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WTF? A Bold New Look of Our Award-Winning Classic

WTF LABEL

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?

The Answer is in the Glass

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. 

Estate Roots

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. 

The Gold Standard

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. 

  • GOLD, 90 Points – 2026 Los Angeles International Wine Competition
  • GOLD, 94 Points – 2025 New York Wine Classic 
  • GOLD – 2025 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition

The Ultimate "Life Pairing"

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: 

  • Pairs well with a bad boss and “per my last email” threads. 
  • Pairs well with the evening news 
  • Pairs well with the sheer joy of canceling plans at the last minute 
  • Pairs well with a sink full of dishes and a toddler who refuses to nap 

So, the next time you see the label, you’ll know the secret. 

So, the real question is WHY NOT THE FOCH?

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Weekend Estate Tours Return to Johnson Estate Winery This Summer

Fred Johnson Leading an Estate Tour

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. 

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The Perfect Summer Day Trip from Buffalo NY & Erie PA | Johnson Estate Winery in Western New York

Ladies at FLIGHT

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. 

FLIGHT | Outdoor Wine Tasting Experience in Lake Erie Wine Country

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. 

FLIGHT Summer Hours

Memorial Day Weekend – June: 

Friday – Sunday 11-5pm 

July & August:

Wednesday 11-5pm
Thursday 11-8pm (Live Music 6-8)
Friday 11-8pm 
Saturday 11-8pm 
Sunday 11-5pm

FLIGHT MENU

Historic Western New York Tasting Room

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. 

Tasting Room Summer Hours

Open every day 10:00am – 6:00pm

TASTING MENU

Weekend Guided Vineyard Walks with Wine and Charcuterie in Western New York

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. 

What's Terroir? Lake Erie Wine Country is Unique

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. 

What's Terroir Dates

Live Music at Johnson Estate Winery

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. 

Live Music Schedule

Plan Your Summer Day Trip in Johnson Estate Winery from Buffalo NY and Erie PA

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. 

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Johnson Estate Shines at the 2026 Los Angeles International Wine Competition

Semi-Dry Riesling Best of Class

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 fruit. 

A Winemaker Recognized on Both Sides of the Table

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.  

Best of Class Winners

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. 

Remaining Six Gold Medal Winners

Our Gold Medal wines showcase the breadth of our portfolio — from dry whites to sparkling wines to cool‑climate reds.

  1. Riesling, Black Locust 2024 — Gold, 92 Points Barrel‑kissed elegance with depth and structure.
  2. The Queen’s Catawba Sparkling — Gold, 92 Points A refreshing, lightly effervescent tribute to a historic grape.
  3. Marechal Foch 2023 — Gold, 90 Points A smooth, dark‑fruited cool‑climate red with soft tannins.
  4. Founders Red 2022 — Gold, 90 Points A heritage‑inspired blend recognized for richness and balance.
  5. Dry Riesling 2024 — Gold, 90 Points Crisp, mineral‑driven, and consistently one of our most awarded dry whites.
  6. Chardonnay, Toasted Oak 2023 — Gold, 90 Points Warm oak, creamy texture, and bright acidity in perfect harmony.

Five Silver Medal Winners

Our Silver Medal wines reflect strong craftsmanship and varietal clarity across both estate-grown and regionally sourced fruit.

  1. Maple Dessert Wine — Silver A Lake Erie original with rich, warm character.
  2. Chardonnay, Bright Steel 2024 — Silver Clean, crisp, and fruit‑forward — a beautiful expression of unoaked Chardonnay.
  3. Pinot Noir, Freelings Creek Reserve 2023 — Silver Elegant, structured, and distinctly cool‑climate in style.
  4. Cabernet Sauvignon, Vintners’ Select 2022 — Silver Classic varietal character with a smooth, approachable finish.
  5. Chambourcin, Freelings Creek Reserve 2024 — Silver Dark fruit, spice, and balance in a reserve‑level bottling.

A Celebration of Lake Erie Wine Country

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. 

