Brotherhood Winery, America’s Oldest Winery, Ltd.:
Washingtonville, New York
Nestled in the Catskills foothills, Brotherhood Winery offers visitors the opportunity to step back into history. Established in 1839 as the first American commercial winery, it is a place where visitors can stroll the landscaped grounds, browse the "History of Brotherhood" exhibit, and tour the underground cellars.
The tour includes a brief lesson about how Champagne is made, barrel aging and, of course, a chance to taste a variety of award-winning wines – from sweet to dry, dessert to table.
Year-round the Brotherhood Winery holds special events during the weekends, including Polka Fest, Victorian Picnic, Jazz Fest, The Haunted Cellars and Grape Stomping.
For more information, call Brotherhood Winery at (845) 496-9101.
Merryvale Vineyards. Napa Valley, California
Founded in 1983, Merryvale Vineyard is where the first Napa winery was built following Prohibition. Located in the heart of Napa Valley, the historic vineyard produces more than 60,000 cases of classic, reserve and prestige wines annually.
Surrounded by French oak barrels and casks in a true working winery, wine enthusiasts can enjoy the opportunity to sample and purchase Merryvale's award-winning wines, check out the gift shop, and view Merryvale’s Historic Cask Room, often cited as Napa Valley's most romantic setting for special events.
While in Napa, take a wine tour aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. The three-hour tour offers a relaxing journey through the heart of Napa Valley’s picturesque vineyards and past world-renowned wineries. The 1915-1917 Pullman Lounge and wine tasting cars surround guests with imported hand-rubbed Honduran Mohagany, polished brass and grape-motif etched glass while they enjoy a unique wine and culinary experience – champagne brunch, gourmet lunch or full-course dinner.
For more information about Merryvale Winery, call (707) 963-7777 and/or the Napa Valley Wine Train at (800) 427-4124.
Gordon Brothers Cellars: Pasco, Washington
The eighty-acre Gordon Brothers' vineyards lie on a perfect south-facing slope that rolls down the Snake River just above Ice Harbor Dam and at the union of the Snake and Columbia Rivers in southeastern Washington. Established in 1980, the Gordon Brothers released their 138 cases of 1983 Chardonnay in 1985. Since then their portfolio of wines has grown extensively to include Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gewurztraminer, Spiceling and Tradition.
Visitors are welcome to browse the winery and even have a taste at the bar, hand-made by the Gordon Brothers’ grandfather. There’s also a gift shop where visitors can purchase gourmet food, clothing, artwork, antiques and other gift items.
For more information, call (509) 547-6331.
Chateau Chantal: Traverse City, Michigan
With stunning views of the East and West Grand Traverse Bays, Chateau Chantal is one of Michigan’s newest wineries. Located on one of the highest points on the Old Mission Peninsula, it is a unique destination that combines vineyards and winery, a bed and breakfast, winding roads, fresh air and kind company.
During tours, visitors are escorted down to the 3,400 square foot cellars where they learn the art and science of winemaking – everything from the growing of the grapes to the labeling of the bottles. After the tours, the visitors are escorted back up to the tasting area, where they are provided insight into learn the art of tasting, and given a chance to taste four or five wines, with commentary on each wine. When weather permits, tastings are held on the terrace where visitors can be enchanted by the view and the taste of good wine.
For more information, call (800) 969-4009.
Stone Hill Winery and Restaurant: Hermann, Missouri
Nestled among the rolling hills along the Missouri River is the town of Hermann, reminiscent of Germany's Rhine Valley, where Stone Hill Winery prominently looks out on the village from a hilltop.
Discover the joys of Stone Hill Winery, including the beautiful view, the old town charm of Hermann and the delicious cuisine at the Vintage Restaurant. Take a tour to learn more about the winery's fascinating history – from its beginnings in 1847 to its rise to the third largest winery in the world, from its demise with the onset of Prohibition to the winery's ultimate restoration.
A pioneer in both the 19th century roots of Missouri winemaking and its 20th century renaissance, Stone Hill has won international acclaim as one of the three most highly awarded wineries in the United States. In 1999, Stone Hill was the winner of 214 medals.
For more information, call 1-800-909-WINE.