The Story of Glenora

The first winery on Seneca Lake, widely known for its warm hospitality and magnificent lakeside setting, has garnered exemplary reviews both in and outside the Finger Lakes region.

How It All Began…

When the Farm Winery Act of 1976 was passed, Gene Pierce, along with Eastman Beers, Edward Dalrymple—independent grape growers at the time—and businessman Howard Kimball, seized the opportunity to open the very first winery on Seneca Lake.

Established in 1977 and officially opened in May of 1978, Glenora Wine Cellars produced 5,000 cases and received instant acclaim when its initial vintage won several medals at the New York State Fair wine competition. These visionaries watched their farm winery grow into a commercial producer, later earning recognition in Wine Spectator as one of the world’s top wineries.

In 1987, the winery expanded its production facility and retail space, significantly increasing visitor capacity. This expansion also introduced The Wine Garden Café, the first winery restaurant on the western shores of Seneca Lake.

In 1999, owners Gene Pierce, Ed Dalrymple, and Scott Welliver oversaw the creation of a 30-room inn and Veraisons Restaurant, which officially opened in June 2000. This addition transformed Glenora into a full-service winery resort, offering guests exceptional accommodations and farm-to-table cuisine in the heart of the Finger Lakes.

For decades, Glenora Wine Cellars, The Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars, and Veraisons Restaurant operated under the ownership of Gene Pierce and Scott Welliver, whose shared vision and leadership contributed significantly to the growth and reputation of the Finger Lakes wine industry.

A New Chapter

In 2025, Glenora Wine Cellars, including the winery, inn, and restaurant, was acquired by Lilly Broadcasting, a privately owned American company led by brothers Brian and Kevin Lilly. The acquisition reflects a continued commitment to preserving Glenora’s legacy of excellence while investing in its future as a premier destination for wine, hospitality, and scenic experiences in the Finger Lakes region.

Glenora Wine Cellars, The Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars, & Veraisons Restaurant offers the opportunity to enjoy all the amenities of the Finger Lakes in one beautiful location!

We invite you to visit and Experience the Excellence of Glenora Wine Cellars, The Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars and Veraisons.  Glenora is open 364 days of the year, closed on December 25th.