We Rank The 3 Best Wine Tours In Rochester

Rochester might be better known for its jazz festivals and craft breweries, but the Finger Lakes region around it is a hidden gem for wine lovers. Just a short drive north, you’ll find some of New York’s best vineyards, with rolling hills, lakeside views, and a surprising variety of wines. Rochester’s proximity to the Canandaigua Wine Trail makes it easy to enjoy multiple wineries without the hassle of driving—especially with guided tours offering expert insights and convenient transport. For a more casual experience, Conesus Lake offers a quick, intimate tasting of wines paired with cheese and chocolate, perfect for those wanting a lighter, fun outing. And if you’re interested in exploring wines from around the world, a multi-day selection of local wines lets you taste everything from bold reds to delicate whites.

In this guide, you’ll find detailed descriptions of the best wine tours in Rochester, including what makes each one unique, their price points, and who they’re best suited for. Whether you’re after a full-day guided excursion, a quick tasting experience, or a broad selection of wines, this list offers options tailored to different tastes and schedules. From personalized vineyard visits to flavorful tastings at lakeside wineries, each experience provides a different way to enjoy the rich wine culture of the Finger Lakes.

1. Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience

This Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty and small-batch vineyard visits. At $245.03 per person, it’s a slightly higher-end option that includes round-trip transportation from select hotels, making it incredibly hassle-free. The tour spans about 5 to 6 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy four wineries, some of which are microfacilities focusing on limited-edition vintages. The scenery—hills and waterfront views—becomes part of the experience, with many tastings paired with the landscape’s natural beauty.

What sets this tour apart is the personal driver who doubles as a guide, sharing insider insights into the local wine culture. The tour includes visits to notable wineries like Arbor Hill Grapery & Winery, known for its sweet wines, and Heron Hill’s tasting room on Canandaigua Lake, which offers an educational tasting with vineyard views. You’ll also get the chance to explore facilities beyond just tastings, sometimes including a lunch at the New York Kitchen in Canandaigua.

Reviewers love the personalized experience, with comments highlighting the skill of the driver and the variety of wineries visited. One noted, “Our driver, Gary, was awesome! He was so knowledgeable about the area,” emphasizing the value of local expertise. The small group size—limited to 12 people—ensures a relaxed and intimate atmosphere that’s perfect for those wanting a more tailored visit.

Bottom Line: This tour offers great value for wine enthusiasts who enjoy regional stories, scenic views, and exclusive vintages in a small-group setting. It’s ideal for travelers who want comfort, expert commentary, and a smooth day of tasting.

2. Shared Wine, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting in Conesus Lake

If you’re looking for a quick, fun, and inexpensive experience, this Shared Wine, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting at Conesus Lake is perfect. At just $20 per person, the tasting lasts about 45 minutes and includes four gold medal-winning wines—Conesus White, Runway Red, Pebble Beach Blush, and Max Black—each paired with cheese or chocolate.

This seated tasting is very accessible and includes detailed descriptions of each wine, making it a great option for those new to wine tastings or looking for a laid-back experience. The owner, Hailey, is praised for her friendly hospitality and engaging presentation, which makes the tasting feel more like visiting a friend’s house than a commercial visit. The pairing of wines with cheese and chocolate adds a layer of indulgence that’s perfect for a quick date or a family outing.

Reviews consistently mention the value for money—a small price for such quality and variety—and highlight the friendliness of the staff. One reviewer said, “Candi was incredible and refilled our waters while we sat around waiting to sober up,” showing how attentive and personable the staff are.

Bottom Line: This tasting is ideal for those wanting a short, budget-friendly introduction to local wines with a sweet and savory twist. It’s perfect as a quick stop or a fun addition to a lakeside day.

3. Fingerlakes Wine selection, Wines around the world

For travelers interested in sampling a broad array of wines from local and international sources, this two-day, 3-hour experience offers a comprehensive look at the Finger Lakes’ wine choices. Priced at just $5 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to get a taste of the region’s diverse wines—from bold reds to subtle whites—and see how local wineries compare to wines from around the world.

This tour is less about visiting specific vineyards and more about tastings of a curated collection, with a focus on showcasing the variety and quality of New York State wines. It’s well suited for those who already have a taste for wine and want to explore different styles without committing to a full day. Since there are no reviews yet, it’s ideal for curious travelers who prioritize variety and education over the vineyard experience itself.

The value here is clear—at only $5, you can try numerous wines and decide which ones to seek out in future visits. It’s also flexible for those with a busy schedule or looking for an introductory experience.

Bottom Line: Best for wine enthusiasts on a budget wanting a broad sampling of local and international wines with minimal time commitment.

How to Choose

Selecting the right wine tour depends on your preferences for time, budget, and experience style. If you want a full-day, guided exploration with scenic vineyard visits and personalized attention, the Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience is your best bet. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quality, scenery, and insider knowledge.

For a quick, casual tasting experience, especially if you’re near Conesus Lake or want something inexpensive, the Shared Wine, Chocolate and Cheese Tasting offers a delightful treat at a very accessible price. It suits travelers who want a fun, no-fuss outing with a focus on tasting rather than touring.

If your goal is to sample a wide variety of wines from different regions without spending much time or money, the Wines around the world provides a flexible, educational experience with an emphasis on variety.

Timing your booking is also important—advance reservations are recommended for the full-day tours, especially during peak seasons in late spring, summer, and early fall. Shorter tastings can be more spontaneous, but it’s still wise to reserve in advance where possible.

Final Thoughts

Rochester’s proximity to the Finger Lakes means you have access to a diverse range of wine experiences—from immersive vineyard visits to quick tastings with cheese and chocolate. The Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience offers a comprehensive, scenic, and small-group tour with a personal touch, making it ideal for serious wine lovers. The lakeside tasting in Conesus Lake provides a charming, affordable alternative that’s perfect for a casual outing. For those curious about the global varieties of wine produced in the Finger Lakes, the broad selection of tastings offers a flexible, educational experience.

Whatever your preference, booking early assures you the best choices. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to enjoy a relaxing day among vineyards, these tours can add a memorable touch to your Rochester visit.