Niagara Wine Trail lies between Niagara Falls and Lake Ontario in western New York. In September, the weather cooperated at a balmy 83 degrees. Eighteen wineries make up the wine trail, but since we had a limited time, we visited three in Lockport: Arrowhead Springs Vineyards, Eveningside Vineyards and Freedom Run Winery.

The staff was friendly and knowledgeable. Tastings fees were minimal. Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah, Riesling, Chardonnay are some of the wines on offer. They’re proud of a blend of Cabernet and Merlot called Meritage. We enjoyed several wines but the one I found most interesting was the Ice Wine. The grapes are pressed only after the grapes have been frosted three times. This makes a thick, sweet dessert wine. What a wonderful day to the start of a great weekend.

To find out more, please visit www.NiagaraWineTrail.org  or www.newyorkwines.org.