGARA WINE TRAIL USA COORDINATOR

4 Destination: Niagara Wine Trail USA by Wendy Crispell

ADVERTISINg INqUIRIES: Contact ads@niagarawinemag.com or call 518-731-1332.

Beyond the Bottle: Growing with Vinifera

SUBSCRIPTIONS: For rates, email us at info@niagarawinemag.com EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS: We invite ideas for articles, photographs, letters, and other contributions from readers. Please write us at the address below or email info@niagarawinemag.com. Any manuscript or artwork submitted by mail should be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope if you would like it returned. Niagara USA Wine Magazine is not responsible for the return or loss of submissions.

by Bryan Calandrelli

11–45

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NIAGARA USA WINETM Magazine is published semi-annually by Flint Mine Press, a division of Flint Mine Group, llc. ©2013 Flint Mine Group, llc. All rights reserved. Niagara USA Wine Magazine is a trademark of Flint Mine Group, llc. Material may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form without written permission. The magazine assumes no responsibility to return unsolicited material. No statement in this publication is to be construed as a recommendation. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings and omissions. Remember to drink responsibly.

COVER PHOTO: COVER PHOTO: Amanda Bieniecki

Winery Profiles

47 48 51 54 56

The Convivial Table by Christa Glennie Seychew Seedlings... Wine Country Events Map The Finish by Teresa Sharp

PHOTOS: Bryan Calandrelli (right); Courtesy Arrowhead Spring Vineyards (bottom)

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

L ET TER FR OM T HE P RES ID EN T OF THE N IA gARA W IN E TRA IL US A Dear Wine Lovers, It is an honor and privilege for me to serve as president of the Niagara Wine Trail USA. Our wine trail has grown quickly in the last eleven years, and we are excited to present Niagara USA Wine Magazine to showcase our great wine country in Western New York. The Niagara Wine Trail USA currently consists of sixteen member wineries and one cidery located along the Ridge and Lake routes, as you will read in the following pages. The trail is expanding toward Rochester in the coming year to include at least three more wineries. We could not think of a better way to showcase this extraordinary and fast-growing region than with the publication of a magazine that features the world-class wine region right in your own backyard! Each issue of Niagara USA Wine Magazine will highlight the different wines and libations you can expect to find throughout the Niagara Wine Trail USA.

Our wineries may have diverse backgrounds, but all have a single purpose, to make great wine.

Our wineries may have diverse backgrounds, but all have a single purpose, to make great wine. We are known as a new, “up and coming region,” but those of us who have been growing fruit in the Niagara fruit belt for generations know there is no better place to produce a truly flavorful, balanced fruit crop. The natural wonders of Niagara Falls, the Escarpment, and Lake Ontario have combined to create the perfect macroclimate for fruit production, and the opportunity to make great wines. Our wine trail includes fifth-generation fruit farmers, as well as new and enthusiastic growers who have come to this region because they have seen its potential. They include family-owned wineries and artisan winemakers who have a passion for what they produce, and each is sure to provide you with a unique experience when you visit their tasting rooms. We hope you will gain more insight to the Niagara Wine Trail USA as you read through Niagara USA Wine Magazine. When visiting the region, I encourage you to sample some of the wines that are truly unique to Niagara USA, as well as the more traditional varieties that also grow well here. I welcome you to uncork a natural wonder! Salute!

Oscar Vizcarra President, Niagara Wine Trail USA MEMBERS:

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

New York’s fastest growing wine region, overflowing with hospitality, history, art, rural charm, and culinary wonders By Wendy Crispell,

CsW, Wset

any visitors to the famed Niagara USA region of New York don’t usually associate wine, art, or agro-tourism with the area. Others not aware of the historical significance of the region may think all of the interesting stories are solely about the jaw-droppingly beautiful Niagara Falls State Park. For most, a trip to the falls is just that—a day to stop and ponder the natural wonder before moving on to another destination. Perhaps the best-kept secret in the Niagara region these days lies beyond the falls, on the Niagara Wine Trail USA. An exciting blend of award-winning wines and beverages, artisan foods, rural charm, and warm, friendly people is quickly making the trail a must-do for many culinary adventurers. Not so long ago this burgeoning wine region, one of the largest agricultural producers in the state, was better known for its fruit production and table grapes, but the unique microclimates, created by Lake Ontario to the north, the Niagara River to the west, and the Niagara Escarpment to the south, combine to create the second warmest growing season in New York. With warm, moderate temperatures and soil rich with glacial and marine deposits, the region is ideal for growing a wide variety of grapes, from native varieties to classic European vinifera. Niagara is gaining a stellar reputation as a hot, happening bed of vinous activity, and is emerging as the fastest-growing wine region in New York State.

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

This established fruit-growing region, cultivated by third-, fourth-, and fifth-generation farm families or those starting new vineyards and orchards, is quickly blossoming into a promising, world-class wine destination. Younger members of farm families, with their love for the region and its heritage, have returned to their roots to reimagine the visions of their ancestors, while contributing cutting-edge winemaking innovation and marketing savvy. Newcomers who seek a place to turn their dreams of vineyard life into reality have found the long growing season and moderate climate the optimal environment for success.

hile the region has a well-documented history of grape growing and winemaking—including the discovery of the Niagara white grape—since Prohibition there were only a handful of wineries that opened (and closed) before Peter Smith, a third-generation grape grower, founded Niagara Landing Wine Cellars in 1998, the first of the modern Niagara wineries. Many others followed in his footsteps, and today the tremendous growth of the modern “trail” that Smith pioneered has just recently been expanded into what will be known as the Niagara Wine Trail Ridge and the Niagara Wine Trail Lake, branded together as the Niagara Wine Trail USA. This new expansion will add miles and miles of sip-worthy stops stretching from Rochester to Lake Ontario in Western New York. Today, the Niagara wine region is home to sixteen wineries and one cidery, located within a majestic landscape that seems to unfold from the pages of a picture book. The wineries, situated near the shores of Lake Ontario, on flat green plains covered with seemingly endless rows of lush, carefully tended vines, or nestled among the rocks on the escarpment formed

Each winery on the Niagara Wine Trail USA offers something special to complement your tasting experience. From nature walks to natural history, ghosts to gastronomy, homespun handcrafts to modern art exploding with color, each winery offers something that turns a visit into a day-long escape! The enthusiastic vintners and their knowledgeable staff will charm their way into your heart, while they tempt your palate with their world-class wines and local delicacies. While Niagara Falls is one of the best-known tourist destinations in the world, there is so much more to experience in the region. Just a few of the many experiences along the Niagara Wine Trail USA are featured here to help you plan your trip to the most diverse and rapidly-growing wine destination this side of the Atlantic. Visitors will enjoy dizzying array of special events held by individual wineries and the wine trail, not to mention the regional festivals celebrating the local bounty of flavor. You may find yourself wishing you had planned a few extra days to enjoy everything the region has to offer!

Sip in the

STEPBack inTime

It’s no secret that the Niagara region is chock-full of places

The Niagara region is full of historical sites and notable firsts that open a window into the past and are far too numerous to list here. But you’ll find fascinating facts and amazing stories in several wineries along the wine trail.

Natural Splendor to enjoy the great outdoors. Even within the wine region itself are endless vineyard trails, lake-front beaches, bird-watching venues, and some of the best freshwater fishing. For a true taste of local terroir, sip, swirl, and savor a local wine paired with the bounty of trout, salmon, bass, perch and sturgeon freshly caught from the lake. For a taste of hometown charm and views of the Niagara River gorge, no visit would be complete without a stroll through Lewiston, home to both Niagara’s annual wine and culinary festival and Artpark, a picture-perfect picnic spot. PHOTO: (top) Niagara Tourism & Convention Corporation; (left) Randall Tagg Photography / www.taggphotography.com

millions of years ago by Mother Nature, are as diverse as the landscape itself.

Back on the trail, you can enjoy a nature hike or quiet reflection by the private lake at Spring Lake Winery before savoring a leisurely lunch prepared at their café. Riesling is king here, but you’ll also find wines with an Italian flair and treats such as wine-infused ice cream, and Nana’s homemade biscotti. A vintage-train ride to the vineyard is offered during peak foliage season in October, when you can experience nature in all its splendor, followed by a stop at the historic Medina Railroad Museum. Located on the southern shore of Lake Ontario is Victorianbourg Wine Estate, a vineyard project named for the love of a woman and wine. Classic European wine grapes are grown and used to create wines modeled on the very best of Germany and northern France. Favorites are dry whites and lighter style reds, perfect to pair with seafood— especially the catch of the day!

Many are unaware that Lockport was one of the last stops for nineteenth-century slaves seeking freedom in Canada. Named for the Underground Railroad “station” that ran through its property over 150 years ago, Freedom Run Winery pays homage to this historic legacy on their labels. But the winery is also making its own history with its commitment to wine as a true form of art. Throughout the modern tasting room art abounds, from the colorful blown glass that adorns the bar to the sculptural wood beams that seem to float across the ceiling. Dry, European-style wines, as well as Applejack and dessert wines, are artfully crafted by the winemaking team. Located on Route 104—aka the historic Honeymoon Highway—Honeymoon Trail Winery celebrates the region’s romantic past while offering a sweeter style of white, red, and fruit wines. Sit by the cozy fire, sample gourmet cheeses and fine chocolates, and soak in a bit of nostalgia as you ponder the fate of the thousands of couples who, for generations, started their lives together traveling past this charming spot on their way to Niagara Falls— affectionately known as the “Honeymoon Capital of the World” since the early 1900s.

The Niagara Escarpment (left): The eons-old limestone ridge begins near Rochester, New York, and runs west to

Michigan and Wisconsin. The ridge traps air warmed by the lake waters and protects the vineyards from drastic temperature swings normally found in the northeast. Niagara,the grape (right): Once hailed as “the grape for the millions,” the white Niagara grape originated with great fanfare near Lockport, New York, in 1868, the result of crossing the popular Concord grape with the lesser-known Cassady. Niagara is still considered the leading commercial white grape grown in the United States today. (Illustration, circa 1900) NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

Turn Farm Winery Visits into

Culinary Adventures

ulinary options are plentiful on the Niagara Wine Trail USA with many wineries featuring something to tempt and delight your palate. If you’re looking for a winery that offers a little something extra, you will

not be disappointed. Many offer special dinners and pairing events to complement their wines, while others have

culinary experiences available year-round. Whether you choose to attend one of the events at a winery, or create your own experiences at home, there is sure to be something to satisfy the inner foodie in everyone.

PHOTO: Esther Vizcarra

Vizcarra Vineyards at Becker Farms is fast becoming famous for their 100-mile–radius meals using only ingredients grown or raised within 100 miles of their extensive farm complex. Using homegrown ingredients along with dairy, meats, cheeses, and other products from local purveyors, these dinners bridge the gap between farm and plate, bringing locals and visitors together in the concept of the slow food movement. On the farm, you’ll find seasonal fresh produce, fruit pies and homemade doughnuts, and along with Vizcarra Vineyards’ fabulous selection of sweet and dry wines, the Becker Brewing Co. is on hand for those who prefer a frosty pint instead of a wine flight.

LynOaken Farms is home to Leonard Oakes Estate Winery where a market offers a wide selection of jams, jellies, honey, local cheeses, and artisanal treats to enjoy while strolling the grounds or to take away. This fourth-generation apple-farming family offers wines that range from elegant dry to sassy sparklers made from fruit. Be sure to try Steampunk, their cider which has developed a cult following the world over. It is made from traditional bittersweet and new age Fuji and Braeburn apples grown on their farm. A newly opened event pavilion has been added to the grounds to host various farm and winery festivities and food events throughout the year. Eveningside Vineyards, located in idyllic Cambria, hosts farm dinners by partnering with a local restaurant, and features a vineyard tour, private barrel tastings, live music, and four courses prepared from local ingredients. (For those in Buffalo, transportation can be arranged to and from the winery for these special events.) The focus at Eveningside is on European varieties and, not surprisingly, dry, food-friendly styles of wine.

The Winery at Marjim Manor has a plethora of culinary events to choose from. Murder mystery wine dinners, First Thursday food pairings, and Victorian teas, combined with art exhibits and tarot readings, are just a few of the innovative activities hosted by this winery, which is rumored to be inhabited by more than one spirit from beyond. Marjim Manor is known for their wildly popular fruit wines, many named after former inhabitants of the Manor. Midnight Run Wine Cellars adds a bit of rustic country charm to the trail with its laid-back, western-style decor. Multiple food and wine events are offered throughout the year, including cooking seminars, wine dinners in the vineyard, and even pop-up food vendors on weekends. Their list of offerings includes a mix of vinifera and hybrid wines, as well as hard cider and fruit wines. At Schulze Vineyards & Winery, a selection of local cheeses and condiments are offered along with live music performances many weekends throughout the year. Drink in the dry but fruit-forward flavors of their signature estategrown white wine, Siegfried, or try their award-winning Vidal Blanc Ice Wine with its sweet, elegant taste. You’ll be sure to find a wine to complement the local flavors at the winery. Long Cliff Winery offers barrel tastings, a culinary-focused book club, and, like a few other vineyards on the trail, it was once planted mainly with table grapes slated for juice and jelly production. Long Cliff, realizing the potential of vinifera in the region, is now producing a number of deliciously dry whites and reds, including an unusual white Pinot Noir and a “heavenly” house red that has both a heartwarming taste and story. In addition to a fascinating family history (which includes a grandmother’s membership in the Women’s Christian Temperance Union) and grapevines dating to the late 1880s, Niagara Landing Wine Cellars features an aromatic herb and butterfly garden in the summer months. At the winery, they offer a smorgasbord of grape varieties, and their website offers recipes for dishes using fresh herbs to accompany them. From noble varieties like Merlot to their fun and fruity Rosebud line, there is sure to be a wine to tickle your taste buds.

PHOTOS: Amanda Bieniecki (top); Courtesy Leonard Oakes Estate Winery (vineyard)

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

Adventures with Chocolate dizzying selection of Mead, sweet, and dry wines.

Discover Classic Beverages with A

Modern Twist

ge-old beverages with tales to tell are also experiencing a revival on the Niagara Wine Trail—some have ties dating back to colonial times, while others are crafted from recipes and grapes steeped in a bit of Old-World mysticism. In contrast, while some winemakers are producing wines with the most modern techniques and equipment available, others are taking a step back to grow grapes and produce wine with the most natural processes possible.

Natural winemaking and sustainable practices are prevalent at Arrowhead Spring Vineyards, where an Americanmade wind turbine provides almost half the power to run the entire winery, and a mobile chicken coup is used to help control vineyard pests. Arrowhead Springs specializes in dry whites and reds, handcrafted in small lots, with minimal intervention and maximum expression of regional terroir. BlackBird Cider Works, the newest member on the Niagara Wine Trail USA, is reviving what was once a local favorite. According to the New York Apple Association, apples were first planted along the Niagara River by French missionaries. At one time cider was the most popular drink in America, but then beer introduced by German immigrants, followed by Prohibition, literally wiped out the cider industry. In celebrating this colorful past, BlackBird produces a Heritage line of dry and semi-sweet

At A Gust of Sun Winery local chocolatier Stuffed Chocolate, Ltd. has created signature pairings to complement the flavor profiles of their wines. These are no ordinary run-ofthe-mill pairings—curry, chili, and other exotic spices dance with sweet and savory synergy to create a lovely marriage of flavor with their range of wines, perfect to sip in A Gust of Sun’s newly furnished wine lounge.

o n th

At Black Willow Winery, there is an abundance of tempting treats in the tasting room. In addition to a selection of cheeses and artisanal foods and products, you may find pop-up food vendors or a mobile smoke house outdoors. Norman Love Confections are served at the finest hotels, restaurants, gourmet shops, and exclusively at Black Willow Winery, where a chocolate-pairing menu perfectly plays off their

INE TR

Regional Delights: Folks in these parts have been enjoying tasty Beef on Weck for decades. The key ingredient for this sandwich is the kummelweck, a type of Kaiser roll encrusted with crunchy salt and caraway seeds. The freshest, hottest horseradish one can find tops warm layers of roast beef, piled high, with au jus served on the side.

Wine to pair: Try a glass of local Cabernet Franc to bring this to the next level of beefy bliss! The spicy rich fruit will complement the savory taste of the beef while standing up to the horseradish.

Think Chicago is home to the best hot dogs? Guess again, as more than one spot in the Niagara region claims to have one of the “Top 10 dogs in America”! Buffalo’s Sahlens Smokehouse Hot Dogs are delish when charbroiled, topped with the works, and served with a cool glass of Loganberry juice, a local favorite.

Wine to pair: In wine country, try dry Riesling or Gewürztraminer. The lush fruit flavors work perfectly with the smoky, spicy flavors of the hot dog to create a tubular delight.

ciders, including a Bourbon barrel-aged beauty, in addition to a line of Classic and Organic ciders. Ever taste wine with a rocket scientist? Visit aerospace engineer Jim Baker at Chateau Niagara Winery to sample not only European vinifera varietals, but historical Russian and Hungarian wines. Ancient blends and a sweet dessert wine based on a traditional, centuries- old recipe are being reborn at this unique winery in Newfane.

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Sponge candy is really hard to describe without actually experiencing it. The center, with its spongy, taffylike texture, has an almost caramelized molasses-like flavor. At first crisp, its smooth texture then melts in your mouth. A thick layer of either dark or milk chocolate coats the candies’ airy center.

Wine to pair: Choose a sweet berry fruit wine to pair with this crazy taste sensation! The berry and chocolate flavors meld perfectly to create a new favorite.

