Hosmer Winery

Open: Year Round

Cameron Hosmer's father, a Syracuse textile manufacturer, envisioned growing grapes on the gentle slopes of Cayuga Lake at the family's summer home.  His vision took shape when Cameron and Maren started planting grapevines in the late 1970's.  Although Cameron's father didn't get to see full fruition of this dream, the farm has grown to over 60 acres of premium wine grapes.

After fifteen years of selling their grapes to others, Cameron and Maren had a vision of making and selling their own wine.  Hosmer Winery is founded on the principle that great wine starts in the vineyard.  With a degree in Pomology from Cornell University and a semester at California State University, Fresno (renowned for their world-class programs in viticulture and enology), Cameron had both the background and experience to get started in the budding industry.  With their first vintage of 2,500 gallons in 1985, they opened a tasting room in their garage in the fall of 1986.

In 1990, with increased production and growing recognition, the decision was made to renovate a barn across the street and inaugurate a new tasting and retail facility.  The friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff introduces thousands of visitors each year to a memorable tasting experience.  The Tasting and Retail facility is located on State Route 89, along the western shore of Cayuga Lake, just 20 miles north of Ithaca.

Hosmer wines include a wide variety of styles made from traditional Vinifera, as well as French-American hybrid varieties.  Today, Hosmer produces 20 thousand gallons of wine annually.  At this boutique level, Cameron is able to assure the excellence of the entire process, from the basic fruit to the finished wine.  He works closely with Winemaker, Aaron Roisen to produce consistent quality wines in the European tradition.