Johnson Estate Winery once again ranked among the top award-winning wineries in New York at the 2026 Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition, earning two Best of Class awards, multiple Gold Medals, and additional honors. As New York’s oldest estate winery, Johnson Estate continues to demonstrate the quality of wines produced in Lake Erie Wine Country through one of North America’s most respected wine competitions.
The 26th Annual Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition was another incredible success, featuring 1,100 entries from producers representing 40 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, and 7 countries.
Within that highly competitive field, Johnson Estate Winery submitted a selection of estate-grown wines and was once again honored with multiple top distinctions, including Best of Class recognitions and Gold medals across several categories.
This blind judging event, which benefits Camp Good Days, brings together a broad range of producers and evaluates each wine solely on its quality in the glass, without producer identity or reputation influencing results.
Once again, as has been the case in years past, Johnson Estate Winery is grateful to be recognized at the highest levels of the competition, with Sparkling Traminette and Ives both earning Best of Class honors in their respective categories.
For Sparkling Traminette, this year’s recognition marks a second Best of Class honor in 2026, following a 95-point Best of Class award at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition earlier this year.
This continues a strong performance history that also includes a Platinum Award at the 2025 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, underscoring consistency across multiple vintages and judging panels.
Traminette itself holds an important place in New York wine history.
Developed through grape breeding research at Cornell University, Traminette was created as a hybrid offspring of Gewürztraminer, designed to capture aromatic intensity and floral character while offering improved cold-climate resilience. Johnson Estate Winery was among the early adopters of the varietal during its introduction and research phase in New York State, planting it at a time when its potential in the region was still being defined.
That early commitment has carried forward into today, where Traminette has become a signature expression within the estate portfolio.
At Johnson Estate Winery, Traminette is produced in two distinct styles. A traditional still version that highlights its floral aromatics and soft fruit character, and a sparkling version that lifts those same qualities into a brighter, more expressive format.
Both styles continue to perform strongly in competition and remain consistent favorites for their aromatic profile, balance, and approachability.
The continued success of Sparkling Traminette reflects both the varietal’s adaptability in New York’s climate and the long-term understanding of how it performs best within our estate vineyards.
The Ives also continues its strong performance, earning Best of Class recognition for the second year in a row at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition.
Previously recognized in 2025, this semi-sweet wine has developed a loyal following among our wine club members for its approachable style and fruit-forward character. It is often compared to a Lambrusco in its refreshing, lightly sweet profile.
In addition to the still expression, Ives is also offered in a sparkling version known as The King’s Ives, which highlights a different expression of the same varietal character.
In addition to these Best of Class honors, several estate wines were awarded Gold medals, including Pink Catawba (2024 vintage), Toasted Oak Chardonnay (2023 vintage), Niagara (2024 vintage), Seyval Blanc (2024 vintage), and Dry Riesling (2024 vintage).
These results reflect strength across both native and European-style varietals as well as across multiple growing seasons.
Of particular note, several wines continue to demonstrate strong performance across major competitions.
Niagara recently earned a 99-point Gold Medal at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition, while Toasted Oak Chardonnay received a 90-point Gold Medal at the same competition, reinforcing their consistency across blind evaluations.
Much of this ongoing success can be traced back to a simple but important advantage: Johnson Estate Winery is fully estate grown.
Because we grow all of our own grapes, we are able to make harvest decisions on our own terms, picking each varietal at peak ripeness rather than based on logistics or external sourcing.
That timing is one of the most important factors in quality. Each block is harvested only when sugar, acidity, and flavor reach balance for that specific varietal and vintage. Those decisions are made in the vineyard, not the calendar, and are guided by continuous evaluation as the growing season progresses.
Under the care of third-generation owner Fred Johnson, the vineyard is managed with a long-term perspective that prioritizes balance, consistency, and varietal expression.
From there, Winemaker Jeff Murphy works with each lot in a way that emphasizes preservation of character rather than manipulation, allowing each vintage to reflect what the vineyard delivered in that specific year.
It is this continuity from vineyard to bottle that continues to show up in competition results year after year.
Recognition at major wine competitions reflects more than the quality of a single vintage. It highlights the strength of the region where the grapes are grown. Along the southern shore of Lake Erie, vineyards benefit from a growing environment shaped by the lake’s moderating influence, helping vines withstand winter temperatures while extending the growing season into the fall.
For generations, grape growers in this region have cultivated varieties uniquely suited to the area’s climate and soils. Today, that combination of agricultural heritage, vineyard experience, and careful winemaking continues to produce wines that stand out in blind tastings against entries from across North America and beyond.
These awards are a reflection of the work that takes place throughout the year. From pruning and vineyard management to harvest decisions and cellar practices. They also reinforce what visitors to our tasting room discover every day: exceptional wines can be found right here in Lake Erie Wine Country.
We are grateful to the judges, competition organizers, and, most importantly, the customers who continue to support New York wine and family-owned wineries. We invite you to visit us in Westfield, explore our award-winning portfolio, and experience firsthand the wines that earned recognition at the 2026 Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition.
All of these award-winning wines are available for purchase daily at the winery and online. Many are also available through our retail partners, which can be found using our store locator.
The Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition is one of the largest charitable wine and spirits competitions in North America. Wines are evaluated through blind tastings by industry professionals, providing an objective assessment of quality across a wide range of categories and regions.
Johnson Estate wines received recognition at both the 2026 Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition and the 2026 Los Angeles International Wine Competition. At the Finger Lakes competition, Sparkling Traminette and Ives each earned Best of Class honors, while wines including Semi-Dry Riesling, Niagara, Seyval Blanc, and Black Locust Riesling received Gold Medals. Earlier in the year, Sparkling Traminette, Semi-Dry Riesling, Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine, and Niagara were among the wines earning top honors at the Los Angeles International Wine Competition, highlighting the quality and diversity of Johnson Estate’s award-winning portfolio.
Visitors can enjoy Johnson Estate’s award-winning wines in the tasting room in Westfield, New York, located in the heart of Lake Erie Wine Country. Many of the wines recognized at the 2026 Finger Lakes International Wine & Spirits Competition are also available for purchase online and can be shipped to eligible states.
Looking for delicious peach wine recipes to enjoy this summer? Johnson Estate Passionate Peach is a sweet New York peach wine that makes the perfect base for refreshing summer cocktails, sangrias, iced teas, and sparkling drinks. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, relaxing on the patio, or planning a brunch with friends, these easy peach wine cocktails will help you make the most of every bottle.
From sparkling Bellinis to fruit-filled sangrias, here are six of our favorite summer wine cocktails featuring Johnson Estate Passionate Peach.
Sometimes the best peach wine recipe is the simplest one.
Serve a small glass of Passionate Peach at room temperature as a dessert wine, or enjoy it chilled on its own. For a festive summer treat, try mixing equal parts Passionate Peach and Johnson Estate Sparkling Traminette or May Wine for a lightly sparkling peach refresher.
This simple combination is perfect for enjoying on the patio after dinner or pairing with fresh fruit and desserts.
A peach-forward twist on the classic Bellini, this sparkling cocktail is ideal for brunches, celebrations, and summer gatherings.
Pour Passionate Peach into a champagne flute. Add peach juice or peach purée, then top with chilled Sparkling Traminette. Garnish with a peach slice or orange twist and serve immediately.
Pour peach juice and wine over ice in a high ball glass. Fill most of the way to the top with soda. Then slowly pour grenadine syrup into the glass. The grenadine syrup will sink to the bottom of the glass and then slowly rise.
In a food processor, combine all ingredients and blend until smooth. Pour into a chilled martini glass or a chilled margarita glass.
One of the easiest peach wine cocktails you’ll make all summer.
Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour equal parts Passionate Peach and your favorite brewed tea over the ice. Stir gently and garnish with a citrus slice.
The combination of tea and peach wine creates a refreshing drink that is perfect for warm afternoons.
This fruit-filled peach sangria recipe is ideal for entertaining family and friends.
Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher. Add plenty of ice and refrigerate until thoroughly chilled. Serve with additional citrus slices for garnish.
The bright citrus flavors complement the sweetness of the peach wine, creating a refreshing summer sangria.
A refreshing fusion of peach wine and herbal tea.
Bring water to a boil and steep tea bags for five minutes. Allow the tea to cool completely. Pour into a pitcher, add Passionate Peach and lemon juice, and stir. Serve over ice with lemon slices.
This easy summer wine cocktail is especially refreshing on hot days.
Fresh basil and peach create a surprisingly delicious combination in this unique peach wine recipe.
Combine sugar and water in a saucepan and simmer until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and add basil leaves. Allow the basil to steep for 30 minutes, then strain. Add fresh lime juice to create a basil limeade base. Mix with Passionate Peach and serve over ice.
Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker for a refreshing peach-basil sorbet that’s perfect for summer entertaining.
Bring tropical flavors to your backyard with this simple peach wine cocktail.
Combine Passionate Peach and coconut rum to taste. Serve over ice and garnish with a peach slice or pineapple wedge.
The coconut and peach flavors create a tropical-inspired drink that tastes like summer in a glass.
In an old fashioned glass, combine wine, bitters, and 1 peach slice. Muddle well to mix the ingredients and mash the fruit for its juice. Add bourbon and fill glass with ice. Add second peach slice and berries. Top with sparkling water and stir to combine.
Peach wine is a fruit-forward wine that highlights the natural sweetness and aroma of ripe peaches. It can be enjoyed on its own as a dessert wine or used as the base for refreshing cocktails, sangrias, and sparkling beverages.
Because of its vibrant fruit flavors and versatility, peach wine has become a favorite choice for summer entertaining. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, light desserts, brunch dishes, and warm-weather gatherings.
Produced at Johnson Estate Winery in Westfield, New York, Passionate Peach is a customer favorite that captures the flavors of summer in every glass.
Located in the heart of Lake Erie Wine Country, Johnson Estate is New York’s oldest estate winery and has been crafting wines from estate-grown grapes and fruit for generations. Visitors can enjoy Passionate Peach alongside award-winning Riesling, Chardonnay, Sparkling Traminette, Niagara, and many other wines available in our tasting room.
Whether you enjoy it chilled, mixed into a Bellini, blended into sangria, or served alongside dessert, Passionate Peach offers endless opportunities for summer sipping.
