A Perfect Day at Canandaigua Lake Wineries & Tasting Rooms

ByLaura Wine Destinations

If you’re planning a visit to New York’s Finger Lakes, don’t miss spending a day (or two!) exploring Canandaigua Lake wineries and tasting rooms.

The Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail may be the smallest in the Finger Lakes. But what it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm and variety. This trail takes you through downtown Canandaigua and along the lake’s western side, offering award-winning wines, delicious local food, and unforgettable views.

As a certified wine expert who’s explored this region many times, I’ve had the chance to taste the wines, meet the passionate people, and discover the stops that stand out.

Whether you’re looking for top-notch tasting rooms, breathtaking lake views, or a mix of wine, food, and fun, I’ve got you covered with tips and recommendations to make the most of your trip!

Canandaigua Lake Wineries & Tasting Rooms Itinerary

This itinerary will take you to Canandaigua’s top wineries and tasting rooms in just one day. Prefer a slower pace? Spread it out over a few days and mix in some local activities for a more leisurely wine adventure.

If you’re planning to explore more of the Finger Lakes, be sure to check out my guides to Keuka Lake wineries and Seneca Lake wineries for even more wine-filled inspiration.

A big thanks to Visit Finger Lakes for hosting my winery visits and showing me around Ontario County!

Inspire Moore Winery

A vibrant purple-painted building with turquoise accents, surrounded by a charming gravel patio with blue outdoor seating, adorned with colorful flowers and

Kick off your day with a dose of winespiration at Inspire Moore in Naples. This boutique winery names each wine after a feeling “they want to inspire more of in the world.”

Founded by Diane and Tim Moore in 2007, Inspire Moore is housed in an 1800s carriage house at the southern end of the lake. Plus, their renovated barn hosts concerts and weddings. When Tim passed, his son Nathaniel joined Diane to keep the family dream alive.

They only produce a few thousand cases a year, so every bottle is kind of a big deal. Plus, they’re serious about sustainability, using earth-friendly practices in the vineyard and winery.

Whether you’re sipping on Joy or savoring a bit of Wisdom, this stop will set the tone for an inspiring day along Canandaigua Lake.

A cozy outdoor seating area with bright blue chairs and tables under string lights, overlooking lush green vineyards and a forested hillside in the background.
Rows of grapevines stretching across the landscape with a backdrop of trees and hills, basking in the afternoon sunlight under a clear blue sky.
A clear glass featuring the "Inspire Moore" logo, perched on a wooden railing with green foliage and grapevines visible in the background.
  • Wines to Try: I loved their Pinot Noir Brut Cuvée for its refreshing acidity and delicate bubbles. The Amphora Pinot Gris was also an interesting find, with a soft mouthfeel from the clay aging. They also produce a nice crisp Sauvignon Blanc with flavors of grapefruit and nectarine. And if you’re into bolder reds, try the Bourbon Barrel Red aged in Basil Hayden barrels.
  • Tasting Options: Create your own flight of five signature or reserve wines. Or try a set menu of four dry or sweet wines.
  • Visiting Tips: Reservations are recommended (and required for groups of 8+). Kids and pups are welcome. And if you’re curious about their winemaking, ask ahead for a tour. There’s a chance you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look with the winemaker himself.

Inspire Moore Winery, 197 N. Main St., Naples, NY

Roots Café

By now, you’ll probably be ready for lunch. And luckily, you don’t have to go far. Roots Café is right on-site at Inspire Moore’s farm, tucked inside the main house. This cozy, farm-to-table spot is perfect for refueling with a delicious meal.

A cozy outdoor dining table set for six with red chairs and colorful table settings on a wraparound porch, overlooking a vineyard and a scenic mountain in the background.
A close-up of a chicken sandwich with creamy brie and apricot chutney, served on toasted rustic bread, accompanied by a bottle of Blood Orange Ginger Ale and a glass of water.
A vibrant chalkboard mural at Roots Café featuring artistic logos and drawings for local businesses, such as Finger Lakes Coffee Roasters, Sweet Grass Meats, and Inspire Moore Winery.

