We visited with the kids, dogs and grandparents to enjoy the beautiful weather and scenic views--and it was the perfect spot to relax. The kids snacked on cheese and crackers while we sampled wine flights and eventually shared a bottle of wine. The highlight was when the owner stopped by to give us a little wine education, which made the experience even more special. It was a great way to unwind and spend quality time together after a hike at Mt. Nittany. Highly recommend for a laid-back afternoon! read more

I was pleasantly surprised at the wines selection and quality here. Being from New York, I am familiar with wines and wineries and I didn't expect such good products. I ended up buying a couple bottles. Being close to Penn State, they cater to the college crowd, but they still have a large selection of dry wines as well as the sweet. It's a bit of a drive from the main road but it's a lovely building with indoor and outdoor tables and plenty of land and woods to take a walk if you so desire. You can bring your own food or they do have a selection of cheeses available to enjoy with wine. read more

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery - Wineries Near Me - Centre Hall, Pennsylvania

Beautiful vineyard. Perfect for outdoor picnics or romantic dates. Close to Penn State. Dog friendly vineyard. Amazing service! They had good recommendations on wine. read more

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I have been to many famous wineries in California, but Mount Nittany is easily a favorite. The drive to get here takes you through remote roads until you're welcomed into the vineyards. Once inside, you get seated and given a paper to fill out for your tastings. There are two wine flights selections, which are both super affordable ($5.95 for small, $11.95 for large). Of course we opted for the large to get some more wine. They also have a huge selection to choose from with so much variety. When the flights were brought out, we were able to bring them outdoors ourselves. This was so nice with the serene lake and lush greenery all around. The space is so calm and quaint with trees and umbrellas around to provide shade too. As for the wines, I enjoyed most of my picks. In the end, we even ended up taking 4 bottles home with us. My favorite here is the Moscato ($18) if you like something light, sweet, and fruity. The boyfriend really enjoyed the Tailgate Red ($16) that we picked up too. All of the wines from the tasting to the bottles are all under $20 for such a great value. The best part is you can bring your own food or charcuterie to enjoy, which we did. They do so offer charcuterie for purchase here too if you don't have time to get something beforehand. Definitely a lovely way to spend a few hours while in the area. It's so beautiful and relaxing here. read more

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The vineyard staff is delightful.Bring your own picnic grab a flight or bottle of your favorite flavor and find your perfect table on the covered deck under a nice shade tree around the fire pit or a table around the pond. Enjoy! read more

This was our second stop on our journey to the Finger Lakes, but this was our first one in State College. When I reviewed all of these places, you never know what you're going to expect. We pulled up to the winery which appears to be in an older building, the expectation may dwindle but you never know what is beyond the glass. Our server was Debbie, who works at the winery, she shared valuable insights with us in regards to the rich history of the winery. She mentioned that the family's long history of owning cultivating the vineyard and winery. originally, they planted grapes for personal use, bu tlater expanded to open a winery. They initi8ally planted 6 acres of grapes on the property, from which they produced sweet wine. Now, sourcing grapes from various regions including Washington, oregon, California, and the Finger lakes to help make the other wines they produce. Debbie described the place as stunning, especially in the summer, and we should stop back when the weather is warmer. We found the experience from talking to Debbie (down time as we were here at the opening of the winery and it's in the dead of winter) who was exceptional, friendly and welcoming. We enjoyed all of the wines that we tried here. I believe we purchased 4 bottles of wine to go. This is only 2.5 hours from us and easily a nice driver to purchase much more wine to take a case home. This was our favorite winery that we tried in State College. I can't wait for our next visit in the summer. read more

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We've been disappointed a few times. In particular, when we've ordered the larger pours and not gotten anything more than in the smaller ones (once had both at the same table, once just saw others...easy to compare based on where the glass decor falls). And it def looked like it was bc the large weren't large vs the smalls being generous. We didn't feel heard when we mentioned it...we could have been satisfied with an apology of the "your experience wasn't what you hoped for" (i.e. we did not expect to be comped or given more)...but left feeling dismissed more than once They have some good wines, esp for my husband's pallete (I just prefer very deep, dry, bold reds...so I'm harder and not very representative). We'd return for the wine and the spot (beautiful land, cool buildings) but unlikely to give it another shot bc of the above read more

