In keeping with my habit of seasonal living and belated posting, I’m revisiting this summer adventure in Lake Erie wine country…

I previously equated any wine from my region with the blood of Christ, ie: a sickeningly sweet beverage that should only be consumed in a thimble-sized cup with an equally tiny serving of bread or crackers. Then I discovered Mazza Winery and a little pocket of Lake Erie Wine Country that actually produces wine worth seeking. This summer I had the chance to spend a long weekend sipping at a few wineries, exploring the town of Westfield, NY and adding to my general infatuation with Lake Erie. 

Mazza Chautauqua Cellars + Five & 20 Spirits & Brewing

8398 West Main Road (Route 20), Westfield, NY 14787
NY State’s first combination winery, distillery & brewery, so you can put those tokens toward a whole slew of tastings. 

Johnson Estate Winery 

“Founded in 1961, Johnson’s is the oldest estate winery in New York. When you approach Johnson Estate Winery, housed in a nearly century-old apple packing facility, pause for a moment. Look south at the rolling vineyards as they climb up the old glacial ridges of pre-historic Lake Erie. This is the land that William Peacock, the original land agent for all of western NY, chose as his own. This is the farm where Frederick Johnson, an English immigrant, settled in 1908 to grow apples grapes and peaches. Now, three generations later, this barn-red building houses Johnson Estate Winery, which celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2011.”

Noble Winery 

“Noble Winery is known for its fantastic view of vast acres of grapes framed by Lake Erie. On clear days you can watch freighters on the lake and make out buildings, land and wind mills on the Canadian shore line. During the summer months it is a great place to watch the sunset. Also, you can follow a storm form and move down the lake. If lucky, you will even spot a waterspout or two.”

*Note: It really is all about the view with this winery. 

Exploring Westfield, NY