If you’ve been a reader here for a while you know that I’ve been to and posted about Millbrook Winery in the past. The grounds make it one of my favorites in the lower Hudson Valley winery region. So as *”M” took the day off and I now work on my own schedule, we decided to have a staycation in a place with beautiful surroundings, tasty drinks and good food nearby.

As she had a Groupon for Millbrook Winery (here if you’re looking) we decided to head over. I met her there, only to find out that she actually plays volleyball with Jake, one of the Managers. (oh M, one day you’ll inspire me to take up sports…one day). We had our wine tasting with the lovely Hailee who although new, was quite up on her wine knowledge, and Jake pitched in with insightful thoughts on the wines, which convinced me to buy a few bottles to savor at home. After that we had our winery tour with the affable and knowledgeable Ronny. (Note: A flight consists of 6 tastings, but we were able to try 8 which I believe was the previous offering.)

Oh yes I learned quite a bit about the vineyards and the grapes planted, nearly all of which I promptly forgot, so if you’re interested you should head over there. Wineries in this area are about a 2 hour trip from NYC or less depending on how you drive up and where you’re driving from.

Towards the end of the week there is “Food Truck Fridays” and on some weekends they have live Jazz. Needless to say there are a lot more people here Friday – Sunday, but as they are open 361 days a year, if you are looking for a fun #MondayStaycation in the Hudson/Harlem Valley, this is the place to go. If you’re coming from the city, the nearest Metro North stop is probably Armenia but you’d have to have transportation from there. If you’re driving you can take the Taconic or head straight up Route 22, which is one lane each way, so be prepared to go slow through towns and behind slower drivers.

Once we completed the tour, I bought 3 bottles, after debating whether to sit there and drink some more and have local olive oil and cheese (from happy cows) or to head to a local eatery. Despite the gorgeous surroundings of Millbrook (from where you can take a peak at Wing Castle in the distance) we head to have a late lunch at Laura’s Kitchen where I indulged in a Eggplant Panini with crispy sweet potato fries.

Short of a veggie burger there didn’t seem to be Vegan options on the menu there are vegetarian options available.

*Readers in case you’re wondering, yes it’s the wonderful “M” with whom I’ve been to Norway, France and Cuba with, having a blast each and every time.

Copyright ©2019 TravelXena.com | All Rights Reserved