The next stop on our wine tour is Benmarl Winery. We were here last year for the same event and could not wait to go back. Last year, we were fortunate enough to get a private tour of the cellars from the owner.
The property is beautiful and the wines are wonderful. Last year we purchased a few bottles, which disappeared in no time! Benmarl is located in Marlboro, NY. Their claim to fame is that they are America’s Oldest Vineyard. It exudes charm and European influences, especially the cellars. Lots of French Oak in there.
One of their unique wines is the award-winning french hybrid, Baco Noir. It is so popular that this vintage has sold out before we could even get a tasting! The winery was established in 1958 by Mark Miller and was an integral part of experimentation with French Hybrid grapes.
Miller also formed one of the first wine clubs in New York State- maybe in America, called the Societée des Vigneron. Today, the Spaccarelli family owns the vineyard, and they are restoring the property. I especially love the fact that they are producing excellent wine (and lots of it), but are still maintaining the small family owned feel of the place.
This year we tasted Pinot Grigio, Slate Hill White, Merlot, Chambourcin, Muscat and the Benmarl Blush. They were all great, but my favorites were the Merlot and the Chamboucin. I was crushed that the Baco Noir was not available for tasting.
Prices here are extremely reasonable for the quality of wine. Bottles range from $11 for blush to $30 for the top of the line Icewine.
The pasta served at the event was a hot orecchiette with sausage and peas that was made with their white wine. It was creamy and delicious.
The grounds and views here are spectacular! My photos don’t do it justice. This remains a popular spot for weddings, picnics, parties and special events. The gift shop sells crackers, cheese, and assorted sausages which are perfect picnic fare.
Planned events such as wine stomping, tasting classes and wine-making workshops makes this a spot worth visiting again and again. I never tire of coming here.
Tastings and tours are available everyday, but they are closed on holidays. They offer 10% discounts on cases and 5% off half cases. When we visited, they were offering a blush special-buy one at full price, get one at half price. We snatched 2 bottles for $15. A steal and a perfect wine for all of the upcoming summer barbeques!
Benmarl Winery
156 Highland Avenue
Marlboro, NY 12542
845.236.4265
Open daily 12-6
www.benmarl.com