Sip & Savor: Discovering the Best Brews and Wineries in Herkimer County
There’s something special about raising a glass in the heart of the Mohawk Valley. Maybe it’s the view — rows of vines catching the late-afternoon light, or a frothy pint poured in a small-town pub where the laughter is easy and the stories flow freely. In Herkimer County, good drinks aren’t just about what’s in the glass; they’re about the places, people, and moments that make each sip memorable.
Nestled between the rolling hills of the Adirondack foothills and the gentle curve of the Mohawk River, this corner of Upstate New York has quietly become a haven for craft-drink lovers. From boutique wineries to local pubs and breweries, Herkimer’s tasting scene pairs perfectly with the region’s rural charm and scenic backdrop — making it an ideal getaway for weekend travelers looking to sip, savor, and slow down.
Trails, Tastings, and Local Stories
The best journeys in Herkimer County end with a toast. The self-guided pub tour in Herkimer leads visitors through some of the county’s most beloved gathering places — a trail of friendly bartenders, local flavors, and small-town hospitality.
At the Asteroga Ale House, rotating taps feature seasonal brews that reflect the spirit of the Adirondacks — crisp ales in summer, hearty stouts in fall, and inventive small-batch creations year-round. A few blocks away, the Endzone Pub serves as a true community hub, where friends gather over burgers and local drafts, swapping stories as the game plays in the background. Rounding out the tour is P.K.’s Pub, a neighborhood favorite that feels like home the moment you walk through the door.
These stops tell the story of Herkimer’s brewing culture — small-scale, independent, and full of heart. It’s less about chasing the biggest name and more about sharing a drink with people who love where they live.
A Taste of the Vine
Beer may have sparked the county’s beverage trail, but Herkimer’s wine scene adds a layer of refinement and surprise. Just outside the village, Domhnall Vineyards & Winery invites guests to sample locally grown wines surrounded by sweeping countryside views. Their tasting room offers a chance to discover crisp whites and smooth reds made with care and patience — the kind of wines that taste even better when enjoyed overlooking the very vines that produced them.
Not far from there, Brimfield Farm Winery extends the experience with panoramic views over the Mohawk Valley. Family-owned and welcoming, the winery pairs its bottles with light bites, events, and the kind of pastoral calm that makes every glass feel like a getaway. Each pour carries a touch of place — the soil, the air, and the rhythm of life in rural New York.
Pairing the Flavors
Herkimer’s culinary scene complements its drinks perfectly. Many of the local pubs and wineries serve food that’s both comforting and creative — from wood-fired pizzas and charcuterie boards to locally sourced cheeses and seasonal small plates. A pint of amber ale pairs beautifully with a classic burger at the Asteroga Ale House, while a glass of chilled rosé finds its match in Brimfield’s light summer salads.
For those exploring the area’s farms and roadside markets, it’s easy to curate your own picnic — a bottle from Domhnall, a loaf of crusty bread, a wedge of local cheese, and an Adirondack overlook to call your own.
