Leave Rochester around 9:00 a.m. and take I-490 east, then NY-96 south to Geneva—allow about an hour, plus a little buffer for traffic. Start at Three Brothers Wineries and Estates, near the north end of Seneca Lake, and give yourself about 90 minutes to explore its distinct tasting experiences. Park on site before sampling; tasting fees and hours can vary, so check the estate’s current options closer to your date.
Head into Geneva for a relaxed, seasonal lunch at Ports Cafe; budget roughly $25–$45 per person and allow about an hour. Its service days and midday hours can change seasonally, so confirm that lunch is available on October 8 before you set out. Then drive south along the east shore to Ventosa Vineyards for about 75 minutes of estate wines and lake views, followed by Belhurst Castle and Winery near Geneva’s waterfront for a final tasting and a look around the historic grounds. Leave time between pours, and arrange a designated driver or winery transportation rather than driving after tastings.
Aim to depart Geneva around 5:30 p.m. for the roughly one-hour return to Rochester, taking NY-96 north to I-490 west. October traffic is usually manageable, but allow extra time if it’s raining or dusk arrives early; have your sober driver take the wheel for the entire route home.
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