OUR weeklong sojourn in the wine-rich Finger Lakes Region in Upstate New York finally brought us to a beautiful historic 1888 Belhurst Castle and Estate Winery, overlooking the largest of the glacial Finger Lakes, Seneca Lake.
Home to over 50 wineries, Seneca Lake is also a popular fishing destination from all around and promoted as the Lake Trout Capital of the world. On our last day, we decided to have a hearty lunch before embarking on the long drive (five to six hours) back to New York City.
Thanks to the Yelp.com app my grandson Silvian is using we were directed to one of the most elegant and romantic destinations, the Belhurst Castle, which wasincarnated into a hotel, restaurant, winery and spa.
Built in 1888 to1892, the three-story Romanesque Revival style is constructed with Medina sandstone.
A former private residence, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1987. We were in shorts and tees so we initially felt awkward as we entered the castle.
There was a bus full of tourists that alighted and we all proceeded to the opulent dining room. There was no dress code for lunch and we were escorted to a luxurious period private room.
Lunch was buffet service only, which was convenient since we were all hungry. Food was actually simple, served in polished chafing dishes. The Beef and Rice Soup warmed our hungry stomachs.
There was an array of salads but I chose to have the Spinach and Strawberry Salad with golden Italian dressing. The entrees were all tempting: classic Lasagna, Meatballs with heirloom tomato sauce and Herb-Crusted Pork Loin served with mashed potato and vegetable medley.
Patricia’s husband George chose the winery’s Pinot Grigio, a zesty white wine as refreshing as cold lemonade on a hot summer’s day to complement the dishes.
Desserts were American classics—chocolate chip cookies and warm apple pie. Our very hospitable food attendant surprised us with a delightfully luscious plate of Chocolate-dipped Strawberries with whipped cream.
We sipped our coffee with leisure, luxuriating in our elegant room. The wine shop is filled with award-winning wines as unique as the castle itself. I moved around attracted by the displays complete with a brief write up of the wines.
Belhurst Wines produce highly acclaimed wines from select fruits and have won hundreds of medals in world-renowned competitions. The historic wine collection celebrates legends and legacies of the Belhurst Castle and the bouquet includes varietals and blends such as Rieslings, Chardonnay, Rosé, Pinot Grigio and more.
Its brilliant Carrie Blush is a tribute to the woman who built Belhurst Castle. Non-Vintage Isabella won Gold 2016 Best Sparkling Wine in Tasters Guild Competition.
There is the Ice Princess, newest release of Cabernet Franc with nose filled with luscious strawberry, honey and hints of cinnamon.
A stroll on the castle grounds overlooking Seneca Lake with sweeping manicured lawns that melds into the deep blue waters of the Seneca Lake was breath taking.
No wonder the castle is popular for weddings, special occasions and meetings.
The century-old castle is simply captivating!