A cozy winery, a few minutes, drive from the heart of State College. Almost has more of a ski lodge feel - rural, semi-isolated, and rustic with a classy and yet inviting vibe. The staff is super friendly and engaging. A long list of options with their dry reds and off-dry offerings being my personal favorites. Of note, I like the Cab Franc as a dinner wine option, and the tailgate white as a yummy social option. Other standouts include the Tailgate White and Tailgate Red, the Moscato and the Riesling. The "larger tastings" are quite ample and worth spending the extra time enjoying. Bottle prices are very reasonable and provide a great value. Highly recommended if you're in the area. read more

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery - the tasting area - Wineries Near Me - Centre Hall, Pennsylvania

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Kinda rude when arrived. Reservation was a little skewed up. Was nice until we got cut off after 2.5 servings of wine. But at the same time they were selling bottles of wine to individuals to drink outside some people even had 2 bottles in the same time frame. Won't be coming back. read more

My partner and I love getting to come here. We love getting to drink wine and eat cheese inside (with AC) and get to walk around after finishing up. The staff is always so kind. We love coming here and getting some local wine! The wine tasting is extremely affordable so always nice to stop by. read more

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We had a great experience here. The staff were very friendly and easy going. The wine flight was perfect - wines were delicious and reasonably priced. The view and ambience overall were very nice on a perfect fall afternoon read more

Post Covid update: They've since expanded and built a really nice indoor seating area that is perfect for the colder months: a blazing fireplace, comfortable seating, a couple beers on their menu, and now even food offerings (although you can still BYO)! I've gotta give them an additional star for the great indoor seating, expanded menu, and figuring out their early kinks with their service. This is one of the best places in the area to spend a few hours enjoying wine and cheese. read more

An updated review in the times of COVID: They have a great outdoor space and table for sitting, you can bring food to go with your wine and it's a very pleasant experience. Unfortunately when we were there, a large group of (at least 20) college kids took the picnic table next to us. They accumulated slowly so at first it wasn't an issue but more came and eventually they moved two more picnic tables to make a total of three tables. They were loud, rambunctious, and many of them were not wearing masks as they walked by other groups and tables. I mentioned this to the ladies working inside and they thanked me for saying something and offered to help my group find a better place to sit but we had already finished our visit and were heading out. I hope they said something to the group to disperse them a bit but we didn't stay long enough to find out. I'm glad places like this can still operate but if they don't watch the college kids it's very likely we will have another shutdown during which the winery can't operate. The university is mostly to blame, but letting the kids move tables together and be generally obnoxious doesn't help the situation either. read more

My husband and I stopped by on what started as a breezy day with clear skies. We walked in and were surprised by how small it was - but don't let its size fool you, Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery packs a punch! The selection is great and they have something for every palate. They also carry a great selection of local jams, dressings, etc. The staff was absolutely amazing. They were so nice and welcoming as well as knowledgeable about each of the wines we tasted. Toward the end of our visit, we stepped outside into the patio area for a gorgeous view! A while later, it started pouring rain so we had to head back inside and the staff were so nice to clear out a small table for us to continue enjoying our wine indoors and clear of the rain. Overall, I give 5 stars and 2 thumbs up! Well done! read more

This is one of the most lovely wineries in the central pennsylvania region! The women who run it are so, so sweet & the wine is delicious. I make sure to stop by when I am in town every summer. Beautiful mountain views and greenery outside, as well as a well-kept pond. Highly recommend! read more

I feel fortunate to be able to visit this quaint winery every time I come to see one of my best friends. The workers are always friendly, the wine offerings are potent yet unique from one another, and the winery itself is beautiful. If the weather permits, it's always so relaxing to sit outside on their shaded patio and observe the fields and elements. You can also buy snacks and tailgating items (e.g. items for slushies, carrying cases, etc.), if you're in town for a Penn State football game. I can't wait for my next visit! read more

