You’ve probably heard the buzz about the Finger Lakes region in upstate New York, but the truth is, it’s more than just an “up-and-coming” wine destination. With over 100 wineries and a reputation for producing exceptional cool-climate wines, this region is a must-visit for any wine enthusiast.
The unique microclimate created by the deep glacial lakes allows for the production of distinctive wines with bright acidity and complex flavors. You’ll discover why Finger Lakes wine is gaining recognition across the country, with Riesling being a standout varietal.
As you explore the region’s four main lakes – Seneca, Keuka, Cayuga, and Canandaigua – you’ll find breathtaking natural beauty, charming small towns, and a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. Get ready to plan an unforgettable wine adventure in one of America’s premier wine regions.
Discovering the Finger Lakes Wine Region
As you journey through the Finger Lakes, you’ll discover a wine region that has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades. Once known primarily for sweet wines made from native grapes, the Finger Lakes has evolved into New York’s most prestigious wine region.
The Rise of New York’s Premier Wine Destination
The Finger Lakes American Viticultural Area (AVA) is the largest wine-producing region in New York, encompassing 11,000 acres of vineyards with more than 140 wineries. Many of these wineries are small, family-run operations focused on producing high-acid, expressive wines. The region’s transformation began in the 1970s when state law allowed for the establishment of small wineries, paving the way for growers to plant vinifera grapes, the same varieties found in Europe.
A pivotal figure in this transformation was Dr. Konstantin Frank, who revolutionized the region in the 1950s by proving that European vinifera grapes could thrive in the cold climate. This innovation forever changed the trajectory of Finger Lakes winemaking, enabling the production of high-quality wines that could compete with those from more established regions.
Understanding the Unique Terroir
The unique terroir of the Finger Lakes creates ideal conditions for cool-climate varieties. The deep lakes moderate temperatures, protecting vineyards from extreme cold and allowing for a longer growing season. The region’s glacial soils, varying from shale to limestone, contribute to the distinctive mineral character found in many Finger Lakes wines.
| Characteristics | Description | Impact on Wine |
|---|---|---|
| Cool Climate | Moderated by deep lakes | Naturally high acidity and lower alcohol levels |
| Glacial Soils | Varying from shale to limestone | Distinctive mineral character |
| Vinifera Grapes | European varieties | High-quality, expressive wines |
The Finger Lakes region has become particularly renowned for its Riesling, a grape variety that thrives in the cool climate. However, other varieties such as Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir also excel in this unique terroir, offering a diverse range of wines for enthusiasts to explore.
Planning Your Finger Lakes Wine Adventure
To truly enjoy the Finger Lakes wine trail, you’ll need to plan your itinerary carefully. The region offers a rich wine experience, with numerous wineries and vineyards spread across its beautiful lakes.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit the Finger Lakes wine country is from May through October, when the weather is pleasant and all wineries are fully operational. Spring brings beautiful blooming vineyards and fewer crowds, while fall rewards visitors with spectacular foliage and the excitement of harvest season.
Getting Around Wine Country
Getting around the Finger Lakes region requires some planning, as the lakes are large and wineries are spread out. A car is essential unless you book an organized wine tour. You can also use designated driver services or the Lakeside Trolley, which offers hop-on-hop-off service around Seneca Lake.
Creating Your Tasting Itinerary
When creating your wine tasting itinerary, it’s recommended to visit no more than 3-4 wineries per day to allow for a relaxed experience. Make sure to book reservations in advance, especially during peak season, and be aware of wine tasting fees, which typically range from $5 to $25.
Seneca Lake Wine Trail: The Crown Jewel
Seneca Lake, the largest and deepest of the Finger Lakes, creates a significant “lake effect” that makes its wine trail exceptional. This natural phenomenon protects the vineyards from extreme temperatures, resulting in a longer growing season and higher quality grapes.
