By Kate Bartlett
Located in scenic Forestville in Chautauqua County, Merritt Estate Winery is celebrating their 50th Anniversary at their annual Septemberfest this month. As a family-owned, award-winning winery, it offers scenic vineyards along rolling hills in a warm, welcoming atmosphere with a wide range of dry, sweet and specialty wines. Their annual Septemberfest will run Saturday, September 12 (11am-10pm) and Sunday, September 13 (12pm-6:30pm).
Septemberfest features two days of live music, food, drinks and craft vendors in a family-friendly environment with a bounce house, balloon artist and more. Entry and parking are free, making it an affordable weekend outing for you and your family.
A rgreat lineup of local rock, blues, and cover bands performs throughout the weekend on the outdoor stage. Saturday’s music lineup includes Midnight Recovery, Black Widow, and Uncovered, while Sunday features a performance by and Qwister. “We invite people to bring a lawn chair, a blanket, and set up for the day to enjoy the music and each other.” Saturday’s bands are returning favorites, while Qwister brings a new sound to the festival with upbeat reggae beats.
In the food pavilion, guests can enjoy classic festival foods including Chiavetta’s Chicken BBQ, apple crisp dessert, local craft beers on tap, and signature wine slush. The festival will feature 6 of their standard wine slush flavors, including crowd favorites sangria, XTC and loganberry, along with a new flavor to be announced. “Our wine slush is a crowd favorite,” explains Payton Allessi, Merritt Winery’s Marketing Assistant.
The festival also features a lemonade tent for refreshing non-alcoholic options. “We’re excited to expand our offerings at the festival so we can include everyone in the celebration,” explained Payton. This area is popular with families, offering a variety of activities including a bounce house and balloon artist for all ages.
More than 25 local boutiques and artisan vendors offer handmade goods, jewelry, and gourmet treats. “Visitors can expect to find favorite vendors along with new local artisans,” explains Payton. “We love to support new and upcoming merchants, providing a variety of goods to festival goers.”
This year, in celebration of their 50th Anniversary, Merritt Estates has released a special edition of their award-winning wine: Winemaster’s Choice. This wine stands out as a trademark wine and is perfect to celebrate this milestone. Winemaster’s Choice signature red blend is crafted for wine lovers who appreciate traditional, deep flavor profiles as a dry, medium bodied, Burgundy-style red wine. Winemaster’s Choice is currently available and will remain on sale throughout this year.
Founded by William T. Merritt in 1976, Merritt was one of the first farm wineries organized in Chautauqua County under the 1976 Farm Winery Act. The estate itself dates back to the late 1800s, when the original homestead belonged to the parents of Marguerite Merritt Sample. Over the years, the festival has expanded and evolved to meet the needs of the community, but it has always remained a true family operation. William’s son, Jason Merritt, is the General Manager of the winery, and continues their mission to be community oriented.
Septemberfest is a true reflection of the community focused mindset of Merritt Estate Winery. “Festival goers will see Merritt Estate employees interacting with nearly everyone here,” explains Payton. “Even those of us who aren’t directly related to the Merritts feel like family. We love to get to know our guests and aim to build connections with our community. You’ll see us taking selfies, laughing, and having a good time alongside our guests.”
In addition to the festival in September, Merritt Estate Winery offers tastings year-round, as well as their annual Strawberry Festival in June and Hallow-wine Weekends in the fall season. “We invite people to come out to the estate year-round, building a strong community in all seasons.”
For more information, visit merrittestatewinery.com, follow Merritt Winery on social media, or call 716-965-4800. Visit Merritt Estate Winery at 2264 King Road, Forestville for Septemberfest on Saturday and Sunday September 12-13.