There is something almost magical about Christmastime on Keuka Lake. The air turns crisp, the hillsides grow quiet, and the lake settles into a glassy calm that reflects every twinkle light strung from barn beams to tasting room rafters. It’s the kind of scenery that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and savor the season—one cozy sip at a time.
This year, the Keuka Roots Christmas Wine Trail invites you on a scenic holiday drive around the lake, winding from one festive tasting room to the next. Think: garland-draped patios, mulled wine simmering in copper pots, vineyard views dusted with snow, and those intimate moments shared across a table that you’ll remember long after the holidays fade.
Grab your coziest scarf, pack a camera, and let’s wander around Keuka—east side to west side—to discover six wineries dressed in their holiday best.
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Let the Magic Begin
1.
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery — A Toast to Tradition
9749 Middle Rd, Hammondsport, NY
On the east side’s winding hillside sits a Finger Lakes icon—never more enchanting than at Christmas. Evergreen swags drape the tasting room, candles flicker against stone walls, and the legacy of Dr. Frank himself feels alive in every pour.
Sip suggestion: Rkatsiteli or the winter-perfect Dry Riesling.
Perfect moment: stepping outside for a photo overlooking the snow-kissed vineyard rows.
2. Heron Hill Winery — Holiday Warmth with a View
9301 Co Rd 76, Hammondsport, NY
With its cathedral-style tasting room and sweeping panoramas, Heron Hill looks like it was built for Christmas postcards. Inside, ornaments glisten from high beams and the glow of the wine bar feels like a fireside welcome.
Sip suggestion: Eclipse Red or their seasonal mulled wine.
Perfect moment: catching the late-afternoon sun dipping toward the western hills.
3. Bully Hill Vineyards — Whimsy, Wonder & Wine
8843 Greyton H. Taylor Memorial Dr, Hammondsport, NY
No stop brings more personality to the season than Bully Hill. Expect bold colors, playful décor, and a gift shop that feels like Santa’s workshop for grown-ups.
Sip suggestion: Love My Goat or the festive Sweet Walter Red.
Perfect moment: laughing with friends over the outrageous labels and holiday merch.
β¨ Every Sip Tells a Story
4.
Keuka Spring Vineyards — Cozy Comfort & Holiday Cheer
243 Route 54, East Lake Rd, Penn Yan, NY
On the west side, Keuka Spring shines with warmth and hospitality. Their tasting room transforms into a wreath-filled, ribbon-trimmed haven—simple, elegant, and heartwarming.
Sip suggestion: Gewürztraminer or their Léon Millot for a rich winter red.
Perfect moment: leaning into the bar and chatting with staff who feel like old friends.
5.
Abandon Brewing Co. — Wine & Barrel-Aged Surprises
2994 Merritt Hill Rd, Penn Yan, NY
A rustic barn perched high on the hillside, Abandon glows under strings of lights and evergreen garland. While known for beer, their barrel-aged and collaborative wines make this a unique holiday stop on the trail.
Sip suggestion: a barrel-finished wine or a festive brew to mix things up.
Perfect moment: stepping outside onto the overlook and watching snowflakes drift down over the lake.
6.
Weis Vineyards — Old-World Elegance for the Holidays
10014 Day Rd, Hammondsport, NY
Weis brings the charm of Germany straight to Keuka’s shoreline—perfect for Christkindl-season vibes. Expect warm smiles, twinkling lights, and the kind of high-quality wines that pair beautifully with Christmas dinner.
Sip suggestion: Dry Rosé, Cabernet Franc, or their crisp German-style whites.
Perfect moment: clinking glasses by the windows as the lake glimmers below.
π A Scenic Drive Wrapped in Christmas Glow
One of the most beautiful parts of the Keuka Roots Christmas Wine Trail is the drive itself:
• Snow-dusted farms along the east ridge
• Lakeside cottages trimmed in wreaths
• Historic barns strung with golden lights
• Little towns glowing with Main Street magic
• Vineyard rows stretching like quiet winter pathways
With each curve of the road, the lake peeks through—silver, still, almost reverent. Christmas music plays softly. Someone opens a bag of local chocolates. Laughter gently fills the car between stops.
These are the moments we keep.
π· Moments to Share Over a Glass of Wine
Whether you’re toasting with an old friend, wandering with someone special, or collecting bottles for holiday dinners to come, Keuka’s wineries remind us what this season is really about:
• Slowing down
• Savoring tradition
• Supporting local
• Making memories between the lakes
• Finding joy in simple, beautiful moments
And as you loop back toward home, trunk filled with wine and heart filled with warmth, you’ll know that the Keuka Christmas spirit found you somewhere between the vineyards and the lake.
From Keuka Roots
Wherever you wander this season—east side or west, snowy ridge or lakeside quiet—may your holidays be filled with good wine, good stories, and good company.
Cheers to Keuka! Cheers to the roots that keep us grounded!
Merry Christmas!
Stay Rooted, Stay Keuka.
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