Raise a glass to the perfect weekend getaway…only an hour from NYC!
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Hudson Valley, Washingtonville is a charming, front-porch community where history, scenic beauty, and wine all pour freely.
Best known as the home of Brotherhood Winery, America’s oldest continuously operating winery established in 1839, you can explore hand-chiseled underground cellars and sample award-winning vintages.
Beyond the vine, stroll the historic Main Street, bike the peaceful Heritage Trail, or admire the magnificent architecture of the 1887 Moffat Library. It’s a relaxed, classic New York escape that feels miles away from the city hustle.
A glass for generations
Life tends to move fast, and what better way to slow down than by sipping award-winning wines surrounded by rolling vineyards and historic charm?
At Brotherhood Winery, visitors can explore underground cellars dating back to the 19th century, take guided tours that reveal the secrets of traditional winemaking, and enjoy tastings of locally crafted reds, whites, and sparkling varieties.
The picturesque grounds also feature a cozy tasting room, seasonal events, and a charming outdoor courtyard—perfect for lingering over a glass with friends.
Established by John Jaques in Washingtonville, New York, the winery began producing sacramental wines for local churches before expanding into table wines enjoyed nationwide.
Through Prohibition, Brotherhood survived by continuing to make wine for religious purposes—one of the few legal loopholes that allowed it to keep its doors open. Over the decades, it has grown into a beloved Hudson Valley landmark, blending historic winemaking traditions with modern techniques.
Today, visitors can still tour its original underground cellars, where century-old barrels and stone walls tell the story of nearly two centuries of American winemaking heritage.
🍷 What to know
- ✅ Come as you are: No reservations are needed for the regular public tour & tasting—visitors are added to groups as they gather
- 🪪 Say cheese: Valid form of ID is required to participate in the wine tasting
- 💵 Tour pricing: $25 per person. This includes a guided tour through the underground cellars and a tasting of 5 wines (1 oz each) chosen from a catalog of 10 wines
Once your time at the Winery comes to an end, the surrounding village of Washingtonville offers a mix of local flavor, nature, and history to explore.
First settled in 1731, Washingtonville evolved from a modest agricultural outpost into the vibrant village it is today, rich with both Dutch and English influences.
The community’s identity truly began to flourish in the mid-19th century with the arrival of the railroad and the establishment of Brotherhood, its most famous landmark. Even now, as you walk through its tree-lined streets, you can feel the echoes of its long history, making it a charming spot where the past is always present.
🌳 Can’t-miss sites
- 📚 Moffat Library: Built in 1887, this historical library is a beautiful piece of architecture in the village, built with Goshen brick and featuring elaborate stained glass windows.
- 🍁 Heritage Trail (Access near Mays Field): This paved, gentle 19-mile greenway follows the path of the old Erie Railroad. It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, jog, or bike ride past wetlands, wildflowers, and grazing horses.
- 🍔 1839 Restaurant and Bar: Located alongside the Brotherhood Winery, this rustic American restaurant is often noted as a great place for a quiet, good meal with a nice atmosphere.
- 🏞 Wander Main Street: Stroll down the village’s Main Street to admire the 1800s brick storefronts, local art studios, and white-steepled churches, like St. Mary’s or the First Presbyterian Church.
How to get there from NYC:
🚗 By Car
- The winery is located at 100 Brotherhood Plaza Dr., Washingtonville, NY 10992.
- Suggested route: take I‑87 or I‑84/Route 17 toward the Hudson Valley and follow signs toward Washingtonville; parking is available on site.
🚆 Public Transportation
- Train: One option is to take the NJ Transit or other commuter rail to the nearby Salisbury Mills‑Cornwall station (on the Port Jervis line) and then take a short taxi or rideshare to the winery.
- Bus: The ShortLine Bus offers service from Manhattan to the Municipal parking lot on West Main Street in Washingtonville, and from there it’s a short walk or rideshare to the winery.
Learn more about Washingtonville and plan a visit yourself on their website!