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery - Wineries Near Me - Centre Hall, Pennsylvania

Perfect place to spend a Saturday in State College! This passed weekend was my first time at Mount Nittany and it was beautiful! The weather was nice, and the view of the pond and mountains is perfect with a glass of wine. The employees were all very nice and accommodating, and were able to seat my group of 8 at a table in 15 min (despite being very busy). Helpful Tip: you can bring a blanket and food, buy a bottle of wine, and sit by the pond! No reservation needed and no time for a wait! I didn't realize this, and will be doing it at my next visit! read more

I passed this winery on a small road trip that I went on.I decided to check it out because the scenery around looked beautiful! The wine was delicious and the back porch was very nice. I would give it five stars if it wasn't for this weird cheese plate situation that they have going on. When I called the woman mentioned that if I don't bring my own food that I had to purchase cheese and salami at the location. I believe this to be a charcuterie platter which I had no issues buying. When I got there they directed me to a refrigerator where I got plastic wrapped cheese and they gave me a scuffed up cutting board and knife and sent me outside with my wine flight. I think the wine set up is really great but I think that the staff members seemed very stressed out as soon as a large crowd came in, And I believe if you are asking somebody to spend $20 on cheese and salami it could at least be plated and look nice. I would go there again but I would bring my own snack platter. read more

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery - wine glasses on a table - Wineries Near Me - Centre Hall, Pennsylvania

Beautiful winery! Great seating options and the wine is very very good!!!! You may bring food or purchase cheese, salami and crackers for about 20$. This place is a gem!! read more

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Went here on a Saturday afternoon. The forecast had rain so there really weren't very many people. The place is very lovely, drinking wine around a pond with the mountain in the background. All the wine was really good. The white wine were far better than the red. The sweet wines are VERY sweet. It started pouring rain and there were a few picnic tables that were covered and it was nice to sit outside and watch the rain. Highly recommend giving this place a try. read more

The most amazing, beautiful winery around. I enjoyed my time here start to finish! Delicious, tasteful wines -- you will want to leave with every bottle! The cheese/meat boards were the perfect pairings. The lake and hillside views were unbeatable. We came here again during the snowy winter when it was too cold to be outside. Even indoors, the fireplace and woodside are so cozy and pleasant. There are a lot of surrounding wineries within PA but this establishment takes the cake hands down. I recommend to anyone and I will most definitely be back! read more

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An excerpt from my book going LOCAL! In July of 1990 Mount Nittany Winery was opened for business by Joe and Betty Carroll, who had been amateur winemakers for 20 years. A chalet-style building houses a state of the art bottling line and spiral staircase leads upstairs to the tasting room which provides views of the adjacent pond, mountain range and the five acre vineyard which surrounds you like a warm ocean of peace and tranquility. One reason behind the success of the winery is a well-suited microclimate. The open exposure and excellent air drainage off the southern slope of Mt. Nittany protects against early and late frost damage and creates a favorable environment for growing European wine grapes. The five acre vineyard has seven varieties, including Cayuga, Seyval Blanc, Riesling, Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, de Chaunac, and Cabernet Sauvignon. All this science and nature brings home medal after medal from some of the most recognized wine festivals and competitions in Pennsylvania. This is also a place that goes LOCAL! Not only do they use only PA grapes to supplement their need for raw juice, but all the other products they sell out of the wine tasting room are of local origin. Besides my book (plug), they sell products from Tait Farm, Village Eating House, Piper's Peck, and cheeses from Clover Creek and Goot Essa just to name a few. So take the beautiful drive up to the base of Mt. Nittany from Brush Valley Road between Oak Hall and Linden Hall, and drink it the goodness of our only locally owned and operated winery. Enjoy! read more

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery - Wineries Near Me - Centre Hall, Pennsylvania

