Every year, Hudson Valley Magazine carefully ranks local businesses that wow their audience for their annual 'Best of Hudson Valley' awards. From readers' votes, to editors' sips and samplings, the 'Best of Hudson Valley' has given businesses the honor of becoming a certified Hudson Valley favorite, for over 30 years. And this year, Gardiner has not one, but FIVE big winners to represent our blossoming town. Below are Hudson Valley Magazine reader's choice and editor's picks for Gardiner's best.
Tasting of the Vidal Blanc
Whitecliff Vineyard
This year, Whitecliff Vineyard has claimed the reader's choice for "Best Winery" of 2017; a spot that Millbrook Vineyard had held 17 years in a row prior. Located on Mckinstry Lane with a view of the Shawangunk Ridge, Whitecliff Vineyard boasts a selection of 25 red, white and rosé varietals and blends, many of which, have claimed awards. From small beginnings in 1979, the vineyard sits atop several acres of land now home to over 20 varieties of grapes. Yancey explains that "We set out to help put the Hudson Valley on the 'wine map.' Today, we have one of the region's largest vineyards and have brought the best white in show award home from the San Francisco International Wine Competition in addition to our Hudson Valley Award Winner, the Vidal Blanc." We suggest stopping in to the winery to enjoy beautiful views, great company and exceptional wine. To learn more about their tastings, visit their website here.
McMahon's Contracting
McMahon's Contracting brings more than 26 years of home remodeling and general contracting experience to the table. Started by Thomas McMahon, McMahon's contracting prides itself on offering thoughtful expertise and a level of diligent care that is unsurpassed by the competition. In fact, they describe themselves as a firm that takes "extreme care to provide everything a property owner needs to make their building/remodeling dreams a reality. From feasibility studies, to design services, to execution of plans, to management of all permits, to expert project management of every facet of the work involved... [they'll] handle your project professionally, from concept to completion." And we think it's no wonder that this specialty contractor has taken this year's Reader's Choice for 'Best Contractor' 2017. To learn more about McMahon's services, visit there website here.
The ever-popular Reuben Streudel
Mountain Brauhaus
Ever walk into a restaurant and feel like you're at a home away from home? Enter Mountain Brauhaus - your rustic, German 'home away from home.' Opened by German settlers and brothers in 1955, what was formerly known as the "Sugar Bowl" has been passed on from one generation to the next and has become a staple in our town of Gardiner. You might even say that it's become a stomping grounds for locals, climbers and out-of-towners to join one another for a pint, good company and a hearty meal. If the line that often finds it's way out the door is any indication, prepare yourself for some seriously delicious German food, (seriously). To view their menu and hours, visit their website here.
Creative Kids tent at the Sunflower Art Festival
Sunflower Art Studios
At Sunflower Art Studios, there is a commitment to bringing visibility and accessibility to the arts without economic division. As Liz Glover Wilson explains, "We believe that all citizens should have access to the arts. We believe art should be fun and allow individual expression. We believe that art brings a community together." Throughout the year, Sunflower Art Studios offers several art programs designed with purpose for young children as well as fun projects for adults. This special non-profit also offers multiple fundraising opportunities to benefit the community, including the well-known Sunflower Art Festival of 2015 and 2016. In addition to the K-6 after school programs, the Studio offers it's space for kids birthday parties, sip and paints, and pop-up shops throughout the year. To learn more about Sunflower Art Studios' mission, visit their website here.
Gardiner Liquid Mercantile local offerings
Gardiner Liquid Mercantile
Both the bar and kitchen at the Gardiner Liquid Mercantile emphasize homemade spirits and ‘nosh’, craft preparation and local products. In fact, much of the herbs utilized in the tavern’s cocktails and fare grow in the restaurant’s backyard garden cultivated by Executive Chef, Patricia Lowden. Likewise, the bar and tavern headed by Zoli Rozen claims it’s own house-made commodities comprising of shrubs, syrups, Liqueurs and Eau de Vies. And while the handcrafted cocktails steal the show, the Mercantile storefront sells locally crafted spirits, wines, ciders and elixirs unique to the Hudson Valley that are available daily. So whether you’re looking for great company, are in the mood for a handcrafted, mouthwatering cocktail or are seeking some of the most delicious eats in the area, we've got just the place in mind. To learn more about this farm bar, visit their website here.
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Article and Pictures by:
Lucia Civile
LACE Photo Media
