FAQ
The Winery and The Farm
It was originally part of Molly Brown’s in Jamestown, N.Y. It passed hands several times before arriving at the winery. Ella was originally across the street during cherry picking season but eventually made her way across the street once the winery was built. She actually was painted pink for our grand opening event in April 2012 when we released our “Ellatawba” wine. Click here for more information about Ella.
The name of 21 Brix (pronounced: bricks) Winery pays homage to the grapes that have been part of the Jordan’s family history and tradition for years. Not only do the owners of 21 Brix Winery have an interest and passion in viticulture, but this crop has sustained the family for the past four decades. We wanted to incorporate the grape heritage and importance of grape growing into the winery which is how the term ‘brix’ was chosen for the name. Brix is the measurement scale used to determine the sugar levels in the grapes. Most of the grapes used for juice are harvested once they reach 14 – 15 brix while wine grapes generally reach their optimal maturity once they measure 21 brix for sweetness.
Most of the wines that are made at 21 Brix Winery use the grapes grown on the farm (Olde Chautauqua Farms). From Riesling and Chardonnay grapes to Noiret and Concord to more than 10 other varieties, most of the grapes travel less than a mile from the vineyards to our
press!
Concord grapes.
The farm owns thousands of dwarf cherry trees and opens their U-Pick orchard at the end of June. The exact opening date changes each year based upon the ripeness of the fruit. Please contact the farm directly at 716-792-9440 for orchard information.
Our Wines and Winemaking
Red: Thirsty Elephant (6.5% residual sugar)
White: Ella’s White (7% residual sugar)
Red: Noiret (0% residual sugar)
White: Grüner Veltliner (0% residual sugar)
Grüner Veltliner
Pinot Grigio
Chardonnay
Sauvignon Blanc
Dry Riesling
Semi-Dry Riesling
Naked Chardonnay
Marquis
Gewürztraminer
Ella’s White
Blaufränkisch
Cabernet Sauvignon
Pinot Noir
Noiret
Ella’s Red
Yes, we currently offer:
Dry Rosé
Ellatawba
Rosé
Thirsty Elephant
Yes, we currently have:
Brutella
Raspberry
Champella
Noiret Ice Wine
Cherry
Vidal Ice Wine
Apple
Portland
Blueberry
Our head winemaker, Kris Kane opted to switch most of our wines (excluding dry reds) to screw caps over the last two years. Kris felt that screw caps helped to preserve the wines better since cork is a naturally occurring product and can create faults with the wine. By using the screw caps, the wine is being sampled and enjoyed at its optimal flavor and aroma peak and as the
winemaker intended.
Our Tasting Room
In addition to a wide selection of wines available from dry reds and whites to sweet and fruit wines, we also offer local craft beers on tap. Some of the local breweries we have offered in the past include Southern Tier Brewing Company, Hamburg Brewing Company, 42 North Brewing, and Ellicottville Brewing Company. We also offer a hard cider in addition to wine slushies during the warmer months (generally April – October). Per the New York State Liquor Authority, outside alcohol is not permitted on our property or in the winery itself. Non-alcoholic beverages including bottled water, sparkling water and soft drinks are also available for purchase.
Yes, you are more than welcome to bring in your own snacks or finger foods. We do ask that if you’re bringing a hot dish, that you also supply oven mitts or placemats so as not to damage our tables. We do offer a selection of foods including cheese and cracker platters, Bavarian pretzels and a charcuterie platter. Check out our current food menu.
Yes, we are one of the 20+ wineries with Lake Erie Wine Country. We participate in all of the wine trail events including Wine and Chocolate in February and the Harvest Celebration weekends in November.
Yes, our wines are currently available in stores throughout Western New York. Check out our interactive map to find the location closest to you.
Yes, they are available through our online store in various denominations.
Yes, we do! Some of our most popular events include :
- Beats at the Brix music series (last Saturday of every month, 7:00 – 9:00pm
- Sippin’ Sundays music series (every Sunday afternoon in August, 1:00 – 4:00pm)
- Soupin’ Sundays (every Sunday from mid-January until mid-March, 11:00am – 3:00pm or
sold out!)
- Adult Only Easter Egg Hunt (Saturday before Easter, 11:00am
Yes, our winery has hosted numerous events including showers, engagement dinners and birthday parties. There are several options in regards to holding your event during or after regular business hours since we use our tasting room for events. If you would like to request more information about events, contact us here!