Write a commentPerched on the shore of Lake Ontario, just outside the village of Sterling, New York on West Bay Road, sits 103 acres of wine making excellence known as Colloca Estate Winery.
Purchased in 2008 by Dr. Chris Colloca, the beautiful grounds of Colloca Estate began to take shape in 2009, with the planting of the vineyard and now the winery boasts 900 feet of unobstructed shoreline, a 12 acre vineyard(with over 7 miles of drainage piping), multiple buildings to house the public, areas for entertainment as well as a tasting room complete, with food service, a large stone fireplace and picturesque views of the grounds. In 2017, a 3200 square foot commercial kitchen was added to cater to the over 50 weddings that take place at Colloca each year. The following year, Colloca constructed grape processing and wine making areas, so their award winning wines are made right at the vineyard. In 2018, the winery received a Federal Trademark for its “Lake Effect Vineyard” which is currently growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling varietals. Colloca has brought over 50 seasonal jobs to the community and has 7 full time employees. Their plans for the grounds in the future include an Event Center, a lodge and cabins to accommodate guests.
Owner and founder, Chris Colloca was born right in Oswego, New York. He graduated from Oswego High School(lettering in multiple sports) in 1986 and then attended Ithaca College, where he co-captained the football team, earning All American Honors and a national championship, as well as receiving a Bachelor of Science degree in 1990. After graduating from Ithaca College, Chris went on to graduate Cum Laude from Atlanta’s Life University with a Doctor of Chiropractic(DC) degree in 1995, as well as obtaining a PhD in Kinesiology from Arizona State University. Chris lived in Arizona for 20 years, developing a successful private practice along with a medical device company and a real estate development firm. After having children, Chris and his wife, Mindy, decided to acquire a summer home in New York, so they could be closer to Chris’ family. Chris uses his business and roots in the community to help drive tourism with festivals and events that attract over 500 visitors on any given weekend. Colloca Estate supports many local charities with cash and wine donations, in addition to hosting events and fundraisers, including hosting a barbecue fundraiser for a local boy afflicted with a brain tumor. At that barbecue, Colloca, with the help of their community, was able to raise over $12,000 for the boy’s family.
Chris believes that there is something special happening at Colloca Estate Winery and international experts agree. In several double-blinded international competitions, Colloca has taken some of the top scores. Colloca Lake Effect Vineyard Riesling has taken home a double gold medal at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition in back to back years. In the Australian International Riesling Challenge, Colloca’s Dry Riesling scored 95 points and won the gold in 2017 and 2018. Most recently, their Dolce Riesling won gold and was named “Best In Class” among all Late Harvest entries at the New York Wine and Food Classic. Colloca Estate has garnered numerous awards(too many to list), including 3 gold, 2 silver and a bronze at the New York International Wine Competition, resulting in Colloca being named New York State Riesling Winery of the Year. Colloca plans on expanding their list of grape varietals to include more Chardonnay and Pinot Noir as well as adding Pinot Gris and Cabernet Franc. All these wines and more can be had at the tasting room, along with great food and live entertainment. Go visit Colloca Estate Winery and enjoy a taste of international greatness in your own backyard.