The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is home to over 30 wineries, offering a diverse range of wine experiences. From historic estates to innovative newcomers, there’s something for every wine enthusiast. You’ll discover why this trail is considered the crown jewel of the Finger Lakes region.
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard is a pioneer in Finger Lakes winemaking, bringing Mosel traditions to the region in the 1970s. Now led by Fred Merwarth and Oskar Bynke, they continue to produce benchmark Rieslings and exceptional Cabernet Franc. Their focus on single-vineyard expressions has earned them a reputation for quality.
Forge Cellars
Forge Cellars is a must-visit destination, offering reservation-only tastings in their Summer House or casual gatherings in The Salon. This partnership between Rick Rainey and Louis Barruol produces site-specific Rieslings and Pinot Noirs that have garnered international acclaim.
Boundary Breaks
Located on the east side of Seneca Lake, Boundary Breaks offers stunning views and exceptional Riesling. Bruce Murray’s focus on perfectly ripened fruit has resulted in expressive, balanced wines that showcase the potential of east Seneca Lake vineyards.
The distinct differences between the east and west sides of Seneca Lake contribute to the region’s diversity. The western shore receives more afternoon sun, while the eastern shore features steeper slopes and different soil compositions. This variation allows visitors to experience a range of wines and terroirs within the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
Keuka Lake’s Historic Wineries
Keuka Lake, with its unique Y-shaped formation, is the birthplace of the Finger Lakes wine industry and home to some of the region’s most historic wineries. As you explore the wineries along its shores, you’ll discover the rich history and innovative spirit that have made this area a premier wine destination.
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is a pioneering force in the Finger Lakes wine industry. Founded in 1962 by Dr. Konstantin Frank, a Ukrainian immigrant with a Ph.D. in viticulture, the winery revolutionized the region by introducing European vitis vinifera grapes. Today, the winery continues to innovate, growing a diverse range of grapes including Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Grüner Veltliner, and Rkatsiteli.
The winery’s location on the southwestern slopes of Keuka Lake provides ideal conditions for cool-climate varieties, resulting in wines with vibrant acidity and complex flavors. As a visitor, you’ll experience not only exceptional Rieslings but also unusual varieties that showcase the winery’s continued innovation.
Bully Hill Vineyards
Bully Hill Vineyards offers a distinctly different experience with its extensive selection of over 40 wines, ranging from dry reds to sweet fruit-based varieties. Located on the southern end of Keuka Lake, the winery provides tastings with breathtaking lake views and a casual atmosphere. The on-site restaurant is a local favorite, serving dishes like Maryland-style crab cakes with scallops on a deck overlooking the water.
Visitors to Bully Hill Vineyards can also explore a fascinating museum that tells the dramatic story of the Taylor wine family’s split and subsequent legal battles. The winery’s relaxed, unpretentious approach to wine makes it a welcoming destination for both serious wine enthusiasts and casual visitors.
Cayuga Lake Wine Trail Highlights
You’ll discover a world of wine at the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, America’s first organized wine trail. Established in 1983, this trail is home to a diverse collection of wineries that offer a more relaxed and intimate wine-tasting experience compared to some of the busier areas in the Finger Lakes region.
Sheldrake Point Winery
At Sheldrake Point Winery, you’ll experience award-winning wines produced from 100% estate-grown grapes on their 44-acre site that extends into Cayuga Lake, creating a unique microclimate. Sheldrake’s commitment to sustainable viticulture is evident in their specialties, including Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and their renowned ice wines that have earned international recognition.
Hosmer Winery
Hosmer Winery, one of the trail’s pioneering establishments, offers visitors a chance to taste wines from some of the oldest vinifera plantings on Cayuga Lake, dating back to the early 1970s. You’ll enjoy Hosmer’s friendly, educational approach to tastings, where staff take time to explain the winemaking process and the unique characteristics of their estate-grown wines.
