The Spot: Klocke Estate Mania Is Here

Photography by Eric Medsker

Nestled in the hills of Columbia County, Klocke Estate isn’t just another brandy distillery—it’s a destination. Officially open in July, Klocke Estate offers a 160-acre paradise featuring orchards, vineyards and a fine-dining restaurant (see page 69). With panoramic views of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson Valley, this estate promises an unparalleled experience for both brandy and culinary enthusiasts. 

Upon arriving at 2554 County Route 27, just a ten-minute drive from Hudson, visitors are greeted by a winding gravel road flanked by rows of apple trees and grapevines. This leads to the estate’s crowning jewel: a beautiful bar and restaurant situated on a hilltop. Here, seasonal American fare infused with French elegance takes center stage, echoing the traditions of famed brandy regions such as Cognac and Calvados while embracing the enduring farm-to-table movement prevalent in this region of the country.

The culinary wizardry at Klocke Estate is headed by Executive Chef Becky Kempter. A California native with roots in the elevated local food scene, Kempter brings a wealth of experience from her time at an organic farm in Tannersville, the Deer Mountain Inn and a wedding venue in Port Jervis. Her menu is a testament to her diverse background.

Complementing the food is an extensive cocktail menu, mainly focused on brandy. Highlights include an appletini crafted from unaged apple brandy and fresh honeycrisp apple juice. For those who prefer hops or classic cocktails, local craft brews and timeless concoctions are also available. Despite the high caliber of the offerings, Kristine Danks, the general manager of hospitality, emphasizes that the restaurant maintains an unpretentious, welcoming atmosphere. Pricing is designed to reflect the quality and care put into each dish, with small bites ranging from $10 to $12, entrees from $40 to $50 and desserts around $15.

The architecture and interior design of Klocke Estate is a feast for the eyes. BarlisWedlick Architects is responsible for the structure while Ken Fulk, an Architectural Digest 100 interior designer renowned for his work with celebrities such as Pharrell Williams and Gigi Hadid, decorated the estate. From the fresco mural in the lobby to the marbled bar overlooking the patio, every detail has been carefully selected. 

A ten-minute drive from Hudson, visitors are greeted by a winding gravel road flanked by rows of apple trees and grapevines. This leads to the estate’s crowning jewel: a beautiful bar and restaurant situated on a scenic hilltop.

The vision for Klocke Estate began a dozen years ago, culminating in the purchase of the property in January 2018. Under the leadership of John Frishkopf, they initiated agricultural operations in 2018 and began construction during the pandemic. They have since planted 60 acres of grapes and apples using regenerative farming methods. The community, proud and supportive of its farming history, has embraced Klocke Estate as a positive addition to Columbia County. And in return, says Frishkopf, “We have embraced the local community, from supporting Columbia Memorial Health, the local hospital, to giving tours to high school students, to supporting the local arts organizations.”

Frishkopf, a Boston native who moved to Hudson with a dream of creating a world-class brandy distillery, reflects on his decision: “There are a number of other major reasons for coming to the Hudson Valley, not least of which is the natural beauty of the area. That New York State is supportive of craft beverages and of farming communities was a factor. Also, the Hudson Valley is a center of farm-to-table agriculture and with that is a sophisticated appreciation of the cuisine and the farm products that goes with it. We incorporate those local farm products into the restaurant offerings and into our spirits. The top reason to come to the Hudson Valley was the unique terroir of the area that is ideal for growing both cider apples and grapes intended for brandy production. It’s rare to find a region that is ideal for both.”

Klocke Estate now offers a tour at 3pm on Fridays and Saturdays and they have plans to expand this program in the coming months. Limited to eight people, these tours will delve into the estate’s history, agricultural practices and brandy-making processes, culminating in a tasting session. Huzzah!