Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, Hector, NY
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Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards

4.7
·501 reviews·Hector, United States

Iconic Finger Lakes winery known for its fun Red Cat wine, lively Oasis pavilion with music, and scenic vineyard views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Lively atmosphere, live music

CrowdHigh
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Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards, Hector, NY

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards

Best Time

Weekend afternoons

Lively atmosphere, live music

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Finger Lakes winery known for its fun Red Cat wine, lively Oasis pavilion with music, and scenic vineyard views.

4.7
(501 reviews)

"Hazlitt was by far my favorite winery we visited on our trip to Seneca Lake."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Don't Miss Red Cat!

Try the iconic Red Cat wine; it's a Finger Lakes classic and a must-have experience!

🎶 Oasis Vibes

Head to The Oasis for live music, games, and a buzzing social scene.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Red Cat Wine Tasting

Red Cat Wine Tasting

Experience the legendary, fun-loving Red Cat wine. It's a signature taste of the Finger Lakes!

The Oasis Pavilion

The Oasis Pavilion

Outdoor area

Enjoy live music, games, and food trucks in a vibrant, social setting.

Vineyard Views

Vineyard Views

Vineyard grounds

Stroll through the picturesque vineyard and enjoy the scenic beauty of Seneca Lake.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Red Cat Vibe

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is famous for its fun, energetic atmosphere, especially its iconic Red Cat wine. Expect lively crowds and a party-like feel, particularly on weekends. Arrive early to snag a good spot and soak in the good times.

Beyond the Red Cat

While Red Cat is a must-try, don't overlook Hazlitt's other offerings. They have a diverse range of wines and ciders, including quality dry options. Explore the tasting menu to discover hidden gems and enjoy the full spectrum of their winemaking.

Best Times

When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively atmosphere, live music
Crowd
High
When
Weekday mornings
Why
More relaxed, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The HECTOR’S ON THE CIRCLE ⭕️ Bean and Cheese Burrito. My wife and i were waiting for sushi in the Orange Circle…and decided to pop over to Hector’s in Orange, CA for a skinny margarita (yup). I knew this place had solid chips and guac, but my burrito queen (she got me into bean and cheeses years ago) didnt think we should fill up on food here. To her credit, her main concern was that we’d get too...
@_bookofelie
24.9K likes • 453.7K views

🎯 Don't Miss Red Cat!

Try the iconic Red Cat wine; it's a Finger Lakes classic and a must-have experience! Instagram+1

🎶 Oasis Vibes

Head to The Oasis for live music, games, and a buzzing social scene. Instagram+1

🍇 Memories made & glasses raised with our members! 🥂� A huge thanks to Josh Menio's family at Scale House Brewery and the team at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards for their exceptional hospitality and flavors. 🍻 Didn't make it? Trust us, you won't want to miss the next one.🔥🍷
profoundmmg
32 likes • 1.2K views
Happy holidays & Merry Christmas 🎁 Great Interview W/ @nycedabeast149 @tyimcflythedj Brought to you by @hazlitt1852vineyards
messiah.nyc
8 likes • 341 views

🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! Hazlitt is a great spot for pups to enjoy the outdoors. Instagram

🍷 Beyond Red Cat

Explore their dry wines and ciders; they're surprisingly good! Reddit

Our vineyard crew was hard at work on the Hazlitt 1852 Home Farm this morning harvesting the Sauvignon Blanc. ☀️ #senecalake #senecalakewinetrail #harvest24 #flxwine #vineyards #hazlitthappy #sauvignonblanc
hazlitt1852vineyards
70 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Don't Miss Red Cat!

Try the iconic Red Cat wine; it's a Finger Lakes classic and a must-have experience! Instagram+1

🎶 Oasis Vibes

Head to The Oasis for live music, games, and a buzzing social scene. Instagram+1

🐶 Pet-Friendly Fun

Bring your furry friends! Hazlitt is a great spot for pups to enjoy the outdoors. Instagram

🍷 Beyond Red Cat

Explore their dry wines and ciders; they're surprisingly good! Reddit

🚗 Parking Tips

Arrive early on weekends to secure parking, especially during peak season. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(501 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards for its vibrant atmosphere, friendly staff, and the iconic Red Cat wine. Many highlight the fun energy, live music at The Oasis, and the quality of both wine and cider. While some note the sweetness of Red Cat, others are pleasantly surprised by the quality of their dry wines.

"Hazlitt was by far my favorite winery we visited on our trip to Seneca Lake. I've been drinking Red Cat for many years, so it was cool to see the actual winery. They also have ciders! There was a little coy pond, and you could feed the fish. The overall vibe was very fun and energetic. Will definitely be stopping on our next trip!

