Hudson Valley Wine Region

Upstate New York
The winemakers collectively, raised the level of viticulture, brought fresh scrutiny to cellar practices, embraced the new idiom in which wine is expressed, and above all, charged the region with thrilling energy.

There are about 25 kinds of grapes growing on the rolling hills a few miles north of Millbrook, all European varieties, the kind that grow in Bordeaux, Burgundy and Tuscany and where both new and mature wine producers are helping to refocus attention on the region’s wine industry.

Established in 1982

Varieties
  • CABERNET FRANC
  • Chardonnay
  • CABERNET SAUVIGNON
  • Climate
    Continental

    Total Area

    224,000 acres
    The Hudson Valley was the first wine producing region in the United States, broken up into three areas – the Lower Hudson Valley, the Mid-Hudson Valley, and the Upper Hudson Valley which surrounds the Capital region, its wineries produce superb wines using Native American, French-American and European grape varieties ideally suited to the region's unique climate and soil. Most vineyards in the region are located within 2 miles of the river. The Hudson River flows from north to south, and most vineyards are planted on hills on the western side of the river, where early morning sunshine can rapidly warm the vines. Ocean breezes channeled north up the river help to moderate the climate in the region, making it cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter than surrounding areas.

    Hudson River wine region has three wine trails, each offering unique wine experiences and events throughout the year.

    The Wine Trails of the Region

    Shawangunk Wine Trail is home to 13 wineries nestled between the Shawangunk Mountains and the the west side of the Hudson River, just 60 miles north of NYC and winds through Orange and Ulster counties. Each of the diverse wineries on the Trail strives to produce unique, world-class wines. The vistas are beautiful and the landscape is dotted with striking homes, large apple orchards, and small farm stands.


    The Dutchess Wine Trail is located in eastern Dutchess County connecting Clinton Vineyards and Millbrook Vineyards & Winery. The two wineries are within fifteen minutes driving time of one another. Millbrook has been leading the quality wine movement in the Valley since its inception in 1985. And Clinton Vineyards is famous for is sparkling and dessert wines which have been served in the White House. The Dutchess Wine Trail leads you past the vineyards, orchards, and farms that provide the bounty of this beautiful section of the Valley.

    The Hudson-Berkshire Beverage Trail is the premiere beverage trail in the Hudson Valley and New York State. Tucked in-between the Valley and the Berkshire Mountains, the trail extends from southeast of Albany, south to Hudson, NY. The Trail winds from Columbia County into Rensellaer County and to Berkshire County in Massachusetts, not far from Great Barrington. The Trail is home to two distilleries and three wineries. Hudson-Chatham Winery is an award-winning quality wine producer, and Brookview Station Winery is well known for its line of fruit wines and ciders. There’s also farm-fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, 100% natural maple syrup, fresh apple ciders, and other gourmet, local food products.

    Hudson Valley, New York extends 150 miles above the tip of Manhattan north to Albany. Designated as a National Heritage Area, the valley is steeped in history, natural beauty, culture and a burgeoning food and farmer’s market scene.

    The Wineries of the Region


    Stay Among The Vines

    Voted Best Inn & Brunch House In The Hudson Valley and located in the historic Village of Montgomery, Borland House offers a unique experience focusing on food and is located right in the middle of the Shawangunk Wine Trail. Enjoy a cooking class, have a private 5-course tasting menu or stroll the sidewalks to downtown just minutes away from the Inn.

    Nestled in the banks of the Hudson River, The Rhinecliff offers gorgeous river views, the best of the Hudson Valley's produce, simply prepared, with an emphasis on good taste at the restaurant and craft cocktails, local beers and regional wines at the historic bar.

    Located in Amenia, New York, Troutbeck is keystone to a vast cultural, creative and natural corridor. Since food is an important part of our travels we could not help but share a quote from Dylan Essertier from The Venue Report; "Don’t leave without trying Chef Marcel Agnez’s menu, which is heavily inspired by growing up in Normandy where he learned to forage for the freshest local ingredients."


    Experience The Region

    The Hudson Valley is full of unique events, tastings, tours & getaways throughout the region. The New England getaway will take a small group on a week long active adventure exploring the best flavors of New England. From Vermont to Maine this getaway offers one of the most progressive brewing scenes in the country and spectacular natural landscapes for endless hiking opportunities, New England will make you fall in love with its rich history, food culture, soaring mountains and gorgeous coastline.

    Millbrook Vineyards & Winery offers unique events throughout the year. Chef Saturdays has a different chef from the region prepare a unique 3-course tasting menu paired with a complementing Millbrook wine, including one new release. If you want to learn more about wine then Sommelier Sundays are for you. Millbrook hosts a 90 minute in-depth class where you will walk away with greater knowledge and appreciation of each varietal.

    Tastings & Tours can really immerse you into a destination. Hudson Valley is known for its wine region, however Hudson Valley also has a craft beverage and culinary scene that is slowly starting to show itself. Our tastings & tours will take you around on foot, bike, shuttles and even a helicopter if you would like, to explore some of the best Hudson Valley has to offer.

    Chef Saturdays

    A Different Dutchess County chef each month from February to April. Each Chef will Present a Unique 3-Course Tasting Menu. Each Course will be Paired with a Complementing Millbrook Wine, Including One New Release.

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