The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail’s proximity to Ithaca adds to its appeal, with visitors able to combine wine tasting with exploring the college town’s vibrant food scene and nearby natural attractions. The trail’s wineries are known for their scenic views and approachable tasting experiences, making it perfect for those new to wine tasting.
Hidden Gems: Boutique Wineries Worth Discovering
Beyond the well-known wineries, the Finger Lakes region is home to a plethora of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These boutique wineries offer unique wines and intimate tasting experiences that are sure to delight any wine enthusiast.
Kemmeter Wines
Kemmeter Wines is a small, vineyard-focused producer known for its Riesling and Pinot Noir. Founded on the philosophy that wine should express the land where it’s grown, the winery exclusively uses estate-grown fruit. Tasting appointments are required and offer a personalized experience with a focus on the details of each vintage.
The property is also home to Sans Dumplings, a takeout kitchen serving handmade Asian dumplings that pair perfectly with the wines—perhaps the only winery-dumpling combination in the world.
Bloomer Creek Vineyard
Bloomer Creek Vineyard represents the natural wine movement in the Finger Lakes, with Kim and Debra Engle’s minimal-intervention approach resulting in wines with distinctive character. Their commitment to wild yeast fermentation creates wines that stand apart from typical Finger Lakes offerings.
Although they haven’t been taking visitors regularly since the pandemic, their wines have developed a cult following among wine enthusiasts, making them worth seeking out.
Osmote Wine
Osmote Wine is an interesting new-wave producer with a tasting pavilion in Burdett that’s open seasonally. Winemaker Ben Riccardi combines his global experience with a deep commitment to local terroir, producing small-batch wines that highlight the potential of both traditional vinifera and hybrid varieties.
With a background that includes working in France, New Zealand, Australia, and Chile, Ben brings a unique perspective to Finger Lakes winemaking.
Finger Lakes, New York: Best Wineries and Vineyards to Visit for Riesling Lovers
The Finger Lakes, New York, stands out as a premier destination for Riesling wine enthusiasts. With its unique terroir and cool climate, this region has become synonymous with high-quality Riesling production.
Why Riesling Thrives in the Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region’s cool climate, slate, and limestone soils, along with the temperature-moderating effects of the deep lakes, create ideal conditions for Riesling. These conditions allow Riesling to develop complex flavors while maintaining its characteristic bright acidity.
The region produces a diverse range of Riesling styles, from bone-dry to sweet late-harvest versions. Understanding the International Riesling Foundation’s sweetness scale, often found on bottle labels, can help you identify your preferred style.
Top Riesling Producers to Visit
Some of the top Riesling producers in the Finger Lakes include Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, known for its benchmark Rieslings with precision and elegance.
Boundary Breaks is another acclaimed producer, recognized for its perfectly ripened fruit and distinct single-vineyard bottlings. Red Newt Cellars is also noteworthy for its textured, complex Rieslings from vineyards like Tango Oaks and Lahoma.
Dr. Konstantin Frank’s pioneering work in Riesling production laid the groundwork for the region’s success. Newer producers like Kemmeter and Forge Cellars are continuing to push the boundaries of Riesling production.
Beyond Riesling: Exploring Other Finger Lakes Varietals
As you explore the Finger Lakes wine region, you’ll discover a diverse array of exceptional wines beyond the renowned Riesling. The region’s unique terroir and climate make it an ideal place for growing a variety of grapes.
Cabernet Franc: The Rising Red Star
Cabernet Franc has emerged as a promising red variety in the Finger Lakes, producing medium-bodied wines with bright red fruit flavors and a distinctive peppery character. Wagner Vineyards is a notable producer, growing more Cabernet Franc than any other winery in the region. Shaw Vineyard is also worth visiting, with its Cab Franc aged in neutral barrels for up to three years, creating complex expressions.
Chardonnay and Pinot Noir
The Finger Lakes region is also producing exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Nathan Kendall is committed to creating mineral-driven Chardonnay, showcasing the region’s limestone soils. For Pinot Noir, producers like Heart & Hands and Forge Cellars are producing elegant, light-bodied wines with bright acidity.