Plan your visit to Johnson Estate Winery and discover why Passionate Peach remains one of our most popular seasonal favorites.
While visiting Johnson Estate Winery, be sure to explore:
Here’s to a summer filled with great wine, great friends, and plenty of peach-inspired cocktails.
Looking for a memorable summer dining experience in Lake Erie Wine Country?
Johnson Estate Winery invites guests to enjoy three exceptional Winemaker’s Dinners during the summer of 2026. Located in Westfield, New York, just a short drive from Buffalo and Erie, Johnson Estate Winery offers one of the most unique food and wine experiences in Lake Erie Wine Country. Each event features a multi-course menu thoughtfully developed through collaboration between Winemaker Jeff Murphy and talented local culinary partners, with every course carefully paired to showcase the character of Johnson Estate’s award-winning wines.
From an elegant midsummer dinner within the estate gardens to breathtaking sunset views overlooking Lake Erie and a special celebration honoring 250 years of American history, each evening offers a unique opportunity to experience one of New York State’s most historic wineries in an intimate and unforgettable setting.
Whether you are a wine enthusiast, foodie, or simply looking for one of the best winery events in Western New York, these dinners bring together exceptional food, outstanding wines, and the beauty of the Lake Erie region.
At Johnson Estate Winery, a Winemaker’s Dinner begins with the wines.
Winemaker Jeff Murphy collaborates with talented local chefs and catering partners to create a multi-course dining experience where every course is designed to complement the wines being served. Each pairing is carefully considered to highlight the flavors, aromas, and character of both the food and the wine.
The result is more than a dinner, it is an opportunity to experience award-winning estate-grown wines in a setting that celebrates the vineyards, the season, and the rich agricultural heritage of Lake Erie Wine Country.
Set on the historic Johnson Estate grounds, this elegant evening celebrates the abundance of midsummer with a thoughtfully crafted multi-course menu paired with a selection of Johnson Estate wines chosen by Winemaker Jeff Murphy. Guests will enjoy an intimate dining experience that highlights fresh seasonal ingredients and the beauty of the estate during one of the most vibrant times of the year.
Whether you are a longtime supporter of Johnson Estate or discovering us for the first time, The Midsummer Winemaker’s Dinner offers the perfect opportunity to experience the winery in a unique and memorable way.
Few places in Western New York offer views as breathtaking as The Ridge at Johnson Estate.
Overlooking the vineyards and waters of Lake Erie, this annual Farm-to-Table Dinner has become one of our signature summer events. Guests will enjoy a multi-course meal featuring locally sourced ingredients and expertly paired Johnson Estate wines selected to enhance each course.
As the evening unfolds and the sun begins its descent over Lake Erie, diners will experience the beauty of our region while celebrating the farmers, growers, and artisans who contribute to its rich agricultural heritage.
This is summer in Lake Erie Wine Country at its finest.
This year’s September dinner offers a unique opportunity to celebrate both the harvest season and a significant milestone in our nation’s history.
Held atop The Ridge overlooking Lake Erie, this special evening commemorates 250 years of American heritage through exceptional food, award-winning wines, and a setting that reflects the agricultural traditions that have shaped our region for generations.
Guests will enjoy a carefully curated multi-course menu paired with Johnson Estate wines while gathering with friends and fellow wine lovers to celebrate the land, the people, and the history that connect us all.
It promises to be one of the most memorable evenings of the year.
A Winemaker’s Dinner offers a unique opportunity to experience wine the way it was intended to be enjoyed. Through carefully curated food and wine pairings, guests discover how flavors interact and complement one another while learning more about the wines, vineyards, and winemaking process.
At Johnson Estate Winery, these dinners provide an opportunity to connect with one of New York State’s oldest continuously operating estate wineries while enjoying exceptional hospitality in the heart of Lake Erie Wine Country.
Fresh off a remarkable showing at the 2026 Los Angeles International Wine Competition, where Johnson Estate earned four Best of Class awards along with numerous Gold and Silver Medals, these dinners offer guests an opportunity to experience many of the wines that continue to earn recognition on the national stage.
A Winemaker’s Dinner is a multi-course dining experience where each course is paired with wines selected to complement the flavors of the menu.
Johnson Estate Winery is located in Westfield, New York, in the heart of Lake Erie Wine Country.
Yes. Seating is limited, and tickets are required for all three events. The price per person is $125. Wine club members receive a 10% discount on tickets.
Winemaker Jeff Murphy collaborates with local culinary partners to curate the wine selections and pairings for each dinner.
Wine selections vary by event and may include a variety of Johnson Estate’s award-winning estate-grown wines. Each course has at least one wine paired with it. In some cases, dinners will also showcase a vertical tasting of multiple vintages.
In the world of New York wines, few styles are as rare, labor intensive, or climate dependent as true ice wine. Now, Johnson Estate Winery, New York’s oldest estate winery, has released the second vintage of its Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine, believed to be the only known Méthode Champenoise sparkling ice wine produced in North America.
Crafted in the heart of Lake Erie Wine Country, this remarkable wine combines the tradition of authentic ice wine production with the elegance and complexity of traditional Méthode Champenoise winemaking.