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B E Y O N D

T H E

B O T T L E

Growing with Vinifera By Bryan Calandrelli

Western New York’s Niagara wine region is steeped in history and blessed with endless beauty. While the natural wonder of Niagara Falls lures millions of visitors every year with its seductive power and awe inspiring views, the surrounding region is undergoing an agricultural renaissance which is steadily attracting tourists and locals off the beaten path and into the rural neighborhoods and towns where the landscape and lifestyle has always been shaped by fruit farming—and more recently—grape growing. But these visitors aren’t exactly navigating the back roads of Niagara on the hunt for jellies, jams or even grape juice—they’re on a quest for wine made from the same European grapes they’ve seen in every wine shop and restaurant across the country. We’re talking about grapes of the vitis vinifera species. arly settlers to the region recognized its potential by establishing orchards along the Niagara River, on the shores of Lake Ontario and on the slopes of the Niagara Escarpment in Lockport, New York. Those earliest plantings included apples and peaches, which led to pears, quinces, plums, cherries, apricots, nectarines, strawberries, blackberries and grapes. The pioneers had no idea that their towns and farms would eventually become one of the most productive fruit-growing regions in the early United States and eventually home to one of the fastest growing and most exciting wine growing regions in the Western hemisphere.

The vineyards of Niagara have long been associated with species native to North America—known as vitis labrusca or grapes like Concord and Niagara, which supplied a once thriving grape juice business. That’s right—the ubiquitous purple and white grape juice made by big name brands like Welch’s enabled regions like Niagara to develop a grape

growing industry that supported a countless number of farms along both Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. While many growers and winemakers have found success crafting wines from these same grapes, the pungent aromas that are often the calling card of the species limits their appeal to lovers of the more familiar wine styles from other parts of the world. In the eyes of traditional wine lovers, the single most important catalyst to the transformation of Niagara from a grape-growing into a wine-growing region relied on a recent investment into European wine grapes. When we talk about Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir or any of the thousands of grape varieties typically associated with wine we are referring to vitis vinifera. Some 40 years ago it was commonplace to believe that these grapes from the old world couldn’t survive here in the northeast, forget thrive or be used to make fine wines. But the work of Dr. Konstantin Frank in the Finger Lakes in the ’60s and Donald Ziraldo of Inniskillin in the Niagara

PHOTO: Bryan Calandrelli

Peninsula of Ontario in the ’70s legitimized the potential for vinifera across the region. As with many cooler regions in the northeast U.S., the primary challenge in growing vinifera grapes like Chardonnay and Merlot in the Niagara Region USA is simply survivability. Unlike the native species of Concord or Catawba, the European varieties did not evolve resilient to the extreme winter low temperatures that the northeast experiences, so the most critical factor in a vineyard site’s suitability in Niagara is its average low winter temperatures. Without a history of extensive climate data collection throughout the region, those looking to find the best sites for vinifera grapes need only to look for those locations where early settlers planted the most tender fruit varieties like cherries and peaches. The common thread between these sites is how the two main moderators of local climate—Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment —affect their microclimates. The lake, which is one of the deepest of the Great Lakes, doesn’t freeze over during winter. The warmth of the water—that is, relative warmth compared to the air temperature—ever so slightly diffuses the extreme arctic blasts of cold temperatures that make their way down from Canada a few times a year. Sites closer to the lake benefit more than sites further away and even a fraction of one degree can mean the difference between a healthy vine, a damaged vine or even vine mortality. The lake also delays bud break in the spring, reducing the risk of a late frost and extends the autumn growing season with the warmth it stores up over summer. The Niagara Escarpment is also an influential factor when choosing a vinifera vineyard site. The escarpment itself is a geological rock formation capped by limestone that runs through New York State via Ontario and into Wisconsin, but it is most easily recognized as the visible rock that Niagara Falls has eroded over time. The escarpment works to trap the air that’s already been influenced by Lake Ontario and enables a circulation of air between the lake and its slopes. It’s also common thought that calcium carbonate—the main chemical component of limestone of which is widespread in the region’s soils—raises the pH level in the soil into a range that vinifera vines prefer, allowing the vines to take in the precious nutrients that enable flavor complexity while promoting overall vine health at the same time. At last count there are some 15 vinifera grape varieties grown in the Niagara Region USA, with more added every few years. We’re seeing quality whites across the board especially from the quintessential cool climate varieties of Chardonnay and Riesling, which can be found in most every local tasting room. Those looking for aromatic whites should consider the Riesling at Spring Lake Winery or the Gewürztraminer at

WHERE TO TRY RED VINIFERA WINES: CABERNET FRANC A Gust of Sun Winery & Vineyard Arrowhead Spring Vineyards Chateau Niagara Winery Eveningside Vineyards Leonard Oakes Estate Winery Midnight Run Wine Cellars Schulze Vineyards & Winery

CABERNET SAUVIGNON Arrowhead Spring Vineyards Freedom Run Winery Honeymoon Trail Winery Midnight Run Wine Cellars Niagara Landing Wine Cellars Schulze Vineyards & Winery Victorianbourg Wine Estate Vizcarra Vineyards

MERLOT Arrowhead Spring Vineyards Eveningside Vineyards Midnight Run Wine Cellars Niagara Landing Wine Cellars Schulze Vineyards & Winery

PINOT NOIR Arrowhead Spring Vineyards Eveningside Vineyards Freedom Run Winery Leonard Oakes Estate Winery Midnight Run Wine Cellars Niagara Landing Wine Cellars Schulze Vineyards & Winery

continued on page 11 Above: Cabernet Sauvignon thrives at Freedom Run Winery’s vineyard. Below: Some of the many vinifera wines produced by the Niagara Wine Trail wineries.

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Explore places for A

Nap,Nibble or Experience There is no shortage of innovation in the Niagara wine region, and throughout the area you’ll find historical buildings and favorite childhood haunts being restored, refurbished, or repurposed with surprising results. In addition to the wine-centric stops featured below, plan a visit to The Silo Restaurant, which is in a converted coal silo on the Lewiston waterfront, or the Woodcock Brothers Brewing Co., housed in what was once a cold-storage facility.

“

When we first established the Niagara Wine Trail through state law in 2002, who would have foreseen the tremendous growth of the local wine industry? Best wishes to all the growers and vintners who are proving this initiative to be a lasting success.

”

– Senator George Maziarz

Senator George Maziarz 175 Walnut St., Suite 6 Lockport, NY 14094 maziarz@nysenate.gov maziarz.nysenate.gov

Medina Railway Museum founder Marty Phelphs took a childhood hobby and turned it into a charming museum that has railroad fans beaming from ear to ear. The museum offers rides, including fall excursions, on vintage trains. The Niagara Wine Train, a special treat for wine lovers, will run from late August through early October, departing on Saturdays from Medina. Up to 350 visitors will enjoy a memorable dinner, wine tastings, and music in the first-class compartments—truly a feast for the senses! Located in a section of what was once a retail outlet mall, the new Niagara Falls Culinary Institute is a must-stop on your epicurean journey. This mixed-use facility is home to a restaurant, patisserie and deli, a wine boutique featuring wines from the Niagara Wine Trail, and the largest culinarycentric Barnes & Noble bookstore. At Schulze Vineyards & Winery, ask about their Carousel line of wines, which contribute to the restoration of vintage rides at Olcott Beach Carousel Park. The park is completely run by volunteers, and rides are still only 25 cents! Centrally located for vineyard visits, The Brookins Inn and Suites was originally built by De Lisle Brookins in 1893. Once an important stop of the Lockport-Olcott Trolley System, which transported thousands of people from Buffalo to the famous Olcott Beach Hotel, The Brookins Inn was used for various different business ventures over the decades before the current owners restored it to its former splendor. Now each room is historically inspired by Olcott’s legendary inhabitants, such as Captain Hedley, who turned the tourist boat tour enterprise he started at age twelve into a full fleet of pleasure vessels. Filled with wonderful amenities this is the perfect place to rest after a long day on the trail. Wherever your visit takes you, time spent exploring the Niagara wine region will give you many warm memories, amazing sights, and a rainbow of gastronomic delights. This unique region, with its interesting history, scenic beauty, and charming hosts, will tempt you to return again and again to discover the Niagara Wine Trail USA. Go ahead, take the plunge into the waterfall of deliciously diverse wines and ciders. Enjoy the warm welcome extended to visitors from every corner of the region. Make your next destination the Niagara Wine Trail USA!

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NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

continued from page 9 Chateau Niagara Winery in Newfane. Wine geeks who are looking for something different may be surprised that Victorianbourg Wine Estate in Wilson, New York, produces a Grüner Veltliner—a grape most of us associate with Austrian wine. Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc are the most widely planted reds and enjoy a consistency in quality across many of the region’s wineries while those who want to seek out richer reds should look to Arrowhead Spring Vineyards’ Syrah, Freedom Run’s Pinot Noir, or Eveningside’s Cabernet Franc. Lovers of obscure reds have to try the Lemberger (aka Blaufränkisch as it’s called in Austria) at Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery. Looking to taste some bubbly? Schulze Vineyards & Winery and Leonard Oakes Estate Winery both use vinifera grapes in their sparkling wines—which may be one of the most underrated styles of wine currently produced in the region. The wineries of Niagara are crafting vinifera wines in all shapes and sizes, from dry to sweet, rich to light bodied, from everyday table wines to late harvest and dessert style. The investment and commitment to grow grapes like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling here has forever changed the landscape of this region that’s become a destination for lovers of all styles of wine.

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WHERE TO TRY WHITE VINIFERA WINES: CHARDONNAY A Gust of Sun Winery & Vineyard Arrowhead Spring Vineyards Black Willow Winery Chateau Niagara Winery Eveningside Vineyards Freedom Run Winery Honeymoon Trail Winery Midnight Run Wine Cellars Niagara Landing Wine Cellars Schulze Vineyards & Winery Spring Lake Winery Victorianbourg Wine Estate

RIESLING A Gust of Sun Winery & Vineyard Arrowhead Spring Vineyards Black Willow Winery Chateau Niagara Winery Eveningside Vineyards Freedom Run Winery Honeymoon Trail Winery Leonard Oakes Estate Winery Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery Midnight Run Wine Cellars Niagara Landing Wine Cellars Schulze Vineyards & Winery Spring Lake Winery Victorianbourg Wine Estate Vizcarra Vineyards

WINERIES & CIDERIES of the NIAGARA WINE TRAIL USA By Elizabeth Maute Coordinator for the Niagara Wine Trail USA

he first thing you’ll notice when you visit the Niagara USA wine region is the landscape—the beauty of the land lying just beyond the great Niagara Falls. The region serves as the perfect escape—from the ridge of the Escarpment, to the gentle sloping land along the shoreline with Lake Ontario serving as an exquisite backdrop, to the little towns and hamlets along the way. With the harvest soon upon us, this is the perfect time to take a leisurely drive to appreciate the beauty of Niagara USA. The second thing you’ll notice when you explore the region is how bountiful it is. On the next pages you will discover the profiles of the wineries—and even cideries—of this region. From dry red wines to varieties on the sweeter side, there is something for everyone. You’ll find that the heritage of winemaking in Niagara runs as deep as our vineyards’ roots. The “Meet the Winemaker” column reveals some insight on the people who make our wineries thrive. Feeling a little daring and want to try something different? Or maybe your companion is not an oenophile? That’s okay! The wineries of Niagara USA have several libations that non-wine drinkers may enjoy. You will find as you read the profiles that the region is also popular for the production of hard ciders and Mead. Several wineries produce wines from fruit (other than grapes) that grow in our region to make their wine. Peach, blueberry, strawberry, and apple lovers will not be disappointed! Be sure to check out each winery’s “In the Spotlight” section for ideas on what to try next time you are in the tasting room. So as the days grow shorter, take in the fall colors on the trees and in the vineyards before they are blanketed with the first snowfall. Each winery profile has information about the destination and directions so you can conveniently find your way there. And while the grapes begin their long journey from the vineyard to your glass, we invite you to come out and explore the wineries of Niagara USA. You just may find your new favorite vintage!

INDEX Lake Region

Ridge Region

Black Willow Winery ................16

A Gust of Sun Winery & Vineyard................................38

BlackBird Cider Works.............20 Chateau Niagara Winery..........14 Midnight Run Wine Cellars ......42 Schulze Vineyards & Winery ....12 Victorianbourg Wine Estate ....44 The Winery at Marjim Manor ...18

Arrowhead Spring Vineyards ...28 Eveningside Vineyards.............32 Freedom Run Winery ...............30 Honeymoon Trail Winery..........40 Leonard Oakes Estate Winery 22 Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery ...36 Niagara Landing Wine Cellars .34 Spring Lake Winery..................26 Vizcarra Vineyards ...................24

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SCHULZE VINEYARDS & WINERY

A BOUT US

Established 2007

IN 1966, WILLIE SCHULZE immigrated to the United States after living through World War II in Germany. It wasn’t long before his wife and family followed suit. Three years later, the family purchased a 122-acre farm in the hamlet of Burt, New York, which already consisted of grapes, sweet cherries, apples, and pears. After purchasing the farm, the Schulze family diligently worked to create their new life in the United States. Grapes became the primary focus in the 1970s when contracts for juice began with Welch’s and Great Western. During the 1980s it became a dream for Willie’s son Martin to open his own winery one day. Hybrid and vinifera grapes were planted to help achieve this dream. Willie and Martin also harvested black cherry trees and stored them in one of the barns for later use in the winery. Finally, in 2006 the Schulzes’ dream became a reality with the start of construction on the winery. In May 2007, Schulze Vineyards & Winery opened for business. The cabinets and eight-sided bar in the tasting room are made from the same black cherry trees that Willie and Martin harvested years before. The cedar cathedral ceiling gives the winery a cozy atmosphere while the many windows overlook a beautiful view of the vineyards. Shortly after the winery opened, Ann’s eldest son Tyler became the tasting room manager and has helped the winery grow. A few years later, Ann’s youngest son Shaun also joined the business and today assists Martin in all the everyday operations, including managing the vineyard. In 2010, Jonathan Oakes was hired as the winery’s winemaker, and both Shaun and Martin assist Jonathan in the winemaking process. The winery participates in several outside events, including the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in Watkins Glen and many local farmers markets and festivals, and is host to many events, including weddings, showers, graduation parties and celebrations of all kinds. Schulze Vineyards & Winery has received fabulous awards for several of their wines. Most recently their Vidal Blanc and Block Three Ice Wines, as well as their Late Harvest have received multiple Gold medals from international wine competitions. Their wines are featured in several local restaurants and liquor stores throughout Western New York.

WHITE WINES CHARDONNAY RESERVE CHARDONNAY SIEGFRIED RESERVE RIESLING VIDAL BLANC THIRT Y MILE POINT NIAGARA

BLUSH WINE LOTUS CATAWBA

RED WINES MERITAGE CABERNET FRANC OLD BARN RED LAKE HOUSE RED RUBY

DESSERT WINE RCR RED DESSERT WINE LATE HARVEST VIDAL BLANC ICE WINE BLOCK THREE ICE WINE

CARBONATED CRACKLING NIAGARA CRACKLING CATAWBA MON CHERI

SPARKLING BLANC DE BLANC BRUT

The philosophy at Schulze is simple; their care and commitment in the grape growing are reflected in their winemaking. By growing their own grapes, they are able to produce quality wine.

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MEET THE WINEMAKERS Ann and Martin Schulze, owners of Schulze Vineyards & Winery are without a doubt passionate about their vineyards and winery. Along with Ann’s sons, the business has dramatically grown because of the dedication, attention to detail and care given in both the vineyard and tasting room. The Schulzes are also committed to being involved in their community where Ann grew up. Ann is a member of the Town of Newfane Tourism Board and Business Association, Farm Credit Customer Service Council, and Martin is also involved in the community as a member of the Farm Bureau, Cornell Cooperative Extension, and Lake Erie Grape Program. When Ann and Martin aren’t too busy with the winery they enjoy traveling and spending time with family and friends. As of 2010, Jonathan Oakes has been their winemaker. He is also third generation and winemaker of Leonard Oakes Estate Winery. Jonathan graduated from Niagara College, Ontario, Canada and trained at Vineland Estates. He has become an expert on cool-climate winemaking, which is present in his award-winning wines.

LAKE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT 2011 SIEGFRIED RESERVE

Exclusive to our Schulze Vineyards & Winery, Siegfried is a specific clone of Riesling developed in Geisenheim, Germany, and is sparsely planted in the United States. This full-bodied wine presents brilliant aromatics of white peach and pineapple. Fruit forward and complexly layered with stunning balance. 2011 VIDAL BLANC

This refreshing white wine opens up with light floral aromas that merge with subtle notes of apricot and a touch of honey. This wine is a 2011 Double Gold medal winner at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and 2011 Gold Medal Winner at Tasters Guild International Wine Competition. 2011 VIDAL ICE WINE

Distinctive aromatics of candied peaches, apricots, and raw honey lavish the senses. Rich and viscous with luscious sweetness, this is truly a treasure that can be attributed to the Niagara region’s terroir and the use of authentic Eiswein techniques. This ice wine was a 2013 Gold medal winner at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY SCHULZE VINEYARDS & WINERY

TASTING FEE $2.00

ADDRESS 2090 Coomer Road Burt, NY 14028

TOURS No

PHONE 716-778-8090 FAX 716-778-9775 EMAIL ann@schulzewines.com WEBSITE www.schulzewines.com

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Take I-490 West to exit NY-531 West toward Brockport. Travel for 8 miles and turn right onto CR-36 North. Turn left onto CR-31 West. Turn right onto NY-260. Turn left onto Ridge Road. Continue on Ridge Road then turn right onto Peter Smith Road. Turn left onto NY-18, then turn left onto Coomer Road. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East then exit 3B to US-62. Turn right onto Tonawanda Creek Road. Turn left onto NY-270/Campbell Blvd. Continue to NY-93. Turn right onto NY-104/Ridge Road, then left onto Coomer Road.

