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The Shawangunk Wine Trail (from www.shawangunkwinetrail.com)

The Shawangunk Wine Trail is nestled between the famous Shawangunk Mountains and the majestic Hudson River in Ulster County, just 85 miles north of New York City. The Trail is composed of nine family owned wineries and over 40 Associate Members dedicated to making a visit to the Hudson Valley a memorable experience. While taking a tour of the wineries along the Trail, always in view of the mountains to the west, one is reminded of the cataclysmic forces of earlier geological periods when the earth heaved up forming the great folded ridge of conglomerate rock. And the more recent glacial period that scratched and gouged the scenic cliffs and formed the unique chain of emerald lakes perched atop the ridge. No wonder the "Gunks" are known as the rock climbing capital of the east.

The nine wineries on the Trail all follow the tradition of the fine winemaking established by the early French Huguenot settlers who brought their wine making expertise to this valley over 300 years ago. Each winery is different. Small to medium in size, all proud of their well crafted red and white wines that range from bone dry to dessert sweet. You will find sparkling wines, vinifera and French/American varietals and blends, and even some beautifully made fruit wines. This young, thriving industry has recently become well known for its prize winning wines across the nation. Tours and tastings are complimentary. Throughout the year there are special events such as chili cookoffs, jazz concerts and strawberry festivals.

The Trail is easily accessible by the New York State Thruway at Exits 16, 17 and 18, from Route 17 at Exit 119 and can be approached from the south of Interstate 84 at Warwick and Washingtonville and to the north of 84 at Pine bush and New Paltz.

Scattered along the Trail are many special attractions, lodgings, B & B's and restaurants. While following the Trail the traveler could visit a thoroughbred horse farm, a honey farm with performing bears, exciting nature trails through the majestic mountain range an road side fruit and vegetable markets to delight all the senses. There is hang gliding, camping, parachuting, fishing, horseback riding, canoeing, country fairs, antiquing and a visit to the oldest street in America where the stone houses display the way life was lived in 1650.

In spring there are apple blossoms, strawberry picking and fresh flower sales. In summer, the College at New Paltz features a repertory theater and the Music in the Mountains Festival. There are several art galleries and numerous antique shops. And to top it off, literally, is a trip to Lake Minnewaska and Lake Mohonk Mountain House high atop the Shawangunks. The view from Skytop Point at Mohonk spans four different states. The Wine Trail is unique. The luminescent light in the valley has inspired artists for centuries. The fruits of the land abound. The people are friendly and, of course, the wines are magnificent. Hope to see you soon. Just follow the grape cluster signs.

Winery Websites:

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