Just an hour north of New York City is one of the best wine regions on the East Coast. This guide covers the best wineries in the Hudson Valley for a day trip or weekend getaway.
The region has the right mix of climate and terrain for winemaking, with warm days, cool nights, and a long growing season that helps grapes develop more complex flavors.
The Hudson Valley is also one of the oldest wine regions in the United States, with a winemaking history that dates back centuries. Today, that history shows up in a mix of established wineries, smaller producers, and newer vineyard properties spread throughout the region.
You’ll find everything from large, well-known wineries to smaller, more low-key spots, along with options that focus on food, views, or unique styles of wine.
If you’re planning a trip, many of the top Hudson Valley wineries are located around Marlboro and New Paltz, including several along the Shawangunk Wine Trail. This makes it easy to visit multiple wineries in one day without a lot of driving.
Table of Contents
Top Picks: Best Wineries in the Hudson Valley
If you’re short on time, these are some of the best wineries in the Hudson Valley based on overall experience, views, food, and wine quality.
Best Overall Experience: Milea Estate Vineyard
One of the most complete winery experiences in the Hudson Valley, with great wine, a large outdoor space, and one of the better food options in the region. It’s easy to spend a few hours here.
Best for Views: Benmarl Winery
One of the best viewpoints in the Hudson Valley, with outdoor seating overlooking the river and surrounding mountains.
Best for History: Brotherhood Winery
The oldest winery in the United States, known for its history and large tasting space.
Best for Wine Quality: Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery
A strong choice if you’re focused on the wine itself, with a reputation for quality and unique varietals.
Best for a Casual Afternoon: Robibero Winery
A relaxed, social winery with plenty of outdoor space and a good setup for groups.
Best for Food: Magnanini Winery
One of the few wineries with a real food focus, known for Italian dishes like meatballs and pasta.
Best Wineries in the Hudson Valley
Milea Estate Vineyard
BEST FOR: UPSCALE • WEDDINGS & EVENTS • FOOD
Milea Estate Vineyard is one of the more upscale winery experiences in the Hudson Valley, with a large property, a modern tasting space, and some of the best vineyard views in the region.
The setting is a big part of why people come here. There’s a large outdoor area overlooking the vines, and it’s set up in a way that makes it easy to spend a few hours. It also doubles as a wedding venue and is one of the better winery settings for events in the Hudson Valley.
The wine leans toward a more polished, higher-end style compared to many other wineries in the area. This is one of the places where both the wine and the overall experience feel a step above.
Milea also stands out because they serve food, which isn’t common at many Hudson Valley wineries. They offer casual farm-to-table bites, making it a good option if you want to sit, have a glass of wine, and eat without leaving.
Overall, Milea is one of the best all-around wineries in the Hudson Valley. It’s a strong choice if you’re looking for a more complete experience with great wine, food, and one of the best settings in the region.
Benmarl Winery
BEST FOR: SCENIC VIEWS • HISTORY
Benmarl Winery is one of the best wineries in the Hudson Valley for views, and it’s easily one of my personal favorites. While Brotherhood is the oldest winery in the country, Benmarl sits on one of the oldest vineyard sites in the United States, which adds to its history and connection to the region.
The setting is what really stands out. The vineyard sits on a hill overlooking the Hudson Valley, with wide views of the river and surrounding mountains. It’s the kind of place where you can grab a glass, sit outside, and stay longer than you planned.
It’s not as large as some of the other wineries on this list, but that’s part of the appeal. There’s a bar area for tastings and plenty of outdoor seating, and the whole place feels more relaxed and personal. It also has a strong local feel, with the winery still family-run and the next generation involved.
The wine is solid across the board, and this is one of the wineries you’ll sometimes find in local shops around the Hudson Valley. Their Cabernet Franc is one of my favorites here and worth trying if it’s available.
If you’re only picking a few wineries to visit, I would include this near the top of your list for a quick or longer stop.
Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery
BEST FOR: WINE QUALITY • UNIQUE VARIETALS
Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery is one of the best wineries in the Hudson Valley if you’re focused on the wine itself. It’s a smaller operation than places like Millbrook, but it has a strong reputation for quality and consistency.