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A winery in a college town in a beautiful setting. Great for the picture aesthetic and up on a cute windy road. Felt very safe with the COVID precautions. But, here is the issue. We went in a group of 7. We are all college graduates, but were not treated like them. We were given the plastic cups because they didn't want to waste the flights on us, but it was our friend's birthday and all she wanted was the typical treatment. The wine is good. Would I go back though? Yes. read more

I may be biased because I'm a Penn State Alumni, but this is my favorite Pennsylvania Winery. The staff is very helpful and the selection of wines is amazing. They have a predominantly sweet wine selection, but their dry and red wines are some of their most decorated in their bottles. For about $8 you can do a wine tasting and as well a tour of the facilities (please make a reservation). Their wine master iced the tours of the facilities and offers an insider look to the wine making process as well as a plethora of knowledge about the vines, types of grapes used to make each wine, etc. After your tor and tasting you can enjoy a bottle on their back porch, which opens up to the stunning grounds and pond, which makes for a great afternoon. If you're lucky, you'll be visited by Yoda the Calico Cat, whom isn't their Cat actually, it's the neighboring farm's pet, but she like to hang out and is super friendly. A must visit for anyone in Centre County. read more

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Beautiful grounds and tasting room along with some pretty good wines makes Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery one of the best. I was worried going into Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery, about 15 minutes outside of State College, due to their focus on sweeter wines. In my experience, whenever a winery has predominately sweeter wines they are catering to a tourist crowd (not that sweet wines are all awful, as I've had some really good ones, but I'm right nine out of ten times). But it turns out dry lovers have nothing to fear here. Mount Nittany also has a beautiful backyard pond with picnic tables and an inviting patio - real Instagram-worthy views here. Also, tasting are free for groups less than eight. My girlfriend and I kept our tastings to the dry whites, dry reds, and semi-dry whites. The Chardonnay Reserve is an oaked dry wine that owes its buttery flavor to California Chardonnay, in contrast with the regular unoaked Chardonnay. Acid lovers will love the Pinot Grigio, with a dry crisp finish. Onward (State) to the reds, I was again impressed by the craftsmanship. The Montage is their blended red with Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot and had good fruit flavors and medium body. But I think the Cabernet Sauvignon and the Cabernet Franc by themselves are the optimal way to taste them. The Cab Sauv is fuller bodied with excellent tannin structure and has that little bit smooth texture, while the Cab Franc is closer to medium body with a sharp pepper taste. The Merlot has familiar smooth texture and bold fruit flavor, and the Syrah and Cab Franc blended Proprietor's Red, with grapes brought in from California, offers something different from the other wines. While none of the semi-sweets I tried were life changing, they had good balance of dry/sweet and are good wines for sweeter drinkers wanting to try the dryer wines. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised by Mount Nittany - yes they have a variety of semi-sweet and sweet wines for sweet lovers and casual wine fans. But the dry whites and reds are definitely worthwhile, and everything we tried were flavorful and extremely well-crafted. These folks are the real deal and definitely worth a visit (and bring your Penn State ticket for a free wine glass). read more

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery - Tasting List as of 11/2016 - Wineries Near Me - Centre Hall, Pennsylvania

Was definitely a great place to spend a beautiful Saturday afternoon. A group of 10 of us went out for the winery tour. For just $5 a person, you get a tour, an engraved wine glass, and the chance to do some wine tasting. You really can't beat that deal. It was the middle of Fall when we went, and scenery was absolutely beautiful. All of the leaves had begun to change colors. It was great standing on the back deck, next to the pond, tasting some wines. Definitely recommend it, if you are looking for something to do some afternoon. read more

Gracious staff. We connected on their Portuguese port Vermelho and my summers in Portugal stomping grapes for my grandfather as a child. We walked away from the sampling with a bottle of that and one of their dry reds. Great experience. read more

Great wines, outstanding staff and an amazing experience. Spent two hours on the porch. Some of the best whites I have in central Pennsylvania. read more

Today was my second time visiting and I was super excited because my first time was amazing. Today was a beautiful day and we stopped in to have a tasting when we were greeted by this woman who was super super unfriendly. She was bland and made my experience uncomfortable. I will come back again in a few months but I hope that woman is not there again. She does not know what customer service is and she is not approachable and has the face of someone who does not want to be bothered with. read more

