Clayton, United States 
A Howlin’ Good Time Awaits at Coyote Moon Vineyards
Nestled in the heart of the Thousand Islands region, Coyote Moon Vineyards stands as a beacon for wine enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. This family-owned and operated winery in Clayton, New York has earned over 1,000 awards from wine competitions across the country, becoming one of the most decorated wineries in New York State. Named the 2016 & 2017 New York State Winery of the Year, Coyote Moon continues to set the standard for excellence in the region.
A Legacy Written in Wine
The story of Coyote Moon Vineyards begins with passion and family heritage. Phil Randazzo, the winery’s owner and self-taught winemaker, discovered his calling during a family trip to Sicily. There, the Randazzo family learned they descended from a long line of winemakers—inheriting their great-great-grandfather’s traditional wine recipe. Inspired by this connection, Phil returned to Clayton and planted the first vineyard in 2008. Today, Phil works alongside his wife Mary (whose memory lives on through the winery), their children Tony and Kristina, and their spouses to craft each bottle with meticulous attention to detail.
The Terroir That Sets Them Apart
What makes Coyote Moon’s wines truly distinctive? The answer lies in the land itself. Situated on a 400-acre farm along East Line Road, the vineyard thrives in soil rich with clay, granite, and minerals. The gently sloping terrain runs southwest to northeast, capturing prevailing winds and maximum daylight exposure. Most importantly, the combination of St. Lawrence River watershed influence and Coyote Moon’s careful cultivation of Northern Climate grapes creates flavor profiles found nowhere else in the world.
Year-Round Experiences
Visitors to Coyote Moon Vineyards have multiple ways to enjoy award-winning wines. The Tasting Room & Gift Shop offers wine flights and tastings, along with a curated selection of wine accessories and gifts. A full-service bakery rounds out the experience with fresh cinnamon buns, croissants, cookies, and homemade cannoli.
For a truly unforgettable experience, Coyote Moon operates St. Lawrence River Wine Cruises every Friday and Saturday evening from June through September. These two-hour journeys through the Thousand Islands include a pre-selected bottle of wine per person and a delicious snack box. Because the river setting amplifies the wine-tasting experience, these cruises consistently rank among the region’s most popular activities.
Special Events & Celebrations
Beyond casual tastings and cruises, Coyote Moon Vineyards welcomes weddings and special events. The vineyard’s picturesque setting and professional team help couples and event planners bring their visions to life against a backdrop of award-winning wine and natural beauty.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply exploring the Thousand Islands, Coyote Moon Vineyards delivers an authentic, memorable adventure rooted in family tradition and exceptional craftsmanship.
