Gold Seal Winery, Renaissance Revival winery in Hammondsport, United States
Gold Seal Winery is a winery in the Finger Lakes region consisting of eight stone buildings constructed into a hillside. The complex features a bell tower, multiple storage vaults, and a three-story main building with several expansions including a champagne production room.
The facility was established in 1865 and produced sacramental wine during Prohibition under the name Gold Seal Products Company. After Prohibition ended, the winery brought in French winemakers who introduced new grape varieties and expanded production operations.
The name Gold Seal came from the post-Prohibition era when the winery needed a fresh identity. Today you can see how the stone buildings and cellars reflect French winemaking traditions that shaped the operation.
The complex sits on a hillside, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for steps and uneven ground. The stone buildings stay cool inside, so bring a light layer if you plan to spend time in the cellars and production areas.
The winery holds the designation U.S. Bonded Winery No. 1, making it the first registered winery in the entire Finger Lakes region. This status reflects its role as a pioneering producer in American winemaking.
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