The tasting room is more low-key, and the focus is clearly on the wine rather than the overall experience. That said, the setting is still nice, with views of the nearby cliffs and surrounding landscape.
Whitecliff is known for working with grapes that do well in the Hudson Valley climate, including hybrid varietals you won’t see as often at larger wineries. If you’re interested in trying something different from the usual Cabernet and Chardonnay, this is a good place to do it.
Like Millbrook, you can sometimes find Whitecliff wines in local shops that carry New York wine, though not as widely. If you’re building your list around wine quality, this is one of the stronger stops in the region.
Millbrook Vineyards & Winery
BEST FOR: LARGE WINERY • FIRST TIME VISITORS
Millbrook Vineyards & Winery is one of the most well-known wineries in the Hudson Valley and one of the largest operations in the region. If you’ve seen Hudson Valley wine in stores around New York, there’s a good chance it was from Millbrook.
The property is large and well set up for visitors. The main building and tasting room are bigger than most wineries in the area, and everything feels organized and easy to navigate. There’s a mix of indoor and outdoor space, so it works well in most weather.
The wine is consistently good and leans toward more classic styles. This is one of the more reliable wineries if you’re focused on the wine itself, not just the setting. Their wines are also easier to find in local shops, which isn’t always the case with smaller Hudson Valley producers.
Overall, Millbrook is one of the best all-around wineries in the region. It’s a strong first stop if you’re new to Hudson Valley wineries and want a place that does everything well.
Brotherhood
BEST FOR: HISTORY • FIRST TIME VISITORS TO AREA
Brotherhood Winery is the oldest winery in the United States, dating back to 1839. It’s one of the most historic stops in the Hudson Valley and feels very different from most other wineries in the region.
The main draw here is the setting. The stone buildings and underground cellars give it more of a traditional, old-world feel than many of the newer wineries nearby. You can walk through parts of the property or book a guided cellar tour, which is worth doing if you want the full experience.
The wine itself is solid, though not the main reason to visit. They offer a wide range of styles, including classic varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay, along with sweeter wines, sangrias, and even mead. The variety makes it a good stop for groups with different tastes.
Overall, Brotherhood is less about having the best wine in the Hudson Valley and more about the history and experience. It’s an easy place to recommend, especially if it’s your first time visiting wineries in the area.
Robibero Winery
BEST FOR: CASUAL ATMOSPHERE • GROUPSÂ
Robibero Winery is one of the more relaxed and social wineries in the Hudson Valley, and it’s a great stop if you’re spending time around New Paltz or Gardiner.
The property is fairly large, with a big outdoor setup that includes a deck, lawn space, and views of the surrounding mountains. It has more of a laid-back, hangout feel compared to some of the more polished wineries, and it’s a popular spot for groups.
The wine is solid, with a mix of styles that are easy to drink. It’s not the most wine-focused stop on this list, but the overall experience is what makes it worth visiting.
One of the highlights here is the food. Robibero serves wood-fired pizza along with light snacks, which is more than most wineries in the area. It’s not a full restaurant, but it’s enough to make this a place where you can stay for a while.
They also host live music and other events, which adds to the atmosphere, especially on weekends.
Overall, Robibero is one of the better wineries in the Hudson Valley for a casual afternoon. It’s a good balance of wine, views, and a more social setting.
Magnanini Winery
BEST FOR: ITALIAN FOOD • BOUTIQUE WINERY
Magnanini Winery is one of the more unique wineries in the Hudson Valley, mainly because of its Italian food. While most wineries in the area only offer small snacks or no food at all, Magnanini has a small menu of Italian dishes that makes it feel closer to a casual restaurant than a typical tasting stop.
The food is a big reason to come here. Dishes like meatballs, pasta, and other Italian staples are simple but well done, and it’s one of the few wineries where you can sit down and have a real meal with your wine. If you’re planning a day of winery hopping, this is a good place to stop and take a break.
