Visiting Hudson Valley Wine destinations can be an eye opening experience. Here are a few secrets that will help you prepare for your road trip.
#5 Hudson Valley Wines are often below 13% alcohol
While this is a bit of a generalization, if you are expecting 13.5-14% wines that we normally drink, think again. Some can be as low as 12% or even 11.5%.
#4 Some of these wineries are in the middle of nowhere
I can’t count the number of times we have driven to a winery in the Hudson Valley and wondered, “where the hell is this place?” It’s because you are often driving along dirt roads or in neighborhoods that give no clue that it’s really there. And then you come around a bend…. and there it is, a beautiful vineyard. It’s often a revelation!
#3 Accept the help of your server
Not all Hudson Valley Wines are “made equal”. There are some that are on their way to greatness but not quite there, but your server can often guide you. When you find the one or two that are really well made, they stand out. But try to get some hints from the staff.
#2 Spend the day
You will find that most of these wineries are into having people spend the afternoon on the property. Some promote picnicing, some have multiple game stations set up, fire pits, etc. Some have food worthy of a destination meal. Enjoy the outdoors. Spend the day.
#1 Plan the trip home
While some of the wines are lower in alcohol, even a flight of wine over the course of a wine tasting can make the trip home tough. Drink responsibly but also buy food and snacks and give yourself some time to linger before getting into trouble on the road. Enjoy your trip through Hudson Valley Wine country!
