Nestled between the Hudson River and the rolling foothills of the Berkshires, Columbia County is home to a quietly thriving wine scene. From pioneering vineyards to fruit-forward upstarts, each winery here brings something distinctive to the table—whether it’s heritage, terroir, innovation, or pure hospitality. Here’s a curated guide to Columbia County’s most remarkable wineries and one exquisite detour for spirits lovers.
Clermont Vineyards & Winery
Views, Vines, and Portuguese Charm
Located in Germantown on a former dairy farm, Clermont Vineyards & Winery offers stunning views of the Catskills and a charming European touch. Since 2014, the family has cultivated seven acres of vines and introduced a taste of Portugal by importing wines from their family’s winery abroad. Clermont gained early recognition with a Gold Medal for its Cabernet Franc in the 2015 Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition. Open seasonally from April through December, typically Fridays and Saturdays from 12 to 6pm and Sundays from 12 to 5pm, this winery offers a casual, scenic tasting experience—perfect for a relaxed afternoon with friends.
Home Range Winery
Handcrafted, Small-Batch Delights
Tucked away in Canaan, Home Range Winery stands out for its handmade, small-batch wines made from American hybrid grapes and seasonal fruit wines, often incorporating blueberries or raspberries grown on their farm. Embracing a philosophy of “enthusiasm and a little bit of fun,” the winery hosts upbeat events with live music and food pairings. It’s dog-friendly, encourages picnicking, and offers a welcoming space to unwind in an atmosphere as inclusive as it is inventive. Home Range Winery is typically open Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from mid-April thru early November!
Hudson Chatham Winery
The County’s Pioneering Spirit
Founded in 2006 on a historic Ghent dairy farm, Hudson Chatham Winery holds the distinction of being Columbia County’s first winery. Recently acquired by culinary-trained owners, they’ve doubled down on a sustainable approach to hybrid grape farming, creating a line of wines that reflect the best of Upstate New York. The winery offers curated experiences like guided tastings, and hosts private events including weddings and group gatherings. Named Winery of the Year at the 2019 Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition, it’s a favorite for families, pet lovers, and wine travelers alike. Hudson Chatham Winery is open Thursday thru Sunday.
Josey’s WineFarm
A Hidden Gem for Relaxation
Formerly known as Sabba Vineyard, Josey’s WineFarm in Old Chatham is a peaceful haven for lovers of small-batch estate wines and artisan hospitality. They specialize in estate-grown wines, offering a range of reds, whites, and rosés. The tasting room, with indoor and outdoor seating, offers charcuterie boards and a rotating selection of local beers, all served in a laid-back setting. With vacation rentals onsite, it’s easy to turn a visit into a weekend escape. Open seasonally on Saturdays and Sundays, typically from May through October, Josey’s invites guests to sip, stay, and truly unwind.
Tousey Winery
Family Tradition and Award-Winning Wines
Located in Germantown, Tousey Winery is a family-run vineyard cultivating 15 acres of classic varietals such as Chardonnay, Riesling, and Pinot Noir. Known for its friendly tasting room and popular on-site café, Tousey offers a full visitor experience complete with wine club perks, food pairings, and dog-friendly hospitality. The winery earned Winery of the Year honors in 2017 and continues to rank among the Hudson Valley’s most beloved producers. Open Thursday through Sunday, it’s a welcoming stop for both casual tasters and serious wine lovers.
Whitecliff at North River
Hudson Valley’s Most Awarded
Perched above the Hudson River in Hudson, Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery’s tasting room combines modern elegance with sweeping views. This award-winning producer, with its main vineyard in Ulster County, has earned international acclaim, including Winery of the Year in 2022 and consistent praise from the Wine Enthusiast. With one of the largest wine selections in the region, Whitecliff is known for its varietal breadth, high-quality craftsmanship, and dog-friendly policy at their Hudson location. Tasting flights are complemented by local cheeses, and the experience is as refined as the wines themselves. Whitecliff is open daily from 12 to 6pm.
A Unique Detour: The Klocke Estate
Crafting Spirits with Terroir
For those seeking a different kind of tasting experience, the Klocke Estate in Claverack offers a sophisticated detour into the world of brandy and vermouth. This earth-to-glass distillery and fine dining destination is inspired by Cognac and Calvados traditions and set on 160 breathtaking acres of vineyards and apple orchards. With distillery tours, brandy workshops, and vineyard walks, visitors can immerse themselves in the artistry of terroir-driven spirits. The estate also features a luxury restaurant and has received substantial state investment for its role in regional tourism. The Klocke Estate is open Wednesday thru Sunday from noon til 9pm.
The Final Pour
Columbia County’s wine scene offers more than just great pours—it’s a journey through landscapes, family traditions, and the creativity of local winemakers. Whether you’re chasing a gold-medal Cabernet, exploring hybrid varietals, or sipping brandy at sunset, there’s a perfect vintage—and a perfect view—waiting for you here in Columbia County, New York! For self-guided tours of all craft beverage makers in Columbia County, check out our Scenic Sips Craft Beverage Tour.
Additional Reading
Planning Your Perfect Columbia County Beverage Trail Adventure
Embarking on a journey through Columbia County’s craft beverage scene requires some planning to maximize the experience. Here are some general tips for visitors:
- Check Ahead: Many establishments, particularly seasonal farm wineries like Josey’s WineFarm, have varying schedules. It is always advisable to check their websites or social media for the most current operating hours before your visit.
- Reservations: While many wineries welcome walk-ins for casual visits, larger groups or specific tasting experiences often require advance reservations. For instance, Hudson Chatham’s HCW Flight or Tousey’s private room necessitate booking ahead. Klocke Estate’s tours and fine dining experiences also benefit from booking in advance.
- Food & Drink Policies: Policies regarding outside food and beverages vary. Some wineries, like Clermont Vineyards and Home Range, encourage visitors to bring their own picnics but strictly prohibit outside alcohol. Others, such as Tousey Winery, have on-site cafe offering a range of food options. Klocke Estate stands out with its full fine dining restaurant experience.
- Pet-Friendly Options: For those traveling with furry companions, several destinations are explicitly dog-friendly in designated areas. Hudson Chatham, Home Range, and Whitecliff welcome leashed dogs. Tousey Winery also welcomes leashed dogs in their tasting room and at picnic tables, though not at the bar or in the cafe.
- Beyond the Tasting Room: To fully appreciate the region’s offerings, consider combining wine tastings with other experiences. This could include farm tours, distillery visits, or even an overnight stay at an onsite rental, such as those available at Josey’s WineFarm.
- Create Your Next Adventure: Columbia County Tourism is your one-stop shop for crafting the perfect itinerary! From charming bed and breakfasts to exciting outdoor activities and delicious dining options, you’ll find everything you need to create an unforgettable adventure in Columbia County at www.columbiacountytourism.com.