Sometimes a short day trip can be the most fun. I took a wonderful trip down to Chautauqua Wine Country last Sunday. The leaves were just starting to turn and the view was wonderful. I made a stop at Merritt Estate winery and tried all the new releases; they were all delicious, including the new Pomegranate wine, XTC! We then stopped at a nice restaurant, called the Colony, for a German style Sausage dinner. It was a very nice way to spend the afternoon.

Chautauqua is home to many good local wineries as well as some great attractions. With all the great (and well deserved) press Niagara Escarpment and Finger Lake wines and attractions receive; it can be easy to over look our neighbors to the South. That would be a mistake. Next time you have a free Sunday afternoon, hop in the car and visit Lake Erie Wine Country. You will be glad you did