Ice wine is one of the most difficult and weather dependent wines produced anywhere in the world. Unlike late harvest wines, authentic ice wine can only be made when grapes freeze naturally on the vine during winter temperatures below freezing.
At Johnson Estate Winery, Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin grapes remain hanging in the vineyard well into winter, waiting for the precise moment when nature delivers the necessary cold conditions. Harvest crews often work through Lake Erie snowstorms, bitter winds, and single digit temperatures to bring in the frozen fruit before sunrise.
When pressed frozen, the grapes release only a tiny amount of highly concentrated juice bursting with natural sweetness, acidity, and flavor intensity. The result is one of the most luxurious dessert wine styles produced in New York State wine country.
The Lake Erie region is one of the few places in the world capable of producing true ice wine consistently. Alongside the Finger Lakes, Niagara Peninsula, Germany, and Austria, western New York possesses the ideal balance of vineyard climate and winter conditions necessary for ice wine production.
Sparkling ice wine is exceptionally uncommon because it combines two highly specialized winemaking methods into one bottle.
Johnson Estate Winery currently produces three different New York Ice Wines. Its Vidal Blanc Ice Wine and Chambourcin Ice Wine are traditional still ice wines, crafted without bubbles and celebrated for their rich concentration, sweetness, and intense fruit character. The winery’s Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine takes that tradition one step further by transforming authentic ice wine into a sparkling wine using the Méthode Champenoise process.
Traditional ice wine fermentation is already difficult due to the juice’s naturally high sugar concentration. Creating a sparkling version using the Méthode Champenoise process, the same bottle fermented method used in Champagne, adds another layer of complexity and craftsmanship.
Johnson Estate’s Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine undergoes secondary fermentation directly in the bottle, producing delicate natural bubbles and refined texture. Every bottle is carefully riddled, disgorged, dosed, and hand finished in 375ml bottles.
The finished wine offers vibrant fruit character, elegant effervescence, balanced sweetness, and bright acidity that keeps the wine lively and refreshing.
For wine enthusiasts exploring premium New York wines and unique sparkling wines, this release represents one of the rarest wine styles currently produced in North America.
The inspiration for Johnson Estate’s Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine began after winery owner Fred Johnson and winemaker Jeff Murphy visited Canada’s Niagara wine region and experienced sparkling ice wines firsthand.
Inspired by the possibilities of combining traditional sparkling winemaking with authentic ice wine, the winery began developing its own version using Johnson Estate grown grapes and Méthode Champenoise production techniques.
The result is a wine that highlights both the innovation of New York State wines and the unique winter terroir of Lake Erie Wine Country.
The newly released vintage has already earned national and international recognition.
Recently reviewed by Tastings.com, the wine received a Gold Medal and outstanding 94 point rating, praised for its balance, complexity, and refined sparkling character.
Now, the wine has also been recognized by Decanter Magazine, where reviewer Maiah Johnson awarded it 90 Points and described it as:
“A rosy, copper-colored sparkling ice wine by Johnson Estate with delicate bubbles that lift the wine’s sweetness. Honeyed fruit and dried herbal aromatics on the nose give way to orange blossom, macerated strawberries with cream, ruby red grapefruit, and apricot. Crafted from a blend of 75% Chambourcin and 25% Vidal Blanc that were frozen on the vine at harvest, then treated in the traditional method style.”
The review also highlighted the wine’s traditional method production and unique blend of 75% Chambourcin and 25% Vidal Blanc, with the grapes naturally frozen on the vine before harvest.
Together, these recognitions further establish Johnson Estate’s Sparkling Rose Ice Wine as one of the most distinctive sparkling dessert wines produced in New York State and America.
From frozen vineyard harvests during Western New York winters to the intricate bottle fermentation process used to create its fine bubbles, Johnson Estate’s Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine reflects the craftsmanship, climate, and innovation that continue to define the best New York wines.
For those seeking a truly distinctive New York dessert wine experience, this sparkling ice wine offers a rare opportunity to taste one of the most unique New York State wines being produced today.
To explore the winery’s current releases and learn more by planning a visit to Johnson Estate please visit our “Plan Your Visit Page.” The Sparkling Rose Ice Wine is also available for purchase in our online store.
Sparkling ice wine is a rare dessert wine made from naturally frozen grapes that undergo a secondary fermentation to create bubbles. Johnson Estate’s Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine combines traditional ice wine production with the Méthode Champenoise sparkling process, creating a sweet yet refreshing sparkling dessert wine with elegant bubbles and vibrant fruit character.
Ice wine is a specialty dessert wine made from grapes that freeze naturally on the vine during winter. The frozen grapes are harvested and pressed while still frozen, producing a small amount of intensely concentrated juice with rich sweetness, bright acidity, and bold fruit flavors.
Unlike many sweet wines, authentic ice wine relies entirely on natural freezing conditions rather than artificial freezing methods.
New York ice wine is unique because only a few regions in the world consistently experience the precise winter conditions required to produce true ice wine. Regions like Lake Erie Wine Country and the Finger Lakes benefit from cold winters and lake influenced climates that allow grapes to freeze naturally on the vine.
These conditions help produce balanced ice wines with both concentrated sweetness and refreshing natural acidity.
