Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is a family-owned winery in the Finger Lakes region of New York, deeply tied to the area’s agricultural and winemaking heritage. The “1852” in the name refers to the year the Hazlitt family first settled on the land around Seneca Lake, where they began farming long before the vineyards were planted. Generations later, in 1985, the family formally established the winery, carrying forward that legacy into the modern wine industry.

The estate vineyards benefit from the cool-climate conditions of the Finger Lakes, with Seneca Lake’s moderating effect helping grapes ripen slowly while retaining freshness and acidity. Hazlitt has built a reputation for producing wines that are approachable, fruit-driven, and expressive of the region’s character. Classic varieties like Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Gewürztraminer sit alongside blends and sweeter wines that appeal to a broad audience, reflecting both the serious and playful sides of the brand.

Perhaps the most famous Hazlitt creation is Red Cat, a sweet, easy-drinking red wine that became something of a cult favorite in New York and beyond. Its lighthearted marketing and fun identity introduced many new drinkers to the idea of wine as casual and enjoyable rather than formal. Alongside this, Hazlitt produces more traditional, terroir-driven bottlings that demonstrate the Finger Lakes’ potential for high-quality, cool-climate wines.

As a brand, Hazlitt 1852 embodies both history and personality. It honors its deep family roots and the farming traditions of Seneca Lake, while also embracing creativity and a sense of fun that has made its wines popular with a wide range of consumers. By balancing heritage with accessibility, Hazlitt 1852 has secured its place as one of the Finger Lakes’ most recognizable and enduring wineries.