The tasting room is more low-key compared to some of the larger wineries, but it’s comfortable and easy to spend time in. There’s also outdoor seating when the weather is nice.
The wine is solid, though similar to Robibero, might not necessarily be the main draw. This is more of a food and experience stop than a wine-focused destination.
Overall, Magnanini is one of the best wineries in the Hudson Valley if you’re looking for something a little different. The combination of wine and Italian food makes it stand out, especially for a longer, more relaxed visit.
More Hudson Valley Wineries to Know
Quartz Rock Vineyard
BEST FOR: LOW KEY VISIT • WINERY HOPPING • CIDER
Quartz Rock Vineyard is a smaller, more low-key winery in the Hudson Valley, located not far from Benmarl. It’s a good option if you’re looking to visit a few wineries in the same area without dealing with larger crowds.
The setting is simple but still scenic, with views of the surrounding hills and vineyards. It doesn’t have the same scale or setup as some of the bigger wineries, but that’s part of the appeal.
In addition to wine, they also produce cider, which gives you a few more options if you’re visiting with a group. The wines focus on Hudson Valley varietals, including some hybrids that grow well in the region’s climate, so it’s a good place to try something a little different.
Quartz Rock works especially well as part of a cluster of nearby stops. In the same general area, you also have Benmarl, Stoutridge Vineyard & Distillery, and Kedem, which makes it easy to plan a full day of winery hopping around Marlboro.
Overall, Quartz Rock is a solid stop to pair with other wineries in Marlboro.
Stoutridge Distillery & Winery
BEST FOR: NATURAL WINE
Stoutridge Vineyard & Distillery is one of the more unique wineries in the Hudson Valley, mainly because of its focus on natural wine. They use minimal intervention in the winemaking process, with little to no additives or filtering, which results in a very different style compared to most wineries in the region.
Natural wine can be hit or miss depending on what you’re used to. Some people really enjoy it, while others don’t. When I visited with a group, a few people didn’t like the wines, while others appreciated how different they were. It’s definitely a place where your experience will depend on your taste.
In addition to wine, they also produce spirits and cider, which gives you more variety than most wineries nearby. That makes it a good option if not everyone in your group is focused on wine.
The setup is more straightforward than places like Milea or Robibero, but there’s still enough space to sit and enjoy a drink. It also works well as part of a cluster with nearby wineries like Benmarl and Quartz Rock.
Overall, Stoutridge is not for everyone, but it’s one of the most distinct wineries in the Hudson Valley. If you’re curious about natural wine or want to try something different, it’s worth a stop.
Nostrano Vineyards
BEST FOR: WOOD-FIRED PIZZA • RELAXED SETTING
Nostrano Vineyards is a smaller, more relaxed winery in the Hudson Valley, set on a farm just outside the main cluster of wineries. It feels a bit more off the beaten path, which adds to the experience.
The tasting room is inside a barn-style building, with a nice outdoor area that works well on a good weather day. The property is not as large as some of the bigger wineries, but it’s easy to settle in and spend some time here. They also host weddings and private events, which fits the setting.
The wine is solid and easy to drink, with a mix of familiar styles and Hudson Valley varietals.
Food is a big part of the experience. The focus is on wood-fired pizza, along with small bites like cheese boards and seasonal items. It’s not a full restaurant, but it’s enough to make this a good place to stop and take a break during a day of winery hopping.
Overall, Nostrano is a well-rounded stop with a quieter, more tucked-away feel. It’s a good option if you want something less crowded while still having food and a comfortable place to spend time.
Hudson Chatham Winery
BEST FOR: HYBRID VARIETALS • QUALITY WINE
Hudson-Chatham Winery is one of the more wine-focused stops in the Hudson Valley, and it stands out for how much attention they put into the winemaking.
The winery is located in Columbia County, which is a bit removed from the more popular Marlboro and New Paltz clusters. That gives it a different feel and usually means fewer crowds. The setting is relaxed, with a renovated tasting room and outdoor seating, including a fire pit area that works well in cooler weather.