OPEN Jan–April: Sun–Fri,12–6pm; Sat, 10am–6pm May–Dec: Sun, 12–6pm; Mon–Sat,10am–6pm

ACREAGE 120 acres, 47 acres under vine PRODUCTION 8,000 cases OWNERS Ann and Martin Schulze MANAGER Tyler Finley WINEMAKER Jonathan Oakes EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

CLOSED New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day

WINERIES NEARBY Chateau Niagara Winery: 2.6 miles Victorianbourg Wine Estate: 3.6 miles

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CHATEAU NIAGARA WINERY

A BOUT US

Established 2010

CHATEAU NIAGARA WINERY is located on 31 acres of soft, sandy loam farmland in Newfane, New York, right across the street from 18 Mile Creek. Just 2.5 miles south of Lake Ontario, the land is steeped in a history of fruit groves, making it ideal for viticulture. Featuring 6.5 acres of grapes, a nursery of experimental vines, wine production facilities, and a tasting room on the premises, visitors can get the full idea of what life as a vineyard owner is like. From the personal attention given every customer to a glimpse of the crush pad while the freshly harvested grapes are being processed, one can see there is honest hard work and effort put into every bottle of wine. Owners Jim and Kathy Baker bought the land in the spring of 2006, and before the ink was even dry, they were planting neat rows of vines with their four daughters and many friends to start their business. They began with only three varietals: Chardonnay, Riesling, and Gewürztraminer. When the vines had matured enough to yield their first crop in 2008, they bottled those three as dry white varieties. With the help of Joe Moberg, the vineyard manager, they have now expanded to include Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Blaufränkisch, Saparavi, and Agria, in addition to the Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and Riesling, which is made in small batches of fruitforward, food-friendly wine. When they opened their doors in March 2010, they were surrounded by their friends to celebrate their grand opening. They hope that everyone who comes to visit will leave as a friend, even if they started as a stranger.

WHITE WINES CAYUGA WHITE CHARDONNAY GEWÜRZTRAMINER RIESLING

RED WINES BULLS BLOOD

MEET THE WINEMAKER Jim Baker does double duty as winemaker as well as owner. He is a career aerospace engineer with over thirty years’ experience in the aerospace industry. As such he combines technical expertise with creativity in developing wines inspired by Eastern European wines. While experimenting with the exotic, Jim does not lose sight of the classic styles that represent the more conventional wines. He has a passion for his red wines, and it is reflected in their character, with more exciting things to come.

CABERNET FRANC PINOT NOIR TRINIT Y

From the personal

DESSERT WINES

attention given every

À LA MODE

customer to a glimpse

KAGOR

Now that Chateau Niagara Winery is in its third year, the Bakers are excited to continue developing and expanding the vineyard with both new, unusual varietals and classic favorites, which would further diversify their estate-grown selection. They also enjoy seeing the area expand as a burgeoning wine region. The Bakers believe that this fruit-growing region, with its rich soils, is gaining attention as a serious viticultural location. They feel privileged to be part of this exciting development.

of the crush pad while the freshly harvested grapes are being processed, one can see there is honest hard work and effort put into every bottle of wine.

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LAKE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT BULLS BLOOD, CABERNET FRANC, AND KAGOR

Starting with the Fall 2012 harvest, there was limited production of three new wines, and Chateau Niagara Winery is very excited about their potential. Production of these three fine wines will be expanded in 2013 as they are expected to sell out. Bulls Blood, the national wine of Hungary, is an exotic red, a blend of Cabernet Franc, an Austrian grape Blaufränkisch, and a Hungarian grape called Turan. Only about a half dozen wineries in the United States make a Bulls Blood, and Chateau Niagara Winery is pleased to offer a New York version of this interesting wine. It has notes of smoke, violet, and blueberry with layers of complex flavor.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY CHATEAU NIAgARA WINERY

TOURS Yes

ADDRESS 2466 West Creek Road Newfane, NY 14108

ACREAGE 31 acres, 5.5 acres under vine

PHONE 716-778-7888

Chateau Niagara Winery has also created a varietal Cabernet Franc, a grape that will likely become the signature grape of the area. It has intense cherry notes, hefty body, and smooth tannins, and will become a “big red” drinkers’ favorite. Kagor is a richly decadent Russian dessert wine made in the Old World style using classic Russian techniques. Chateau Niagara Winery is the first in the western hemisphere to make this wine, which is full and sweet with 10% residual sugar and a big, upfront cherry taste that morphs to cassis in your mouth.

FAX 716-778-7887 EMAIL info@chateauniagarawinery.com WEBSITE www.ChateauNiagaraWinery.com OPEN Jan–April: Sat–Sun, 12–6pm May–Dec: Thurs–Mon, 12–6pm CLOSED Easter, Christmas Day TASTING FEE $3.00 for three wines

PRODUCTION 600 cases OWNERS Jim and Kathy Baker WINEMAKER Jim Baker EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

GETTING HERE FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East then exit 3B to US-62. Turn right onto Tonawanda Creek Road. Turn left onto NY-270/Campbell Blvd. Continue to NY-93. Turn right onto NY-104/Ridge Road then left onto Ewings Road to West Creek Road.

WINERIES NEARBY Black Willow Winery: 3.3 miles Schulze Vineyards & Winery: 2.6 miles

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BLACK WILLOW WINERY

A BOUT US

Established 2010

AT BLACK WILLOW WINERY we offer a unique place where people can come to relax, reflect on the simple things in life and enjoy wine without being intimidated or uncomfortable. We want to share our knowledge and learn alongside our guests. Black Willow Winery is a familyWHITE WINES owned boutique winery. Our goal is to provide distinctive, BARE CAT BLUSH rich artisan wines and Meads for wine enthusiasts, as well as those experiencing wine for the first time. We strive to CHARDONNAY create a visceral wine experience offering affordable unique CLASSIC DIAMOND wine varietals best suited for the region. Our wines RIESLING RESERVE complement regional foods such as spicy barbecues, quail, TRILOGY WHITE turkey, venison and other wild game, trout, cheeses and home-style meals.

RED WINES

Black Willow Winery is located on the south shore of Lake Ontario on West Lake Road in Burt, New York, conveniently in the heart of the Niagara Wine Trail, USA. The winery sits on 43 acres of beautiful, lake-view country and has the best soil and drainage in the area suited to growing grapes. West Lake Road is a part of the Great Lakes Seaway Trail, a major travel route for many summer tourists.

BLACK WIDOW BERRY CABERNET FRANC TRILOGY RED

MEADS ODIN’S NECTAR

Black Willow Winery holds twenty-nine international awards with Odin’s Nectar winning Gold, Silver, and two Bronze medals; Trilogy White winning Gold, two Silver, and two Bronze; and Black Widow Berry with five awards on its own. All of our wines, including our Meads which are fermented the traditional way, have won multiple awards. Who are the cats on our bottles, and do they not have any hair? The cats that grace Black Willow’s wine bottles are our hairless cats: Baggy Wrinkles, Noodle and Sasha. Although Baggy Wrinkles is no longer with us, we have dedicated our Bare Cat Blush wine in his memory. And yes, they are naturally hairless! That’s why they do not regularly hang out in the winery. They would much rather snuggle in a warm blanket in the house.

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Owners and winemakers Cynthia West-Chamberlain and Michael D. Chamberlain have had a passion for good wine and food for many years. Black Willow Winery has fulfilled a dream of theirs to share this passion with family, friends, and guests. Cynthia earned a degree in enology through the University of Missouri and the VESTA Program while planning the winery. Michael and Cynthia both oversee the day-to-day operations and winemaking. The Chamberlains also own and operate Milestone Builders, a design-build industrial/commercial construction company, which they established in May 2002.

FREYJA’S PASSION

VALKYRIE’S LURE Our tasting room offers an array of wine accessories, wineglasses, wine-themed clothing, handcrafted goods, DESSERT WINE crackers and cheeses, and sausage meats from local FLIGHT 6.1.37 vendors. Regional artists also have their work on display and for sale at the winery. Black Willow offers an exclusive line of chocolates from one of the top ten chocolatiers in the United States, which we use for our wine and chocolate pairings, offered daily. We host weddings, private parties, corporate events, and wine-related seminars.

MEET THE WINEMAKERS

Awards: • 2011 Small Business of the Year Award: New York State Small Business Development • 2013 Niagara USA Chamber of Commerce: Awarded Business of the Year for Olcott, New York • NYS SBDC 2013 Agriculture Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Our goal is to provide distinctive, rich artisan wines and Meads for wine enthusiasts, as well as those experiencing wine for the first time.

LAKE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT GOLD AWARD-WINNING MEAD/HONEY WINE

Black Willow Winery is the only winery on the Niagara Wine Trail that produces honey wine, or Mead. ODIN’S NECTAR

Traditional-style Mead made from nothing but pure local honey. VALKYRIE’S LURE

Traditional-style Mead made from nothing but pure local honey, then infused with pear and cinnamon. FREYJA’S PASSION

Traditional-style Mead made from nothing but pure local honey, then infused with strawberry and vanilla.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY BLACK WILLOW WINERY

TOURS By reservation

ADDRESS 5565 West Lake Road Burt, NY 14028

ACREAGE 43 acres

PHONE 716-439-1982

TRILOGY WHITE

A delicate, proprietary blend of white wines with soft floral notes and a clean finish. Trilogy White has won four awards including Gold. BLACK WIDOW BERRY

This sweet red wine, infused with blackberry, is refreshing and smooth. It got its name from customers’ repeated slips of the tongue—Black Widow Winery— and is a top seller.

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Take NY-18 west. FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take the Robert Moses Parkway to the end. Turn left on NY-18, heading east. FROM BUFFALO: Take NY-425 north to NY-18. Turn right on NY-18, heading east, for 5 miles.

PRODUCTION 3,000 cases

EMAIL sales@blackwillowwinery.com

OWNERS Cynthia West-Chamberlain and Michael Chamberlain

WEBSITE www.blackwillowwinery.com

MANAGER Cynthia West-Chamberlain

OPEN Jan–April: Sun–Fri, 12–6pm Sat, 10am–6pm; May–Dec: Mon–Sat,10am–6pm Sun, 12–6pm

WINEMAKERS Cynthia West-Chamberlain and Michael Chamberlain

TASTING FEES $2.00 for three wines $2.00 for dessert wine/Port $12.00 for four wines with chocolate pairing

EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

WINERIES NEARBY The Winery at Marjim Manor: 5.1 miles Chateau Niagara Winery: 3.3 miles

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THE WINERY AT MARJIM MANOR

A BOUT US

Established 2004

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE between a wine and a spirit? At The Winery at Marjim Manor, wine is what you taste; spirits are who you meet. As you taste our fruit and grape wines, you will hear the story of the former residents. The Manor’s staff love sharing wine and food pairing tips along with the ghostly tale. If you are a “Pear Made in Heaven” and wanted to live “Applely Ever After,” please visit. We always “Peach for the Stars” while we share our “Gift from the Vine.” Visits are a “Treasure Beyond Measure.”

WHITE WINES

MEET THE WINEMAKER

NIAGARA WHITE CATAWBA

Domenic Carisetti is a University of California at Davis trained winemaker with thirty-five years of hands-on production experience at both large and small wineries. He has been making wines for The Winery at Marjim Manor since 2005.

RED WINES CABERNET SAUVIGNON CONCORD STEUBEN

BLUSH WINE Opened in 2004, this W.O.W. (Woman-Owned Winery) is owned by Margo Sue Bittner. The name Marjim is a blend of her first name with that of her husband, Jim. It is a name they created over thirty years ago when they began dairy farming. The winery is a truly a family affair: Margo’s daughter, Janet Walker, assists with sales and marketing. The fruit comes from Singer Farms, where Jim is president. Their two boys, Kevin and David, work full time at Singer Farms also. The mansion, built in the 1800s, was originally a farmhouse and later a summer retreat for the Sisters of St. Joseph convent. The house even has resident ghosts. Visit the tasting room to hear the whole story. No recent sightings have been reported … yet. Even if you don’t see any of the resident ghosts, you can still say hello to one of the Manor Cats!

Over the years, The Winery at Marjim Manor has had wines made from cherries, apples, peaches, pears, plums, currants, apricots, cranberries, blueberries, and strawberries.

PHOTOS: Cecelia Price (above left); Nick Serrata (above right, opposite page)

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PINK CATAWBA

FRUIT WINES ADAMS APPLEBERRY APPLELY EVER AFTER BLUE BERYL CHERRY CONCERTO CHERRY RHAPSODY CRANBERRY CRESCENDO HEART OF GOLD JEWEL OF THE CROWN KATAPALOOZA LEGACY PEACH FOR THE STARS PEAR MADE IN HEAVEN SOPHIA’S SUNRISE STRAWBERRY DREAMS FOREVER THURSDAY AFTERNOON AT THREE TRUE BLUE

DESSERT WINES CHERRY SERENADE CHERRY SYMPHONY CORDIALLY YOURS

Working with fruits other than grapes has presented a few challenges. Domenic has developed some unique techniques to create the award-winning wines. Over the years, The Winery at Marjim Manor has had wines made from cherries, apples, peaches, pears, plums, currants, apricots, cranberries, blueberries, and strawberries. There are varietals, fruit blends, and fruit and grape blends. The wines have ranged from a dry blueberry (residual sugar .25 percent) to a cherry dessert wine at 14 percent residual sugar. The grape wines have a similar range. The current red wines on the tasting bar include Cabernet Sauvignon, both a dry and sweet Concord, and Steuben. Likewise, the white wines range from a white Catawba to Cayuga White to both a medium and sweet Niagara. These wines have consistently won medals at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, New York State Fair Commercial Wine Competition, American Wine Society, International Eastern Wine Competition, National Women’s Wine Competition, and New York Wine and Food Classic. In addition to his hands-on philosophy, Domenic is a winemaking instructor both in person and online. His broad base of experience make him a much sought-after consultant. From harvest to bottling, his commitment to premium quality wines is appreciated by the staff at Marjim Manor.

LAKE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT EVENTS

Everyone enjoys events at The Winery at Marjim Manor. We host weddings, showers, reunions, meetings, classes, and a variety of other special times. Visitors love the elegant atmosphere and the attention to detail. Evenings, afternoons, mornings—you choose the time. We have both inside and outside venues. Niagara Wine Trail events, private events, we love hosting them. Talk to us about your dreams, we’ll make them come true.

THE ESSENTIALS

GHOSTS

Ghost stories abound at the Manor. Each employee has had an experience with the Manor’s spirits. Hear them and maybe experience them for yourself. Often we have new historical facts to share. Sometimes family members, Sisters of St. Joseph, campers and other visitors share their stories. Take a drive to the Manor and who knows what will happen. Visit the Manor and hear Margo tell her ghost story!

WINERY THE WINERY AT MARJIM MANOR

TOURS No

ADDRESS 7171 East Lake Road (Route 18) Appleton, NY 14008

OWNER Margo Sue Bittner

PHONE 716-778-7001 FAX 716-778-7003

WINEMAKER Domenic Carisetti EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

EMAIL Margo@MarjimManor.com WEBSITE www.MarjimManor.com OPEN Mon–Sat, 10am–6pm Sun, 12–6pm CLOSED New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day TASTING FEES $3.00/$5.00 with wineglass

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Take NY-18 west. FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take the Robert Moses Parkway to the end. Turn left on NY-18, heading east. FROM BUFFALO: Take NY-78 north to NY-18. Turn right at the light at the intersection of NY-18 and NY-78 in Olcott Beach. Winery is 3 miles east on the left.

WINERIES NEARBY BlackBird Cider Works: 5.4 miles Black Willow Winery: 5.1 miles

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BLACKBIRD CIDER WORKS

A BOUT US

Established 2011

THE WESTERN NEW YORK REGION has a rich history of producing hard ciders. Prior to the recent mass commercialization of hard cider beverages, most hard cider was made by private citizens for personal consumption and the process was carried out in their barns, basements, and sheds. BlackBird Cider Works has captured this part of the region’s rich history by producing a collection of hard ciders, including several ciders in their HERITAGE COLLECTION that are produced using local cider-making techniques, including natural fermentation and aging ciders in oak barrels. BlackBird Cider Works is a producer of premium craft hard ciders made from apples grown on the owner’s 37.5-acre estate orchard. The cidery, nestled in an orchard on the shore of Lake Ontario, produces a wide range of styles, including barrel-aged ciders and ciders made with certified organic apples, as well as other interesting and unique hard ciders, including English, French, New England, Bourbon Barrel Aged, and fruit-infused ciders. The cidery strives to keep their selection interesting by constantly introducing new products.

ORGANIC ORGANIC FARM ST YLE CIDER ORGANIC OAK BARREL AGED DRY CIDER ORGANIC OAK BARREL AGED SEMI-SWEET CIDER ORGANIC OAK BARREL AGED SWEET CIDER

CLASSIC The cidery’s rustic tasting room is stacked with oak aging barrels and contains a few interesting apple-harvesting and cider-making artifacts from the past. Scott Donovan, apple grower and cider maker, is the founder of BlackBird Cider Works and also owns Donovan Orchards LLC, a small commercial orchard with approximately 24 acres of conventional and certified organic apples in production. As of 2013, over twenty-five different varieties of apples are grown in the orchard, including popular varieties like McIntosh, Empire, Cortland, and Jondagold as well as disease-resistant and American and English heirloom cider varieties. There is also a small pear block in the orchard. Annual apple production ranges from 10,000 to 15,000 bushels per year.

BRUT FRENCH ST YLE CIDER BLACKBIRD PREMIUM DRAFT CIDER CLASSIC WOOD AGED CIDER

HERITAGE ORCHARDIST RESERVE CIDER BOURBON BARREL AGED CIDER DABINETT ENGLISH ST YLE CIDER

In 2006, founder Scott Donovan purchased the 37.5-acre NEW ENGLAND ST YLE CIDER orchard property from the Bittner family, owners of The Winery at Marjim Manor. At that time there were no RED BARN FARM ST YLE CIDER buildings on the property, only orchards. Scott designed and constructed a New England–style barn and began farming apples and expanding the orchard. With virtually no background in agriculture, Scott began learning how to grow quality fresh grade apples. In 2010, the barn was converted into what is today the cidery building and BlackBird Cider Works became a licensed farm cidery in 2011. BlackBird Cider Works became a full member of the Niagara Wine Trail in 2013.

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MEET THE CIDER MAKER Scott Donovan, founder and cider maker at BlackBird Cider Works had a vision to introduce a line of hard ciders that would have a broad appeal to the growing population of cider consumers, but also capture the nearly lost art of hard cider making that was common in the East Coast apple-growing regions over the last 300 years. As a craft beer enthusiast with a twenty-year background in home brewing, Scott had traveled to the cider regions in Europe, where he witnessed the popularity of hard ciders long before the resurgence of ciders in the United States. His background in home brewing and craft beer enabled him to begin experimenting with ciders, and prototypes were made immediately after the very first harvest in 2007.