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THE ESTATE FARMHOUSE HISTORY

1881 Farmhouse
Construction of the 1822 Farmhouse by William Peacock

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. 

CENTURY FARM - THREE GENERATIONS

First Generation | Frederick William Johnson

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 | Frederick Spencer Johnson (1921-1998)

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. 

Third Generation | Fredrick Jr, Elizabeth, and Anthony

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.

Continuing the Estate Tradition

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. 

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Celebrate Spring With 7 Sparkling Wines

Sparkling Wines
A Sparkling Start to the Season

Spring at Johnson Estate Winery is all about renewal, brighter days, lighter flavors, and bubbles that make every gathering feel like a celebration. This season, we’re highlighting seven sparkling wines that capture the freshness of spring, from crisp brut styles to fruit‑forward rosés perfect for brunches, picnics, and first warm evenings on the patio. And new this year is a true showstopper: our Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine, the only known sparkling ice wine of its kind in North America. Rare, radiant, and crafted in breathtakingly small quantities, it joins our spring lineup as a one‑of‑a‑kind bottle worth savoring.

1.) Sparkling Rose Ice Wine

This is one that you literally can’t get anywhere else in North America. Crafting ice wine is already a triumph of patience and precision. We have mastered the art of crafting ice wine along the shores of Lake Erie for over 20 years. This rare Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Rosé Ice Wine marries Vidal Blanc and Chambourcin ice wine into a radiant, fruit‑forward expression with fine, elegant bubbles. Each sip reveals concentrated notes of strawberry, raspberry, and sun‑dried fruit, lifted by its lively effervescence and balanced sweetness. Produced in breathtakingly small quantities, it’s a show‑stopping bottle meant for celebrations, dessert pairings, or any moment that deserves something truly unforgettable. 

2.) Brut

Handcrafted in the traditional “méthode champenoise” from our own estate-grown Pinot Noir (75%) and Chardonnay (25%) grapes. Elegant effervescence releases soft notes of freshly baked bread that mingle with aromas of green apple, fresh berries, and white peach.  Clean, lasting finish with hints of mineral and slate. This new release from Winemaker Jeff Murphy dances on the palate.

3.) Brut Rose

In this exciting new release, hand-picked Pinot Noir grapes are lightly pressed to produce a beautiful traditional method rosé sparkling wine. Fresh aromas of strawberry and raspberry lead to a balanced palate full of fresh watermelon and even more berries. Finishes dry, crisp, and clean.

4.) Sparkling Traminette

Handcrafted in the traditional “Méthode Champenoise” from our own estate-grown Traminette grapes. Bright and fruity with intense aromas of passion fruit, guava and rose. The palate is crisp yet smooth with hints of citrus and lychee followed by a clean finish. Pairs beautifully with a variety of foods including poultry, fish, smoked fish, fruits, and desserts.

5.) The Queen's Catawba

A sweet, sparkling wine with the classic tart Catawba flavors that have charmed American wine drinkers for nearly two centuries. Named in tribute to the grape’s rich heritage — from Nicolas Longworth’s famed 1800s Méthode Champenoise Catawba to Longfellow’s celebrated “Song of the Vine” — this bottle nods to the “Queen of the West” and the Queen City alike. Bright, juicy, and steeped in history, it’s a playful spring sparkler with a proudly American story.

6.) The King's Ives

We’ve added bubbles to our classic Ives to produce a beautifully aromatic wine with notes of ripe grape, cotton candy, and fresh flowers. The palate explodes with more grapes and hints of ripe berries. Carbonation enhances the experience and provides a unique pink foam to be pondered.

7.) May Wine

First released in the spring of 2016, Johnson Estate’s May Wine is a semi-dry (residual sugar of 2.5%) and bubbly wine made from Vidal Blanc grapes and delicately flavored with an infusion of sweet woodruff. Winemaker Jeff Murphy was inspired by Germany’s annual celebration of May Day – where the festivities include “MaiWein” or wine punch, including one that features white wine, strawberries, and the shade-loving dried herb, sweet woodruff. Learn more about May Wine on our blog The Secret to May Wine? Sweet Woodruff!

