After discovering The Lake Estate on Winnisquam, a new hotel and spa that features wine tastings in its wine cellar I quickly decided to visit for an overnight stay.
Traveling from the Seacoast to the Lakes Region, involves a short journey past Gunstock Ski Mountain to The Lake Estate. The property hugs Lake Winnisquam, which is New Hampshire's third largest lake and among its cleanest. The views overlook the lake towards the Belknap and Ossipee mountain ranges.
A short walk through the covered bridge leads to an impressive double-height lobby adorned with antiques, such as a grandfather clock from the 1700's, and fine art work.
The Lake Estate is beautifully decorated for the holidays by The Lake Estate's in-house floral team. Each aspect of the décor is inspired by the great lake houses and historic Grand Hotel Era of New Hampshire, a time when affluent guests from Boston and New York sought the best in lodging and dining.
General Manager Ed Rocco and Estate Manager Patti Rocco carry on the tradition of operating a Grand Hotel. They have established a comfortable environment for their guests by incorporating the area's natural resources and offering high quality customer service. Patti has developed Winnisqaum Whisper, their lovely signature candle scent, which is available in the gift shop and spa.
The hotel features 114 spacious guest rooms. The suites offer direct views of the lake, and many rooms include fireplaces, private balconies or patios. The beds are plush and comfortable ensuring a restful night's sleep.
There is an upscale dining room, bar, and wine cellar where special wine events are held, such as the wine tasting I participated in. The tasting was engaging and interactive featuring two American white wines, two red wines, and a charcuterie board. It was led by the hotel's Sommelier and Restaurant Manager, Jim Hildreth, who has over 30 years of experience in the wine industry. He is also in charge of curating a diverse wine list.
After the tasting, some people chose to relax by the fireplaces, while others gathered at the bar for additional wine or to try one of the craft cocktails. Some opted to have dinner in the hotel's restaurant, which is overseen by Chef Chris Viaud, a two-time James Beard Foundation Award nominee and former participant on Bravo TV's Top Chef.
The Chef updates the menu each season to incorporate locally sourced ingredients. For dinner, there are various options for appetizers and entrees, including pasta, fish, duck, steak, and additional selections, all served in generous portions. Desserts are home made by Pastry Chef Emilee Viaud, who enhances and adapts local recipes, and is married to the Chef.
The husband and wife team embrace developing creative menus for weddings and special events. The Estate Ballroom, where most events are held, showcases artisan crafted, post-and-beam architecture and floor-to-ceiling windows that provide views of the lake. During warmer months, there are numerous outdoor areas available for celebrations.
In addition to fantastic food and drinks, The Lake Estate Spa offers 5,000 square feet of luxury full-service spa retreats for hotel guests and day visitors. Minerals and botanicals from local landscapes are used in the comprehensive treatments. You can complete your rejuvenation with a hot outdoor mineral soak. If you are interested in activities there is a long list of options – both indoors and outdoors.
The Lake Estate on Winnisquam truly is a preferred destination for anyone seeking a special experience, whether for a single night or extended stay.
The Lake Estate happenings during the Holidays:
Wine Tastings on Friday & Saturday 3-4:30 pm
Farm to Table dinners December 12 and 20
New Year's Eve at the Estate – a festive reception, delicious dinner, live music, and a midnight toast paired with an overnight stay for two.
Estate Wine Dinner, January 21, 2026 - join Winemaster, Randy Ullom, from Kendall-Jackson Fine Wines. Ullom has been producing wine for the company for over 30 years, focusing on the principal of "making the next vintage better than the last – one barrel at a time."
For more details or to book a reservation: Thelakeestatenh.com
JoAnn Actis-Grande is wine editor for Taste of the Seacoast and contributes wine and travel columns to various publications. She is a lover of wine and has traveled to wine regions from Napa Valley to Cyprus. She guides small groups on tours in Tuscany and other destinations. For more information: winejag.com