Sparkling Wines and Experimental Varieties
Dr. Konstantin Frank is a pioneer in producing méthode champenoise sparkling wine in the Finger Lakes, using Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling. The region is also experimenting with unusual varieties like Blaufränkisch, Grüner Veltliner, Saperavi, and Rkatsiteli, reflecting the diverse cultural heritage of Finger Lakes winemakers.
When visiting the Finger Lakes, be sure to explore these diverse wines and experience the region’s growing reputation for quality and innovation.
Where to Dine Among the Vines
As you explore the Finger Lakes wine region, you’ll discover a culinary scene that rivals its wines in excellence. The area is dotted with exceptional dining experiences, from winery restaurants to farm-to-table eateries, all showcasing the best of local cuisine.
Winery Restaurants
Many wineries in the Finger Lakes offer on-site dining options that perfectly complement their wines. At Bully Hill Vineyards, you can enjoy dishes like Maryland-style crab cakes with scallops on a deck overlooking Keuka Lake. Similarly, Fox Run Vineyards serves house-made dishes in its café, making it an ideal spot to relax between wine tastings.
Ginny Lee Café at Wagner Vineyards is another highlight, offering sandwiches, appetizers, and personal pizzas with breathtaking views of Seneca Lake, especially when the wisteria is in bloom in May.
Local Farm-to-Table Favorites
Beyond winery restaurants, the Finger Lakes region is home to outstanding farm-to-table establishments. Stonecat Café in Hector is a classic spot, boasting a great local wine list and a gorgeous back patio with ambient lighting and views of the surrounding hills.
In Geneva, F.L.X. Table stands out as a culinary gem, where Master Sommelier Christopher Bates serves inventive dishes to a select group of guests each night, making it one of the most sought-after reservations in the region.
Where to Stay in Finger Lakes Wine Country
The Finger Lakes region offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget, enhancing your wine tasting adventure. From luxury lakeside hotels to charming bed and breakfasts and vineyard stays, you’ll find the perfect place to rest after a day of exploring the wineries.
Lakeside Accommodations
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider staying at one of the many lakeside accommodations. Single Island Shores offers luxury cottages with modern comforts and stunning views of Seneca Lake. The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, named “America’s Most Beautiful Waterfront Hotel” by USA Today, provides AAA Four Diamond luxury with panoramic lake views and upscale dining options.
Charming B&Bs and Vineyard Stays
If you’re looking for a more intimate experience, Finger Lakes is home to numerous charming bed and breakfasts housed in historic buildings. These B&Bs offer personalized service and insider knowledge about the best local wineries to visit. For a unique experience, consider staying at the Three Brothers Wineries Airbnb, where you can wake up among the vines.
For those wanting to stay close to specific wineries, options like the Vineyard Villas near Forge Cellars allow you to walk to tastings and fully enjoy the wines without worrying about driving. Whether you prefer luxury, charm, or a vineyard stay, Finger Lakes wine country has the perfect accommodation for you.
Beyond Wine: Other Attractions in the Finger Lakes
Beyond the vineyards, the Finger Lakes offers a diverse range of experiences that make it an ideal destination for a well-rounded vacation. While wine is a major draw, the region’s natural beauty, charming towns, and cultural attractions ensure that there’s something for everyone.
Watkins Glen State Park
Watkins Glen State Park is a must-visit attraction in the Finger Lakes region. With its 19 cascading waterfalls and the famous Rainbow Falls, this park is a nature lover’s paradise. The gorge is shaded by ferns and foliage, and you’ll pass Sentry Bridge, Couch’s Staircase, and Cavern Cascade along the 1.5-mile hike.
Exploring the Lakes
The Finger Lakes region is also a great destination for water enthusiasts. You can experience Seneca Lake from a different perspective with an intimate boat tour, such as Falling Waters Boat Tours, which brings you up close to hidden waterfalls and offers a tour of the lake. You can also rent kayaks or take a sailing excursion to explore the lakes.