You can dine under their tented terrace or grab takeout to enjoy on Inspire Moore’s patio with a vineyard view and a glass of wine. The menu has something for everyone — hearty sandwiches, tasty wraps, juicy burgers, and fresh salads. I went for the chicken sandwich special with creamy brie and apricot chutney. And let’s just say, it didn’t disappoint.

While you’re here, don’t skip the drinks menu! Pair your meal with a glass of Inspire Moore wine, a craft cocktail, or a local cider for the full Finger Lakes experience.

Roots Café, 197 N. Main St., Naples, NY

Carolabarb Park

Scenic view of a lush green landscape with trees leading down to a Canandaigua Lake, framed by rolling hills under a clear blue sky.

On your way back north, be sure to stop at the scenic overlook in Carolabarb Park. It’s the best spot to get a view of Canandaigua Lake. Trust me, it’s worth pulling over for a photo (or two).

If the weather’s nice, pack a lunch and grab a seat at one of the picnic tables. Nothing beats a meal with a view like this!

Carolabarb Park, 7083 Co Rd 12, Naples, NY

Heron Hill Winery

A green-painted wooden building with a unique multi-level deck and a silo, serving as the main structure of the Heron Hill Winery, with a picnic bench and gravel path in the foreground.

For a blend of history, great wines, and gorgeous views, Heron Hill Winery is a spot worth stopping for.

Their main winery is on Keuka Lake, but Heron Hill’s roots are on the west side of Canandaigua. That’s where you’ll find the original Ingle Vineyard. Plus, their satellite tasting room that’s housed in a 100-year-old barn overlooking the vineyard.

The story started in 1972 when John and Josephine Ingle planted those first vines on Canandaigua’s west side. After struggling to find a buyer for their grapes, they turned lemons into lemonade (or, in this case, grapes into wine). And the rest is delicious history.

Today, Heron Hill has 43 acres of sustainably farmed vineyards across three sites. And their talented winemaker Jordan Harris brings his expertise to every bottle at their stunning Greek Revival-style winery on the west side of Keuka.

A row of three wine glasses with white wine sits on a polished wooden bar, with a backdrop of wine racks and framed pictures in the Heron Hill tasting room.
A sign reading "Cabernet Franc" is attached to a post surrounded by lush green grape vines, indicating a specific vineyard section at Heron Hill.
A bottle of Heron Hill 2021 Riesling from the Ingle Vineyard in the Finger Lakes, displayed on a wooden counter with a purple and black label showing an illustration of a dome structure.
  • Wines to Try: A number of Heron Hill’s red wine were winners for me. The 2020 Ingle Vineyard Cabernet Franc had just the right amount of peppery spice along with ripe cherry and plum notes. The Reserve Red, a blend of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon, was so smooth with silky tannins. And don’t miss the Dancing Bear label for fun finds that “color outside the lines.” Think white Pinot Noir and bubbly Blaufränkisch rosé.
  • Tasting Options: Build your own custom flight of 5 wines from a menu that includes dry, semi-dry, and sweet wines in white, red, and sparkling options.

  • Visiting Tips: Reservations are required for groups of 6 or more at the Canandaigua location. Heron Hill is pet-friendly and participates in the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail passport. Check out their summer Saturdays for live music!

Heron Hill Winery, 5323 Seneca Point Rd, Canandaigua, NY

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New York Kitchen

An outdoor patio area with a light-colored building in the background, black umbrellas, red flowers, and seating, offering a relaxed environment for dining or tasting.

For your last (but certainly not least) wine-tasting stop, head to downtown Canandaigua’s New York Kitchen. More than just a tasting room, it’s a nonprofit dedicated to showcasing the best of New York State’s food and drink. They reinvest over $1 million back into the community every year, making it easy to sip, snack, and feel good about it.