The cidery produces a wide range of cider styles, including barrel-aged ciders and ciders made with certified organic apples.

LAKE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT RECENT AWARDS

2013 Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition (Commercial Division): Silver: – New England Style Hard Cider – Sweet Organic Oak Barrel Aged Hard Cider – Dry Oak Barrel Aged Hard Cider – Classic Wood Aged Cider Bronze: – Semi-Sweet Organic Oak Barrel Aged Hard Cider – Dabinett English Style Cider

THE ESSENTIALS

2012 Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition (Commercial Division): Silver: – Dabinett English Style Cider Bronze: – Semi-Sweet Organic Oak Barrel Aged Hard Cider

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Take I-390 north to the Lake Ontario Parkway. Then take NY-18 west, then turn right on quaker Road. Cidery is 1 mile on the left on the corner of quaker and Lower Lake Road. FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take Robert Moses Parkway to the end. Turn left on NY-18, heading east. Turn left on quaker Road. Cidery is 1 mile on the left on the corner of quaker and Lower Lake Road. FROM BUFFALO: Take NY-78 north to NY-18. Turn right at the light at the intersection of NY-18 and NY-78 in Olcott Beach. Turn left on quaker Road. Cidery is 1 mile on the left on the corner of quaker and Lower Lake Road.

CIDERY BLACKBIRD CIDER WORKS

TASTING FEE $3.00 for four ciders

ADDRESS 8503 Lower Lake Road Barker, NY 14012

TOURS No charge with tasting fee

PHONE 716-795-3580 EMAIL BlackBirdCiders@aol.com WEBSITE BlackBirdCiders.com OPEN Feb–April: Fri & Sun, 12–5pm; Sat, 10am–5pm May–Dec: Fri & Sun, 12–6pm; Sat, 10am–6pm CLOSED New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day

ACREAGE 37.5 acres PRODUCTION 2,000 cases OWNER Scott Donovan CIDER MAKER Scott Donovan Kristin gregory, Assistant Cider Maker EVENTS Check website or Facebook page for details on events. Aug 25 Summer Cider Celebration

WINERIES NEARBY Leonard Oakes Estate Winery: 12.4 miles The Winery at Marjim Manor: 5.4 miles

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LEONARD OAKES ESTATE WINERY

A BOUT US

Established 2006

THE FOUNDATION OF THE OAKES FAMILY LEGACY began when Leonard Oakes bought land in the northwest corner of Orleans County. With this purchase, he forged the family’s beginnings in agriculture, an endeavor that continues today. Four generations have farmed the same land, establishing the Leonard Oakes Estate Winery in WHITE WINES 2003, an award-winning producer of handcrafted artisanal CHARDONNAY wines and ciders. RIESLING

The signature terroir of the region is defined by the soil structure and topography carved out by the glaciers of the last Ice Age. The natural escarpment, fertile soils rich with deltaic glacial deposits, and the moderating effects of Lake Ontario create a lush macroclimate for the vineyards, which produce a wide array of varieties with regionally distinct flavors.

TRAMINETTE

The Oakes family, rooted in the region and their agricultural heritage, nurture the bounty of the vineyards. Generations of Oakes have ventured out into the world and returned to the farm with broad expertise and a unique vision. Together they have created a personal wine experience that is truly tailored to each individual, providing an experience that is engaging, fun, and informative. This passion is also represented in their diverse array of high-quality wines.

CABERNET FRANC

Enjoy a glass of fine wine in the vineyard or a flight of the best wines paired with local cheeses, charcuterie, and chocolate in the tasting room. Visit Leonard Oakes Estate Winery for a warm welcome and an unforgettable experience!

VIGNOLES G RÜNER VELTLINER BLANC D’ORLEANS ESCAPE BLANC

RED WINES

PINOT NOIR MERITAGE FRONTENAC RED OAKES CHAMBOURCIN

FRUIT WINES

The winery’s winemaking and grape-growing team is led by Jonathan Oakes, Leonard’s great-grandson, who was raised on the farm. Recognizing the similar attributes of terroir on both the Canadian and the American sides of the Niagara region, Jonathan chose to study at Niagara College, Canada. After a brief stint working in Ontario, he returned to the farm in 2008 and established a foundation of viticultural attributes and wine styles to extend his family’s agricultural heritage. Jonathan is committed to producing premium wines with a distinctive sense of place.

CERISE

DESSERT WINES VIDAL BLANC ICEWINE

TESOURO BRANCO

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In Spring 2003 the Oakes planted their first wine grapes. From that initial planting of six acres and fourteen varieties has evolved what is known today as Leonard Oakes Estate Winery.

FUJI APPLE

LATE HARVEST VIDAL

MEET THE WINEMAKER

The Oakes family, rooted in the region and

VINHO TESOURO

their agricultural heritage,

CIDER

nurture the bounty of

STEAMPUNK CIDER

the vineyards.

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT VIDAL ICE WINE

The Niagara region’s production of traditional Ice Wine has taken an international stage. In an area that is moderate enough to produce beautifully crisp white wines yet warm enough to fully mature a host of red varieties, local wineries are also, surprisingly, able to grow cold-tolerant varieties that withstand the winters. This interesting balance with Mother Nature yields the perfect environment for creating Ice Wines from grapes that are frozen on the vine and often harvested in January under 3 feet of snow. Niagara USA is a world-class producer of Ice Wine and has received many accolades at national and international competitions.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY LEONARD OAKES ESTATE WINERY

PRODUCTION 8,000–10,000 cases

ADDRESS 10609 Ridge Road (Route 104) Medina, NY 14103

OWNER The Oakes Family

PHONE 585-318-4418

MANAGERS Wendy Oakes Wilson, President Jerod Thurber, Sales, Tourism, Events Aaron Johnson, Tasting Room

EMAIL info@oakeswinery.com

STEAMPUNK CIDER

Another one of the winery’s unique products is Steampunk Cider, which is produced using a blend of English cider apples and new-age dessert apples. The cider’s Steampunk moniker pays homage to the Victorian-era steam-driven cider mills, and is a marriage of Old World style and New World flair. Steampunk Cider has attracted enthusiastic fans from the around the globe—from New York City to London.

WEBSITE www.oakeswinery.com OPEN Mon–Fri, 11am–6pm; Sat, 10am–6pm; Sun, 12–6pm TASTING FEES $2.00 for four wines Seasonal flights (coming soon) TOURS By appointment ACREAGE 16 acres under vine, 6 acres of Old English apple varieties

WINEMAKER Jonathan Oakes EVENTS Check website for upcoming events and monthly Happy Hours. Aug 25 The Beast Feast Aug 30–31 3rd Annual Steampunk Festival

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Follow NY-104 West from I-390 for 45 miles. FROM BUFFALO: Follow I-90 East to exit 48A North on CR-77. Follow CR-77 to NY-63 North. Follow NY-63 to NY-104 West. Winery is 2 miles on the right.

WINERIES NEARBY Vizcarra Vineyards: 7.4 miles BlackBird Cider Works: 12.4 miles

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VIZCARRA VINEYARDS AT BECKER FARMS

A BOUT US

Established 2004

BECKER FARMS AND VIZCARRA VINEYARDS is a fifth-generation, family-owned 340-acre working fruit and vegetable farm that sells most of the produce and value-added products directly to the public. The farm was founded in 1894 by Julius and Augusta Becker, immigrants from Germany. Back then, the farm was a typical self-sufficient family farm that raised cows, chickens, and grain with fruit as a cash crop. Much of the fruit was sent down the Erie Canal to be sold in New York City. Frank Becker, who was born and died in the original farm WHITE WINES house that is now the Farmhouse Market, took over the farm from his father. He had no sons so the farm went to BARRELED OVER NIAGARA his daughter, Joyce Perry, who, with her husband, kept the farm going part-time. DUST Y ’S DIAMOND FALLS FUSION

The fourth generation and present owners, Melinda and Oscar Vizcarra, took over the farm in 1979 after graduating from Cornell University with degrees in pomology. They adopted a direct marketing approach to the business to enable them to make a living on a small farm. Starting with pick-your-own fruits, they expanded over the years to include agri-entertainment and artisanal products such as fresh-pressed sweet cider, homemade fruit pies, hand-rolled donuts, jams and preserves, and, starting in 2004, wine made with the fruit grown on the farm. Vizcarra Vineyards specializes in unique fruit wines, as well as traditional Old World and New World varietals. There is something for every taste, with more than twenty vintages to choose from.

PINOT GRIGIO RUST Y ’S RIESLING

BLUSH WINES

The head winemaker of Vizcarra Vineyards is Andres Vizcarra, son of Melinda and Oscar Vizcarra, who has been making wine for the family business for the past five years. With a bachelor’s degree in fine arts from the Rochester Institute of Technology, Andres first contributed to the business by designing the labels for every bottle of Vizcarra Vineyards wine. He gained a passion for the business after assisting his mother, who was the original winemaker at Vizcarra Vineyards, and seeing the exciting possibilities of the wine world.

ERIE CANAL CATAWBA WHITE MERLOT

RED WINES CONCORD PASO FINO QUAKER RED ROUGEON RED COOP

The fifth generation has chosen to return to the farm. Amanda Vizcarra returned in 2004, after graduating from Alfred University, to help establish the winery. She is now in charge of the private events division, which hosts weddings and parties of up to 300 people. Andres Vizcarra returned in 2008 and is now the head winemaker. Oscar Vizcarra, Jr. returned to the farm in 2011 and is in charge of the community-supported agriculture program (CSA), and growing the vegetables that are sold in the market and used for the private events.

MEET THE WINEMAKER

FRUIT WINES APPLE CRANNY BECKER BLUE

After learning as much as he could through the practical hands-on experience of apprenticeship, Andres decided to expand his understanding of viticulture and enology by enrolling in the Winery Operations program at Niagara County Community College’s new Culinary Institute. In addition to running wine operations at his family vineyard, Andres is also the New York State Coordinator for VESTA, an online Viticulture and Enology School that reaches students throughout the United States.

BERRY PATCH PINK EMPEROR CHERRY PERFECT PLUM RED CREEK RASPBERRY

Vizcarra Vineyards specializes in unique fruit

RHUBERRY

The goal of Becker Farms and Vizcarra Vineyards is to SPICED APPLE provide their customers with the opportunity to visit the countryside, enjoy the fruits of their harvest, and embrace the products that are made from Mother Nature’s bounty. The Vizcarra family believes that a farm-fresh meal, enjoyed with a farm-based beverage is a basic, yet integral part of maintaining a strong bond with family and friends. They believe this philosophy strengthens the community and enriches people’s lives.

PHOTOS: Esther Vizcarra

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wines, as well as traditional Old World and New World varietals.

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT 2011 RED COOP, 2011 QUAKER RED ROUGEON

Vizcarra Vineyards Red Coop is made with estate-grown Frontenac, and features earthy notes of raw almonds, black currants, and toast. This buttery red would pair well with a braised lamb shank or duck confit. Their soon-to-be-released 2011 Quaker Red Rougeon won Bronze at the 2013 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. This delicious red is made with their estate-grown Rougeon grape and features notes of raspberries, cherries, and white truffles. The Rougeon pairs well with bison rib-eye steak, or barbacoa de cordero.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY VIZCARRA VINEYARDS AT BECKER FARMS ADDRESS 3724 quaker Road gasport, NY 14067

2011 PINOT GRIGIO

Vizcarra Vineyards 2011 Pinot Grigio has a lemon, orange blossom, and honeydew aroma and would be a perfect accompaniment to pan-glazed salmon with oyster sauce, or creole shrimp with garlic and lemon.

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Take I-490 West to exit NY-531 West. Travel 7.9 miles and turn right onto CR-36 North. Turn left onto CR-31 West for 5.9 miles. Continue on CR-31A for 29.9 miles. Turn right on gasport Road, then turn left on Slayton Settlement Road. Turn left on quaker Road. Becker Farms is 1 mile on the right. FROM BUFFALO: Take NY-78 North to CR-31 East to the traffic signal in gasport. Turn left and proceed north to Slayton Settlement Road. Turn right and travel east 1/2 mile to quaker Road. Turn left on quaker Road.

PHONE 716-772-2211 FAX 716-772-7429 EMAIL info@beckerfarms.com WEBSITE beckerfarms.com OPEN May –Dec: Mon–Thurs, 11am–6pm; Fri –Sun, 11am–7pm Jan –Apr: 12–5pm, closed Tuesdays CLOSED New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

TASTING FEE $3.00 TOURS No ACREAGE 340 acres, 6 acres under vine PRODUCTION 3,000 cases OWNERS Oscar and Melinda Vizcarra MANAGERS Oscar and Melinda Vizcarra WINEMAKER Andres Vizcarra EVENTS Check website for upcoming events. Sept Labor Day Harvest Festival Concord Stomp Octoberfest Pumpkin Fiesta Oct Haunted Hayride

WINERIES NEARBY Spring Lake Winery: 5.4 miles Leonard Oakes Estate Winery: 7.4 miles

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SPRING LAKE WINERY

A BOUT US

Established 2006

FINE WINES, MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES. Spring Lake Winery, situated on the Varallo family estate, is a destination open year-round to welcome guests in true Italian style. Their scenic Riesling vineyards open onto a secluded park and 8-acre, spring-fed lake—carved out of a century-old stone quarry—beside the Tuscan-style winery. The land beneath the vineyards was once an ancient beach, the shore of a prehistoric Lake Ontario. The lake is now 11 miles away, but the majestic Niagara Escarpment remains, towering 250 feet above the vineyards and WHITE WINES holding the warm, moist lake air like a blanket over the vines. This unique geography—where the water meets the CHARDONNAY land—is reflected in every bottle from Varallo Vineyards. ESTATE RIESLING ALTRA Their Estate wine is bottled on-site using their natural ESTATE RIESLING spring mineral water in the winemaking process, keeping SEMI DRY the process as chemical-free as possible. There is something ESTATE RIESLING for all palates—red, white, and rosé wines, including very SEMI SWEET dry to sweeter wines.

ROSÉ

Spring Lake Winery is a must-stop on the Niagara Wine ZIA MINX Trail USA. The highlight of a visit to the winery in autumn is their ever-popular Vineyard Express excursion. RED WINE Spring Lake is one of the only vineyards in the country ZINFANDEL where a vintage train drops off passengers at the winery! A visit will be a memorable experience filled with fine wines, live music, and lunch by the lake. See Facebook or their website for dates and band listings. Visit Spring Lake on Sunset Thursdays, or try Lunch by the Lake from Spring Lake Café. Spring Lake Winery at Varallo Vineyards is the perfect destination for any private party, especially winery weddings. They host parties ranging from intimate gatherings to elaborate celebrations at their lakeside gazebo. The winery has become a part of many families’ memories and new traditions. Enjoy their wines and beautiful lakeside vineyard. Ti’aspettiamo!

Spring Lake is one of the only vineyards in the country where a vintage train drops off passengers at the winery!

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MEET THE WINEMAKER Spring Lake’s passion for wine is a family affair. The head winemaker is Dominic Varallo, assisted by his brother Rico, father Nicholas, and first-generation Papa! Three generations of the family—all with one dream—work together, returning to their Italian roots by using family recipes to provide visitors with fine wines and memorable experiences. Dominic’s winemaking career started early, learning from Papa and Nana, who are from Casalbordino in Abruzze, Italy. A great wine begins in the vineyard with nature and terroir providing the wines’ taste each year. From vine to wine a natural winemaking process is used at Spring Lake to capture the true flavor of the grape. The Varallos have returned to their family signature traditions with a modern edge, using environmentally conscientious grape-growing techniques to produce limited, handcrafted batches of their premium wines. Spring Lake’s wines garner an increasing number of national and international awards every year. They recently won a Double Gold for their 2009 Estate Riesling and Bronze for their 2010 Estate Riesling Altra at the 2013 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. Visit Spring Lake Winery, try all of their wines, and judge for yourself!

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT COME ESCAPE TO THE LAKE!

Vineyard Express: Vintage train excursions to the winery including tastings and much more—late summer to fall. Sunset Thursdays: $10 cover charge includes live music and souvenir glass of wine—June through September. Lunch by the Lake & Spring Lake Cafe: Wine ice cream, wraps, salads, snacks— summer to fall. Lakeside Nature Trail & Picnic Bistro Tables: Relax with a glass or bottle of your favorite Spring Lake wine—year round.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY SPRINg LAKE WINERY VARALLO ESTATE VINEYARD ADDRESS 7373 Rochester Road (Rte. 31) Lockport, NY 14094 PHONE 716-439-LAKE (5253) EMAIL info@springlakewinery.com

ACREAGE 78 acres, including 8-acre private lake PRODUCTION 5,000 cases

WEBSITE www.springlakewinery.com

OWNERS Varallo Family Tamre and Nick Varallo, Mark Varallo

OPEN Jan–April: Fri–Sun, 12–6pm May–Dec: Daily, 12–6pm

MANAGER Cate DiNino

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Take I-490 West to exit NY-531 West toward Brockport. Travel for 8 miles and turn right onto CR-36 North. Turn left onto CR-31 West, continue to follow CR-31A, then back onto CR-31 West. Winery is 2 miles on the right. FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take CR-31 West for 18 miles into Lockport. Turn left to stay on CR-31 West, then continue for about 2 miles. Winery is on the left. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East then I-990 North. Exit at Millersport to NY-78 North/Transit Road and continue for 6 miles. Turn right onto CR-31 West, then continue for about 2 miles. Winery is on the left.

TOURS Tour di Vino includes tour, full flight of wine tastings, souvenir glass full of any one wine. Reservations suggested. $15.00 per person, $25.00 per couple, $40.00 per group of four

TASTING FEES $3.00–$8.00, includes souvenir glass option

WINEMAKERS Dominic Varallo and Americo Varallo EVENTS Check website or call ahead for upcoming events or Lunch by the Lake.