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Two Seyvals | Traditional & Hand-Picked

The Art of the Harvest: One Grape, Two Distinct Paths

At Johnson Estate, we believe that the character of a wine is shaped long before it reaches the bottle. While the terroir of our vineyards provides the foundation, it is the vision of our winemaker, Jeff Murphy, that truly defines the final experience. Jeff is a firm believer that a single grape variety is not a limitation, but an opportunity for exploration.

A perfect example of this is our work with the Seyval Blanc grape. Today, we are pulling back the curtain on two very different expressions of this varietal, shaped by Jeff’s constant pursuit of excellence: our Gold Medal-winning Traditional Seyval and our meticulously crafted 2025 Hand-Picked Seyval.

The Award-Winner: Traditional Seyval

Gold Medal | 2025 New York Wine Classic (93pts)

Our traditional Seyval is a wine that captures the pure essence of the grape. To achieve its signature “snap,” Jeff and his team harvest at peak ripeness to ensure a bright, clean energy. This method allows the natural acidity of the fruit to shine, resulting in a gold-standard favorite that remains a cornerstone of the estate.

The Profile: Crisp, citrusy, and aromatic. It is moderately dry and attractively fruity with a delicate character reminiscent of a Sauvignon Blanc.

The Artisan’s Choice: Hand-Picked & Frozen-Pressed

A Boutique Process for Intense Flavor

Sunrise Hand-Picked Harvest, September 9th 2025

While our traditional Seyval is celebrated for its crispness, the 2025 Hand-Picked Seyval Blanc is a testament to Jeff Murphy’s dedication to technical innovation. Jeff never stops exploring how to make our wines the best they can be, and this small-batch vintage is the result of a labor-intensive “boutique” process.

The journey begins at dawn. Our Johnson Estate Vineyard team meticulously hand-picks the best clusters, placing them carefully into crates to ensure the integrity of the fruit from the very first step.

Unlike our standard process, these hand-picked grapes are immediately frozen. Jeff utilizes this freezing process to “lock in” and then later enhance the natural flavors and aromas. By pressing these grapes while frozen and then fermenting the fruit in stainless steel tanks, he preserves a level of fruit intensity that is rarely seen in dry wines. It is a process that requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of wine chemistry, qualities Jeff brings to every vintage.

The Profile: An intense nose of grapefruit and passionfruit with background notes of guava. On the palate, experience layers of lime, lime zest, and grapefruit, leading into a mouth-watering, citrus-driven finish.

Photo: Hand-picked grapes waiting to be loaded and frozen

Experience the Difference

The beauty of Seyval Blanc lies in its versatility. Whether you prefer the zesty, award-winning “snap” of our traditional harvest or the concentrated, tropical depth of Jeff’s innovative frozen-press technique, both wines offer a unique window into the craftsmanship at Johnson Estate.

Can’t decide between the judges’ favorite and our artisan gem? You don’t have to. Grab a bottle of each to host your own comparative tasting at home, and see for yourself how Jeff Murphy turns a single grape into two distinct masterpieces. Our tasting room is open every day of the week.

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Two Cabernets, One Vineyard: How Winemaking Shapes the Wine

Oak barrels for aging wine.

As winter settles in and hearty meals take center stage, we’re shining a spotlight on two of our most popular reds: Our Traditional Cabernet Sauvignon and the Vintner’s Select Cabernet Sauvignon.

Both wines begin their journey in the same Washington State vineyard, and there’s an important reason for that. Cabernet Sauvignon is the only juice/grapes we source from outside our region. Here in Lake Erie Wine Country, our climate simply can’t produce Cabernet to the level of concentration and quality needed to craft the style of Cabernet our customers love. Washington’s McNary Vineyard give us the exceptional fruit & juice required to make truly expressive, beautifully structured Cabernet. 

From there, the wines take two very different paths — shaped entirely by winemaking choices, especially how each wine is aged. 