Johnson Estate Winery has a total of 13 Varieties of grapes on the Estate. However, only two are used for producing our three different ice wines, Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin grapes.
The winery’s Vidal Blanc Ice Wine and Chambourcin Ice Wine are traditional still ice wines without bubbles. Its Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine uses those same ice wine traditions while incorporating the Méthode Champenoise sparkling process to create delicate natural effervescence.
Méthode Champenoise is the traditional sparkling wine production method where secondary fermentation occurs directly inside the bottle. This process creates natural carbonation and fine bubbles.
Johnson Estate’s Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine is crafted using this traditional bottle fermented technique, which includes riddling, disgorging, dosage, and hand finishing each bottle.
Yes, sparkling ice wine is considered a dessert wine and naturally contains sweetness from the concentrated frozen grape juice. However, the wine’s bright acidity and sparkling bubbles help balance the sweetness, creating a lively and refreshing finish rather than a heavy or syrupy texture.
Sparkling ice wine is extremely rare because it combines two difficult winemaking processes. Authentic ice wine production requires specific winter weather conditions, while Méthode Champenoise sparkling production requires extensive time, labor, and technical precision.
Very few wineries in the world produce sparkling ice wine, and Johnson Estate’s Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine is believed to be the only known Méthode Champenoise sparkling ice wine currently produced in North America.
Johnson Estate Winery is located in Westfield along the shores of Lake Erie in western New York’s Lake Erie Wine Country region. The area’s cold winters and lake effect weather help create ideal conditions for producing authentic New York ice wine.
Quince paste, known as dulce de membrillo in Spain, is a rich, sliceable fruit preserve made from quince, an old-world fruit prized for its floral aroma and sweet-tart flavor. Traditionally paired with Manchego cheese and wine, quince paste has long been enjoyed throughout Europe and is becoming increasingly popular on modern cheese and charcuterie boards.
At Johnson Estate Winery in Lake Erie Wine Country, quince has a long family history dating back generations. Today, the winery not only crafts house-made quince paste from estate-grown fruit, but also offers it for purchase in the tasting room and online store.
Quince trees (Cydonia oblonga) belong to the apple, or “pome,” family and are native to the Caucasus Mountains of Georgia, Armenia, and northern Iran. The fruit is typically apple- or pear-shaped with green skin that turns bright yellow as it ripens.
Unlike apples or pears, quince is usually too firm and tart to eat raw. However, when cooked, the fruit transforms dramatically. Its pale flesh softens and develops a beautiful ruby-red color along with a fragrant floral flavor that makes it ideal for jams, jellies, preserves, and quince paste.
Because quince is naturally high in pectin, it creates a thick, smooth texture perfect for slicing and serving alongside cheese or charcuterie boards.
Quince paste has a unique flavor that combines sweetness, tartness, and floral aromas with subtle notes reminiscent of apples, pears, and citrus. Its dense texture allows it to be sliced and served neatly on cheese boards or charcuterie platters.
The balance of fruitiness and acidity makes quince paste an excellent companion for both savory cheeses and crisp white wines. Many food lovers also enjoy quince paste as part of charcuterie boards or paired with crackers and cured meats.
To serve quince paste, gently loosen it from the jar using a small knife and place it on a plate, charcuterie board, or cheese tray. The paste will hold its shape and can easily be sliced into small portions.
In Spain, quince paste is traditionally paired with Manchego cheese, a firm sheep’s milk cheese with a slightly salty flavor. However, quince paste also complements a wide variety of cheeses ranging from sharp cheddars to creamy goat cheeses.
Quince paste pairs wonderfully with cheeses available throughout Western New York and Lake Erie Wine Country, including:
Local favorites recommended at Johnson Estate include cheeses from Reverie Creamery, including Gitane, Tom, and Palimino varieties.
The sweet-tart flavors of quince paste pair beautifully with a variety of wines. One favorite pairing at Johnson Estate Winery is estate-grown Vidal Blanc, whose bright fruit and acidity complement the floral richness of quince.
Quince paste also works well with:
Visitors to Johnson Estate Winery can purchase house-made quince paste directly from the winery tasting room or online store. Made from estate-grown quince harvested from the winery orchard, this traditional Spanish-style membrillo is crafted specifically to pair with wine, cheese, and charcuterie.
Quince paste reflects the agricultural traditions and culinary heritage that continue to shape Lake Erie Wine Country today. From historic orchards to handcrafted wine pairings, Johnson Estate continues to celebrate old-world flavors while offering visitors a unique tasting experience in Western New York.
Whether served with cheese, wine, crackers, or charcuterie, quince paste offers a delicious way to experience one of the region’s lesser-known orchard fruits.
Quince paste is made by slowly cooking quince fruit with sugar until it becomes thick, smooth, and sliceable.
Quince has a sweet-tart, floral flavor with notes similar to apple, pear, and citrus when cooked.
Manchego is the traditional pairing, but quince paste also pairs well with cheddar, Parmesan, goat cheese, and other hard or soft cheeses.
Most quince varieties are too hard and tart to eat raw and are typically cooked before serving.
Crisp white wines like Vidal Blanc, Riesling, and sparkling wines pair especially well with quince paste.