WINERIES NEARBY Arrowhead Spring Vineyards: 7.8 miles Vizcarra Vineyards: 5.4 miles

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ARROWHEAD SPRING VINEYARDS

A BOUT US

Established 2005

THE GOAL OF ARROWHEAD SPRING has always been to appeal to the international palate for fine wines. Duncan and Robin Ross recognized the potential to grow and make vinifera-based wines in a cooler climate as is done in regions of France, Oregon, Washington, and Ontario, Canada. This has led them to focus on traditional wine varieties and sustainable methods that express the terroir of the Niagara Escarpment. Quality in the vineyard has the largest impact on the quality of the wine. The vineyard is planted WHITE WINES exclusively with European wine varieties. In keeping with the winery’s green philosophy, the vines are grown utilizing diverse cover crops between rows to sustain soil health. Stems, leaves, and skins left over from the winemaking crush and press processes are composted and reapplied to the vineyard along with composted manure from a neighboring farm to increase soil fertility. Low environmental impact products are used for mildew control. For insect control, the vineyard has experimented with various types of free-range poultry, including chickens and guinea fowl. Hand labor is employed to bring fruit to perfection, and the quality achieved is second to none. In late 2012, Arrowhead Spring Vineyards installed a wind turbine north of the vineyard to take advantage of the conditions of the terrain to produce green energy. With a goal of reducing the carbon footprint of the winery, Arrowhead’s current winery was built into the ground, tapping into passive geothermal insulation as a way to reduce energy consumption, keeping the winery production area at a consistent temperature without need for active heating or cooling. This successful prototype serves as the basis for the new winery building being constructed in 2013–2014, which will incorporate geothermal heating/ cooling and solar electricity generation.

CHARDONNAY RIESLING

DRY ROSÉ (PINOT NOIR)

RED WINES SYRAH MERLOT CABERNET FRANC CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERITAGE

DESSERT WINE ICE WINE PORT LATE HARVEST

These efforts have yielded top ratings from wine critics, and a delicious array of wines created with an eye toward sustainability. Jancis Robinson, British wine critic, journalist and author, said, “Arrowhead Spring Vineyards does a fine job with Pinot Gris and Chardonnay grapes grown in the AVA, and its red wines—Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Pinot Noir, and Syrah.” With numerous positive reviews from the wine press and trade, the winery is set for success in the global wine market.

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Duncan and Robin Ross operate Arrowhead Spring as a team. Duncan makes the wine and Robin manages the vineyard. Both have a focus on quality, traditional methods, and sustainability. Robin would not agree to start a winery with Duncan until he could “objectively prove” he could make great wine.

ROSÉ

This philosophy of sustainability and quality carries over into winemaking, where traditional natural processes are used. Small batch fermentation, barrel aging, and cold stabilization—accomplished during the winter months when nature provides natural cooling—are favored techniques. Wines age up to 3 years, and winemaking is done without chemical flavor additives. Packaging materials are renewable resources to reduce toxic chemicals in the environment. Arrowhead is taking the lead in listing all ingredients on their labels, differentiating their wine from bulk producers that use flavor additives.

MEET THE WINEMAKER

In 2005, Duncan entered their prototype vintages into the INDY Wine Competition, the largest amateur wine competition in the North America. The future was in the balance: Would they build a winery on their new property, or simply a home? The wines received numerous awards, including the National Wine Champion Lallemand Trophy. The rest, as they say, is history. In the years since, the wines made by Arrowhead Spring Vineyards have been highly rated. “Most of the work is in the vineyard, growing optimal quality. Robin is making sure we have the best fruit to work with,” says Duncan.

This philosophy of sustainability and quality carries over into winemaking, where traditional natural processes are used.

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT A PASSION FOR RED WINES

Arrowhead Spring Vineyards is known across New York State as a producer of high-quality red wines. The winery has an obsessive focus on quality in the vineyard and in the wine. The northwest slope of the vineyard results in a warm microclimate, and the escarpment breezes, limestone-based soils, and plenty of sunshine make this an ideal place to grow Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, and Pinot Noir.

THE ESSENTIALS

TOP AWARDS

WINERY ARROWHEAD SPRINg VINEYARDS

TOURS By appointment, $25.00

ADDRESS 4746 Town Line Road Lockport, NY 14094

ACREAGE 7 acres under vine

• Lallemand Trophy, National Wine Champion, INDY 2005 • Best Winery 2010, Artvoice, Best of Western NY • Best Winery 2012, Buffalo Spree, Best of Buffalo • Best in Class, Riverside California • Icewine 89, 90, and 92 points, Wine Spectator • Beverage Artisan 2012, Edible Buffalo

PHONE 716-434-8030

GETTING HERE

TASTING FEE $5.00

FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take CR-31 West. Turn left on Town Line Road, then turn left into the winery. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East then I-990 North. Exit North French Road and turn left. Travel approximately 1 mile to NY-270/Campbell Blvd., then Campbell Blvd. becomes Town Line Road. Head north for 10.2 miles, then turn left into the winery.

EMAIL info@arrowheadspring.com WEBSITE ArrowheadSpring.com OPEN Daily: 12–6pm CLOSED New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day

PRODUCTION 5,000 cases OWNER Duncan and Robin Ross VINEYARD MANAGER Robin Ross WINEMAKER Duncan Ross EVENTS Check website for other winery events. Sept 8 Winemaker’s Dinner Nov 2 Roswell Park Cancer Institute Gala Dinner (Buffalo Convention Center)

WINERIES NEARBY Freedom Run Winery: 0.8 miles Spring Lake Winery: 7.8 miles

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FREEDOM RUN WINERY

A BOUT US

Established 2005

FREEDOM RUN WINERY FINDS ITS INSPIRATION in the beauty and history of its vineyards nestled on the bench of the Niagara Escarpment, where the Manning family and staff believe that the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Niagara region should be enjoyed by all who visit looking for wines with a sense of place or terroir. The winery’s one-of-a-kind, eye-catching tasting room and view of its picturesque vineyards create an ideal setting in which to experience some of the finest wines the East Coast has to offer. While Freedom Run’s wines range across the full spectrum of dry to sweet, white to red, the winery believes the Niagara Escarpment’s character is best experienced through its drier offerings of Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Riesling, and the winery’s flagship Appassimento Meritage WHITE WINES blend, which is crafted with the same natural grape-drying CHARDONNAY process that produces the classic Amarone wines of Italy’s CHARDONNAY UNOAKED Valpolicella region. Since its first harvest in 2007, the FREEDOM BLUE winery has received several accolades, including Double Gold medals for its reds, in addition to a rare 90-point FREEDOM WHITE score from Wine Spectator for its very first estate-grown GEWÜRZTRAMINER Cabernet Franc. NIAGARA The layout of the winery was focused on giving the winemaking team the freedom and space to work without restrictions, in an environment that is both functional and beautiful. Visitors to the tasting room have a view of the full production area of barrels, tanks, presses, and other equipment, and if the team is hard at work on next year’s vintage, guests are always welcome to watch or even lend a hand. Owner and artist R. Sean Manning’s design of the winery intended to showcase the family’s appreciation and dedication to celebrating wine as an art form, actually includes several original works of art by Manning. From the intricate stonework on the walls to the hand-blown glass on the bar, every square foot has been designed to open up your senses to art and wine. The combination of the colorful tasting room, the rustic charm of the historic barn, and the scenic grounds alongside the vineyards make for a memorable experience. Guests can stop and enjoy the breathtaking views, distinctive wines, and delicious foods Freedom Run has to offer.

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RIESLING ESTATE VIN GRIS ESTATE

RED WINES CABERNET ESTATE CABERNET FRANC ESTATE FREEDOM RED MERITAGE ESTATE PINOT NOIR ESTATE PINOT NOIR ESTATE RESERVE

MEET THE WINEMAKERS Just as the various elements that make up terroir—soils, microclimate, slope, vintage —all combine to influence the grapes in the vineyards, the wines of Freedom Run are influenced by each member of its winemaking team. Led by cellar master Kurt Guba, brand manager Bryan Calandrelli and operations manager Larry Manning, Freedom Run’s wines are a product of the passion, curiosity, and commitment of the staff, and their philosophy that everything they do affects wine quality. Vineyard Manager Chip Manning embraces the challenge of delivering healthy ripe fruit every year, knowing that a wine’s overall quality depends on his meticulous hand in the vineyard. The goal of the winemaking team is to preserve the character and integrity of those grapes through hand harvesting, small lot fermentations, and a gentle use of oak aging. Freedom Run believes in the “less is more” approach to its cellar work and applies it through the absence of added enzymes, tannins, and acidity. The winery’s estate wines are given only minimal filtration, if any, and the resulting wines reflect this natural approach.

DESSERT WINES LBV PORT-ST YLE RED

...every square foot has

BLACK CURRANT NÉKTAR

been designed to open

VIDAL ICE WINE

up your senses to art and wine.

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT NEW RELEASES

Even with the winery’s positive critical acclaim of its first estate wines, Freedom Run’s owners and winemaking team believe that their best wines lie ahead. Its experimentation with the appassimento process of drying grapes has just begun, and the 2013 season will see the release of the 2011 Appassimento Meritage, which should demonstrate the region’s ability to make powerful, full-bodied yet balanced red wines.

THE ESSENTIALS

Freedom Run will also release several new Pinot Noirs in the near future, with a single-barrel offering of its Wild Ferment Pinot Noir and single vineyard release Pinot Noirs from its recently expanded vineyard holdings. Those looking for more than just grape wines will be excited by the winery’s Black Currant Néktar dessert wine and its upcoming new vintage release of the freeze-distilled apple wine dubbed Apple Jack.

GETTING HERE FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take CR-31 West. Turn left on Town Line Road and continue to Lower Mountain Road. Turn left on Lower Mountain Road, then follow signs. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East then I-990 North. Turn left on North French Road and travel approximately 1 mile. Turn right (north) onto NY-270/Campbell Blvd. Campbell Blvd. becomes Town Line Road. Turn left on Lower Mountain Road, then follow signs.

WINERY FREEDOM RUN WINERY

TASTING FEE $5.00 for five wines

ADDRESS 5138 Lower Mountain Road Lockport, NY 14094

TOURS Yes

PHONE 716-433-4136 FAX 716-433-4174

ACREAGE 160 acres PRODUCTION 12,000 cases

EMAIL manningmanor@freedomrunwinery.com

OWNER Larry and Sandra Manning, Sean Manning, Chip Manning

WEBSITE www.FreedomRunWinery.com

WINEMAKERS Wine Design Team

OPEN Year-round Sun–Wed, 12–6pm; Thurs–Sat, 10am–6pm

EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

CLOSED Easter, Christmas Day

WINERIES NEARBY Eveningside Vineyards: 1.1 miles Arrowhead Spring Winery: 0.8 miles

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

EVENINGSIDE VINEYARDS

A BOUT US

Established 2000

SOME ENTER THE WINE BUSINESS because it is a business; others enter because of passion for wine. Eveningside Vineyards is a winery that opened more than a decade ago because of Randy and Karen Biehl’s love, understanding, and passion for wine, and a desire to be fully immersed in the lifestyle that a winery brings. Randy was trained at Cave Springs Cellars in Ontario, Canada, which has focused vineyard practices and quality winemaking. Those guiding principles were brought to Eveningside Vineyards, established in 2000, where the focus is on vitis vinifera, European-style wines, and traditional winemaking practices. All of Eveningside’s red wines are aged in oak barrels in a temperature- and humidity-controlled barrel room. The winery uses barrels from France, Hungary, and Pennsylvania. The wine press is made by the German company Willmes, arguably the best wine press manufacturer in the world. Since the Biehls take such pride in grape growing, they wanted their grapes to be pressed in the best press possible. Much effort is expended in maintaining the vineyard because that is where Eveningside believes great wine is made. They have contract grape growers as well, who must also meet the winery’s high grape-growing standards. Eveningside Vineyards is very picturesque, so countless visitors stop to pose for photographs on the property. Wedding parties often come by for photography sessions.

WHITE WINES CHARDONNAY BARREL-AGED CHARDONNAY/RIESLING BLEND RIESLING UNOAKED CHARDONNAY VIDAL

ROSÉ CABERNET FRANC ROSÉ

RED WINES CLARET MERLOT PINCAB PINOT NOIR

The tasting room is an old 1920s barn, renovated while retaining much of its original charm. The wood walls and ceiling are from a bygone era. You can enjoy the view of the property by sipping on some wine in a cozy covered patio behind the tasting room. The production facility, the actual winery, is a new building 100 yards away from the tasting room. Although it is not usually open to the public, wine education classes are held here by reservation only. The experience of learning about wine is enhanced when surrounded by wine tanks, equipment, and barrels. The winery believes in education, whether it is teaching customers or supporting local colleges. When you visit Eveningside Vineyards, you will have a new appreciation for wine and the lifestyle in a winery.

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MEET THE WINEMAKERS Winemaking at Eveningside Vineyards is a collaborative effort. Daily operations involve owner Randy Biehl and cellar master Joe Giacaobbe. The two oversee harvest, crush, press, racking, and bottling. Yeast selection and inoculation is completed by Karen Biehl. Trial reviews and barrel tastings are conducted by all, including sommelier Jason Mueller, who has worked many harvest, crush, and press events. Eveningside is often asked how long red wines are aged in the barrels. The reply is “The wine will tell you when it is ready.” The winery does not have a set schedule for barrel aging. In their ten years of operation, eight months was the shortest with a Syrah in new barrels, and thirty-eight months was the longest for a Cabernet in older barrels. All winemaking activities are conducted in conjunction with consultant winemaker Angelo Pavan of Cave Spring Cellars in Jordan, Ontario, Canada. Angelo is an internationally recognized winemaker and often presents at wine conferences in Canada, the United States, and Italy. Cave Spring regularly attends Wine Spectator Grand Galas. The Eveningside team is so pleased to work with such an accomplished winemaker, who brings decades of experience along with an international perspective to winemaking.

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT PINCAB

Eveningside typically makes tradition blends and varietal wines, but this year the winery created something new, a unique red wine blend. It is 45% 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon with 55% 2012 Pinot Noir. The Cabernet was aged for nearly two years, the Pinot a few months. The wine will be called PinCab and Eveningside is awaiting federal label approval.

THE ESSENTIALS MERLOT

This year the winery will also release two styles of Eveningside’s 2011 Merlot. Some of the barrels of Merlot are older and have imparted very little of its characteristics. Typically, Eveningside would blend it with the new barrels of Merlot, but that is not the case this year. They will have a traditional barrel-aged Merlot and a Merlot with little to no oak characteristics. These two styles will clearly show the impact of oak barrels on wines.

GETTING HERE FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take CR-31 West. Turn left on Town Line Road and continue to Lower Mountain Road. Turn left on Lower Mountain Road, then follow the Eveningside signs. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East then I-990 North. Exit North French Road and turn left. Travel approximately one mile to NY-270/Campbell Blvd., then Campbell Blvd. becomes Town Line Road. Turn left on Lower Mountain Road, then follow the Eveningside signs.

WINERY EVENINgSIDE VINEYARDS

TOURS By appointment, $20.00

ADDRESS 4794 Lower Mountain Road Cambria, NY 14094

ACREAGE 2 acres under vine

PHONE 716-867-2415 EMAIL rbiehl@eveningside.com WEBSITE eveningside.com OPEN May–Dec: Sat–Sun, 12–6pm July–Aug: Open Mon, Sat–Sun, 12–6pm CLOSED Jan–Apr: Closed Mon–Fri

PRODUCTION 1,500 cases OWNER Randy Biehl MANAGER Randy Biehl WINEMAKERS Angelo Pavan, Consultant Randy Biehl EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

TASTING FEE $4.00 for four wines

WINERIES NEARBY Niagara Landing Wine Cellars: 1.5 miles Freedom Run Winery: 1.1 miles

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NIAGARA LANDING WINE CELLARS

A BOUT US

Established 1998

NIAGARA LANDING’S MISSION is to make superb, quality wines of exceptional value that enhance their customers’ enjoyment. Niagara Landing Wine Cellars is the oldest winery on the Niagara Wine Trail, established in 1998. The land, however, has been dedicated to growing grapes since the late 1800s. The winery is perfectly positioned at the base of the Niagara Escarpment, where the moderating temperatures from Lake Ontario provide for a longer growing season. Three generations of the Smith family have tended these vines over the years.

WHITE WINES Niagara Landing approaches their quest for great wines from two critically important areas—grapes and the best farming practices. Old vines, planted in the late 1800s, now have roots that reach deep into the soil, yielding greater complexity and structure for Niagara Landing’s wines. Then the best farming practices are used in harvesting the crops to yield grapes that produce the finest flavors and balance, in extracting the juice, and then in fermenting it into the final product. The winery strives for excellence in every step of the process. Peter Smith, continuing his family’s legacy, has a goal of producing the highest-quality wines for people throughout New York State. Niagara Landing’s growth as a wine producer can be directly attributed to the stewardship of the grapes and the use of advanced production techniques, supervised by professional winemaker Dominic Carisetti. Formerly from Taylor/Great Western and Constellation Brands, Dominic crafts Niagara Landing’s wines for the diverse tastes of the winery’s customers. The combination of the latest techniques and Dominic’s forty years of winemaking expertise result in superior wines.

DRY RIESLING GEWÜRZTRAMINER MIST Y NIAGARA RESERVE RIESLING RIESLING ROSEBUD GOLD ROSEBUD PEACH ROSEBUD WHITE

BOXER BLUSH ROSEBUD ROSÉ RASPBERRY ROSEBUD

FRUIT WINE CRANBERRY

RED WINES BACO NOIR

Niagara Landing approaches their

RED ROOSTER

quest for great wines from two

SWEET CAPTAIN

critically important areas—grapes

DESSERT WINE

and the best farming practices.

CHOCOLATE DREAM

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Domenic Carisetti is a 1975 graduate of the winemaking program at the University of California at Davis. In 1975, he was appointed assistant winemaker for the Taylor Wine Company in Hammondsport, New York and in 1976, at the ripe old age of 23, to winemaker for all of Taylor’s sparkling, table, and dessert wines, with an annual production of 6 million cases. In 1980, Domenic was appointed senior winemaker for Taylor and Great Western wineries. In 1986, Domenic became manager of winemaking for Canandaigua Wine Company (Constellation Brands) where he held that position until 1997.