The tasting room features a rotating lineup of 60+ New York wines, plus local beers, ciders, and spirits, all handpicked by tasting room manager Chris Schmitt. With some of my Finger Lakes favorites like Heart & Hands and Red Tail Ridge in the mix, there’s always something worth raising a glass to.

For a deeper dive, check out their beverage education program, led by Maiah Johnson Dunn, a Wine Enthusiast Future 40 Tastemaker. From blind tastings to the science of wine, you’ll find a variety of vino-related classes. They even offer wine certification programs if you’re looking to level up your knowledge.

Feeling hands-on? Try one of their cooking classes, like pasta making or sushi rolling. They also offer a Junior Chef program for ages 12 to 18, combining food, fun, and local ingredients to inspire the next generation of foodies.

A bright, open lobby with wooden beams and railings, featuring a staircase, a welcoming table with brochures and apples, and signs for NK Restaurant and Wine Spectator Theater.
A sleek bar with high chairs and a window displaying New York wine region facts. Bottles of wine and tasting menus are visible along the bar.
A modern demonstration kitchen setup with a semi-circular countertop, bar seating for guests, a central cooking area, and overhead lighting, creating a classroom-style environment for culinary demonstrations.
  • Wines to Try: If you’re new to the Finger Lakes region, start with anything from the legendary Dr. Konstantin Frank. Don’t miss tasting one of Forge Cellars’ fantastic Rieslings. They also have a great selection of sparkling wines, like the traditional method Little Clover Sparkling Riesling. And keep an eye out as they’re adding wines from Long Island wineries and other New York regions, too.

  • Tasting Options: Take your pick of pre-set flights of four wines, including dry whites, sweet wines, rosé, and dry reds. Or enjoy by the glass.
  • Food: New York Kitchen Café serves up locally sourced dishes, from sandwiches and pizzas to heartier plates. It’s a great spot to enjoy lake views while you sample more New York flavors.
  • Visiting Tips: Walk-ins are welcome at the tasting room, but it’s a good idea to call ahead for groups of 6 or more. Planning to take a class? Grab your tickets early as they fill up fast. Don’t forget to check the calendar for special events like tastings with local winemakers and seasonal wine and food pairings.

New York Kitchen, 800 S Main St, Canandaigua, NY

Where to Stay Near Canandaigua Wineries

A wooden barn-style building with large glass windows and neatly landscaped gardens. Adirondack chairs are arranged in front of the building, and a cornhole game board is set up on the grass. A white multi-story hotel building is visible in the background.

For the perfect lakeside getaway, The Lake House in downtown Canandaigua is a fantastic choice. Right on the water, this luxury property combines beautiful views with top-notch amenities, making it an ideal spot to relax and recharge. Plus, they care about staying green, using geothermal energy, local products, and eco-friendly housekeeping.

The spa here is a real treat, with outdoor saunas that have floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the lake. Imagine unwinding there on a chilly day! There’s also a heated pool and outdoor hot tub open year-round, so you can take a dip anytime.

A cozy library room with navy blue walls and ceiling, featuring a fireplace, bookshelves, and modern seating with plush chairs and couches. A chessboard sits on a small table in the foreground, surrounded by vibrant area rugs.
A barrel-shaped wooden sauna nestled among tall grasses and stone paths. A multi-story white hotel building is visible to the left, and the serene lakeside is in the distance.
A circular firepit surrounded by coral-colored Adirondack chairs in an outdoor seating area near the "Sand Bar" building. The building is white with large windows, and the space is filled with patio tables and vibrant flower beds.

One of my favorite spots was the cozy library, complete with a full-service bar. It’s the perfect place to curl up by the fireplace with a glass of wine and a good book on a cool afternoon.

After some time on the water, stop by the lake-themed Sand Bar for casual drinks and bites. Then, head to Rose Tavern for a delicious dinner inspired by local flavors.

