Sunlight and distant ridge lines stretch across the tasting lawn at Whitecliff. Glasses clink, grapevines bristle in the wind, and mountain light pools on the wide patio.
What to Expect:
🍷 Large, varied tasting menu—reds, whites, rosé, sparkling, and local blends
🧀 Cheese, hummus, and small bites sourced locally for snacking with your wine
⛰ Sweeping Shawangunk views from picnic tables and mismatched lawn chairs
🐕 Pet-friendly space, with dogs welcome inside and outdoors
👨👩👧 Friendly, knowledgeable staff—guidance from owners and winemakers often available
Important Information:
✔ Walk-in counter tastings; seated spaces are limited and mostly outdoors in fair weather
✔ Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and seating (some uneven lawn terrain outdoors)
✔ Groups of 8+ by reservation only; last pour 30 minutes before close
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
Local Insights
🍇 Early pour wins: Arrive soon after opening for quick indoor tastings or a prime spot on the ridge-line patio before larger groups roll in.
🧺 Bring your own spread: Outside food is fine—pack a picnic for the lawn and linger among the vines with your flight.
🌄 Foliage & late light: The mountain backdrop glows at sunset in October; Shawangunk trails are just a five-minute drive for a pre- or post-tasting stroll.
🐾 Pet pit stop: Dogs are truly allowed both inside and out, but the best four-legged hang is under the big maple near the east-facing slope.
What folks are saying
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Most guests call out the broad range of wine—dry whites, bold reds, and blends with a clean finish. Local and out-of-state tasters highlight approachable staff and informed pourers, with owners joining in on weekends. Mountain views win points for outdoor seating, though indoor options and seating comfort vary by season. Service is generally friendly, though a few reviews mention occasional short-staffing or inattentive moments on busy Saturdays. People appreciate cheese and snack boards as foil for the wine, and pet owners welcome the dog-friendly policy. Some feel the tasting room can feel utilitarian, especially in the winter, and pour sizes for flights are noted as smaller than some expect. Value is strong for the quality; weekend crowds may lead to a short wait but don't overwhelm.
Last updated on
October 9th, 2025
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms. Service counter and lawn are on a single level, though outdoor seating can be uneven. Patio and main tasting bar both provide accessible routes.
