Idol Ridge Winery sits on the eastern ridge above Seneca Lake, 20 minutes north of Watkins Glen, with a lodge-style tasting room and outdoor patio that look straight out over the water. The wine portfolio spans dry, sweet, and sparkling, including the 2022 Sparkling Riesling String of Pearls, a Best in Class winner, and a Sparkling Saperavi that is one of the more unusual pours on the trail. Fruit and honey wines come out under the Fossenvue label. Alder Creek Distillery operates alongside the winery, producing a Smoked Bourbon Whiskey and a Nashi Pear Brandy that took Best of Class. Tasting flights include a sample of homemade fudge and Cheeky Monkey dipping oil, and can be taken out to the patio. Private Airbnb cabins are available on the property for overnight stays. Groups of 12 or fewer need no reservation.
Don't miss: the Nashi Pear Brandy, which is not something you will find anywhere else on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.