Very nice winery with nice grounds. The prices are reasonable and they do a wine tasting. read more

Mount Nittany Vineyard & Winery - Wineries Near Me - Centre Hall, Pennsylvania

My friend and I went here for a wine tasting in December and in short, the entire afternoon was really delightful. The wines are really good; having been to wineries in traditional "wine country" (Italy, CA, etc), I was really curious about what PA wine would be like. I was pleasantly surprised here. I'm not a huge fan of red wines, but really enjoyed a few that I tried here (especially their Tailgate Red). I loved the apple fruit wine; I purchased a bottle and, per one of the staff's recommendations, warmed it up before serving at home and it was perfect. The staff here was really great too, and enjoyed talking with a few of the women working that afternoon. I would love to go back in the summer to be able to sit outside in their patio area beside a small lake outside-- looked picturesque! Will definitely be returning! read more

I might be a novice when it comes to wine, but Mount Nittany Winery is, at least, a fun thing to do on a sunny afternoon. Walk in to their small showroom and check off six different kinds of wine that you'd like to sample for free (no purchase required). Browse their wine selection (check their website for current offerings) and their collection of a few local goods like salsas, hot sauce, jellies and jams, or the occasional display by local growers or farms (like cheeses to go with your wine selection). Bottled wines range in price from about $9-$20, with a nice variety of dry and sweet reds and whites. A nice place where you don't feel awkward if you know nothing about wine! Staff always seem friendly and knowledgeable. read more

There is no pretension or air of arrogance at the Mount Nittany Winery which is always nice, especially for someone who isn't exactly Paul Giamatti's character from "Sideways." The staff here is incredibly knowledgeable about their craft and is able to recommend the perfect bottle for your dinner table. There are dozens of original, award winning wines that are sure to satisfy even the snootiest wine drinkers. Once you select your bottle of choice, be sure to go out onto the back deck and enjoy a glass or two while overlooking the small pond located to the left of the grape vines. A wine from here is the perfect gift for any occasion. read more

OMG- this place was absolutely beautiful! The scenic view is spectacular. Bought a bottle of wine, sat outside and enjoyed the gorgeous view of mountains while sipping on some delicious wine! Would definitely recommend this place and would definitely be back! read more

Best Winery and Vineyard in the area! The grounds are stunning, with vines, a welcoming tasting room, pond, picnic tables, weeping willows, etc. This is the first place I take guests when they visit from out of town. The wine is locally grown and all delicious. Staff are friendly and helpful. A fantastic destination in Happy Valley! read more

Family owned. Excellent tour, more informative than big California wineries. Small tasting is perfect for the area.

Great stop if you are in State College for a weekend, particularly if you are heading into or out of town to the East. Nice selection of wines for all tastes, nice location, nice employees, and nice prices. All around definitely worth a stop. read more

Well, this being the first winery I've ever been to, I greatly enjoyed myself. Friendly staff. Kind of small, but such a good visit on a crisp, fall day. Beautiful scenery! Yummy wine! We learned a lot from our guide, although he did not have much of a personality. They keep everything as local to PA as they can (Even the oak barrels they ferment wine in are made in PA). And they also have wines that are marketed at a Penn State fan like Tailgate Red and Mount Nittany White. For $5 a person you can get a tour of the facilities, a free engraved wine glass, and a taste of six different wines that they offer for sale. A great couple hours spent! Check them out for something different to do in the State College Area! read more

I visited Mt. Nittany Winery during a field trip for a fruit class. We were lucky enough to get a tour of the operation and a complimentary tasting. The staff here is so nice and the wine is great! I liked this place so much that I organized an event and I'm planning on going back with a group for an official tour and tasting. The landscape is beautiful and Joe (the owner) is so humble and friendly. I highly recommend giving this place a visit! read more

These folks do extremely well with the local conditions. Some of the wines are quite fine and the grounds are very nice.