BLUSH/ROSÉ

MERLOT

MEET THE WINEMAKER

STEARMAN STEUBEN

VIDAL BLANC ICE WINE

In 1997, Domenic started his own winemaking consulting company to meet the growing demands of farm wineries. In July 2005, Domenic assumed full winemaking responsibilities for Niagara Landing Wine Cellars and The Winery at Marjim Manor, and was also instrumental in the development of several other wineries on the Niagara Wine Trail. In addition to his hands-on winemaking duties, Domenic also teaches basic and advanced winemaking courses for VESTA (www.vesta-usa.org) for both Missouri State University and Kent State University and is a sought-after speaker and seminar leader.

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT GOLD MEDAL WINNERS: ROSEBUD PEACH

Let fresh Niagara grapes and peaches envelop your senses. Serve ice cold with fresh berries and peaches over vanilla ice cream. ROSEBUD WHITE

The sweet scent of white grapes and rose petals, rich in the fruit of the Vidal Blanc grapes. Serve ice cold. PORT

A blend of premium red grape varieties, slowly fermented to develop its full flavored richness.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY NIAgARA LANDINg WINE CELLARS

TASTING FEE $3.00 for six wines

ADDRESS 4434 Van Dusen Road Lockport, NY 14094

TOURS No

PHONE 716-433-8405 EMAIL peter@niagaralanding.com WEBSITE www.niagaralanding.com

GETTING HERE FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take CR-31 West. Turn left on Town Line Road and continue to Lower Mountain Road. Turn left on Lower Mountain Road, then turn right on Van Dusen Road. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East then I-990 North. Exit North French Road and turn left. Travel approximately one mile to NY-270/Campbell Blvd., then Campbell Blvd. becomes Town Line Road. Turn left on Lower Mountain Road, then turn right on Van Dusen Road.

OPEN May–Dec: Mon–Sat, 10am–6pm; Sun, 12–6pm Jan –April: Sun–Fri, 12–6pm; Sat, 10–6pm

ACREAGE 130 acres PRODUCTION 10,000 cases OWNER Peter Smith WINEMAKER Domenic Carisetti EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

CLOSED New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day

WINERIES NEARBY Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery: 3.3 miles Eveningside Vineyards: 1.5 miles

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LONG CLIFF VINEYARD & WINERY

A BOUT US

Established 2011

A FAMILY-OWNED AND OPERATED estate winery, Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery is dedicated to producing high-quality vinifera wines, in the tradition of the family’s ancestral routes, which trace back to the Alsace region of France. Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery is proud to be a threegeneration business of viticulturists and winemakers. All of Long Cliff ’s wines are made from estate-grown grapes on the family farm, which was first acquired by Donald DeMaison in the early 1970s. While the property is now home to the family business, for the last forty-plus years the land and neighboring farmhouse have hosted summer picnics, Sunday dinners, and countless memories of love and laughter.

WHITE WINES PINOT GRIS RIESLING SAUVIGNON BLANC SWEET PINOT GRIS

RED WINES

LEMBERGER Keeping it in the family is important to Long Cliff, and BLAUER HIMMEL there is no doubt that it adds to the camaraderie. Long PINOT MAGIC Cliff started as Donald’s vision over a decade ago, when PINOT NOIR the newly-retired family patriarch decided it was time to launch the dream he had harbored ever since purchasing the farm. With sons Kevin DeMaison and Robert Barron on board, the three men put their heads together and began logging busy days and sleepless nights of paperwork, vineyard labor, and of course, winemaking! While they have learned that it is at times more challenging than they could have ever imagined, they have come to realize that it is also more rewarding than they’d pictured in their wildest dreams.

Located within the Niagara Escarpment AVA, the unique climate and soil conditions of the region are credited with making the production of Long Cliff ’s high-quality wines possible. Farmers first, the family believes that a good wine starts in the vineyard. The testament of a good farmer is the permutations of minerality detected in a superb wine. When the winery first opened on 11/11/11, there were only four varieties gracing the wine list. It has more than doubled since then, and will continue to grow in the years to come, but the commitment to producing only the finest quality wines will remain unchanging. Born from a hobby, the family’s passion is unwavering as the winery transitions from a dream to reality.

Farmers first, the family believes that a good wine starts in the vineyard.

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MEET THE WINEMAKERS Donald DeMaison: Don has a passion— producing excellent grapes—which he has spent the past four decades mastering. Winemaking is his life, tracing his farming roots back to his great-great-grandfather who emigrated from the Alsace region of France. As the president of Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery, Inc., Don works as grape grower, winemaker and entrepreneur, completely dedicated to producing vinifera wines of superb quality. On any given day he can be found taking on whatever tasks Long Cliff might demand of him, but what he seems to enjoy most is guiding the family business toward their vision. Kevin DeMaison: He’s infamous in the tasting room for his barrel tastings, always offering customers sneak peeks of what’s up and coming for Long Cliff, but Kevin’s real skill is in viticulture. Raised a farmer, Kevin couldn’t refuse the offer to come back and give Dad a hand when Don first pitched his winery dream over a family dinner. “There’s nothing like being out in the vineyard in the middle of summer…I swear you can hear those silly things talking to you!” he says. Robert Barron: Despite putting in fifty hours a week at his factory job, Rob still finds time to help his step-dad at the winery on weekends—harvesting, pressing, racking, filtering, bottling, and all the odd jobs in between. Not one for conversation, his appearances in the tasting room are brief (and even briefer during hunting season), but without his help in the fermentation room, Long Cliff might not have opened yet!

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT BLAUER HIMMEL

This summer, Long Cliff released the second vintage of their house wine, Blauer Himmel. This wine, which translates to “Blue Heaven,” is a red wine composed primarily of Blaufränkisch grapes. First released in August 2012, Blauer quickly became a favorite in the tasting room, and the bottles flew off the shelves. Between the heavenly taste, and the love that went into the label design, this unique red carries the promise of becoming as a Long Cliff trademark for years to come.

THE ESSENTIALS

Blauer is extra special to the Long Cliff family however, not just for its popularity. Two years ago Grandma Judy—Don’s bride of twenty-one years, passed away, and though she is no longer here, she was there as the grapes were planted, and she supported the opening of Long Cliff Winery as the ultimate goal. We couldn’t let the vision Don and Judy had together come to life without some dedication back to her. In her honor, this special edition label features Judy’s name in grape vines across the top, as well as a halo and angel wings in each of the four corners. Every time a bottle of Blauer Himmel leaves the rack and goes out the door, they know Grandma Judy is patting them on the back and saying, “Good job!”

WINERY LONg CLIFF VINEYARD & WINERY

ACREAGE 5.5 acres, 14.5 acres offsite

ADDRESS 3617 Lower Mountain Road Sanborn, NY 14132

PRODUCTION 1,135 cases

PHONE 716-731-3316

OWNERS Donald DeMaison, Kevin DeMaison, Robert Barron

EMAIL longcliffwinery@gmail.com

MANAGER Danielle DeMaison

WEBSITE www.longcliffwinery.com

WINEMAKERS Donald DeMaison, Kevin DeMaison, Robert Barron

OPEN Jan–May: Fri–Sat, 10am–6pm; Sun, 12–6pm Jun–Dec: Sun–Fri, 12–6pm; Sat, 10am–6pm TASTING FEE $1.00 per wine TOURS $5.00 for a barrel tasting and tour of fermentation room

EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

GETTING HERE FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merging onto I-290 East. Exit at Niagara Falls Blvd. and continue to I-425. Turn left onto Lower Mountain Road.

WINERIES NEARBY A gust of Sun Winery: 2.0 miles Niagara Landing Wine Cellars: 3.3 miles

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A GUST OF SUN WINERY & VINEYARD

A BOUT US

Established 2011

A GUST OF SUN WINERY is a home away from home! Everyone who visits is treated like a good friend. There is something to meet everyone’s taste. Enjoy a traditional wine tasting, or a special treat with a wine and chocolate pairing. A Gust of Sun partners with a local chocolatier who makes chocolates to pair with one or more of their wines. A Gust of Sun features the Harmon→E lounge above the tasting room, equipped with cozy chairs, tables, books, games, and a projector and screen. The lounge can be reserved and rented for private events at very reasonable rates (visit their website for current rates).

WHITE WINES DRY RIESLING CHARDONNAY DRY NIAGARA

The grounds at A Gust of Sun are available for picnicking, relaxing outdoors, and enjoying a glass or bottle of wine with friends. There is a large tent outside each summer for visitors to enjoy. During busier times, there is an outside tasting bar as well. The grounds can also be rented for private functions. A koi pond, vineyard, fruit trees, and grassy spaces make this a picturesque location for weddings, vow renewals, family reunions, etc. The lounge and grounds can be rented after hours or on days when we are not normally opened if arrangements are made in advance. The winery’s three West Highland white terriers—Cody, Abbey, and Jewell—are the inspiration for Three Westies White and Sweet Westies White wines. They are always out greeting customers, and love it when guests ask for treats for them from behind the counter. A Gust of Sun Winery has teamed up with Diamonds in the Ruff Animal Rescue of Lockport, New York. They are a non-profit animal rescue organization that is run by a dedicated group of volunteers in Niagara County, New York. A dollar from every bottle of Dry and Sweet Diamond wine goes toward their rescue efforts.

THREE WESTIES WHITE DRY DIAMOND

SWEET WESTIES WHITE SWEET NIAGARA SWEET DIAMOND SAX ON THE PEACH

BLUSH WINE RASP-ODY IN BLUE

RED WINES

Shane and Erik met at Purdue University, where their passion for wine began. Shane took Wine Appreciation courses and encouraged Erik to do the same. They soon began hosting wine and cheese parties, and introducing their friends and family to wine as well. When they moved to Iowa, Shane and Erik poured wine at several local wine shops in the Quad Cities to increase their knowledge of wine and gain industry connections.

CABERNET FRANC PINOT NOIR TRISMEGISTUS

DESSERT WINE LATE HARVEST VIGNOLES

While at the winery, ask about the Solar Winds Wine Club and all the benefits that come with joining!

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Husband and wife, Erik and Shane Gustafson not only run the winery, tasting room, and vineyards, they also make the wine! Shane has a degree in Food Process Engineering from Purdue University and a certificate for winemaking from UC Davis. Erik teaches college chemistry. The two combined are a winemaking match from heaven!

SEMI-DRY RIESLING

A Gust of Sun is very proud that their Late Harvest Vignoles 2011 won a Double Gold at the 2013 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. This was the first competition the winery had ever entered, so they were excited to have a wine take the top prize. Four of their other wines also took home medals in this prestigious competition with over 3,500 entries. A Gust of Sun is looking forward to entering additional competitions in the future with more of their wines.

MEET THE WINEMAKERS

In 2008 they started to look for the perfect spot to open their winery. They investigated the Niagara Wine Trail while visiting Erik’s parents in Hilton, New York (a suburb of Rochester). They fell in love with the burgeoning wine region and started to look for locations to make it their home. In 2010, they moved to New York, and in August 2011, their dream became reality when they opened A Gust of Sun Winery & Vineyard.

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT LATE HARVEST VIGNOLES

Double Gold winner!* These Vignoles grapes were allowed to hang on the vine an extra month causing the grapes to partially dehydrate, drastically increasing their sugar content, and making this rich and flavorful nectar. DRY DIAMOND

Silver Medal winner!* Diamond is a hybrid grape that gives a mouthful of tropical flavors. This drier version of Diamond has nice acidity that complements apple and pineapple flavors, and is slightly sweetened for balance. SWEET WESTIES WHITE THREE WESTIES WHITE

A blend of Riesling, Cayuga White, and a splash of Niagara, inspired by the Erik and Shane’s three West Highland white terriers. Each grape brings another personality to the blend, like their dogs bring to their home. Three Westies White is the dry version, and Sweet Westies White is the sweeter version of the same blend. * Finger Lakes International Wine Competition

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY A gUST OF SUN WINERY & VINEYARD ADDRESS 4515 Baer Road Ransomville, NY 14131

TASTING FEES $3.00 for four wines $5.00 for five wines with chocolate pairing TOURS By appointment

PHONE 716-731-4878

ACREAGE 17 acres, 2 under vine

EMAIL info@agustofsun.com

PRODUCTION 1,500–2,000 cases

WEBSITE www.agustofsun.com

OWNERS Erik and Shane gustafson

OPEN Jan–Apr: Fri & Sun, 12–6pm Sat, 10am–6pm; May–Dec: Sun–Fri, 12–6pm; Sat, 10am–6pm or by appointment

MANAGERS Erik and Shane gustafson

CLOSED Easter, Christmas Day

EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Take NY-104/Ridge Road for approximately 55 miles. NY-104 becomes Lockport-Olcott Road/NY-78, then returns to NY-104/Ridge Road. Continue 9.4 miles, then turn left onto Baer Road. FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take Robert Moses State Parkway to exit NY-104/NY-18F toward Lewiston Artpark. Keep right onto NY-104 East. Turn left onto NY-104/Ridge Road. After 9 miles, turn right onto Baer Road. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290E, then exit 3B to US-62 North. Continue on Niagara Falls Blvd. for 4 miles. Turn right onto NY-425/Shawnee Road and continue for 7.3 miles. Turn left onto Upper Mountain Road. In 1 mile, turn right onto Baer Road.

WINEMAKERS Erik and Shane gustafson

WINERIES NEARBY Honeymoon Trail Winery: 2.4 miles Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery: 1.8 miles

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HONEYMOON TRAIL WINERY

A BOUT US

Established 2005

HONEYMOON TRAIL WINERY, home of the original Niagara Winery, is located on the historic Honeymoon Trail (now known as Route 104), leading to the stunning honeymoon capital of the world—Niagara Falls. Honeymoon Trail Winery is on the Niagara Wine Trail and is minutes from Lake Ontario and Niagara Falls. Travel the picturesque Route 104 to Honeymoon Trail Winery and enjoy fine wines carefully crafted by their award-winning winemaker using the finest New York State ingredients. Relax by the large wood burning fireplace in their magnificent tasting room and enjoy a tasting while browsing the gift shop. The Tuscany Room is available for bridal showers, meetings, anniversary parties—make your next event a memorable one at the winery!

WHITE WINES CHARDONNAY NIAGARA DRY CAYUGA WHITE BIG BEAR RIESLING WHITE LACE DIAMOND MIGHT Y NIAGARA HONEYMOON SPICE WHITE

BLUSH WINES

Garry and Lori Hoover opened Honeymoon Trail Winery in 2005. Garry had a passion for winemaking, which came through in his delicious, awardwinning wines. He produced wines that made the connection between the land and the glass. The winery’s goal was, and still is, to produce quality wines relying on the fresh, local New York State fruit each year. The result—you can’t drink just a glass, you have to finish the bottle!

STEUBEN PINK CATAWBA

Honeymoon Trail Winery has competed and won awards at several prestigious competitions, including: New York Wine and Food Classic, Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, Lodi-California Rotary International, Indianapolis International, New York State Fair, and Best-of-Appellation.

MEET THE WINEMAKER

PINK DIAMOND

RED WINES COROT NOIR HONEYMOON’S OVER

Today, David Lindsay, the winery’s newest member, continues Garry’s legacy. Dave is a graduate of Niagara College, Canada— Winery & Viticulture Tech. He is continuing to produce fruity wines and wines that age gracefully.

BACO NOIR COYOTE MOON

Awards include: Chillin’ Niagara—Double Gold; Apple—Double Gold; Pink Catawba—Double Gold; Baco Noir—Gold Tri-Medal; Diamond—Best of Category Gold; Mighty Niagara—Gold; Chillin’ Catawba—Gold; Honeymoon Sweet—Gold;

ROSÉ HONEYMOON SWEET HONEYMOON SPICE RED

Honeymoon Trail Winery

FRUIT WINES

is located on the

CRANBERRY

historic Honeymoon

Just Peachy—Silver; Chillin’ Cherry—Silver; Coyote Moon—Silver; Pink Diamond—Silver; Cranberry—Silver;

APPLE

Semi-Sweet Riesling—Bronze; White Lace—Bronze; Steuben—Bronze; Rosé—Bronze.

JUST PEACHY

Trail leading to the

DESSERT WINES

stunning honeymoon

CHILLIN’ NIAGARA

capital of the world—

CHILLIN’ CATAWBA CHILLIN’ CONCORD

Visit Honeymoon Trail Winery, sample the wines, meet the winemaker. and shop in the beautiful wine and gift boutique.

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CHOCOLATE COVERED CHERRY CHILLIN’ CHERRY

Niagara Falls.

RIDGE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT HONEYMOON SPICE RED

Special releases this year include our Honeymoon Spice Red, a sweet and spicy red wine, which is great served warm and good for you too. It’s mulled wine in a bottle! HONEYMOON SPICE WHITE

Honeymoon Spice White is a sweet and spicy white wine with ginger and nutmeg aromas, great served warmed or chilled. CHOCOLATE COVERED CHERRY

A decadent wine made with local Montmorency cherries that melt into a luscious chocolate finish.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY HONEYMOON TRAIL WINERY

TOURS Yes

ADDRESS 4120 Ridge Road (Route 104) Lockport, NY 14094

ACREAGE 20 acres

PHONE 716-438-3255 FAX 716-438-3256 EMAIL honeymoontrailwinery@gmail.com WEBSITE HoneymoonTrailWinery.com OPEN Mon–Sat, 10am–6pm Sun, 12–6pm

GETTING HERE FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take Robert Moses State Parkway to exit NY-104/ NY-18F toward Lewiston Artpark. Keep right onto NY-104 East. Turn left onto Ridge Road/ NY-104. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East, then exit 3B to US-62 North. Continue on Niagara Falls Blvd. for 4 miles. Turn right onto NY-425/Shawnee Road and continue to Ridge Road/RT-104.

PRODUCTION 13,000 cases OWNER Lori Hoover MANAGER Lori Hoover WINEMAKER Dave Lindsay EVENTS Check website for upcoming events. Sept Harvest Festival

CLOSED New Year’s Day, Christmas Day TASTING FEE $4.00

WINERIES NEARBY Midnight Run Wine Cellars: 6.7 miles A gust of Sun Winery: 2.4 miles

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MIDNIGHT RUN WINE CELLARS

A BOUT US

Established 2009

MIDNIGHT RUN WINE CELLARS is in the peaceful town of Wilson, New York, about twenty minutes from Niagara Falls and Buffalo. The atmosphere is friendly and the country western décor complements the winery’s stagecoach logo. There are many varieties of wine, and a gift for everyone in the boutique. The friendly staff is always ready to pour and share a good laugh or two.