Charming Towns and Cultural Attractions
The charming towns throughout the Finger Lakes region each have their own unique character. Geneva’s revitalized downtown and farm-to-table restaurants, Ithaca’s vibrant college-town atmosphere with its craft breweries and cultural attractions, and the Corning Museum of Glass are just a few examples of the many cultural attractions to explore. You can spend a day wandering through these towns, discovering local gems and enjoying the region’s hospitality.
Sample 3-Day Finger Lakes Wine Itinerary
Discover the charm of Finger Lakes through a carefully planned 3-day wine tasting journey. This itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of the region’s wine country in an organized and enjoyable way.
Day 1: Seneca Lake East Side
Begin your journey on the east side of Seneca Lake with a visit to Three Brothers Wineries & Estates for a tour and tasting. Check into Single Island Shores, a luxury lakeside cottage, and enjoy dinner at Stonecat Cafe. You’ll have the opportunity to taste some of the region’s exceptional Rieslings and enjoy the scenic views.
Day 2: Keuka Lake Adventure
On the second day, head to historic Keuka Lake and start with a visit to Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery to experience the legacy of Finger Lakes winemaking. Enjoy lunch at Bully Hill Vineyards with its spectacular views. The afternoon will include a visit to Keuka Spring Vineyards for their award-winning Gewürztraminer and Lemberger. Dinner at The Waterfront Restaurant in Hammondsport will cap off your day.
Day 3: Seneca Lake West Side
The final day explores the west side of Seneca Lake. Begin with a morning hike at Watkins Glen State Park to experience its famous waterfalls. Follow this with tastings at Hermann J. Wiemer and Fox Run Vineyards. Lunch at Ginny Lee Cafe and a final tasting at Atwater Vineyards will conclude your wine country adventure.
| Day | Location | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Seneca Lake East Side | Visit Three Brothers Wineries & Estates, Check into Single Island Shores, Dinner at Stonecat Cafe |
| 2 | Keuka Lake | Visit Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Lunch at Bully Hill Vineyards, Visit Keuka Spring Vineyards, Dinner at The Waterfront Restaurant |
| 3 | Seneca Lake West Side | Hike at Watkins Glen State Park, Tastings at Hermann J. Wiemer and Fox Run Vineyards, Lunch at Ginny Lee Cafe, Final tasting at Atwater Vineyards |
This 3-day itinerary provides a well-rounded experience of the Finger Lakes wine region, with a mix of wine tastings, scenic views, and local cuisine. By following this plan, you’ll be able to pace yourself and enjoy the best that Finger Lakes has to offer.
Conclusion
As you’ve explored the Finger Lakes, you’ve discovered a region that masterfully combines exceptional wines, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality. The Finger Lakes wine region offers an incredible combination of world-class wines, breathtaking natural beauty, and unique cultural attractions that make it one of America’s most rewarding wine destinations.
This cool-climate region produces distinctive wines with bright acidity and complex flavors, from benchmark Rieslings to promising reds like Cabernet Franc. Your journey through the region’s best wineries, from pioneering establishments like Dr. Konstantin Frank to innovative newcomers, has shown you the diversity and quality of the Finger Lakes’ wine offerings.
A visit to the Finger Lakes is about more than just wine tasting; it’s an experience that includes spectacular natural attractions, charming lakeside towns, and a thriving farm-to-table culinary scene. Whether you’re a serious wine enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful destination to explore, the Finger Lakes region provides an accessible and affordable alternative to more famous wine regions without sacrificing quality or experience.
As you plan your visit to this incredible lakes region, remember that the true joy of the Finger Lakes lies in its diversity—each lake, winery, and season offers something unique, inviting you to return again and again to discover new favorites. The Finger Lakes wine country is waiting for you to explore its wineries and experience all it has to offer.
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The above is subject to change.
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