People familiar with my theme (New York State) are probably asking, what's an urbana?
True, I could have done Utopian, for the Oneida Utopian Community - but I decided not to. Or, I could have picked Utica but I've only been there once, and I didn't have my camera (pre cell phone) with me. Or I could have picked New York City and gone "urban".
I got to thinking - I have been blogging about New York State all this month and not once have I discussed any wineries. That's about to change, with today's topic, Urbana.
The Town of Urbana is in Steuben County, the same county as Corning (of Corning Glass fame). In the Town of Urbana you can find the Pleasant Valley Wine Company near the Village of Hammonsport.
Pleasant Valley Wine Company (also known as Great Western) is the oldest "bonded" winery (this has to do with taxes) in the United States. It dates from 1860 and consists of nine historic buildings, some of which also date from the 1860's.
This one is dated 1891.
Prior to COVID, tours of some of the buildings were available. This wasn't your usual "here are the tanks, here's how we bottle the wine, etc." tour, either.
Let's take a peek.
Of course, the property must have a grape fence.
Once you are inside, it's a glimpse of days gone by. Note the end table. Elaborate parties used to be held down here.
This stained glass window says "Brussels 1897".
But, you ask, what about the wine?
Do you want me to blog about wine later in the week? Why not?
Thank you for joining me on this quick tour. Tomorrow, I will be posting my Music Moves Me post, so I can make room for "V" on Monday.
"U" day in the Blogging from A to Z Challenge. My theme: New York State.
Beautiful photos, the interior of that building is amazing!
ReplyDeleteThank you! I may have some more pictures in a couple of days.
DeleteFascinating. I'd love to visit there.
ReplyDeleteMaybe one day...it is a beautiful area and the city of Corning is interesting, too.
DeleteVery gothic, very nice
ReplyDeletePerhaps more to follow on Tuesday!
Delete...I need to put this on my lust!
ReplyDeleteIf they start running the tours again, it is more than worth the price. We had the tour guide all to ourselves on a Tuesday. Don't go on a weekend!
DeleteVisiting from A to Z, Urbana is a good choice.
ReplyDeleteThank you for stopping by, Ann!
DeleteLovely photos of a gorgeous place! We have a lot of vineyards in my valley, and Oregon even has an optional license plate of wine country.
ReplyDeleteHey, did you ever update your iPhone? I just got an 8. Not nearly the newest, but does run the newest iOS, and a MUCH better camera (I'm showing some of the new photos tomorrow). It's "used," but looks just like new and works perfectly. Best Buy online.
No, I haven't updated yet. I don't know what I'm waiting for - inertia at work, perhaps.
DeleteThat looks like a fun tour.
ReplyDeleteCovid sure change things up a bit.
ReplyDeleteCoffee is on and stay safe
I love those little balconies on the side of the houses ;) Lovely tour!
ReplyDeleteLoved the pictures on this one
ReplyDeleteAlana,
ReplyDeleteEvery travel show we watch it seems wouldn't be complete without the host/hostess visiting a tavern or winery. We always laugh about this because this doesn't appeal to either of us since we aren't connoisseurs. Just tell us where to buy the best home-made ice cream and doughnuts is what we're interested in. lol This place is beautiful, though. I love the stones exterior and interior, the lovely grape wrath-iron fence, and the stunning stained glass. Is it covering a light? Thanks for the tour!
Uncensored Looney Tunes A-Z Art sketch