Seneca Lake South Wine Tastings Tour

Our review of the Seneca Lake South Wine Tasting Tour offers a balanced look at an experience that promises a full day of wine, scenery, and relaxation. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the overwhelmingly positive reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-organized way to enjoy New York’s famous Finger Lakes wine region without the hassle of driving.

What we love about this tour is its focus on small group sizes—which fosters a more personal, engaging experience—and the variety of wineries it visits, each with their own character and wines. The educational component adds value for those eager to learn about wine production, and the scenic drives around Seneca Lake provide a beautiful backdrop for tasting. On the flip side, a potential drawback could be that the itinerary might change based on availability, so some stops could differ from what’s listed.

This tour is perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples, or small groups who want a guided, stress-free day in one of America’s premier wine regions. If you appreciate a mix of education, scenic beauty, and excellent wines—all while leaving transportation to someone else—this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Guided wine tasting with a small, intimate group
• Visits to four carefully chosen vineyards
• Optional lunch at Ventosa Vineyards
• Scenic drives around Seneca Lake
• Knowledgeable guides with rave reviews
• Ideal for those wanting a hassle-free wine adventure

The Seneca Lake South Wine Tasting Tour is thoughtfully designed to give you a comprehensive taste of what the Finger Lakes have to offer. Starting in Watkins Glen, the tour typically includes four winery visits—each with its own style and wine focus—delivered by an expert guide who ensures you get the most from each stop.

You can opt for the basic tasting tour, which covers four wineries, or upgrade to the plus lunch option. The latter is a lovely way to relax with a glass of wine overlooking the vineyard, paired with a leisurely meal at Ventosa Vineyards, which adds a delicious pause to your day.

Wineries and Stops: What to Expect

Seneca Lake itself is renowned for its stunning views, and the tour begins with a scenic drive along its shoreline. While specific wineries may vary depending on availability, the lineup generally includes notable names like Chateau Lafayette Reneau, Castel Grisch, Magnus Ridge Winery, Tabora Farm & Winery, and Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards.

Each stop offers a chance to sample regional varietals — from crisp Rieslings and Gewurztraminer to full-bodied reds like Baco Noir and Chancellor. Chateau Lafayette Reneau, with its estate-grown vinifera wines and numerous awards, particularly stands out for its quality and consistency.

Castel Grisch offers panoramic views of Seneca Lake, plus a diverse wine list featuring hybrid reds and whites, showcasing the region’s versatility. Magnus Ridge transports you to France with its charming, old-world ambiance, large tasting bar, and unique glassware. At Tabora Farm & Winery, you’ll enjoy wines made from estate-grown grapes with a focus on native and hybrid varieties, emphasizing minimal intervention. Finally, Hazlitt 1852 boasts a long tradition dating back to 1852, with a reputation for their Red Cat series and a lineup of award-winning wines.

Learning and Enjoying

The educational aspect is a significant part of the experience. Guides are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable approach, helping you understand each wine’s background and characteristics. As one reviewer noted, their driver Gary was “wonderful and knowledgeable,” making the experience both enjoyable and informative.

Reviews highlight how the guided aspect allows you to relax and focus on tasting, rather than worrying about driving or navigation. The small group size—maximum 12 people—also fosters a more personalized experience, with ample opportunity to ask questions and chat with your guide.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Beyond the wineries, the tour emphasizes the stunning landscapes of the Finger Lakes. Expect to pass through charming small towns, rolling vineyards, and picturesque lake views. Some stops, like Castel Grisch, offer panoramic perspectives that are perfect for photos or simply soaking in the peaceful countryside.

If you select the lunch upgrade, you’ll enjoy a meal overlooking the vines, making the experience even more memorable. Many reviewers mention how the combination of delicious wines and beautiful scenery makes the day feel special without feeling rushed.

The tour lasts approximately 5 to 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip. The price of $259.24 per person reflects a comprehensive experience—covering transportation, multiple winery visits, tastings, and a guide. The inclusion of educational tours and the optional lunch adds significant value, especially considering the quality of wines and scenic stops.

Transportation is handled via a mobile ticket system with hotel pickup available from select locations, making logistics easy. The small group size not only improves comfort but also keeps the experience intimate and engaging.

According to reviews, this tour is booked about 38 days in advance, indicating a healthy demand. Travelers consistently mention that the guides are friendly and attentive, which enhances the overall value.

Many reviewers praise the guides for their helpfulness and knowledge. One said, “Our driver, Darryl, was helpful, informative and friendly,” highlighting the importance of a good host. Another shared: “Gary was wonderful and knowledgeable,” emphasizing how a friendly, informed guide can elevate the day.

The scenery and winery visits received glowing feedback. One traveler remarked, “Beautiful weather and nice countryside,” making the drive itself part of the charm. The wineries’ quality wines, especially the award-winning selections at Chateau Lafayette Reneau, are often mentioned as a highlight.

Value for money is frequently praised. With tastings at four wineries, an educational component, and optional lunch, many find this tour offers excellent bang for the buck. Leaving the driving to someone else is another recurring theme — a major convenience for those unfamiliar with the area or who simply want to relax.

Some reviewers mention the potential for itinerary changes due to winery availability, which is worth noting. Flexibility is part of the package, so it’s good to be adaptable.

This tour is a well-rounded introduction to the Finger Lakes wine country, ideal for travelers who want to sample diverse wines without the stress of driving or planning individual visits. Its small group setting and knowledgeable guides create an atmosphere conducive to learning, relaxing, and soaking in the scenery.

The optional lunch is a big plus for those wanting a leisurely meal amidst vineyard views. The variety of wineries ensures a broad taste of the region’s offerings, from estate-grown vinifera to hybrid reds.

If you’re a wine lover, enjoy scenic drives, and value guided, all-inclusive experiences, this tour offers excellent value and memorable moments. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a manageable itinerary that balances education, tasting, and scenery.

Is this tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. Guides are friendly and willing to share their knowledge, making it easy for newcomers to learn about wine and enjoy tasting.

Can I request hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup from select hotels is available if requested, which simplifies logistics and helps you relax from the moment you start.

How many wineries do we visit?
Typically four wineries, with the possibility of itinerary changes depending on availability.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers transportation, a guided educational tour, tastings at four wineries, and in the case of the plus lunch option, a meal overlooking the vineyards.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, the minimum age is 21 years old; you need a valid photo ID to participate.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 12, which promotes a more personal experience.

How long does the tour last?
About 5 to 7 hours, offering a full but comfortable day of wine tasting and sightseeing.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included and are at your discretion based on your satisfaction.

To sum it up, the Seneca Lake South Wine Tasting Tour promises a relaxed, educational, and scenic journey through one of America’s most beautiful wine regions. With knowledgeable guides, a carefully curated winery lineup, and optional lunch, it offers excellent value. Perfect for wine lovers, couples, or small groups seeking hassle-free fun, this tour can turn a day in the Finger Lakes into a memorable adventure filled with good wines and stunning views.