Merritt Estate Winery was the first farm winery organized in Chautauqua County under regulations signed by Governor Carey in 1976, but the history of the Merritt Estate dates all the way back to the late 1800's. Back then the original homestead belonged to the parents of Marguerite Merritt-Sample, which means Merritt Estate has been in the family since the late 19 th century.

William T. Merritt turned the estate into a fully functioning winery back in 1976, and since then his son, Jason C. Merritt, joined the family operation in 1998. The father and son duo dedicate themselves to their small vineyard and devote their time and energy into producing quality fruit for their impeccable wines. For them, it's not about quantity, but about the value of harvesting superior grapes.

Merritt Estate is located in the largest grape growing region of New York State. The grapes and wines produced in this area rival the quality of premium vintages throughout the world.