What sets Hudson-Chatham apart is the wine itself. They focus heavily on hybrid grape varietals that are well suited to the Hudson Valley’s climate, rather than trying to replicate traditional California-style wines. The result is wines that can feel different from what most people expect, but are often more reflective of the region.
The tastings are straightforward and centered on the wine. You can visit for a glass or bottle, or book a guided tasting if you want a deeper understanding of what they’re doing. Food is limited, usually small items like local cheeses rather than a full menu.
Overall, Hudson-Chatham is a good stop if you’re interested in the wine side of the Hudson Valley, not just the views or overall experience. It’s more low-key, but one of the better places to understand what makes the region’s wines unique.
Bruynswick Winery
BEST FOR: OFF THE BEATEN PATH • RELAXED SETTING • WINERY HOPPING
Bruynswick Winery is a smaller, more laid-back winery in the Hudson Valley, located on Kiernan Farm in the same general area as Magnanini and Robibero. It’s a good option if you’re looking to add another stop nearby without dealing with large crowds.
The tasting room is set inside a large red barn, which gives the winery a bit more character than a typical small setup. There’s also outdoor seating that works well on a nice day. It doesn’t have the scale or views of some of the bigger wineries, but it’s easy to spend some time here as part of a relaxed afternoon.
The wine focuses on approachable styles, including a mix of traditional varietals and some sweeter options. It’s not the most wine-focused stop on this list, but it’s consistent and easy to enjoy.
Overall, Bruynswick works well as part of a cluster with nearby spots like Magnanini, Robibero, and Nostrano. It’s a simple, low-key stop that fits nicely into a day of winery hopping in the area.
Clermont Vineyards & Winery
BEST FOR: OFF THE BEATEN PATH • LOW KEY VISIT
Clermont Vineyards & Winery is another smaller, more laid-back winery in the northern part of the Hudson Valley, located near Germantown. It’s a quieter stop compared to the more popular winery clusters further south and works best if you’re already exploring this part of the region. The winery is seasonal and typically closes during the winter months.
The setting is simple and relaxed, with open views of the surrounding countryside. It doesn’t have the scale or built-out feel of larger wineries, but it’s easy to spend some time here if you’re looking for a low-key visit.
The wine focuses on Hudson Valley varietals, including grapes that are well suited to the local climate. It’s a good place to try something a little different from the more standard options you’ll find at bigger wineries.
Overall, Clermont is another solid stop if you’re in the area and want something quieter and less crowded.
Weed Orchards & Winery
BEST FOR: FALL VISITS • CIDER
Weed Orchards & Winery is another casual stop in the Hudson Valley that combines a winery with a working orchard. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something a little different from the typical winery experience.
In the fall, it becomes especially popular for apple picking, which brings in a different crowd than most wineries in the area. It’s also one of the orchards featured in my guide to the best apple picking in the Hudson Valley.
The drinks are more focused on cider and fruit-based wines rather than traditional varietals. If you’re looking for a classic wine tasting, this may not be the best fit, but it works well if you want something lighter or are visiting with a group.
There’s usually food available as well, especially during the busier seasons, with casual options that make it easy to spend some time here.
Overall, Weed Orchards & Winery is not a traditional winery stop, but it adds variety to a Hudson Valley itinerary. It’s best paired with nearby wineries like Benmarl, Quartz Rock, or Stoutridge for a more complete day.
Applewood Winery
BEST FOR: GROUPS • CIDER
Applewood Winery is one of the more well-known wineries in the Warwick area and a popular stop for a relaxed afternoon in the Hudson Valley. The property is set on a working farm, which gives it a more casual, countryside feel compared to some of the larger winery estates further north.
The setting is open and easygoing, with outdoor seating that works well on a nice day. It can get busy, especially during the fall, but the space handles crowds well and has more of a social atmosphere than some of the quieter wineries on this list.
The wine is approachable and easy to drink, with a mix of traditional varietals and sweeter options. In addition to wine, they also produce cider and fruit-based wines, which gives you more variety, especially if you’re visiting with a group.
