Following the Shawangunk Wine Trail

Baldwin, Whitecliff, Rivendell, and Hudson River Bed and Breakfasts

Oct 8, 2008 Craig Sanders

Many of the finest wineries on the Shawangunk Wine Trail are on the border of the Hudson Valley and the Catskills.

Looking to explore the Wine Trail further North than simply Orange County? Then a traveler is ready for the heart of the Wine Trail. This leg of the trail begins in the town of Pine Bush, at the foothills of the Catskills. Incidentally, Pine Bush is known for its large amount of UFO sightings. Whether that is related to the proximity of the wineries is for the traveler to decide.

Baldwin Vineyards, Whitecliff Vineyard, and Rivendell Winery

Baldwin Vineyards

Baldwin is best known for its dessert and fruit wines, which have won several awards during the years. The winery is small--only 35 acres--but this creates an intimacy not found at larger wineries. During the Summer Baldwin has a special Strawberry, Chocolate, and Wine Festival on weekends. Make sure to try their delicious Strawberry Wine.

Whitecliff Vineyard

From Pine Bush, travel up Brunswick Rd/ rt 7 to Whitecliff Vineyard. Whitecliff is 70 acres set up against the white cliffs of the Shawangunk Ridge. It is a special treat to sip one of their twelve different wines while looking up at the majestic cliffs. They are open for tastings Thursday-Monday 11:30AM-5:30PM

Rivendell Winery

Not far from Whitecliff on Albany Post Rd, in the Historic town of New Paltz, is Rivendell Winery. Rivendell produces very high quality wine, wines that compare with the Napa Valley and the Finger Lakes. Rivendell has won over 500 medals since opening in 1987. Its proximity to the Wallkill River makes the vineyard especially fertile.

In a break from the other wineries, Rivendell’s tasting room offers tastes of wines from all over the state, not just its own winery. The tasting room is open seven days a week 10AM-6PM.

After Rivendell, take the time to explore New Paltz. New Paltz is a rather bohemian college town, with interesting shops and restaurants. On weekends there are always bands to be found in the local bars. The nightlife of New Paltz is a sharp contrast to the quiet and serenity of the wineries.

Hudson River Valley Bed and Breakfasts

Blueberry Inn

Gardiner--Located in a farmhouse over two hundred years old, Blueberry Inn offers dazzling views of the Shawangunk Ridge. The rooms are very clean, and the breakfast will fill a traveler up to further explore the Wine Trail. The Inn is located a few mile from New Paltz, directly on the Wine Trail. No smoking, no pets. Children are not recommended.

Fox Hill

Highland--Centrally located between New Paltz and the Mid-Hudson Bridge, Fox Hill has huge rooms and all sorts of luxurious amenities. Fox Hill is an excellent value for what they offer. No smoking, children under 17, or pets allowed.

Mohonk Mountain House

New Paltz--The granddaddy of all bed and breakfasts. Mohonk is a 266 room Victorian castle first opened almost 140 years ago. Mohonk is a vacation in itself, with 85 miles of trails for hiking, a golf course, horseback riding, and more amenities than can be printed here. Mohonk is pricey, but it is truly a first class experience.

Moondance Ridge

New Paltz--Moondance Ridge is a very pleasant stay located on the outskirts of New Paltz. The grounds are beautiful and are a certified Wildlife Habitat. Each of the guest rooms are modeled in the theme of a famous actor from Hollywood’s Golden Age. Bogart, Bacall, Cagney, Hepburn, and others are all represented here.

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A Romantic Wine Pouring