🏨 Book The Lake House

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Where to Dine After Canandaigua Wine Tasting

A corner seating area at Rose Tavern with curved leather banquettes, round wooden tables, and framed paintings on dark wooden panel walls.
Crispy-skinned salmon served on a bed of roasted Brussels sprouts and vibrant orange segments, garnished with thinly sliced red onions and microgreens.
A bright and spacious dining area at Rose Tavern, featuring wooden booths with cushioned seats, wooden tables, and an open kitchen view with a chalkboard menu.

Dinner at Rose Tavern is a must when you’re in Canandaigua. This new American restaurant cooks up seasonal dishes using locally sourced ingredients. Stepping inside, my eye immediately went to the giant wood-fired hearth in the open kitchen. The enclosed patio is equally impressive, with wall-to-wall glass panels so you can take in the lake views.

The wine list is top-notch, with great local picks. I kicked things off with the Dr. Konstantin Frank Célèbre from Keuka Lake, a 100% Riesling Cremant-style sparkler.

The warm, fluffy JB’s Parker House Rolls were heavenly served with whipped honey butter and a sprinkle of sea salt. For the main event, I went with the Pan Roasted Faroe Island Salmon, accompanied by roasted Brussels sprouts, fingerling potatoes, and a bright summer citrus salad.

And what better way to end the perfect day than with a glass of local ice wine paired with a sweet treat from Rose Tavern’s delicious dessert menu!

Rose Tavern, 770 S. Main St., Canandaigua, NY

The Best Canandaigua Lake Wine Tour

If you’d rather focus on swirling and sipping (and leave the driving to someone else), a wine tour is the perfect way to explore the trail in style and safety.

The Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience is a great small group tour that takes care of all the details. You’ll enjoy tastings at four wineries, including favorites like Heron Hill and Inspire Moore. Plus, an educational tour, transportation, pick-up at select hotels, and even the option to add lunch.

🚌 Book the Canandaigua Wine Trail Experience

FAQs About Visiting Canandaigua Lake Wineries

When Is the Best Time to Visit Canandaigua Wineries?

The best time is typically from May to October when the weather is warm and the vineyards are at their prime. But each season offers its own advantages, whether you want to take in fall’s stunning foliage or take advantage of winter’s more intimate tasting experiences.

If you’re there in July, check out the Finger Lakes Wine Festival to sample top wines from many of the region’s producers. Plus, enjoy live music and cooking classes.

September also brings the Naples Grape Festival. Dedicated to celebrating grapes, it features live music, food, and of course a beverage garden with tastings of local wine, beer, and cider.

How Many Wineries Are There Around Canandaigua?

The Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail is the smallest in the Finger Lakes. You’ll find 7 wineries along the 30-mile stretch, mostly on the western side of the lake. Plus, the New York Kitchen tasting room is in downtown Canandaigua where you can sample wines from throughout the Finger Lakes and New York State.

Are wineries in the Finger Lakes open year-round?

Many of the wineries in the Finger Lakes, including ones around Canandaigua Lake, are open year-round. Just be sure to check their website before stopping by in the off-season.

Do You Need Reservations for Canandaigua wineries?

Not all Canandaigua Lake wineries require a reservation. But it’s good winery etiquette to make one if you can, especially during peak times or if you’re with a large group.

How Much does Canandaigua Lake wine tasting cost?

Canandaigua wineries have very affordable wine tasting fees compared to other popular U.S. wine regions. Most are around $10 to $15 but may be higher for things like food and wine experiences.

Some wineries will credit your tasting fee if you purchase a certain number of bottles or become a wine club member.

Can I Bring My Kids and dogs to the Wineries?

Many Finger Lakes wineries are fine with the kids and pups joining. Just keep in mind that policies vary, so check the winery’s website before packing up the crew.

Check out More United States Wine Destinations

Posted In: Wine Destinations

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I'm your go-to gal for all things wine and wanderlust. With a WSET Level 3 certification in wine and passport stamps from 30 countries and counting, I’m here to help you explore the world, one glass at a time.

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