Set along the Niagara Escarpment in Lockport, visitors will find rows of grapevines, a calm lake and gentle forest trails. This picturesque estate is Varallo Vineyards, home of Spring Lake Winery and Ristorante.
“We let the grape tell the story,” says Tamre Varallo, whose family has turned its love of winemaking into a thriving business and event destination.
The story is one of both tradition and innovation. The Varallo family has been making wine for generations, tracing its winemaking roots to Argentina and Italy. Tamre and her husband Dr. Nicholas Varallo started the business in 2008, and they’ve adapted classic materials and techniques to the unique terroir of the Niagara region.
“We grow an estate Riesling that is a German varietal clone on a New York State rootstock,” Tamre explains. The resulting vintages have medaled in the U.S. Wine Buyers Competition, the London International Wine & Spirit Competition, the Canberra International Riesling Challenge and more.
Now, nearly two decades in, the couple’s adult children play a role in the business. Son Dominic oversees the winemaking processes, finding new ways for customers to enjoy the fruits of the family’s labor. Some recent innovations include a portion of the vineyard’s Riesling that is aging in tequila barrels for a summer 2026 release. A non-alcoholic version of the signature wine will also be available this fall.
The 130 acres of Varallo Vineyards include an 8-acre lake, walking trails for self-guided tours and a restaurant, event facilities, lodging and a growing list of immersive activities. From weddings to corporate retreats and guided tours, the winery serves as a scenic setting for private parties and special events. The visitor experience is just as big a priority as the quality of the wine.
“Our tagline has always been ‘fine wine and memorable experiences,’” Tamre says.
This philosophy has led to local recognition and wider acclaim. In 2025 alone, Spring Lake Winery was voted as top winery in The Buffalo News’ Best of 716 awards and listed in My Bartender’s “Top 30 Wineries in New York State.”
A 45-minute drive from Buffalo and just over an hour from Rochester, Spring Lake hosts live music on Sundays in the summer, an annual Father’s Day car show and additional special events throughout the season.
“We have a wine walk a couple times a year where people can go into the woods and do a wine-tasting experience,” Tamre adds.
Brunch, lunch and dinner service can be enjoyed in the tasting room, pavilion, lakeside or in the wine garden. In-house chef Monica Fonzi has prepared a menu that focuses on fresh, seasonal flavors and of course, is made to be savored with a glass of wine.
For the Varallo family, hospitality for all is key. From couples on a date to big parties, everyone is welcome.
“We want people to come and just relax and enjoy life.”