WHITE WINES

MEET THE WINEMAKER

CHARDONNAY

With a strong background in business and keen sense of agriculture, Mike Palczynski knew for many years what he wanted— to establish a winery and produce great tasting wines from estate fruit grown in family-owned vineyards.

DIAMOND NIAGARA NIAGARA GONE DRY RIESLING

There is a sign at Midnight Run that says “Come as strangers, leave as friends.” Employees enjoy meeting and getting to know customers whether they are new or regular visitors, experiencing wine for the first time, or experienced wine connoisseurs.

WHITE STORM

ROSÉS STILETTO TWILIGHT

The property was previously owned by the Petit family. In the 1800s it was well known for its fruit and produce. Taking the produce to the market in Niagara Falls was a 15-mile ride, and it has been said the horse would know its way when the farmer fell asleep on the way home. The Palczynskis are glad to be able to continue the family farm tradition and grow Vidal, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and Syrah (Shiraz), as well as corn, soybeans, apples, and pears on the farm. They will be expanding in the near future to add more Baco Noir and Noiret to the vineyards. Their great pride in the vastly growing vineyards is reflected in the typicity of their smooth, easy-drinking to full-bodied dry wines. During the warmer months you can enjoy the aromas from the vineyards while sampling the wines in the tasting room, located in the center of the 40-acre property. The tasting room is elegantly appointed with Amish wood throughout the interior and on the beautifully handcrafted bar. The winery’s goal is to offer guests an inviting and fun atmosphere, where they can relax and reflect while enjoying high-quality, affordable, handcrafted wines and the friendly service of the staff, surrounded by the beauty of the vineyards.

RED WINES BACO NOIR CABERNET FRANC CABERNET SAUVIGNON CONCORD MERLOT MERITAGE NOIRET RED STORM

FRUIT WINES WICKED CHERRY HARD CIDER

DESSERT WINES ICY APPLE LATE HARVEST VIDAL

In Spring 2013, Midnight Run entered their first wine competition, the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. The results were Bronze medals for Baco Noir and Niagara Gone Dry!

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Mike began making wine in the 1980s to enjoy at home with his creative Italian dishes. In 2002, he and his wife Linda planted an acre of Baco Noir and Noiret to produce great red wine grapes that were well suited to the terroir where they live. For the most part, Mike is a self-taught winemaker but thankful for great Niagara County, New York, winemaker friends whose advice he has sought over the years. In the early days as a home winemaker, he read, asked lots of questions, then took several courses offered by The Finger Lakes Grape Program, based at Cornell Cooperative Extension, and Lab courses offered by the Viticulture Enology Science and Technology Alliance (VESTA). His winemaking philosophy is to plant, grow, and harvest the best grapes possible and then transform them into palate-pleasing, subtle wines that appeal to a wide range of wine lovers. Mike employs small-lot, handcrafted winemaking techniques so that he is closely connected to the whole process from start to finish. Midnight Run Wine Cellars began with just 900 cases produced annually. Mike’s third release, the 2012 vintage, will be in Fall 2013, and will be about 1,500 cases.

LAKE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT HARD CIDER

Midnight Run Wine Cellars has turned apples, grown on the winery property, into a delicious hard cider, which is available by the glass at the winery or to take home in a growler. Next year look for a Pear wine, along with a new drink called “Peary.” EVENTS

There are many events at the winery throughout the year: • A food and wine pairing dinner takes place in the vineyard four times a year. • Each summer Camping Cuisine features wines with camping recipes and live demos with samples. • There are Friday night Happy Hours monthly and, starting Summer 2013, Girls’ Night Out.

THE ESSENTIALS WINERY MIDNIgHT RUN WINE CELLARS

ACREAGE 40 acres

ADDRESS 3301 Braley Road Ransomville, NY 14131

PRODUCTION 1,500 cases

PHONE 716-751-6200

• In February, there is a Cooking with Wine Class, a live cooking demo and samples of the prepared foods paired with wines. • The month of May features the Craft Fair with local crafters and live music outside under the big party tent.

GETTING HERE FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take Robert Moses State Parkway to exit NY-104/ NY-18F toward Lewiston Artpark. Keep right onto NY-104 East. Turn left onto Ridge Road/ NY-104 and continue to Cambria Wilson Road/NY-425. Turn left on Braley Road. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-190 North, merge onto I-290 East, then exit 3B to US-62 North. Continue on Niagara Falls Blvd. for 4 miles. Turn right onto NY-425/Shawnee Road and continue to Braley Road. Turn left on Braley Road.

EMAIL info@midnightrunwines.com WEBSITE www.midnightrunwines.com OPEN Mon –Tue, 3–6pm; Wed –Thurs, 1–6pm Fri–Sun, 12–6pm

OWNERS Michael and Linda Palczynski MANAGER Kim Derda WINEMAKER Mike Palczynski EVENTS Check website for upcoming events and monthly Happy Hours. Aug Dine in the Vines

TASTING FEE $3.00 for four wines TOURS By appointment, $20.00

WINERIES NEARBY Victorianbourg Wine Estate: 7.6 miles Honeymoon Trail Winery: 6.7 miles

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

VICTORIANBOURG WINE ESTATE

A BOUT US

Established 2006

VICTORIANBOURG IS THE CULMINATION of a life’s dream to become a wine grower and to make fine wines. After Victoria and Dan Hogue sold their previous business in 2005, they decided to pursue their lifetime WHITE WINES dream of a vineyard and winery. After considering several areas on the West Coast, the Niagara region of New York CHARDONNAY SPECIAL State, they decided, was the best place to produce fine SELECTION wines from the classic European wine grapes of Germany CHARDONNAY and northern France. In 2005, they found a 50-acre PINOT GRIS nursery and shrub farm that was available on the south RIESLING shore of Lake Ontario, and purchased it. FLEUR DU VIN The farm was covered with thousands of nursery plants, GEWÜRZTRAMINER which they dug up and sold in order to free up the space GRÜNER VELTLINER for a vineyard. They planted the first few acres in the PECHETTE Spring 2006, and harvested their first substantial quantity UVALINA BLANC of grapes in Fall 2009.

BLUSH WINES Victorianbourg grows ten of the classic European grape varieties: Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Meunier, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Grüner Veltliner, and Gewürztraminer. They also grow two French-American hybrid grapes: Chambourcin and Seyval; and one German hybrid, Regent. Sometimes people ask about the name Victorianbourg. Of course, the winery is named after Victoria—Dan says he has two real passions in life,“my wife and my wine,” and Victorianbourg combines them both in one place. The suffix -bourg or -burg is often found in place names in France and Germany. They added it to Victoria’s name to indicate the type of wines they make—wines modeled on the very best of Germany and France.

GSPRITZTN BLUSH MOULIN PECHE TORIAMOUR

RED WINES PINOT NOIR CABERNET FRANC MERLOT

Dan grafts his own cuttings for planting in the spring each year, as the goal is to gradually convert the entire farm to a vineyard. Rootstocks used vary with the soil structure, but most of the vines are in the standard rootstocks 3309C, 101-14, with a little SO4. In areas with especially heavy soils, riparia gloire is also used. Dan has also experimentally grafted the European vines onto rootings of some of the wild grapevines found growing on the farm (all within the species vitis riparia), with early indications of some success.

MERITAGE PROPRIETOR’S RESERVE

Dan says he has two

UVALINA

real passions in life,

DESSERT WINES

“my wife and my wine,”

CHOCOLATE ECSTASY

and Victorianbourg

POTENSUS FINE SIENNA VIKA VERZAY

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

Victorianbourg’s vineyards are planted relatively closely for North America—the rows are 8 feet apart and vines 4 feet apart within the rows. This gives a planting density of about 1,350 grapevines per acre. The high density of plantings helps to limit the yield from any one vine, which concentrates the flavors in the fruit.

MERITAGE

CHOCOLATE OBSESSION

MEET THE WINEMAKER

combines them both in one place.

LAKE REGION

IN THE SPOTLIGHT SPARKLING RIESLING ICE WINE

The first release of a sparkling Riesling Ice Wine is scheduled for the Fall 2013. The Hogues made a small amount of this wine in 2010, and liked it so much it all ended up at home. This year they expect to have enough to share!

THE ESSENTIALS MERITAGE PROPRIETOR’S RESERVE

WINERY VICTORIANBOURg WINE ESTATE

ACREAGE 50 acres, 14 under vine

This limited production, full-bodied wine is dry, rich, and fruit-forward. It is aged for 14 months in French Oak.

ADDRESS 4402 East Lake Road Wilson, NY 14172

PRODUCTION 1,500 cases

PHONE 716-751-6576 EMAIL info@victorianbourg.com WEBSITE www.victorianbourg.com OPEN Jan–April: Fri–Sun, 12–5pm May–Dec: Sun–Thurs, 12–5pm; Fri–Sat, 10am–6pm

OWNERS Daniel and Victoria Hogue MANAGER Daniel Hogue WINEMAKER Daniel Hogue EVENTS Check website for upcoming events.

TASTING FEE $2.00 TOURS No

GETTING HERE FROM ROCHESTER: Take NY-18 west. FROM NIAGARA FALLS: Take the Robert Moses Parkway to the end. Turn left on NY-18, heading east. FROM BUFFALO: Take I-425 north to NY-18. Turn right on NY-18. Winery is 1 ahead mile on the right.

WINERIES NEARBY Schulze Vineyards & Winery: 3.6 miles Midnight Run Wine Cellars: 7.6 miles

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

We take anyone, any place, anytime. www.TheLimousineService.us !

855-662-5466

1165 Erie Ave. N. Tonawanda, NY 14120 46

NIAGARA USA WINE â&#x20AC;˘ Premier 2013

T H E

C O N V I V I A L

TA B L E

Pairing Niagara’s Cab Francs By Christa Glennie Seychew he Niagara wine region is conducive to growing Cabernet Franc, due to its soil, climate, and the length of the ripening season. Several wineries are producing interesting and complex versions of the varietal, many of which pair well with comfort foods.

Seven bottles of varying vintages arrived for tasting, and sommelier, Tony Rials of Mike A @ Hotel Lafayette, agreed to sample and offer pairing recommendations. Located in downtown Buffalo’s newly refurbished Lafayette Hotel, the kitchen at Mike A is helmed by chef Edward Forster, a WNY native who worked at Chicago’s Graham Elliott and Blackbird before returning to Buffalo with his modern and innovative take on classic cuisine. Rials, new to the area and unfamiliar with Niagara wines, was excited by the prospect of tasting many of the same varietal from a growing wine region. The Francs tasted include the dry 2011 vintage from Freedom Run Winery, an estate grown wine which, after breathing a bit, proved to be delicate with hints of vanilla and tobacco. Chateau Niagara’s offering had a strong fragrance of oatmeal raisin cookie, which Rials’ suggests would be best paired with pork. A really dark, ruby glass of Midnight Run’s Cabernet Franc could add complexity to a savory or sweet dish featuring berry compote. Honeysuckle and rose notes were evident in Schulze Vineyard’s 2011 Franc, with black pepper and strawberry present as well. With this wine, Rials’ suggested Chicken Milanese or another chicken or fish dish where an acidic, light salad is offered alongside. Finally, the two boldest wines of the group, Arrowhead Spring Vineyard’s 2010 bottling and Leonard Oakes Estate’s 2010 Reserve, would both make good additions to a meal starring grilled meats. Leonard Oakes’ wine was flush with green pepper, round, and increasingly raisin-y as it opened. Good tannin structure and balance were present in Arrowhead’s wine, something Rials admired. Rials ultimately chose Eveningside Vineyard’s 2011 Estate Cabernet Franc as the ideal mate to chef Forster’s recipe for aged duck. The dish features barley cooked as risotto, sweet and buttery asparagus, soft, delicate falafel and a garnish of fresh fig. An atypical Cab Franc, Eveningside’s wine was also delicate, with none of the pepperiness inherent or expected. Rials chose the pairing, remarking that the wine’s subtle acidity and

DUCK BREAST

WITH

FAVA

AND

FALAFEL

Serves 4 Fava Bean Falafel 4 cups favas beans, out of shell, 1/4 cup roasted garlic cloves blanched, and double shucked 1/4 cup red onion, diced and simmered in oil until soft 1-1/4 cups chickpea flour 1/2 cup blanched spinach, 4 teaspoons salt water wrung out, finely chopped 1-1/2 teaspoons coriander, ground 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, ground In a food processor, pulse favas, garlic, spinach, and spices quickly, allowing for some of the beans to retain their texture. Transfer to a bowl and add onions, and as much chickpea flour as required to bind the mixture together. Shape into balls or quenelles and deep fry at 325 degrees until crispy. Red Wine “Barlotto” Cover 3-1/2 cups of pearl barley with hot tap water. Allow to soak for 30 minutes. Sweat 2 onions, finely diced, in olive oil until tender and translucent. Drain the barley throughly and transfer to a Dutch oven. Place over medium heat and top with Cabernet Franc until covered. Add more wine, as necessary, during the cooking process, which takes approximately 1-1/2 hours. Season with salt and hold until ready to use. Duck Breasts Age 4 duck breasts as noted on page 53. Melt 1 tablespoon butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Season both sides of each duck breast with salt and pepper. Add duck, skin side down, to hot skillet, cooking until skin is browned and crisp, about 5 minutes. Turn duck breasts over, reduce heat to medium, and cook until desired doneness. Transfer to plate and tent with foil, allowing meat to rest at least 10 minutes before serving. White Asparagus 1 teaspoon sugar 1 bunch white asparagus 2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter 2 cups water 2 springs fresh thyme Peel white asparagus. Braise in equal parts butter and water, seasoned with sugar, salt, and thyme, approximately 8 minutes. Cabernet Jus Reduce 2 cups of Eveningside Cabernet Franc until it becomes 1/4 cup wine. Add 2 cups of duck jus, or stock. Steep with 1 anise pod, and 1/2 cinnamon stick. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with half a black mission fig, sliced into small wedges. Enjoy with a glass of Niagara Cabernet Franc!

continued on page 53 NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

SEEDLINGS WHAT’S NEW TO BUY, TRY, OR DO

BLO G GE D & NOTE D:

SWEE T PE PPER PIZZAZZ

Updated with the latest winery news, awards, and events, the official blog of the Niagara Wine Trail USA will fill you in on what’s “Behind the Bottle,” all year long:

A surprising blend of hot and sweet peppers, onions, and a proprietary mix of spices makes Michele’s Kitchen Sweet Pepper Relish a perfect accompaniment to your cheese platter. Not just your ordinary condiment, a dollop will perk up soft cheeses, like goat cheese, or almost anything else that could benefit from a little pizzazz— baked potatoes, omelettes, the catch of the day, and even hot dogs cooked on the grill. Add a glass of crisp white wine for a sweet and savory treat. Made locally, from local ingredients. Available at Black Willow Winery, Schulze Vineyards & Winery, and food markets throughout the region.

niagarawinetrail.wordpress.com

FERMENTED APPLES

C HE ESE MA KING , DE M YSTIFIED The cheese mavens at First Light Farm & Creamery produce artisanal cheddar, jack, chevre, and feta cheese from organic cow’s and goat’s milk on their farm in East Bethany, New York. Now founders (and brothers) Max and Trystan Sandvoss can guide you in the art of cheesemaking at home too. Their one-day intensive workshops include hands-on demonstrations and provide the skills to transform milk into delicious cheese in your own kitchen. And what’s better than homemade cheese to pair with handcrafted wine! For details visit www.first-light-farm.com

Prefer to read this issue online?

niagarawinemag.com 48

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

Fall is apple season and you’re sure to find lots of quaffable local apple flavor on the Niagara Wine Trail USA. Hard ciders are all the rage, and these easy-drinking hard ciders are as crisp and smooth as a blue-skied autumn day. Quench your thirst with an artisanal Heritage, Classic, or Organic hard cider from BlackBird Cider Works, such as the cider maker’s own semi-dry Orchardist’s Reserve; slurp a Steampunk Cider from Leonard Oakes Estate Winery—an explosive taste sensation made from a blend of apples from their generations-old farm that has a personality (and a festival) to match; or take home a growler of Midnight Run Wine Cellars’ handcrafted, rustic hard cider pressed from apples grown and harvested on their Ransomville farm. Available year round at each winery or cidery, or check their websites for a list of retailers.

AM ERICAN WINE

It’s rare to come across a wine tote that’s worth touting, but the innovative, award-winning design of Bella Vita’s Bottle Net Bag literally caught our attention. These durable felt bags store flat, then the intricately-cut pattern quickly converts into a tote to carry a wine bottle or other farm market find. The ingenious bag comes in apple green, burgundy, olive, and black, and was awarded a 2013 International Housewares Association Innovation Award for its oh-so-clever design. These versatile bags will make you wonder how you ever shopped without a net. Available at amazon.com and www.bellavitabags.com

THE U LTIMATE C O MPANIO N TO THE WINES AND WINERIES OF THE UNITE D STATES

SIP IT FORWARD It’s never too early to get in the spirit of giving! On Veteran’s Day weekend, November 8–11, the Niagara Wine Trail USA will give back to the community with their annual Share the Bounty event. In lieu of tasting fees at each winery, monetary donations or non-perishable food items will be collected to raise funds and awareness for the charities and food banks that are near and dear to their hearts. So stop in, swirl and savor your favorite fall wines and beverages, and feel warm all over. Details at www.niagarawinetrail.org

BOOKS q

FROM FLAT TO FUNCTIONAL

Jancis Robinson and Linda Murphy

It’s no surprise, wine consumption in the United States now exceeds that of any other country. Worldrenowned British wine writer Jancis Robinson has teamed with American wine expert Linda Murphy to celebrate America’s growing love affair with the fermented grape, before and after Prohibition in American Wine, The Ultimate Companion to the Wines and Wineries of the United States. This lively volume paints a broad picture of wine country across all fifty states with comprehensive information, stunning photography, detailed color maps, and regional “snapshots.” Never before has this much information on American wine been captured all in one volume, and as one can imagine, keeping tabs on the ever-changing landscape of wines, wineries, and winemakers is no small task. The 278-page, hardcover book is separated into geographical regions, each providing a glimpse into the history of its AVAs, its trailblazing winemakers—or those to watch—and lists key wineries that have been consistent producers in the region. Understandably, the drawback is that the book is weighted toward the more well-known AVAs and the quality of wines they produce, which leaves little room for details on emerging regions. American Wine is more than the ultimate reference guide on the subject, it leaves one feeling there is no better time to be an oenophile in America than today. Sip slowly and enjoy the ride. Published by University of California Press | $50.00 www.ucpress.edu

APPS q

M OBIL E WINE TO UR iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch (v1.2.1), Android (v1.1.2) $ 2.99 www.mobilewinetour.com

Mobile Wine Tour is the ultimate resource for nationwide touring. Updated regularly with essential details on wineries in regions across the U.S., the app also offers turn-by-turn directions to wineries nearby. Search which wineries are closest, currently open, or by the type of wine you’re looking for—a great tool for impromptu tasting room hopping. The app provides distance calculations from your current location, and quick access to Google maps and GPS-style directions so you can explore wine regions locally or across the country with just a few taps. And you can instantly share your new discoveries with friends on social media. A search of New York’s wine regions shows them well-represented, including the Niagara region which features all the wineries on the Trail.

