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Step 1
Choose Your Wine Country: New York has several wine regions to choose from, such as Lake Erie and Chautauqua, the Finger Lakes, Central New York and Lake Ontario, New York City, Long Island/North Fork and the Hamptons, and Niagara Escarpment. The Finger Lakes region in particular boasts over 100 wineries specializing in Sparkling, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Ice Wine.
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Step 2
Timing Is Everything: During off-peak times, many wineries are closed to visitors. But peak times mean more crowds and traffic. Deciding what type of trip will be more enjoyable for you -- quiet but with limited options, or crowded with variety -- is crucial. New York's peak travel times for wine tastings are from May to October with especially large numbers of visitors on the weekends.
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Step 3
Book Your Transportation and Hotel: Depending on your region of choice, you can fly into several smaller and larger airports around the state. Most wine regions have a nice selection of bed and breakfasts as well as small inns to choose from and are located within easy driving distance of most popular wine trails.
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Step 4
Do Your Research: Once you've decided on your wine region and hotel, make sure to research individual wineries' websites for up-to-date information about tasting and tour hours. Times can vary place to place, and you want to maximize your options. Many wineries also have restaurants and cafes attached, so meals don't have to detour you away from your itinerary.
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Step 5
Organize Ground Transportation: This is often the most difficult aspect of a wine-tasting trip to plan. Renting or taking your own car allows flexibility and independence, but you won't be able to imbibe in as much wine as you would like. Organized tours take care of the drunk driving problem, but you're locked into their schedule. If you have the money, splurging on a limousine or chauffeured car service will give you the freedom to enjoy your trip your way without having to watch your alcohol intake.
