Think Finger Lakes wineries and you probably think of Seneca Lake, with more than 36 wineries to explore, and Cayuga Lake with 15. Try to visit them all in a day: No way.
Closer to home (home being Syracuse and vicinity) is Skaneateles Lake, which has just one winery, at least for now: Anyela’s Vineyards. It’s a perfect staycation or daycation destination, either on its own, as part of a leisurely drive around the lake or pleasant detour from the village of Skaneateles.
Anyela’s is owned by the Nocek family, who grow grapes for their wines at this property, with stunning lake views, and near Fredonia, in Western New York.
The tasting room is open noon to 5 p.m. daily, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays in the summer. From a list of eight whites and eight reds, select your choice of five samples for $2.
Wine connoisseurs we are not, but we know what we like: dry whites and reds that pair well with what we like to eat: pasta, grilled meats and seafood, salads, homemade pizza, paninis, etc.
I sampled two whites (2009 dry Riesling and 2010 semi-dry Riesling), as well as the 2006 Rose of Pinot Noir, 2008 Pinot Noir and 2008 Noiret.
My favorites of the five: the crisp and clean dry Riesling and slightly pepper/spicy Noiret, a new variety of grape developed at Cornell University’s Agricultural Experiment Station in Geneva. Our pourer said it pairs nicely with spicy dishes, like Thai food.
Part of us wanted to head home with something other than Riesling, the region’s signature white wine, but Anyela’s version was so refreshing on a hot summer day we bought a bottle to enjoy outside (they gladly will recork what you don’t finish) and a bottle to enjoy another time.
Our tasting took place in the wine cellar – the upstairs tasting room was closed due to a private party.
During the week, you can purchase cheese plates to enjoy with a glass or bottle of wine. And lunch, featuring fresh fare from Anyela’s gardens, is served from noon to 3 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday (in season).
If you summer day trip itinerary includes a hop over to wine country, don’t forget about Anyela’s.
Anyela’s Vineyards is at 2433 W. Lake Road, about five miles south of the village of Skaneateles. Information: 315- 685-3797.
Hi, Marcia --
We drove further down the west side of the lake first -- to New Hope Antiques -- then wound our way back to the winery. What a nice way to spend a summer day in Central New York.
Saving our bottle of dry Riesling (not for long, probably) for just the right meal!
Thanks for visiting.
--Margaret
Posted by: Margaret @ Eat First | 08/18/2011 at 07:27 AM
I have been there a couple of times. I loved the Noiret and as you say their Rieslings are very nice as well. The setting is beautiful and the staff were very helpful. A very nice place to visit, indeed.
Posted by: Marcia Albrecht | 08/17/2011 at 07:40 PM