Wineries and Vineyards, Ulster County

Wine tours, wineries, and vineyards to visit in Ulster County

Published June 20, 2012 at 12:17 AM

Benmarl Winery in Marlboro

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Adair Vineyards, New Paltz

Open: May-mid-Dec.; Sat.-Sun.
These 35-acre grounds, with 10 acres of vines, have a freshwater stream, and views of the Shawangunks. The tasting room is housed in a 220-year-old barn that is now a registered National Historic Landmark. “One hundred percent of our grapes are grown either in the backyard or just four miles away,” says owner and wine-maker Marc Stopkie. “That’s what we’re known for.” Tastings, gift shop, picnic area.
SIP THIS: Black Currant Kirruge, Adair’s best-selling blend made from local currants. 845-255-1377; www.adairwine.com

Open: Year-round; daily Apr.-Dec.
Known for its grape-stomping, this 37-acre operation boasts the title of oldest vineyard in America, and is committed to producing small-batch wines that capture the character of each vineyard from which they are sourced. Tours, tastings, gift shop, hiking trails, picnicking, corporate and private events, including weddings.
SIP THIS: 2010 Estate Cabernet Franc — Benmarl’s award-winning red.
DON’T MISS: Harvest Grape-Stomping Festival (Sept. 22-23, Oct. 6-7).

Open: Apr.-Dec.; Wed.-Sun.
Initially founded in 1977 by an old-world Spanish wine-maker, this family-owned winery (housed in an old, converted barn) reopened in 1998 and features a wide variety of wines, all made from New York grapes. “It’s homey, down to earth. I think that’s what people like about it. Ninety-nine percent of the time, my husband and I are the ones working, so folks know who we are,” says owner Maryl Vogel. Free tastings, gift shop, local cheeses and other snacks, new deck.
SIP THIS: Freshly-made, award-winning Sangria — El Paso’s weekend specialty.