Discover the Best of Queensbury at the Adirondack Winery & Extreme Heights Cidery
If you’re seeking an engaging, flavorful escape just outside New York City, the Ultimate Tasting Experience at the Adirondack Winery & Extreme Heights Cidery offers a perfect blend of good drinks, great company, and a touch of local charm. With a typical tour lasting around 1 hour 30 minutes, this unique tasting combines expertly guided samples of handcrafted wines, whiskey, or hard cider with delicious bites and a warm, inviting atmosphere. For $64.20 per person, it’s a surprisingly rich experience packed into a manageable timeframe.
What we love most about this experience is the welcoming atmosphere — starting with a sparkling toast that sets a celebratory tone — and the personalized guidance from knowledgeable hosts like Arielle and Kat, who are praised for their friendliness and expertise. The spectacular views from the tasting room, along with the chance to peek into the winery’s barrel room and plant your feet near the wine-making process, add a special touch that elevates the whole outing.
A potential consideration is the weather dependency—since part of the experience involves indoor and outdoor seating, poor weather could affect your visit. However, the tour is designed to be flexible, with options for a different date or full refund if needed. The experience is best suited for food and drink lovers, couples celebrating special occasions, or groups looking for a relaxed, authentic outing. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate guided tastings with a personal touch.
Key Points
- Authentic local experience with handcrafted wines, whiskey, or cider.
- Expert guides like Arielle and Kat make the tasting educational and fun.
- Beautiful tasting room with indoor and outdoor seating enhances the visit.
- Delicious food pairings include artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and sweet treats.
- Versatile options including wine, whiskey, or cider, plus seasonal specialties like mulled wine or wine slushie.
- Great value given the comprehensive tasting, food, and souvenirs like a premium wine glass.
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An In-Depth Look at the Adirondack Winery & Extreme Heights Cidery Tasting Tour
Location and Atmosphere
Located at 395 Big Bay Road in Queensbury, the Adirondack Winery’s tasting room is as charming as the surrounding landscape. The venue features a stylish yet rustic decor—with inviting indoor seating and outdoor areas that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a cozy Adirondack retreat. The views from the tasting room are part of what makes this experience memorable — you’ll love the way the landscape complements the tasting, making it more than just about the drinks.
The Welcome and Initial Toast
Your journey begins with a sparkling toast—a simple but meaningful gesture that makes you feel like a guest of honor. This initial sparkler sets a festive mood and signals that what follows will be both relaxed and special. As we found in reviews, this warm welcome is consistently praised, with Arielle, the guide, often described as knowledgeable, passionate, and friendly.
Guided Tasting: Wines, Whiskey, or Hard Cider
The core of the experience is sampling 7 of the crafted beverages. You get to choose between bold reds, crisp whites, refreshing rosés, or fruit-infused options. If you’re not a wine person, no worries—whiskey or hard cider flights are available, giving you flexibility to suit your tastes.
The tasting is guided, with your host providing insights into each variety—its origins, tasting notes, and what makes each special. As one reviewer put it, “They gave a very thorough description of wines! And all delicious!” This personalized approach helps you appreciate the nuances of each sip rather than just gulping down samples.
Food Pairings and Charcuterie
No tasting is complete without some bites, and here the Adirondack Board shines. It features artisanal cheeses, cured meats, fresh fruit, bread, crackers, and wine-infused treats—all designed to complement your drinks. They also cater to gluten-free options, making it accessible for more guests.
Guests consistently mention the quality and variety of the food, with reviews praising the deliciousness of the cheeses and cured meats. The charcuterie adds a hearty, sharable element that turns the tasting into a social event.
Sweet and Seasonal Final Touches
The tour wraps up with a dessert platter featuring wine-infused chocolates, macarons, cupcakes, and cookies crafted locally. These decadent treats are a delightful finale, and many reviewers rave about the locally made confections.
Seasonally, the experience might include warm mulled wine in winter or a refreshing wine slushie in summer—adding a playful, comforting touch that encourages guests to linger and enjoy.
Behind-the-Scenes Access and Additional Tours
While your seat at the tasting bar offers a view of the barrel room and wine-making facility, the hosts are happy to offer a winery tour if you ask. This optional extra deepens your understanding and connection to the wine-making process, adding educational value to your visit.
Booking and Practicalities
The experience accommodates up to 10 travelers, fostering an intimate atmosphere. The meeting point is conveniently located at the Adirondack Winery & Extreme Heights Cidery. The tour provides a mobile ticket, and most travelers can participate, including those with service animals and nearby public transit options.
The cost includes all included beverages and meals, but a gratuity of $10.80 per person is customary. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.
Authentic Reviews and Guest Experiences
From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Kat and Arielle make a lasting impression. One reviewer raves, “Kat was fantastic! She was very knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive.” Others emphasize the beautiful setting and the delicious wines, noting that it’s perfect for girls’ weekends, birthdays, or romantic dates. Many mention the great selection and the welcoming atmosphere that makes guests feel like part of the family.
Value and Overall Impression
At just over $64, the experience offers considerable value—combining guided tastings, food, souvenirs, and a scenic setting. The duration is just enough to relax and savor without feeling rushed, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a comprehensive yet manageable outing.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This tasting experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts eager to learn more about local craft beverages, couples celebrating a special occasion, or groups of friends looking for a fun, relaxed afternoon. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate guided experiences with friendly, knowledgeable hosts. If you’re after a combination of good drinks, tasty bites, and beautiful scenery, this tour hits all those marks.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, if you prefer whiskey or cider over wine, those options are available. The experience is primarily about tasting and enjoying the setting.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, enough time to savor your drinks, enjoy the food, and take in the scenery.
Can I bring children or non-drinkers?
The tour is designed for adults, but non-drinkers can still enjoy the atmosphere, food, and views.
Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included; most guests tip around $10.80 per person.
What’s the dress code?
Casual, comfortable clothing fits perfectly—just dress for the weather if you want to enjoy the outdoor seating.
Can I tour the winery?
Yes, the hosts are happy to give a winery tour if you ask, providing more insight into the wine-making process.
Is the experience weather-dependent?
Partially—while indoor seating is available, poor weather might affect outdoor areas. The experience can be rescheduled or refunded if canceled due to weather.
Are gluten-free options available?
Yes, the charcuterie board includes gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.
How many people are in a typical group?
Up to 10 travelers, making for an intimate and personalized experience.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead ensures your spot, especially during busy weekends or holidays.
Final Thoughts
The Adirondack Winery & Extreme Heights Cidery’s Ultimate Tasting Experience combines expert-guided drinks, delicious local food, and beautiful scenery into a well-rounded outing. It’s a great value for those looking to enjoy quality beverages paired with a welcoming atmosphere in a scenic setting. Whether you’re a wine lover, a curious tourist, or someone celebrating a special day, this tour offers something memorable—and most importantly, fun.
For travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors and friendly storytelling, it’s a perfect choice. Just remember to come ready to sip, savor, and relax amidst the lovely Adirondacks.