Damiani Wine Cellars
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10:00am - 5:00pm - 7 days a week
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$15 for a guided wine tasting (5 pours)
$6 - $14 for a glass of wine
$20 - $30 for a bottle of wine -
Bollicine
”A crisp playful sparkling wine, perfect for every occasion”MC2 (MC squared)
This blend of Cab Sauv, Cab Franc and Merlot is the perfect wine to pair with a hearty Italian meal -
In the summer months, Damiani Wine Cellars hosts live music on Sundays and a food truck on the weekends
Welcome to Damiani Wine Cellars
If you're planning a trip to the Finger Lakes, there's one destination that should be at the top of your list: Damiani Wine Cellars. As you hop off the Lakeside Trolley, you'll find yourself atop a hill overlooking the beautiful Seneca Lake, a setting that promises not just exceptional wines but an experience to remember.
Here, you'll discover a range of wines that defy regional stereotypes. Think the Finger Lakes can't produce exceptional red wines? Damiani's MC² and Saperavi will make you think again. Believe that Rieslings are always sweet and one-dimensional? Their Dry Riesling from Davis Vineyard is a game-changer, offering complexity and flavors that will redefine your understanding of what a Riesling can be.
But Damiani is more than just a winery; it's a place where every detail is designed to elevate your experience. From the intimate upstairs tasting room to the lively weekend patio bar, there's a venue for every mood. And when it comes to tasting, expect nothing less than a custom-curated journey through five different wines, guided by a staff as friendly as they are knowledgeable.
So, whether you're a wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, Damiani Wine Cellars offers something for everyone. It's no wonder that most Lakeside Trolley guests, when surveyed, express a particular fondness for this winery. Come see for yourself why Damiani Wine Cellars is not just a stop on your tour, but a highlight of your visit to the Finger Lakes.
Red Wines at Damiani Wine Cellars:
A Symphony of Flavors in a Cool Climate
When you think of the Finger Lakes wine region, red wines might not be the first thing that comes to mind. It's a cool climate area, after all, and reds are often overshadowed by the whites and rosés that the region is famous for. But Damiani Wine Cellars is an exception to this rule, a winery that has mastered the art of producing exceptional red wines in a region where few dare to tread.
The MC²: A Culinary Journey in a Glass
Damiani's most popular red, the MC², is a wine that transports you straight to an Italian kitchen. Imagine cooking next to an Italian Nonna, stirring away at a simmering pot of homemade spaghetti sauce. The MC² offers a unique twist; instead of the expected berry notes, flavors are reminiscent of heirloom tomatoes. As you sip, you'll find hints of oregano, black pepper, thyme, and black currant mingling with those luscious tomatoes and cherries. The tannins are just grippy enough to leave you wanting more, making this wine a true masterpiece in Damiani's collection.
Saperavi: The Dark and Aromatic Marvel
If you're looking for something a bit more exotic, Damiani's Saperavi is a must-try. This wine is a sensory experience, starting with its inky purple color and mouthwatering aroma of red currant, gooseberry, and boysenberry. The palate is a lush tapestry of pomegranate, dark berry, and stone-fruit notes, all wrapped up in a long, luscious finish with supple, pleasing tannins. It's a wine that's as structured as it is elegant, a true testament to the vineyard's expertise.
White Wines at Damiani Wine Cellars:
The Pinnacle of Dry and Sparkling
When it comes to white wines, Damiani Wine Cellars has a reputation for crafting exceptional dry wines that capture the essence of the Finger Lakes region. Whether you're a fan of sparkling or still whites, Damiani has something to offer that will elevate any occasion.
2016 Brut Méthode Champenoise: A Testament to Craftsmanship and Celebration
If you're seeking a sparkling wine that embodies both artistry and celebration, look no further than Damiani's 2016 Brut Méthode Champenoise. This isn't just any sparkling wine; it's a labor of love that has been hand-harvested and aged en tirage for 8 years. The riddling process, a traditional and labor-intensive method, is used to perfect the wine's effervescence, resulting in the most diminutive of bubbles that deliver a lush and velvety mouth feel. With a complex palate featuring notes of pear, apricot, and ginger, this wine is the epitome of elegance and delight. It's the kind of bubbly that doesn't just mark a special occasion but elevates it, making it an unforgettable part of your celebrations.
Bollicine: The Life of the Party
If you've attended a dinner or special occasion in the Finger Lakes, chances are you've come across Damiani's Bollicine. This sparkling wine is made using the transfer method, giving it those fun bubbles, and is a true expression of regional terroir. With aromas of sliced pears, green apples, and almond skin, Bollicine is fresh and crisp on the palate, featuring subtle herbal characters like nutmeg and clove. It's a wine that's as versatile as it is delicious, perfect as an aperitif or paired with seafood dishes.
Dry Riesling: A Finger Lakes Gem that Defies Expectations
If you've shied away from Rieslings because you find them too sweet, it's time to reconsider—especially when you're in the Finger Lakes, where Riesling is king. Damiani's Dry Riesling from the Davis Vineyard is a game-changer. Unlike the overly sweet Rieslings you might encounter elsewhere, this wine is a testament to the exceptional terroir of the Finger Lakes. It's dry, complex, and bursting with aromas of Key lime, kiwi, and ground cherries. The palate is a creamy delight, evoking the citric splendor of a slice of Key lime pie. This isn't just a Riesling; it's a Finger Lakes Riesling, which means it's crafted to highlight the region's unique ability to produce exceptionally complex and dry Rieslings. It's a must-try on your next visit to the Finger Lakes.
The Damiani Wine Cellars Experience:
Nestled atop a hill with a grand view of Seneca Lake, Damiani Wine Cellars offers more than just exceptional wines; it offers an experience you'll cherish long after your visit to the Finger Lakes has come to an end.
A Venue for Every Mood
Whether you're in the mood for an intimate tasting or a lively outdoor gathering, Damiani has you covered. Their upstairs tasting room provides a cozy setting, while the deck offers casual seating with a panoramic view of Seneca Lake. For a more private affair, the lower level features a secluded tasting room that can host up to 30 people.
The Patio Bar: A Weekend Oasis
Come weekends, the patio bar springs to life. Complete with bocce ball and picnic tables, it's the perfect spot to unwind. And let's not forget the food truck that parks here, offering delicious bites to complement your wine.
A Curated Tasting Experience
What sets Damiani apart is their exceptional tasting experience. You're not just handed a glass; you're guided through a journey of five different wines, each one carefully selected to match your palate. It's a custom-curated experience that turns wine tasting into an art form.
A Welcoming Atmosphere
Don't let the quality of their wines fool you into thinking this is a pretentious place. The atmosphere at Damiani is as welcoming and approachable as they come. From the friendly and knowledgeable staff to the cheese boards available for snacking, every detail is designed to make you feel at home.
The People's Choice
It's no surprise that most guests of Lakeside Trolley express a particular fondness for the wines at Damiani Wine Cellars. It's a testament to the winery's commitment to quality, both in the wines they produce and the experience they offer.
Check out Damiani Wine Cellars full catalog of wine - HERE