Applewood also offers light food options, making it a convenient place to spend some time rather than just stopping in for a quick tasting.
Overall, Applewood is not the most wine-focused stop in the Hudson Valley, but it’s a good option for a casual visit, especially if you’re exploring the Warwick area.
Torne Valley Vineyards
BEST FOR: CLOSE TO NYC • SCENIC SETTING
Torne Valley Vineyards is one of the closest wineries to New York City if you’re driving, located just across the border of the Hudson Valley near Harriman State Park. That makes it an easy option for a shorter trip or a quick winery stop without heading further north.
The setting is a bit different from most Hudson Valley wineries. Instead of wide vineyard views, it’s surrounded by wooded hills with more of a tucked-away, mountain feel. The property itself is large, with a historic mansion, open lawn space, and plenty of outdoor seating. It’s also a popular venue for weddings and private events, which fits the setting.
The wine is solid and easy to drink, though the overall experience is more of the draw here.
Food is a big part of that. Unlike many wineries in the Hudson Valley, Torne Valley has a more developed food menu, with options like paninis, burgers, dumplings, and cheese platters. It’s a good place to stop if you’re looking to have a meal along with your wine.
Overall, Torne Valley is a convenient and scenic option, especially given how close it is to NYC. It’s not a destination winery purely for the wine, but it’s a good choice if you want something different without traveling too far.
Alternatives to Vineyards
Rose Hill Farm / Rose Hill Ferments
BEST FOR: NATURAL WINE • FARM EXPERIENCE
Rose Hill Farm is one of the more unique stops in the Hudson Valley, combining a historic orchard with a small-scale wine and cider operation. The property dates back to the late 1700s and still functions as a working farm, with apple picking and other fruit grown on-site.
The drinks come from Rose Hill Ferments, which focuses on low-intervention wines, ciders, and co-ferments. While the fruit for their ciders is grown on the farm, the grapes used for their wines are mostly sourced rather than grown on-site. That gives it a different feel from many traditional Hudson Valley wineries, which are typically built around their own vineyards.
The overall experience is more about the farm and the style of production than a typical winery visit. There’s a small taproom on-site, usually open on weekends, and the space often includes food pop-ups or events depending on the time of year.
Because it’s also an orchard, this is a great stop in the fall, but it works year-round if you’re looking for something a little different from the standard winery setup.
Overall, Rose Hill is not a traditional winery, but it’s one of the more interesting places to visit in the Hudson Valley. If you’re into natural wine, cider, or a more farm-focused experience, it’s worth adding to your list.
The Kedem Winery
BEST FOR: KOSHER WINES • WIDELY AVAILABLE WINES
Kedem Winery is one of the larger wine producers in the Hudson Valley and is known for making kosher wine. It’s part of Royal Wine Corp., one of the biggest kosher wine producers in the United States.
Unlike most of the wineries on this list, Kedem is more of a production facility than a traditional winery experience. They focus on producing wine at a larger scale, and it’s not a typical stop for tastings, views, or spending an afternoon. They also source grapes and juice from multiple regions rather than relying on estate vineyards, which is another way it differs from most Hudson Valley wineries.
That said, it plays an important role in the Hudson Valley wine scene, especially for kosher wine. In addition to Kedem-branded wines, Royal Wine Corp. also produces widely available labels like Manischewitz, Baron Herzog, and Bartenura, which you’ll often see in stores.
For most visitors, Kedem is not a destination winery, but it’s worth being aware of, especially given how widely available their wines are.
City Winery Hudson Valley
BEST FOR: LIVE MUSIC • FULL RESTAURANT
City Winery Hudson Valley is a different type of experience compared to most wineries in the region. While it’s located in the Hudson Valley, it’s not a traditional vineyard setting.
This location is part of City Winery, which has venues in cities like New York, Chicago, and Nashville. The Hudson Valley location is set inside a converted textile mill along the Wallkill River, giving it a more polished, indoor-outdoor feel than most wineries nearby.
Unlike traditional wineries, City Winery sources grapes from multiple regions rather than growing them on-site. Wine is still produced here, but the focus is more on the overall experience than on estate vineyards.
