Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is celebrating an extraordinary milestone this year: 40 years of great wines and great times! Founded in 1985 by the late Jerry and Elaine Hazlitt, this family-owned and operated winery on Seneca Lake has grown from humble beginnings into one of the most beloved destinations in the Finger Lakes.
At a time when the future of the farming industry was uncertain – and producing a red Catawba wine was almost unheard of – the Hazlitts introduced Red Cat, which went on to become one of New York State’s top-selling wines. The family’s vision continued to expand with the 2011 purchase of the former Widmer Wine Cellars (now Hazlitt Red Cat Cellars) and the launch of East Coast Crush and Co-Pack, a custom beverage production facility serving clients worldwide. Through it all, the Hazlitt family has stayed true to their roots – committed to the land, dedicated to crafting award-winning wines, and continuing to offer that warm and welcoming hospitality that makes Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards one of the most popular stops for locals and visitors alike.
“When we started the winery in 1985, our parents couldn’t have imagined where we would be today,” said Leigh Hazlitt Triner, sixth-generation co-CEO. “We are so humbled and proud to carry on the family legacy and wouldn’t be here without our incredible team, loyal customers, and supportive community that have become part of the Hazlitt story.”
To mark this special milestone, the Hazlitt family is hosting Red Cat’s 40th Anniversary Harvest Party on Sunday, September 21, at their Seneca Lake location. Guests can expect a memorable, fun-filled day of music, wine, and celebration, plus exclusive anniversary merchandise—including a commemorative 40th Anniversary Red Cat labeled wine—available in the gift shop.
Highlights of the party include:
- 30% off case purchases all weekend
- Live music and complimentary wine tastings
- Local craft vendors and food trucks
- Helicopter rides provided by FLX Helicopter Tours
- Exclusive winemaker’s tasting experiences
To learn more about Red Cat’s 40th Anniversary Harvest Party, please visit hazlitt1852.com/event/red-cats-40th-anniversary-harvest-party.
In true Hazlitt fashion, the day will be relaxed, laid-back, and filled with laughter and joy. Admission is free and all are welcome to attend.
“Forty years calls for a big party,” says Doug Hazlitt, sixth generation, co-CEO. “We can’t wait to celebrate this amazing accomplishment and raise a glass and toast to the next 40 years.”
About Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards
The Hazlitt family has grown superb grapes on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, NY, for over 170 years. Established in 1985, Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards continues the family tradition of award-winning viticulture and wine production. Hazlitt Red Cat Cellars was founded in 2011 when the Hazlitt family purchased the 3 million + gallon Widmer Wine Cellars in Naples, New York, from Constellation Brands.
The family’s internationally renowned wines include Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, and Cabernet Franc. In addition, Hazlitt is infamous for Red Cat, White Cat, and Pink Cat – some of the most popular and best-selling New York State wines. For more information, please visit Hazlitt1852.com.
