If you aren’t a fan of winter weather, but instead wish away the season in hopes of warmer days, then Upstate New York would not be your first thought for a winter getaway. Along the shore of Lake Ontario, Upstate New York can be frigid in the winter with seasonal snowfalls exceeding 140” per year. You can expect a break in these less than hospitable conditions sometime in early March, although an unexpected Nor’easter may still blow in just for fun.

Vineyard near Keuka Lake Penn Yan, New York

Despite all this, I took my chances earlier last month and made a trip north. From my home in Kentucky, I traveled to the town of Aurora in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York. Located in the heart of New York State wine country, the town of Aurora sits along the banks of Cayuga Lake. It is home to MacKenzie Childs manufacturing studio and farmhouse, an assortment of wineries, and the recently renovated Aurora Inn. All of which I had the opportunity of visiting during my travels.

For those of you who have a creative spirit, a tour of MacKenzie Childs studio and farmhouse is a must. You will be astounded by the colorful display of what I call, “functional art”. The gift shop is overflowing with fanciful dinnerware, furniture, and accessories to liven your home. During a tour of the farmhouse, I was amazed at how these works of art were incorporated into different rooms, giving each a totally unique look and feel. You don’t have to be a collector to enjoy MacKenzie Childs.

If you’re a wine lover, then you’ll be right at home in Aurora. A drive down State Route 90 will take you to Long Point winery, the first stop during my visit. I was greeted by master winemaker Gary Barletta,and received a private tasting. The red wines I had tried pleasantly surprised me. Truly, I had not expected to find reds of this quality in New York State. Of the Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Franc I tried, I would be hard pressed to pick a favorite - each having its own uniqueness. I didn’t stop there, however. I traveled up the opposite side of Cayuga Lake and made a stop at several more wineries, learning about New York’s native grape varieties. Although many of its whites are a bit “grapy”, New York produces some outstanding Rieslings. If you like reds, but find Cabernet Sauvignon a bit to heavy, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its parent grape, Cabernet Franc, a native to New York. Having a smooth light body and much of the same flavor, but without the heaviness that a traditional Cabernet Sauvignon is known for.

As one can imagine, a day of wine tasting can be both exhilarating and exhausting. It was time for a rest. I headed back to the Aurora Inn for some R & R. Built in the 19th century, this Inn underwent a major renovation several years ago and is now truly exquisite. My accommodations were first class and the service, superb. The Inn’s foyer was resplendent with hard wood floors, oriental rugs and original works of art. A lavish sitting room with fireplace, and exquisite dining area overlooking Cayuga Lake complete the Inn’s main floor. Its 10 guest rooms are large and well appointed, with all the creature comforts of home, and then some. After a gourmet meal fireside, I headed to my room to call it a night. How cozy I felt entering to find my bed sheets turned back, gourmet chocolates on the bed pillows, and a fire crackling in the fireplace. I couldn’t have asked for better accommodations.

Once a sleepy little town, Aurora is now on the brink of revitalization. Home to Wells College, MacKenzie Childs, the Aurora Inn, and a host of other quaint shops, Aurora is truly charming. So if you’re looking for an unusual winter getaway, or a sensational summer retreat, try Aurora, you won’t be disappointed.

Check out these web sites for more information on Aurora or Upstate New York:

www.aurora-inn.com

www.mackenzie-childs.com

www.cayugawinetrail.com