If you’ve ever wondered what seperates these two Cabernets, this is your guided tour through the craft behind the glass.

Traditional Cabernet Sauvignon

Fruit-Forward, Approachable, and Ready to Enjoy

Dry 13% ABV
Source: McNary Vineyard, Washington State
Aging: Stainless steel tanks with oak staves

Our Traditional Cabernet is all about purity of fruit. By aging the wine in stainless steel with subtle oak influence, we preserve the bright, vibrant character of the grapes while adding just enough complexity to round things out.

Flavor Profile:

  • Rich, expressive fruit
  • Gentle oak notes
  • Smooth, nuanced tannins
  • Balanced and immediately enjoyable

This is the Cabernet you reach for when you want something versatile and crowd‑pleasing. It pairs beautifully with beef tenderloin, pork molé, grilled steaks, and even your favorite weeknight dishes.

Vintner's Select Cabernet Sauvignon

Bold, Barrel-Aged, and Built for the Cellar 

Dry 13% ABV
Source: McNary Vineyard, Washington State
Aging: Two full years in oak barrels

For those who crave depth, structure, and a more powerful expression of Cabernet, the Vintner’s Reserve is your bottle. Extended barrel aging transforms the fruit, layering in spice, richness, and firm tannins that promise longevity.

Flavor Profile:

  • Deep, concentrated fruit
  • Spicy, well‑integrated oak
  • Firm, lasting tannins
  • Complex now, exceptional with age

This small‑lot Cabernet is ideal for roasted lamb, braised dishes, or evenings when you want a wine that feels truly special. Enjoy it today or let it evolve gracefully in your cellar.

A Note from Winemaker Jeff Murphy

“Both Cabernets come from the same Washington vineyard, but the extended barrel aging of the Vintner’s Reserve creates a deeper, more concentrated wine with lasting tannins and spicy oak. The Traditional Cabernet focuses on rich fruit with just enough oak for complexity — approachable now, while the barrel‑aged version will continue to develop beautifully.”

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A Family Legacy of Service: Why November is Our Most Personal Month at Johnson Estate Winery

November is arguably the most meaningful time of year here at Johnson Estate Winery.

When you walk through our historic estate, you’re not just walking through New York’s oldest continuous estate winery; you’re walking through a deeply rooted family history that includes military service. Our annual Veterans Appreciation Month is more than just a thank you—it’s a direct reflection of the courage and commitment of our founder, my father-in-law, Frederick Spencer Johnson.

Our Founder: From Torpedo Pilot to Winemaking Pioneer

Our tradition of honoring veterans is rooted in the incredible story of Fred Sr. During World War II, he served as a Naval Aviator, flying a torpedo bomber aboard the USS Yorktown. He brought that same pioneering spirit to the farm after returning home, founding Johnson Estate Winery in 1961.

The military tie is particularly strong around Veterans Day. As a Lt. (junior grade) Torpedo Bomber Pilot, my father-in-law earned the Distinguished Flying Cross for a heroic act: sinking a Japanese destroyer on Armistice Day (November 11th) in 1944. My husband, Fred Johnson Jr., and I carry that legacy forward, and we feel a deep responsibility to honor that service.

That’s why we dedicate November to giving back.

Our Month-Long Gratitude Program

Throughout November, we are extending a special thanks to all veterans and active-duty military personnel who visit us at the historic estate in Westfield, NY:

  • Complimentary Wine Tastings
  • 10% Discount on all in-store wine purchases
  • We invite you to come see us so we can say thank you in person.
Shop with Purpose: Our EOD Warrior Foundation Commitment

In addition to our in-store appreciation, we continue our annual commitment to provide critical support to the EOD Warrior Foundation. This organization does life-changing work, providing financial assistance, scholarships, and crucial emotional support to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) community and their families.

