Azure Hill Winery — Attraction in Town of Pulteney

Our stop at Azure Hill Winery was the highlight of our trip. By comparison smaller than most of the other locations we visited, but that made it all that much more enjoyable.

There were not a ton of wine options but I can say the ones that we had were all delicious and more unique than any other ones in the region. Most wines on the drier side which played to our palette.

Small gift shop inside along with food options at a tent on the outside. We ordered some wraps and salads and they were really good. The fresh fruit was amazing.

What really makes this winery special are the owners. Joe and his wife Leslie are super knowledgeable and came to the area from New York City, where Joe was a world-renowned chef (aka the magician). They go out of their way to cater everyone. They did offer free tastings for veterans or active military which was nice.

The naming comes from the color of the water in the lake as described by astronauts as a flew over it in the Gemini spacecraft, saying that they were over the azure waters of the Finger Lake region. Was a unique enough name or I had to ask how they came up with it.

There is so much more I could share about Joe and Leslie, and their experiences to get them to where there today, but I don't want to spoil it for those who want to go there and share a similar experience. Be sure to talk to them because not only do they own it, but they operate it. One of them will be at your table most likely!

There was sitting indoors as well as on the covered patio. It does overlook the lake as well for some scenic viewing.

UPDATE 2025. Still a great location with fantastic owners. The free tasting for veterans is gone but there is a discount on purchases...

Had a lovely time tasting the wines and conversing with the owner Joe. While this is a newer and small vineyard, Joe and Leslie clearly know what they are doing when it comes to wine. We enjoyed everything we tasted, and left with a few bottles. They also have a knack for entertaining guests with interesting conversations about their vineyard and wines, and Joe was great keeping our one year old entertained. An unpretentious vineyard with good wines and owners who clearly do what they do because of the passion they have for the product they make. Will definitely be back the next time we’re...

Just visited for 2nd time while on a vacation . Stopped in to see Joe and Leslie. It was a great visit . Joe even got us a taste of pre bottled wine that he was working on. These are salt of the earth people that work hard and play hard. If you have the chance, stop by and try them out. I've only met them twice but the way they treat you there, I consider them friends for life. Thank you Joe and Leslie for making my whole vacation blessed.. ps...try the Rip Van Winkle cheese paired with the Reisling....and the 2023 will...