The little song at the beginning of the tasting explains a lot! If you know you know... 🤭"

Kelly DeYoung

"I know there are a lot of winery options in the area, but if you do not stop here - you are doing yourself a disservice. I visited a handful of wineries throughout my stay but none even stood a chance to providing the same quality wine, staff and atmosphere of Hazlitt. I came for my birthday trip and they were the highlight of my trip. The group of ladies behind the bar feel like friends on arrival. Everyone is so friendly / nice. Ann was an absolute joy to meet and converse with during our wine flight. She had great recommendations and I definitely shopped and ended up leaving with SO MUCH WINE because they all were DELICIOUS. I already can’t wait to get back."

Caitlin Sturges

"This place was a hopping spot. Lots of bridal parties and pups. They have outdoor seating and games on the Oasis side and then wine tasting on the other. We also tried the dumplings from the food truck. Can't beat made fresh to order. Would definitely come back again"

Shera Shaw

What People Like

Fun and energetic atmosphere
Friendly and welcoming staff
Iconic Red Cat wine

What People Dislike

Sweetness of Red Cat (for some)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is conveniently located near Hector, NY, making it an easy addition to your East Seneca Lake itinerary. It's a short drive north from Hector, offering scenic views along the way. Many visitors combine a visit to Hazlitt with other wineries on the east side of Seneca Lake. Reddit

Public transport options directly to Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards are limited. It's best to have your own vehicle or arrange for a taxi or rideshare service. Many visitors opt for wine tours that include transportation to multiple wineries in the Finger Lakes region.

The most common driving routes involve taking NY-14 S along the east side of Seneca Lake. The vineyard is well-signposted. Be prepared for winding country roads and enjoy the picturesque scenery. Instagram

Absolutely! Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is a popular stop on many Finger Lakes wine tours. Booking a tour can be a convenient way to visit multiple wineries without worrying about driving and parking. Instagram

During peak times, especially on weekends, parking can fill up quickly. Arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday is recommended for easier parking. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards typically operates with extended hours, especially during the warmer months and on weekends. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit, as they can vary seasonally. TikTok

While walk-ins are often welcome, booking wine tastings in advance is highly recommended, especially for larger groups or during busy weekends. This ensures you secure a spot and can enjoy a seamless tasting experience. Instagram

Tasting fees can vary depending on the type of tasting and the number of wines sampled. Hazlitt often offers free wine tastings, particularly for their signature Red Cat wine, and may have fees for more extensive flights. Check their website for current pricing. Instagram

Yes, Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards offers various tasting options, including flights of their popular wines and ciders. You can also opt for a full glass or bottle to enjoy at their outdoor Oasis area. Instagram

Outside food is generally not permitted, as Hazlitt offers food trucks and other dining options on-site, especially at The Oasis. It's best to enjoy the culinary offerings available at the vineyard. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is known for its fun, energetic, and social atmosphere. It's a popular spot for celebrations, with a lively crowd enjoying music, games, and of course, wine. Expect a party-like vibe, especially on weekends. InstagramReddit+1

The iconic Red Cat wine is a must-try for its unique flavor and fun reputation. However, don't shy away from their other wines and ciders, as many visitors are pleasantly surprised by the quality of their dry options. InstagramReddit

Yes, live music is a regular feature, particularly at The Oasis pavilion. This adds to the vibrant and festive atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and enjoy your day. Instagram+1

The Oasis area often features outdoor games, making it a fun spot for groups and families. It's a great place to unwind and enjoy the vineyard's amenities. Instagram+1

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is generally pet-friendly, especially in their outdoor areas like The Oasis. It's a great place to bring your well-behaved canine companion to enjoy the vineyard experience. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards often features food trucks at The Oasis, offering a variety of delicious options like fresh dumplings and other casual fare. This provides a great complement to their wine and cider selections. Reddit

While food truck vendors can vary, visitors have reported enjoying fresh, made-to-order dumplings and other popular food truck items. It's best to check their social media or website for any scheduled food truck appearances during your visit. Reddit

In addition to food trucks, Hazlitt sometimes offers snacks like popcorn, which is a nice touch to enjoy with your wine tasting. Instagram

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards primarily offers food through food trucks and casual outdoor dining at The Oasis, rather than a formal sit-down restaurant. This aligns with their relaxed and social vineyard experience.