We are proud to donate $2 from every bottle sold of three select red wines throughout the month of November to this vital cause:

  • Founders’ Red
  • Torpedo Red
  • Maréchal Foch

The Torpedo Red is perhaps the most personal wine in this group. The label itself was designed by our own son—a current Naval Officer—and features the insignia of his great-grandfather’s WWII Torpedo Three Squadron. It’s a direct tribute that connects four generations of our family’s commitment to service.

If you are looking for a delicious way to support our veterans, we look forward to having you join our family in raising a glass to those who have served.

Jennifer Johnson 

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Uncork the Perfect Christmas: Holiday Gift Ideas from Johnson Estate Winery

Looking for the perfect gift this holiday season? Skip the malls and give a gift of local craftsmanship, warmth, and flavor from Johnson Estate Winery. Whether you’re shopping for the family foodie, the wine connoisseur, or that hard-to-buy-for coworker, we have a curated multiple options below to bring Christmas cheer to every palate.

1. Our Pre-Designed Holiday Gift Boxes

Our team has already curated a selection of beautiful, ready-to-ship gift boxes featuring our most popular wines and gourmet pairings. These are perfect for a one-click shopping experience!

The HOLIDAY SPICE Box: Warm up the chilly nights with our traditional mulled wines. This box often features the famous Red Ipocras and White Ipocras (sweet wines generously flavored with spices like ginger, cinnamon, and clove) paired with two delightful treats Triple Ginger Cookies and Cinnamon Walnuts. This is a must-have for those who love seasonal warmth.

The CHRISTMAS DRY Box: Perfect for the sophisticated palate! This selection highlights our European-style dry wines, such as the Black Locust Riesling, Dry Rosé of Pinot Noir, and a fine Cabernet Sauvignon, all paired with gourmet dark chocolate truffle bars.

The HOLIDAY SWEET Box: For those who prefer a touch of sweetness, this box includes our award-winning Sweet Riesling, Ives, and the festive Red Ipocras, complemented by a Milk Chocolate Himalayan Salted Caramel bar.

Pro-Tip: Remember to add a personalized Christmas message at checkout! We will print it on a beautiful Christmas card and include it in the gift box.

Click To Select A Box

2. The Personalized Touch: Build-Your-Own Gift Experience

Nothing says “I thought of you” like a custom gift. You can create a truly unique present by selecting the bottles and gourmet items your recipient will love most.

Choose Your Wine: Mix and match from over 40 of our estate-grown wines.

For the Toast: Add our traditional Méthode Champenoise Sparkling Traminette or the newly released Brut Rosé to celebrate the season.

For the Cellar: Select a bold red like our Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir that can age beautifully.

For Dessert: Our specialty wines make a decadent gift! Consider the award-winning Vidal Blanc Ice Wine or the unique Maple Liqueur (made with estate-grown grape spirits and local maple syrup).

Add Gourmet Pairings: Complete your box with delicious treats, including chocolates, nuts, quince paste, and baked goods.

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3. The Gift That Keeps Giving

For the person who values experiences and discovery, a wine-related gift certificate or membership is the perfect solution.

Johnson Estate Gift Certificates: The ultimate flexibility! Our gift certificates can be used online or at the winery for wine purchases, gourmet food items, or unforgettable experiences like vineyard walks and winemaker’s dinners throughout the year.

Winemaker’s Select Collections: A one-time gift of discovery! Choose from curated Six-Bottle Collections like the “Dry Red Collection” or the “Dry White Collection” for a complete tasting journey.

Wine Club Membership: Give a year-round gift! A membership ensures your recipient receives customizable shipments of their favorite wines each quarter, keeping the Johnson Estate experience alive long after the holidays are over.

Don't Forget Our Holiday Shipping Specials!

Make your shopping even easier with our seasonal shipping promotions. We offer FREE SHIPPING on qualifying orders, multiples of 12 750 & 375ml bottles ship free across the continental US.

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8419 West Main Rd. (Route 20)
Westfield, NY 14787
Map & Directions

Hours

March – October
10am-6pm Daily

November – February
10am-5pm Sunday-Thursday
10am-6pm Friday & Saturday

Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Easter

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