About Hosmer Winery

January 2008

Cameron Hosmer’s father, a Syracuse textile manufacturer, had envisioned growing grapes on the gentle slopes of Cayuga Lake at the family’s summer home.  His vision took shape when Cameron and Maren started planting grapevines in the late 1970’s.  Although Cameron’s father didn’t get to see full fruition of this dream, the farm has grown to over 60 acres of premium wine grapes.

After fifteen years of selling their grapes to others, Cameron and Maren had their own vision of making and selling their own wine.  With a degree in Pomology from Cornell University and a semester at California State University, Fresno (renowned for their world-class programs in viticulture and enology), Cameron had both the background and experience to get started in the budding industry.  With their first vintage of 2,500 gallons in 1985, they opened a tasting room in their garage in the fall of 1986.

In 1990, with increased production and growing recognition, the decision was made to renovate a barn across the street and inaugurate a new tasting and retail facility.  The friendly atmosphere and knowledgeable staff introduces thousands of visitors a year to a memorable tasting experience.   The Tasting and Retail facility is located on State Route 89, along the western shore of Cayuga Lake, just 20 miles north of Ithaca.

Today, Hosmer produces 20 thousand gallons of wine annually.  At this boutique level, Cameron is able to assure the excellence of the entire process, from the basic fruit to the finished wine.  He works closely with Vineyard Manager, Mike DeGaray and Winemaker, Aaron Roisen to produce consistent quality wines in the European tradition.

Hosmer wines include a wide variety of styles made from traditional vinifera, as well as French-American hybrid varieties.

Hosmer wines have been recognized consistently over the years at both regional and international competitions, as well as by the Wine Spectator.  Most recently, the May 15, 2007 edition of the Wine Spectator published ratings for three of our wines: our 2005 Chardonnay earned a grade of 84, the 2005 Pinot Noir received an 83, and our first bottling of Lemberger from the 2005 vintage, was rated 82.  In November 2006, the Wine Spectator scored three of our wines with an 84 or above, and in October 2005, recognized us with three scores of no less than 84.  Other top honors include winning “Best of Category” and a Double Gold medal for the non-vintage Sparkling Wine at the 2005 NY Wine & Food Classic.  Our popular proprietary blend, Estate Red earned “Best of Class” and a Gold medal at the 2004 NY State Fair Competition.  In 2003, the Cabernet Franc was voted “Best of Class” and received a Double Gold medal.  Hosmer was recognized in the New York Times and USA Today when our Dry Riesling earned the Governor’s Cup, “Best White Wine” and “Best Riesling” at the 2002 New York Wine and Food Classic.

Hosmer Wines are available in liquor stores and fine restaurants throughout most of New York State.  Shipping is available directly from the winery, some restrictions apply.