Their Red Cat wine pairs well with a variety of foods, from spicy dishes to casual snacks. For their drier wines, consider pairing with cheeses, charcuterie, or lighter fare. The food trucks on-site offer convenient options that complement their wine selection. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the vineyard rows with Seneca Lake in the background. The Oasis pavilion, with its lively atmosphere and scenic views, also makes for great photos. Don't forget to snap a pic with your favorite Hazlitt wine! Instagram+1

Yes, you're welcome to take photos during your wine tasting. Many visitors enjoy capturing the experience of sampling different wines and the friendly interactions with the staff. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged for personal use. However, it's always good practice to be mindful of other guests' privacy and avoid intrusive photography, especially during private events. Instagram

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, the vibrant atmosphere during the day, especially with live music, also provides unique photo opportunities. Instagram

Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to contact the vineyard directly to inquire about their specific regulations regarding drone photography to ensure compliance.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards offers a surprisingly family-friendly environment, especially at The Oasis. While the wine tasting rooms are more adult-focused, the outdoor area provides space for kids to enjoy games and the general lively atmosphere. The vineyard's scenic beauty also offers a pleasant backdrop for a family outing. Instagram

Consider visiting during the day when the energy is high but perhaps less focused on formal tastings. The availability of food trucks means you can easily find kid-friendly snacks. While direct kid-specific activities are limited, the overall relaxed and fun vibe makes it a place where families can comfortably spend time together. Instagram

🐶 Pet Lovers

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is a fantastic destination for pet owners, particularly in their outdoor spaces. The Oasis area is known to be pet-friendly, allowing your furry companions to join in on the fun. This makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy the vineyard atmosphere without leaving your pet behind. Instagram

Remember to keep your pets leashed and under control, and ensure they have access to water. The open spaces provide room for them to roam a bit, and the general welcoming attitude towards animals adds to the overall positive experience for visitors with pets. Instagram

🎉 Celebration Groups

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is a prime spot for celebrations, from birthdays to bridal parties. The energetic atmosphere and live music at The Oasis create a festive backdrop for any event. The availability of wine tastings and food trucks makes it easy to cater to your group's enjoyment. InstagramReddit

Booking tastings in advance is highly recommended for groups to ensure a smooth experience. The combination of great wine, a lively social scene, and scenic vineyard views makes Hazlitt a memorable destination for marking special occasions. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards boasts a rich history, with its roots stretching back to the 19th century. The vineyard is particularly celebrated for its Red Cat wine, a sweet, fruity red that has become a beloved staple in the Finger Lakes region and beyond. This iconic wine, with its distinctive name and approachable taste, has been a cornerstone of the winery's success for decades. Instagram

The winery has evolved over the years, embracing innovation while honoring its heritage. They offer a diverse portfolio of wines and ciders, catering to a wide range of palates. From the popular Red Cat to more sophisticated dry wines, Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards demonstrates a commitment to quality and variety. Their dedication to the craft is evident in every bottle, making them a significant player in the New York wine scene. Reddit

Beyond the wine itself, Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards has cultivated a reputation for its welcoming and festive atmosphere. The Oasis at Hazlitt is a testament to this, providing a vibrant space for visitors to enjoy live music, outdoor games, and delicious food truck fare. This blend of historical significance, quality winemaking, and a lively social experience makes Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards a standout destination. Instagram

Experiencing The Oasis at Hazlitt

The Oasis at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is the heart of the winery's social scene, offering a dynamic outdoor experience. It's designed as a place for guests to relax, socialize, and enjoy the vineyard's offerings in a lively setting. Here, you'll often find live music, adding a festive soundtrack to your visit, and a variety of outdoor games that encourage fun and friendly competition. Instagram+1

Complementing the entertainment, The Oasis features food trucks that serve up delicious, casual fare. Visitors have raved about options like fresh, made-to-order dumplings, making it easy to pair great food with your wine or cider. This setup transforms the vineyard into a vibrant gathering spot, perfect for groups, celebrations, or simply a fun day out. Reddit

It's important to note that The Oasis contributes significantly to Hazlitt's reputation for a fun and energetic atmosphere. It's a place where you can truly unwind, soak in the vineyard ambiance, and create memorable experiences. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a day trip, The Oasis provides a unique and engaging dimension to your visit. Instagram+1

Navigating Hazlitt's Wine and Cider Selection

While Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is famously known for its Red Cat wine, a sweet and fruity red that has garnered a loyal following, the winery offers a much broader spectrum of beverages. Visitors who might be drawn away by the reputation of Red Cat are encouraged to explore the full tasting menu, as Hazlitt produces a surprising range of quality dry wines that rival those found elsewhere on Seneca Lake. Reddit

Beyond their red and white wines, Hazlitt also produces ciders, providing another delightful option for those seeking different flavors. The tasting experience is designed to guide you through these diverse offerings, with knowledgeable staff ready to offer recommendations. Whether you prefer sweet, dry, fruity, or crisp, there's likely a Hazlitt beverage to suit your taste. Instagram

For those looking to deepen their appreciation, understanding that Hazlitt wines and Red Cat are distinct brands can be helpful. While both are produced by the winery, they represent different styles and target different preferences. This distinction allows Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards to cater to a wider audience, ensuring that every visitor can find a beverage they truly enjoy. Reddit

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