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Mazza Chautauqua Cellars

History

Western New York's Premier Winery, Disitillery and Café

The Mazza name has been synonymous with fine wine production in the Chautauqua-Lake Erie grape-growing region since the early 1970s. Mazza Vineyards in North East, PA, expanded their operations to the Chautauqua area in 2005, allowing them to open western New York’s first distillery, which happens to be in walking distance from the Chautauqua Institution. Having a branch operation in New York state allowed Mazza Wines to expand their wine list while also increasing the importing and exporting of wines. Visitors to both Mazza Vineyards and Mazza Chautauqua Cellars will notice two distinct wine lists, unique to each location.

The highlight of the distilling operation at Mazza Chautauqua Cellars is the Christian Carl pot still, imported from Germany, which rises from the ceramic tile floor like a beautiful, contemporary sculpture. From this still, Mazza’s distillers produce fine products such as eau de vies, “the essence of life,” grappa, and the spirits used to fortify their sherries, ports, and fortes. They have also begun production of their newest beverage, “Pear in the Bottle,” where actual pears are grown inside bottles and then enveloped with pear brandy.

Glance around the Mediterranean style winery and distillery and you’ll discover a blend of old-world charm and the latest technology. This “green” building employs geo-thermal heating and cooling methods, energy-efficient lighting, and recycled materials so they are as friendly to the environment as they are to their customers.