With the fall leaves about to burst into brilliant color now is the perfect time to travel The Chautauqua Lake Erie Wine Trail.
photo credit: Odalaigh
The Chautauqua Lake Erie Wine Trail wanders through one of the largest grape growing region east of the Rockies. The trail is roughly 40 miles long and extends from Silver Creek, NY (which is in Chautauqua County) to North East, Pennsylvania.
There are over 21 commercial and estate wineries along the trail. Each has their unique history and atmosphere. For those who enjoy a wide range of flavor you are sure to find a wine fro just about any occasion. The varieties range from fruity native Labruscas to European-style wines. My favorites are the French-American wines.
One year when we had the Studebaker weekender at Chautauqua Institution, we organized a caravan of vintage Studebakers and toured the entire trail. It made for an interesting day.
Creation of the Chautauqua Wine area
Grapes need a particular climate to grow well. It was due to the Ice age that helped to create an area where the grapes would thrive.
Glaciers descended from the north during the Ice Age and gouged out great trenches in the Chautauqua Area. The glaciers also brought with them large quantities of Canadian soil, rocks and boulders. When the temperatures began to warm, the glaciers receded and filled the trenches with water to form the Great Lakes.
They also left behind ridges of soil and gravel along the Lake Erie shore. These glacial ridges are the basis for ideal growing conditions for wine grapes and the many fruit trees that also grow well in the area.
The moderating effect of the lake on spring and fall temperatures and glacial ridges that is comprised of a gravel-loam mix that drains well, combine to create a perfect growing environment for healthy vineyards.
The Chautauqua area is prone to early and late frosts so the area is challenging for growing a consistent grape crop each year but many families have managed a winery business for generations.
Welch’s Food Company is also located in Westfield New York, is a small town nestled along the Lake Erie shore. Welch’s has become very well knows for their grape juice and jams and jellies, which use the Concord Grape.
A trip on the Chautauqua Lake Erie Wine Trail in the fall will be a relaxing day. Besides the beautiful fall foliage there are still many vegetable stands open that offer an amazing variety of fruits, vegetables and crafts.
