Who we are.
VINIFERA New York Hospitality Group
VINIFERA New York isn’t just a hospitality group—it’s a movement in taste, a masterclass in atmosphere. Born in the heart of the Finger Lakes, we set out with a bold vision: to bring world-class wine, spirits, and immersive hospitality to every corner of New York State. Today, that vision is alive and pouring, one unforgettable location at a time.
Our flagship speakeasy in Geneva—hidden behind an unmarked door—is the only true speakeasy west of NYC. It’s moody, candlelit, and unapologetically refined. In Ithaca, VINIFERA channels the city’s eclectic, cerebral energy, offering cult-classic vintages, boundary-pushing cocktails, and a vibe that blends natural beauty with global flair.
Whether it’s a rare Burgundy from Vosne-Romanée or a hyper-seasonal cocktail laced with locally foraged herbs, every VINIFERA experience is a tribute to terroir, storytelling, and the art of place.
And we’re just getting started. With new outposts planned for Saratoga, the Hamptons, and New York City, each location will be a reflection of its environment: Saratoga’s polished equestrian edge, the Hamptons’ coastal cool, and Manhattan’s high-gloss cosmopolitan pulse. But across every VINIFERA door, one ethos holds: flawless service, rarefied selections, and an atmosphere where excellence isn’t an act—it’s the baseline.
Our menus are hyper-curated, rooted in local character and global caliber—from Old World prestige to New World innovation, rare spirits to regional brews, and cocktails that capture the season like a Polaroid.
At VINIFERA, every sip tells a story. Every moment’s meant to linger.
In 2023, VINIFERA New York and its trailblazing duo—Founder Jim Cecere and Director of Wine & Spirits Kevin San Jose—earned a coveted spot on the exclusive Wine Enthusiast’s Future40 list, a nod reserved for the boldest minds redefining the future of the drinks world. It was more than an accolade—it was a statement. A testament to their mastery not just of wine, but of brand alchemy, regional elevation, and the kind of experiential curation that turns a glass into a journey.
What started as a sharp, singular vision has matured into a refined, globally-attuned powerhouse.
With an expanding footprint across New York State, VINIFERA New York now boasts a portfolio that reads like a sommelier’s dream—think Burgundy, Barolo, Bordeaux, the Rhône, Rioja, Champagne, the Scottish Highlands, and Japan. Their growth isn’t just strategic—it’s stylish. Each location blends design-forward aesthetics with an uncompromising selection, inviting guests to experience world-class wine and spirits through the lens of terroir, storytelling, and timeless sophistication.
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