Finger Lakes: Canandaigua Wine Trail Tour & Lunch Option

Summary

Finger Lakes wine tastings with vineyard views and lunch

You’ll taste Finger Lakes wines at four unique wineries along the Canandaigua Wine Trail—with an option for a relaxed bistro lunch overlooking Canandaigua Lake. Expect local stories from your guide, vineyard views, and real warmth from people who live here. This day is about slowing down and savoring each glass—and maybe remembering one moment longer than you expected.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the smell—kind of earthy and sweet, like crushed grapes mixed with rain-soaked wood. We’d just stepped into the old barn tasting room above Canandaigua Lake, and our guide, Mark, was already pointing out the rows of vines stretching down the hill. He joked about “wine legs” (the kind in your glass, not your body), which made everyone laugh because none of us really knew what he meant. The light in there was soft and gold, catching dust motes as we tried our first pour—a Riesling that tasted bright but not too sharp. I didn’t expect to like it as much as I did.

We hopped between four different stops along the Canandaigua Wine Trail, each one feeling a little different. At one place in Naples, Tim poured something deep red and told us about how his family started making wine here before “Instagram was even a thing.” Li tried to pronounce the grape variety (I still can’t say it) and Tim grinned—“Close enough!” It was warm inside but chilly outside; you could see your breath when you stepped onto the porch for a minute to look at the lake. There’s this quiet hum in these tasting rooms—people murmuring, glasses clinking, someone’s phone buzzing once or twice but mostly ignored.

If you pick the full-day tour, there’s a stop for lunch at Roots Cafe at Inspire Moore Winery. We did that—honestly, I think I was hungrier than I realized. The bread was crusty and fresh, and my salad had this tangy dressing that tasted like summer even though it was October. The staff waved to us from behind the counter; you could tell they actually knew their farmers by name. It felt less like a restaurant and more like someone’s kitchen where everyone just happens to be passing through.

By the last winery (the one with “Red Cat” on all the bottles), I was definitely feeling it—not tipsy so much as mellowed out by all those little stories from each stop. Our driver made sure we had water and didn’t rush us back to town; he said locals always take their time out here. I still think about that view over Canandaigua Lake as we drove back—the sky turning pink behind the vines—and yeah, maybe it sounds cheesy but it stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Canandaigua Wine Trail guided tour

• Meet at central pickup location
• Visit tasting room at Century Barn
• Taste wines at Naples micro winery
• Enjoy optional lunch at Roots Cafe
• Tour and taste at Infamous Red Cat winery
• Sample wines at Brahm family winery

Top questions

How many wineries are included on the Canandaigua Wine Trail tour?

The tour includes tastings at three to four wineries along the Canandaigua Wine Trail, depending on your selected option.

Is lunch included on this Finger Lakes wine tour?

Lunch is included only if you choose the full-day tour option; it's served at Roots Cafe at Inspire Moore Winery.

Does this wine trail experience include hotel pickup?

Yes, hotel pickup is available from select hotels if requested during booking.

Are children allowed on this wine tasting tour?

No, all participants must be at least 21 years old with valid photo ID.

What types of wines will I taste on this day trip?

You’ll taste a range of Finger Lakes wines including Riesling and other regional varieties produced locally.

Is there an educational component to this wine trail tour?

Yes, guides and winery staff share insights into winemaking processes during tastings at each stop.

Can I book this as a private group tour?

The reference content does not specify private group options; check directly with Crush Beer & Wine Tours for details.

What’s included

Your day includes guided transport along the Canandaigua Wine Trail with tastings at up to four local wineries, plus an optional lunch at Roots Cafe if you select that package. Pickup from certain hotels can be arranged when booking—just bring your photo ID if you plan to sip.