Founded in 1997 by Chuck Tauck and Bob Madill, Sheldrake Point Winery takes its name from the distinctive land jutting out on Cayuga Lake's western shore. Reviving a neglected 155-acre property in the mid-1980s, Tauck and Madill fostered a haven for viticulture.

Sheldrake Point cultivates 60 acres of vines, but only half are dedicated to their own wines. Their grapes, renowned for exceptional quality, are highly sought-after. Beyond their own production, the winery extends a helping hand to budding entrepreneurs. By offering winemaking services to those with labels but lacking a winery, Sheldrake Point fosters the next generation of winemakers.

Sheldrake Point's east-facing vineyard slopes gently towards Cayuga Lake's shore. The lake's impressive depth, exceeding 400 feet, fosters a moderating microclimate ideal for grape growth. This "lake effect" safeguards against premature bud break in spring, minimizes daily temperature fluctuations, promotes effective air drainage, and even delays the arrival of autumn frost.

The vineyard thrives on well-drained, gravelly loam and clay soils deposited by glaciers atop a foundation of shale, limestone, and slate – a perfect recipe for viticulture. Sustainability is paramount at Sheldrake Point, with practices implemented to maintain the health of the land.

Since 1997, the vineyard has expanded to encompass 10 Vitis vinifera grape varieties. The winery's first estate vintage, crafted from grapes grown and harvested on-site in 2000, debuted in 2001.

Sheldrake Point Winery embodies the belief that exceptional wine begins in the vineyard. Fostering a close collaboration between the winemaking and vineyard teams, they ensure grapes reach peak quality and ripeness. Over two decades of crafting vintages, their approach has evolved towards a focus on terroir. Their philosophy prioritizes minimal intervention, allowing the unique character of the vineyard and each year's vintage to take center stage in their wines.