The space includes a full restaurant, wine bar, and event venue, with a menu that leans Mediterranean. There’s also outdoor seating along the river, making it one of the more comfortable places to sit and spend time, especially if you’re looking for a meal.
Overall, City Winery is not a traditional Hudson Valley winery, but it’s a good option if you want a more structured experience with food, wine, and live events.
Where to Find the Best Wineries in the Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley is spread out, and wineries are grouped into a few main areas. The best way to plan your trip is to pick one region and visit a few wineries nearby rather than trying to cover too much in one day.
Marlboro & New Paltz (Best Overall Area)
This is the most popular area for winery hopping and the easiest to visit from NYC. Several wineries are located close together, making it easy to plan a full day without much driving.
This area includes:
- Benmarl
- Robibero
- Magnanini
- Quartz Rock
- Stoutridge
- Nostrano
Best for: First-time visitors, groups, day trips from NYC
Dutchess County (More Upscale Wineries)
This area has some of the more polished winery experiences in the Hudson Valley. The wineries are more spread out, but the overall experience tends to feel more refined.
This area includes:
- Millbrook
- Milea
Best for: Wine-focused visits, upscale experience
Columbia County (Wine-Focused & Quieter)
Further north, this area is less crowded and more focused on the wine itself. It’s not as convenient for a quick day trip, but it’s a good option if you’re staying nearby.
This area includes:
- Hudson-Chatham
Best for: Wine-focused visitors, quieter trips
Northern Hudson Valley (Near Albany)
The northern part of the region has a few smaller, more local wineries. These are not typical stops for most visitors, but they can be worth checking out if you’re already in the area.
This area includes:
- Meadowdale
- Altamont
Best for: Local visits, something different
Tips For Visiting Hudson Valley Wineries
Check Hours and Seasonality
Not all wineries in the Hudson Valley are open year-round. Some smaller wineries operate on a seasonal schedule or have limited hours during the winter months. Even wineries that are open year-round may reduce hours or close certain days depending on the season.
Because of this, it’s always a good idea to check a winery’s website or social media before visiting, especially if you’re going outside of peak seasons like summer and fall.
Make Reservations When Needed
Some wineries require reservations for tastings, especially on weekends and for larger parties during peak seasons like fall. Others are more casual and allow walk-ins. If there’s a specific winery you don’t want to miss, it’s a good idea to book ahead.
Plan Your Route by Location
The Hudson Valley is larger than it looks on a map, and wineries are spread across different areas. It’s best to pick one region, like Marlboro or New Paltz, and visit a few wineries nearby rather than trying to cover too much in one day.
Go Early or Visit on Weekdays
Weekends can get crowded, especially during the fall. Visiting earlier in the day or during the week usually means fewer crowds, easier parking, and a more relaxed experience overall.
Don’t Expect Food Everywhere
Many Hudson Valley wineries only offer light snacks or no food at all. A few wineries, like Milea, Magnanini, and Nostrano, have more substantial options, but it’s best to plan ahead or eat between stops.
Have a Transportation Plan
If you’re visiting multiple wineries, make sure you have a plan for getting around safely. That could mean having a designated driver, using a car service, or limiting the number of stops in a day. But keep in mind, some of these vineyards are bit outside the busy areas and so Uber service could be limited at times or have a wait.
The Hudson Valley has a wide range of wineries, from large, well-known properties to smaller, more low-key spots. Some focus on views and atmosphere, while others are more centered on the wine itself. That variety is what makes the region such a good place to explore.
If it’s your first time visiting, starting in the Marlboro and New Paltz area is usually the easiest way to see a few wineries in one trip. From there, you can branch out to other parts of the Hudson Valley depending on what you’re looking for.
No matter where you go, it’s worth planning ahead, checking hours, and keeping your stops close together. With the right plan, it’s easy to put together a great day or weekend in the Hudson Valley.
If you’re planning a trip, check out my other Hudson Valley guides, including the best restaurants in New Paltz.
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