WHAT WE LIKE:

WHAT WE’D LIKE TO SEE:

– Quick link to nearby wineries – Search by location, hours, or wines – Google map links with full directions – Tasting room details and hours – Quick call button direct to winery – Good coverage of Niagara region – Option to install updated information

– Customizable “favorites” categories

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

www.robertsfarmmarket.com

The Medina Business Association welcomes you to come & explore historic downtown Medina! Visit our quaint shops & restaurants.

www.MedinaBusiness.org

Hours: Apr 1– Dec 23 Mon–Sat 9–6 May & Oct Sun 9–4

We offer a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables from our 75-year-old farm, and cider made from our 35-year-old cider press located right inside our market! Visit our garden center for an extensive collection of plants, shrubs and trees. We also have numerous U-PICK OPERATIONS Strawberries •Raspberries • Apples Christmas trees

Saturday, September 28, 2013

11170 MAPLE RIDGE ROAD (RT. 31) MEDINA, NY 14103 • 585-798-4247

www.aleinautumn.com

20 Exhibitions every year 22 Studios 30 Artists Art and Soul Gift Shop

Saturday, November 30, 2013 www.ChristmasInMedina.com

Saturday, February 1, 2014 www.wineaboutwinter.com

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

Market Street Art Center 247 Market Street Lockport, NY 716.478.0239 marketstreetartcenter.org

Check our website for monthly events Art Research Library Classes Open 7 days a week | On the Erie Canal Near Historical Canal Tours

August 25 Summer Cider Celebration BlackBird Cider Works 8503 Lower Lake Road, Barker www.BlackBirdCiders.com Orchard tours, demonstrations, a country barbeque surrounded by apples, and plenty of cider on tap. August 30–31 Steampunk Festival 2013 Leonard Oakes Estate Winery

10609 Ridge Road, Medina www.oakeswinery.com “Festival of Bizarre Proportions!” kicks off on a Steampunk train ride—with Victorian-era cocktails, a fashion show and music on board. Fire shows, food trucks, cider tastings, and a Beard & Mustache competition on Sunday. October 27 Haunted Victorian Tea The Winery at Marjim Manor 7171 E. Lake Road, Appleton www.marjimmanor.com Ghost stories fill the afternoon during a four-course Victorian Tea.

PHOTO: Amanda Bieniecki

August 10 Dine in the Vines Midnight Run Wine Cellars 3301 Braley Road, Ransomville www.midnightrunwines.com Enjoy an elegant five-course meal and wines to pair—out in the vineyard.

WINE COUNTRY EVENTS

WINERY & CIDERY HAPPENINGS

ON THE NIAG ARA U SA WINE TR AIL How does a weekend of sipping and sampling, solving a circus murder, or ringing in the holiday season sound to you? Save the dates for these popular Wine Trail events! September 20–22 Harvest Festival Celebrate the season with wine and food pairing, and fun Autumn activities! Tickets are valid for all three days, and include wine tasting and food sampling at each winery, and a commemorative wine glass from your first winery. October 18–20 Hallowine Murder Mystery Weekend Celebrate Halloween with this years’ murder mystery, “Three Rings to the Wind,” a circus murder! Come as yourself or in costume. Collect the clues and interview a different suspect at each winery to solve the crime. Tickets are valid for all three days and include wine tasting at each winery, and one commemorative wine glass. November 8–11 Share the Bounty An annual charitable event to benefit local food banks, food pantries, and charities throughout the region. Each winery will have a different donation fee for their tasting. December 6–8 and December 13–15 Holiday Happening Collect a different ornament at each of the participating wineries to make a complete set! Enjoy three tastes of wine at each winery, and receive a commemorative wine glass at your first stop. Tickets are valid each day of the two-weekend event.

V I S I T W W W. N I A G A R A W I N E T R A I L . O R G F O R D E T A I L S & T I C K E T S

FESTIVALS! FESTIVALS! FESTIVALS! August 9–17 Erie County Fair 5600 McKinley Parkway, Hamburg www.the-fairgrounds.com The largest independent county fair in North America with entertainment, concerts and great fair food. August 23–24 Historic Lewiston Jazz Festival Center Street, Lewiston www.lewistonjazz.com Listen to some of the hottest jazz, sample culinary treats from the region’s finest chefs, and wet your appetite with a selection of wines from the Niagara Wine Trail USA.

August 23–25 Buffalo Irish Festival Canalside, 44 Prime Street, Buffalo www.bufirish.com/irishfestival.htm A celebration of Irish culture featuring continuous entertainment, Irish music, dance, food and beverages.

August 31–September 1 National Buffalo Wing Festival 275 Washington Street, Buffalo www.buffalowing.com Sample hundreds of flavors of chicken wings from restaurants throughout the country.

continued on page 53 August 24–25 Elmwood Festival of the Arts Elmwood Avenue, Buffalo www.elmwoodartfest.org Celebrate the arts in Buffalo’s eclectic Elmwood Village. Fun for all ages. August 30–September 1 Niagara Falls Blues Festival 101 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls www.niagarafallsbluesfest.org One of the largest events of its kind returns with dozens of Blues bands during this free, three-day festival. NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

Lockport Inn & Suites

• 90 Guest Rooms • Fireplaces & Jacuzzi Suites • In-room Refrigerators, Microwaves & Coffeemakers • Free Movies • A/C • Phone • Voicemail

• Complimentary In-room Wireless High Speed Internet • Swimming Pool • Hairdryers, Irons & Boards • Restaurants within Walking Distance • Conference Rooms • Fitness Center

(20 Minutes From Buffalo Airport)

716-434-5595 315 S. TRANSIT LOCKPORT 877-465-4100 • www.lockportinnandsuites.com

RESOURCES Support these local businesses and let them know you saw them advertised in Niagara USA Wine Magazine. Becker Brewing Company

www.beckerfarms.com Bedore Tours

54 46 53 10 52 54

www.TheLimousineService.us

Roberts Farm Market

Senator George Maziarz

maziarz.nysenate.gov

Market Street Art Center

Medina Business Association

Timkey Limousine Company

www.timkeylimo.com 50

Village Eatery Restaurant

www.VillageEatery.com

Newfane & Olcott Beach

The Medina Railroad Museum

IBC

railroadmuseum.net

grsbuses.com The Limousine Service

Main Liquor Store

Olcott-Newfane.com 56

Outlet Liquor

www.robertsfarmmarket.com

www.medinabusiness.org

www.gatescircleliquor.com Grand Tours and Ridge Road Express

www.MarketStreetArtCenter.org

www.garlocksrestaurant.com Gates Circle Wines & Liquor

LynOaken Farms

www.outletliquor.com

585-798-0506

FlightofFiveWinery.com Garlock’s Restaurant

www.lynoakenfarms.com

elizabethhousebandb.com Flight of Five Winery

Lockport Inn & Suites

Niagara Wine Trail USA

www.niagarawinetrail.org

www.lockportinnandsuites.com

www.BrookinsInn.com Elizabeth House Bed & Breakfast

www.lighthousegrillnspirits.com

www.bedoretours.com Brookins Inn & Suites

Lighthouse Grill -n-Spirits

The Wilson House Restaurant & Inn

www.thewilsonhouserestaurant.com Zambistro

Niagara County Community College (VESTA)

www.zambistro.com

amvizcarra@niagaracc.suny.edu

Grow with the Niagara Wine Trail USA Advertise in

NIAGARA USA WINE MAGAZINE ads@niagarawinemag.com 52

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

Convivial Table continued from page 47 mineral notes would cut through the richness of the dish without overpowering it. The addition of Eveningside’s Cab Franc to the cooking process ensures an even closer bond with the dish. Chef Forster notes that the restaurant ages their duck for ten days, “At the restaurant we allow the duck breasts to sit on a rack in the refrigerator, uncovered, for ten days. This tightens the skin, alleviates some of the iron flavor that can be present in duck, and allows for a crispier skin and increased complexity in terms of flavor.” As with many seemingly difficult restaurant recipes, this dish can be simplified by leaving out certain elements, like the sauce at the end, or the asparagus. Home cooks should read through the entire recipe and determine which elements they’d like to include and which might be made ahead.

327 BUFFALO AVE. • NIAGARA FALLS 716-285-1109 • ELIZABETHHOUSEBANDB . COM Historical elegance a stones throw from the Falls

•

Mike A @ Hotel Lafayette | 716-253-6453 | mikealafayette.com 391 Washington Street, Buffalo, NY 14203

Wine Country Events continued from page 51 August 31 24th Annual Olcott Beach Classic Car Show Krull Park, Olcott www.TimeTravelersWNY.com Over 800 classic cars compete for prizes in a beautiful lakeside setting. September 14–October 31 The Great Pumpkin Farm Fall Festival 11199 Main Street, Clarence www.greatpumpkinfarm.com NY’s largest fall festival offers special events every weekend, and of course, tons of pumpkins! September 14–15 Niagara Celtic Heritage Festival and Highland Games Krull County Park, Burt www.niagaraceltic.com/fest_entrance.html The ultimate celebration of the local area and Celtic heritage, now in its 13th year. September 21 Music is Art Festival Marcy Casino in Delaware Park 84 Parkside Avenue, Buffalo www.musicisart.org The 11th anniversary of this festival showcasing local bands, artists and photographers, dance troupes, live art displays, and an amazing kids village. September 29 Apple Harvest Festival West Creek Road, Newfane 716-778-7197 Everything apples! Country fair at the farm village museum, sponsored by the Town of Newfane Historical Society. October 12 Old Falls Street’s Oktoberfest 101 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls www.fallsstreet.com 4th annual Oktoberfest featuring authentic German cuisine, beer, and wine.

Keep up with what’s happening on the Niagara Wine Trail USA! Check the event calendar at www.niagarawinetrail.org

429 davison rd., lockport 716-433-0688 www.VillageEatery.com NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

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RANSOMVILLE

A Gust of Sun Winery

Long Cliff Vineyards

LEWISTON

NIAGARA FALLS

SPECIALIZING IN WINE TOUR PACKAGES

– bedore Tours fleet has various vehicle sizes: shuttles, mini-buses, 39- and 56-passenger motor coaches – Charter vehicles for any occasion, local or across the country and Canada – Customizes one day and multi-day group tours Call: 716-696-3200 | 800-538-8433 Visit our website: www.bedoretours.com

CANADA

NIAGARA WINE TRAIL USA Wineries & Cidery NEW YORK

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

GRAND ISLAND

NORTH TONAWANDA

Black Willow Winery

Victorianbourg Wine Estate

THE REGION

The Winery at Marjim Manor

BlackBird Cider Works

d reek R West C

YATES CENTER

Maple Rd

Old Coomer Rd

BARKER

OLCOTT Chateau Niagara Winery

LYNDONVILLE

Lake St

WILSON

Schulze Vineyards & Winery

Ketchum

NEWFANE

ORLEANS

NIAGARA Ewings Rd

RIDGEWAY

Honeymoon Trail Winery

Vizcarra Vineyards

Eveningside Vineyards

MiDDLEPORT GASPORT

Freedom Run Winery

L ERIE CANA

MEDINA Spring Lake Winery

LOCKPORT

SHELBY Davison Rd

Arrowhead Spring Vineyards

ERI EC A NA L

Niagara Landing Wine Cellars

Leonard Oakes Estate Winery

PENDLETON

M AP L EGE ND Winery Cidery

ERIE Lake Region Black Willow Winery 5565 West Lake Road Burt, NY 14028 www.blackwillowwinery.com

Chateau Niagara Winery 2466 West Creek Road Newfane, NY 14108 www.ChateauNiagaraWinery.com

Schulze Vineyards & Winery 2090 Coomer Road Burt, NY 14108 www.schulzewines.com

BlackBird Cider Works 8503 Lower Lake Road Barker, NY 14012 BlackBirdCiders.com

Midnight Run Wine Cellars 3301 Braley Road Ransomville, NY 14131 www.midnightrunwines.com

Victorianbourg Wine Estate 4402 East Lake Road Wilson, NY 14172 www.victorianbourg.com

A Gust of Sun Winery & Vineyard 4515 Baer Road Ransomville, NY 14131 www.agustofsun.com

Freedom Run Winery 5138 Lower Mountain Road Lockport, NY 14094 www.FreedomRunWinery.com

Long Cliff Vineyard & Winery 3617 Lower Mountain Road Sanborn, NY 14132 www.longcliffwinery.com

Spring Lake Winery 7373 Rochester Road Lockport, NY 14094 www.springlakewinery.com

Arrowhead Spring Vineyards 4746 Town Line Road Lockport, NY 14094 ArrowheadSpring.com

Honeymoon Trail Winery 4120 Ridge Road Lockport, NY 14094 HoneymoonTrailWinery.com

Niagara Landing Wine Cellars 4434 Van Dusen Road Lockport, NY 14094 www.NiagaraLanding.com

Vizcarra Vineyards 3724 quaker Road gasport, NY 14067 beckerfarms.com

Eveningside Vineyards 4794 Lower Mountain Road Cambria, NY 14094 eveningside.com

Leonard Oakes Estate Winery 10609 Ridge Road Medina, NY 14103 www.oakeswinery.com

The Winery at Marjim Manor 7171 East Lake Road Appleton, NY 14008 www.MarjimManor.com

Ridge Region

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

the FINISH By Teresa Sharp

It’s Harvest Time: Pick, Sip, Enjoy Is there anything better than biting into a crispy Empire apple? Perhaps there is – if you just had the pleasure of plucking it yourself from a tree under a robin’s egg blue sky. Dazzle your taste buds with each crunchy nibble and revel in the experience. We are so fortunate to live in an area filled with U-pick farms and farm stands that allow us the luxury of enjoying fruits and vegetables fresh off the vine or harvested earlier that day from the fields. And there is no better time to take advantage of these opportunities than now, as we head deeper into summer and await the beginning of fall, when the fruit and vegetable crops are most bountiful here. This is the time of year when we find farm stand tables heaped with beans and beets, cabbage, corn and carrots, onions and potatoes, tomatoes and turnips. And, we know squash and pumpkins are right around the corner. And let’s not forget the fruits – those delectable apples, lingering blueberries, melons, peaches, pears and plums – and, of course, grapes. Roll down your window and inhale the heady fragrance of grapes ripening on the vine as you ride through the shadow of the mighty Niagara Escarpment or the fertile, flat stretches of farmland along Lake Ontario, and know that some of these fruits will be used to create next year’s luscious vintages. You won’t have to travel very far to find U-pick sites around the region: Becker Farms in Gasport (tree fruit/vegetables), which also boasts Vizcarra Vineyards; LynOaken Farms, home to Leonard Oakes Estate Winery in Medina, which offers a variety of apples; Roberts Farm Market, also located in Medina, which has late raspberries and will have apples starting in September; Blackman Farms (apples/tree fruit) and Coulter Farms (tree fruit/vegetables) in Lockport; Murphy Orchards (apples/tree fruit/berries/vegetables) in Burt; and Peter Baker Farm (apples/vegetables) in Ransomville. If you’re in too much of a hurry to pick your own fruits or veggies (and that would be a shame), you will always find a treasure trove of fresh produce at one of the many local farm stands and farmers’ markets throughout Western New York.

“Pandora’s Bottle is as delicious as a vintage Château Lafite and almost as rare—a novel that is as entertaining as it is smart. – Marc Acito

Joanne Sydney Lessner

Pandora’s

• North Tonawanda City Market, open year-round, from 7am–1pm, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. • Lockport Farmer’s Market, open 9am–9pm daily, April through late November.

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• Elmwood-Bidwell Farmer’s Market in Buffalo, open 8am–1pm on Saturdays from May through mid-December.

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• Farmers’ Market at the Williamsville Mill, open 8am–1pm, from late May to late October.

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And, you’re also likely to find offerings from the Niagara Wine Trail USA at these farmers’ markets. These vintners are anxious to help you make the right choice to pair with your fresh-picked produce and please any palate. You’ll find at least one winery sampling at any of these markets:

NIAGARA USA WINE • Premier 2013

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• Clarence Hollow Farmer’s Market, open 8am–1pm, Saturdays, June through late October. So, get out there in the sunshine and pick some fruit, drink some local wine, and enjoy this bountiful harvest season.

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NEW! 20 Century Limited th

dinner trains July 13, 20 & 27, Aug. 3, 10 & 17

NEW! Niagara Wine Trail winery trains Aug. 24 & 31, Sept 7, 14 & 21, Oct. 5

Fall Foliage Trains Oct. 6, 9, 12, 13, 16, 20 & 23

thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s NEW! Halloween Trains Oct. 19, 25 & 26

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The Polar Express

begins 11/23

The Medina Railroad Museum Open Tuesday to Sunday 11 to 5 530 West Ave., Medina, NY NYS Thruway Exit 48A (585) 798-6106

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