Next time you walk into our historic Lake Erie Wine Country tasting room, look at the shelf, and see it: a bold, unapologetic WTF? staring right back at you.
We know exactly what went through your mind. We intended it that way. But at Johnson Estate, those three letters stand for a question we’ve been answering for over seven years: Why The Foch?
Why has Marechal Foch been our #1 selling wine for seven straight years? Why does it consistently wine over both casual sippers and seasoned critics? Why at our wine club events is it the number one chosen glass to enjoy? The answer lies in the unique heritage and meticulous care behind our Marechal Foch.
The grape is named after Ferdinand Foch, Marshal of the French Army and Commander-in-Chief of the Allied Forces, who famously signed the Armistice ending WWI in 1918. He was a figure of balance and history, traits we bottle every year at New York’s Oldest Estate Winery. With its Gamay heritage, our Foch produces a wine reminiscent of a fine Beaujolais: off-dry, unoaked, and beautifully balanced with rich notes of black and red berries.
The quality starts in the soil. This special bottling is 100% estate-grown, sourced exclusively from our Marechal Foch vineyard on the Western side of the estate. This specific Terroir allows the vines to thrive, producing the vibrant fruit profile that has become our signature. It is a true expression of our land, handled with care from the first bud break to the final glass cork.
If you’re still asking the “Why?”, don’t just take our word for it. The 2025/2026 wine competition season across the United States has caused a landslide of hardware for this vintage. This label release of WTF Marechal Foch has been bottled with our exceptional 2024 Marechal Foch Vintage. This vintage has been recognized with the following awards.
While it holds its own at a formal dinner, we designed the WTF? bottling for the real world. This is a wine that understands your Wednesday afternoon as much as your Saturday night.
Therefore, we have the real-life pairing menu:
So, the next time you see the label, you’ll know the secret.
So, the real question is WHY NOT THE FOCH?
Since the launch of the new “WTF?” label, Johnson Estate’s award-winning Marechal Foch has quickly become one of the most talked-about wines in Lake Erie Wine Country. What started as a playful conversation piece has turned into a customer favorite appearing on shelves in wine and liquor stores across New York State. Whether you discovered it through social media, heard about it from a friend, or spotted the label while shopping, the wine behind the humor remains the same estate-grown classic that has earned Gold medals and 94-point recognition at major wine competitions.
Looking for a unique weekend experience in Western New York wine country? Estate Tours are returning to Johnson Estate Winery this summer on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 10:30am, offering guests an immersive behind the scenes look at one of the most historic estate wineries in New York State.
Designed for wine lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a relaxing summer day trip from Buffalo, NY or Erie, PA, The Estate Tour is one of the most in depth vineyard experiences offered in Lake Erie Wine Country.
This guided small group experience begins with an exclusive look inside the winery before heading outdoors for a scenic walk through the estate. Guests will explore the farmhouse gardens, vineyards, and the beautiful landscape that defines Johnson Estate Winery and the Lake Erie growing region. Along the way, visitors will learn about grape growing, estate winemaking, and unique terroir that shapes the wines produced here in Western New York.
The walking portion of the tour covers approximately two miles though the estate vineyards where thirteen varieties of grapes are grown.
Following the tour, guests will unwind at FLIGHT, Johnson Estate’s outdoor wine and charcuterie wine tasting venue overlooking more than 100 acres of vineyards. Each tour includes a glass of wine paired with charcuterie, creating the perfect ending to relaxing vineyard morning.
Estate Tours are offered:
Saturdays & Sundays at 10:30 Starting May 30th through September.
Pricing:
$40 per person
Wine club members receive 10% off.
Whether you are visiting from Buffalo, Erie, Cleveland, or exploring Western New York for the weekend, The Estate Tour offers a deeper connection to the vineyard, the wines, and the story behind Johnson Estate Winery.
For reservations and upcoming dates, visit our Event Calendar.
Looking for the perfect summer escape without the long drive or high travel costs? Nestled in the heart of Lake Erie Wine Country, Johnson Estate Winery offers an unforgettable vineyard experience just one hour from Buffalo, NY and only 35 minutes from Erie, PA.
With rising gas prices and busy schedules, more people are discovering the beauty of staying local. Johnson Estate is the perfect Western New York destination for a relaxing day trip filled with wine, scenic views, live music, and authentic vineyard experiences.
Summer at Johnson Estate mean the return of FLIGHT, our seasonal outdoor wine and charcuterie tasting experience overlooking more than 100 acres of vineyards.
Whether you’re catching up with friends, planning a date day, or simply unwinding after a long week, FLIGHT offers the perfect atmosphere to sip local estate wines while enjoying breathtaking vineyard views. Pair your favorite wines with handcrafter charcuterie boards and settle into one of the most scenic spots in Western New York Wine Country.
If you’ve been searching for outdoor wineries near Buffalo or unique experiences near Erie, PA, FLIGHT belongs on your summer bucket list.
July 1st – Labor Day:
Wednesday 11-5pm
Thursday 11-8pm (Live Music 6-8)*
Friday 11-8pm*
Saturday 11-8pm (Trivia Night 6-8)*
Sunday 11-5pm
September & October:
Friday – Sunday 11-5pm
* Our kitchen orders close at 7:30PM.
