Exploring New York’s breweries, wineries and cideries
By McCartney Walsh
The state of New York is home to a vibrant craft brewing scene–one that has been fermenting for almost 200 years.
After World War I and the era of Prohibition, New York’s once-thriving breweries were almost wiped from the map entirely, due to larger Midwestern brewing companies. It wasn’t until the 1980s, in the heart of SoHo, that a New York-cultivated craft beer renaissance began. Today, that spirit has spread across New York, where a diverse and delicious variety of craft beer, cider and wine await those who are thirsty for more.
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Delicious ales across New York City
The love and passion for unique ales has taken off across the different boroughs, allowing the brews to be curated and customized by their creators, showing the spirit of individual neighborhoods in every sip. Because of this, there is something for everyone, from seasoned enthusiasts to casual enjoyers.
In Brooklyn, the vibes are inclusive and neighborhood-centered. Breweries focus on local partnerships and hosting events like brew-your-own-beer night, inspiring new brewers to begin their hops journey. Threes Brewing is a perfect example of this: it partners with local kitchens who curate the perfect food menu to enhance the experience around drinking its brews.
Queens’ brewing scene allows the barrel-aged beers to be front and center, while places in the Bronx, like Bronx Brewery, celebrate and pulls inspiration from the borough’s vibrant culture–cultivating a space surrounded by music, art and the love of beer. In Manhattan, breweries focus on sleek, rich designs and more malty beers, while The Flagship Brewing Co. on Staten Island comes in with a rustic, natural feel. With each borough offering its own unique flavor, atmosphere and personality, it’s clear that there’s no one-size-fits-all brewery in New York. Every sip tells a different story.
Wineries are thriving
While breweries are finding their niche in NYC’s boroughs, wineries are flourishing across the state.
Wine trails are growing in popularity, allowing travelers to sip, explore and immerse themselves in the vinos and regions alike. According to the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, there are more than a dozen wine trails taking root across New York state, from the Finger Lakes Region to Long Island. The Keuka Lake Wine Trail is just one of the trails inviting seasoned connoisseurs and newbies alike to sip along.
Made up of six member wineries, the trail has been offering a unique experience rooted in the traditions of the Finger Lakes for 40 years. According to the trail’s website, the Finger Lakes Region is the largest–and most celebrated–wine-producing region in the Eastern United States due to its rich soil and history, dating back to 1860. With its spectacular views, opportunities for tastings and tours, and breathtaking lodging experiences, this trail is a must-see for every level of wine enthusiast.
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Weis Vineyards is an award-winning, must-experience winery while exploring the Keuka Lake area. Situated on the eastern shore, Weis Vineyards won Winery of the Year in 2025 at the New York Wine Classic. The owners of the winery draw from deep-rooted connections to the area and family traditions when it comes to crafting their wine, and visitors will be able to taste their spirit within each thoughtful sip.
Multigenerational cider farms
Cider farms also often draw from deep-rooted family traditions, making each glass more meaningful. New York cideries rely on multigeneration-owned apple orchards for their locally sourced, award-winning ciders that grow in popularity each day.
With the increase in popularity of these refreshing beverages, cideries are breaking the stereotype of ciders being a fall-only drink. New York’s Cider Week, the nation’s largest statewide hard cider celebration and all of its fanatics, work to disprove that misconception. The festival rotates seasons each year, with 2025’s being held in May while in 2024 it was held in the fall. Featuring hundreds of events across the state, Cider Week honors the rich heritage of New York apples and the delicious ciders they create.
Many cideries are proud to feature New York apples for their beverages, like Cider Creek Hard Cider, which is New York’s most awarded cidery. They use 100% New York-sourced apples in every drop of cider, with no added water, sugar or artificial flavors.
It’s no secret that New York has something in store for everyone, and diverse beverages are no exception. Whether you’re just beginning your adventure with indulgent wines, or a long-time devotee to the brewing game, New York is filled to the brim with different experiences at every turn. From hidden gems to iconic establishments to places off the beaten path, the state invites both visitors and locals to become immersed in to the scene, where each sip tells the story unique to the area’s culture, history, passion and craftsmanship.
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