Johnson Estate Winery is New York State’s oldest estate winery, and our historic tasting room invites guests to experience generations of winemaking tradition.
Enjoy guided wine tastings featuring award winning wines crafter from estate grown grapes right here along the Lake Erie shoreline. From crisp whites to bold reds and seasonal favorites, there’s something for every palate.
Our knowledgeable staff loves sharing the story behind every bottle, making each visit both educational and approachable for wine lovers of all experience levels.
Open every day 10:00am – 6:00pm
Looking for a slower paced way to experience wine country this summer? Join third generation owner Fred Johnson Saturday and Sunday mornings for a guided vineyard walk through the estate.
These relaxing tours give guests the opportunity to explore our vineyards with Fred while learning about grape growing, estate history, and our unique climate that shapes our wines. Each tour is concluded at FLIGHT with a glass of wine and charcuterie, making it the perfect way to ease into a summer weekend in Western New York.
Whether you’re visiting from Buffalo, Erie, or right here in Chautauqua County, our guided vineyard walks offer a refreshing way to connect with the land, wines, and beauty of the season.
For guests looking for a deeper dive into the vineyard experience, our special “What’s Terroir?” immersive walking tour is hosted by Fred and Winemaker Jeff and includes multiple courses of food and wine pairings in the vineyards.
You may hear winemakers use the word “Terroir,” but what does it actually mean?
Terroir refers to the unique combination of soil, climate, elevation, and geography that influences how grapes grow and how wine tastes. Here in the Lake Erie Wine Country, the lake itself plays a major role in creating ideal growing conditions for grapes.
The moderating effect of Lake Erie helps extend the growing season, allowing grapes to develop balanced acidity and rich flavors that make this region truly special.
At Johnson Estate, terroir is more than a wine term. It’s part of every sip. Our wines reflect the character of Western New York and the unique landscape that has supported grape growing here for generations.
This summer, guests will have the opportunity to experience that connection firsthand during our “What’s Terroir?” Immersive Estate Walking Tour & Vineyard Tasting. Offered three times throughout the summer, beginning June 23rd with additional dates in July and August, this guided event invites guests to walk the vineyards, explore the estate, and discover how our soil, climate, and proximity to Lake Erie shape every bottle we produce as you sample 8-9 wines paired with curated small bites.
Nothing says summer quite like live music surrounded by vineyards.
Join us Thursday evenings throughout the summer for live music, wine, and relaxing sunset views. It’s the perfect way to kick off the weekend early with friends, or out of town visitors exploring the region.
Grab a glass of wine, enjoy the fresh air, and experience why so many guests make Johnson Estate part of their summer tradition year after year.
You don’t need to travel far to experience something extraordinary.
Conveniently located in Westfield, NY, Johnson Estate Winery is an easy and scenic drive from Buffalo, Erie, Cleveland, and surrounding Western New York communities. Whether you’re planning a spontaneous afternoon getaway, a relaxing weekend outing, or entertaining visiting friends and family, Johnson Estate offers a true taste of Lake Erie Wine Country close to home.
While you’re here, be sure to explore some of our award winning estate grown wines, including our celebrated sparkling collection and internationally recognized ice wines. Guests can enjoy favorites like our handcrafted Sparkling Traminette, known for its bright tropical aromas and award winning traditional Methode champenoise craftmanship.
For wine lovers seeking something truly rare, Johnson Estate is also home to the Sparkling Rose Ice Wine, recognized as North America’s only Methode Champenoise Ice Wine. Crafted from estate grown Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin grapes, this extraordinary wine delivers elegant mousse like bubbles with notes of strawberry, raisin, honey, and cherry.
From vineyard views and live music to historic winemaking traditions and one of the most unique sparkling wines in America, summer at Johnson Estate Winery is an experience worth discovering.
Come sip, relax, and experience the flavors of Western New York this summer.
Each year, the Los Angeles International Wine Competition brings together some of the most respected judges and wine professionals in the world. Hosted at Fairplex in Pomona, California, the competition has been a benchmark for wine evaluation for decades, featuring entries from across the globe, and culminating in a public showcase at the LA County Fair. This year, Johnson Estate Winery earned one of its strongest showings to date.
This year’s results include four Best of Class awards, ten Gold Medals, and five Silver Medals, spanning sparkling wines, aromatic whites, dry Rieslings, and red blends. These achievements highlight both the craftmanship of our winemaking & vineyard team and the distinctive character of Lake Erie Terroir.
For the past several years, our winemaker Jeff Murphy has been selected as a judge for the Los Angeles International Wine Competition. This role reflects his respected palate and deep industry experience. Jeff has been our winemaker for over 20 years and has been instrumental in the development in our vast portfolio of award-winning wines.
Judging takes place over several days at Fairplex, where experts evaluate wines through blind tastings across numerous divisions and categories. Jeff’s participation gives him invaluable insight into internationally recognized brands techniques and products that he brings back to our cellar and uses to reinforce the high standards that guide our winemaking. Jeff is also able to attend seminars, speak with international vendors, and learn about new technologies and industry trends when he attends the competition.
This year we have four wines that rose to the top of their categories, a remarkable achievement in a competition of this scale.
Sweet white wine with a fresh and fruity grape flavor.
Sweet and fruity, deep and rich with pronounced grape flavors and a silky mouth feel. An intensely flavored Estate Grown regional wine.
Estate grown and handcrafted in the traditional “méthode champenoise.” Bright and fruity with intense aromas of passion fruit, guava and rose.
Semi-dry, perfectly balanced fruity Riesling. Bright and aromatic with melon and peach notes.
Our Gold Medal wines showcase the breadth of our portfolio — from dry whites to sparkling wines to cool‑climate reds.
Our Silver Medal wines reflect strong craftsmanship and varietal clarity across both estate-grown and regionally sourced fruit.
These results reflect more than medals. They highlight the strength of our region, the dedication of our vineyard and cellar teams, and the legacy of New York’s oldest estate winery, now in its third generation of family stewardship.
From heritage grapes like Niagara and Concord to world‑class Rieslings and expressive cool‑climate reds, Johnson Estate continues to demonstrate that Lake Erie Wine Country is a region capable of producing wines worthy of national and international recognition.
We look forward to sharing these award‑winning wines with you in our tasting room, online, and at events throughout the year. Our tasting room is open all year 7 days a week.
Johnson Estate Winery earned four Best of Class awards, ten Gold Medals, and five Silver Medals at the 2026 Los Angeles International Wine Competition.
Johnson Estate Winery is located in Westfield, New York, in the Lake Erie Wine Country region.
The Los Angeles International Wine Competition is one of the nation’s longest-running and most respected wine judging events.
The 2024 Niagara, 2024 Concord, 2024 Sparkling Traminette, and 2024 Semi-Dry Riesling.
Johnson Estate’s red brick farmhouse was built in 1822 by William Peacock, a land surveyor and employee of the Holland Land Company. He died owning a very large portfolio of parcels of land. While William Peacock lived in Mayville, the house in Westfield, optimally sited for excellent fruit production, was occupied by his brother and eventually William’s niece, Margaret Peacock. She lived in the farmhouse until she died in 1890. Here’s a lithograph of the house circa 1868. The house and farm were purchased by Frederick William Johnson in about 1910-11.
In the late 1800s, an English orphan named Frederick William Johnson immigrated to Western Canada from England as a teenager and then found his way to Cornell University to study entomology (deemed Class of 1901) and later worked for the Department of Agriculture. In 1910-11, Johnson purchased the house and farm in Westfield NY which he named Sunnyslope Farm and grew peaches, pears, apples, and cherries. He also grew Concord and Niagara grapes. Johnson worked as an entomologist with the Department of Agriculture in both Washington, D.C. and in North East, PA, where he met his wife, Nan Scouller. In 1920, he built an apple cold-storage facility using timber from an 1860’s dairy barn found on the farm. This building now houses our tasting room. According to family lore, Johnson started making wine in the basement of the farmhouse during Prohibition.
Second-generation family member, Frederick Spencer Johnson (1921-1998), grew up on the farm and served in World War II as a naval aviator, graduated from Cornell University in 1946, and then raised his family overseas while working for the Rockefellers’ agricultural endeavors in Latin America. He returned to the farm in 1960 after his father died, removed aging fruit orchards, and was the first farmer or “pioneer” in Western New York to plant wine grapes (Chancellor, Seyval Blanc, Chambourcin, Vidal Blanc, and Marechal Foch) in the region. At the time, the Lake Erie Wine Country was dominated by Concord and Labruscan juice grapes. Frederick opened the winery in 1961, receiving New York Farm Winery License No. 2 in his father’s apple cold storage building. Johnson Estate is recognized as New Yorks State’s oldest Estate Winery. In the 1980’s, he also added an additional tank building which is still used today.
Upon the death of Fred Sr. in 1998, the third generation of Johnsons, Frederick Jr., Elizabeth and Anthony, all Cornell graduates, inherited the farm and began to oversee the winery operations, the planting of new Riesling vineyards, and the construction of a new finished goods warehouse. This era also marked a significant expansion of the Johnson Estate portfolio; since 1998, the winery has diversified its selection to include specialized fruit, sparkling, and ice wines, reflecting a modern evolution of the family’s viticultural tradition.
In 2011, Frederick Johnson Jr. purchased his siblings’ interests and became, with his wife Jennifer, owner of the farm and winery. They completed a renovation of the tasting room in 2011, just in time for the celebration of the operation’s 50th anniversary. Johnson Estate Winery was awarded a Century Farm designation from the New York State Agricultural Society in 2018. Today the Estate grows two additional vitus vinifera grapes: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Today, the legacy of the Johnson Estate continues to thrive under the stewardship of the third generation. Frederick Jr. and Jennifer now reside full-time in the original 1822 red brick Estate Home. For them, living within these historic walls is more than just a nod to the past; it is a daily commitment to the legacy of the farm and a vital link to the century of family history that preceded them. As they look out over the vineyards from the same vantage point as William Peacock and Fred Sr., they ensure that the story of this Century Farm remains as vibrant and enduring as it was in 1822.
8419 West Main Rd. (Route 20)
Westfield, NY 14787
Map & Directions
March – October
10am-6pm Daily
November – February
10am-5pm Sunday-Thursday
10am-6pm Friday & Saturday
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Easter
