Did you know the Finger Lakes region is home to over 100 wineries and produces 90% of New York State’s wine? This picturesque wine country, centered around 11 stunning glacial lakes, has been recognized as one of the world’s top wine destinations by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, rivaling renowned regions like Napa Valley and Bordeaux for its exceptional cool-climate varieties.
Getting to the Finger Lakes Wine Country
The Finger Lakes region is conveniently located in central New York State, making it accessible from several major cities. Most visitors fly into Rochester International Airport (ROC) or Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR), both approximately an hour’s drive from the heart of wine country.
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If you’re driving from nearby cities, the Finger Lakes are approximately 5-6 hours from New York City, 3-4 hours from Philadelphia, and just 1.5 hours from Buffalo. The scenic drive through upstate New York’s rolling countryside is part of the experience, with charming small towns and breathtaking vistas along the way.
The distinctive shape of the Finger Lakes creates perfect microclimates for vineyards
Best Time to Visit Finger Lakes Wineries
While the Finger Lakes wine region welcomes visitors year-round, each season offers a unique experience for wine enthusiasts:
- Spring (April-May): Enjoy the first blossoms in the vineyards and less crowded tasting rooms. Many wineries release their new vintages during this time.
- Summer (June-August): Peak tourist season with perfect weather for lakeside wineries. Expect vibrant tasting rooms, outdoor concerts, and wine festivals throughout the region.
- Fall (September-November): Harvest season brings spectacular foliage and the excitement of crush. This is widely considered the ideal time to visit for serious wine enthusiasts.
- Winter (December-March): A quieter experience with more personalized attention in tasting rooms. Some smaller wineries may operate on limited hours, so check ahead.
For the ultimate experience, plan your visit during the Finger Lakes Wine Festival in July or the Finger Lakes Wine Month in May, when special events, tastings, and winemaker dinners are abundant throughout the region.
Fall harvest season brings vibrant colors and exciting winemaking activity
Getting Around the Finger Lakes Wine Trails
The Finger Lakes region spans approximately 9,000 square miles with wineries scattered around multiple lakes. Having your own transportation is essential for exploring at your own pace.
Explore at Your Own Pace
Rent a car to discover hidden gem wineries and enjoy the scenic lake views between tastings.
If you prefer not to drive between wine tastings (which we highly recommend for safety), consider these transportation options:
Wine Tour Services
Professional tour companies offer guided experiences with knowledgeable drivers who can enhance your wine education while ensuring safe transportation.
Rideshare & Taxis
Uber and Lyft operate in the region but can be limited in rural areas. Local taxi services specialize in wine tours and can be booked in advance for full or half-day excursions.
Pro Tip: The Finger Lakes wine region is divided into distinct wine trails around each lake. Focus on one trail per day to maximize your experience without rushing between tastings.
Top 5 Must-Visit Finger Lakes Wineries
With over 100 wineries to choose from, narrowing down your itinerary can be challenging. These five standout wineries offer exceptional wines, beautiful settings, and memorable tasting experiences:
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery offers stunning views of Keuka Lake
1. Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery (Keuka Lake)
As the pioneer who first successfully grew European vinifera grapes in the eastern United States, Dr. Konstantin Frank revolutionized winemaking in the Finger Lakes. Today, the fourth generation of the Frank family continues this legacy of excellence.
Signature Wines: Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Rkatsiteli, and méthode champenoise sparkling wines
Visitor Experience: Historical tours, educational tastings, and spectacular views of Keuka Lake
Experience the Birthplace of Finger Lakes Vinifera
Join a guided tour of this historic winery and taste the wines that put Finger Lakes on the world wine map.
2. Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard (Seneca Lake)
Founded by a German winemaker who brought Old World traditions to the Finger Lakes, Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard is widely regarded as one of America’s premier Riesling producers. Their sustainable vineyard practices and meticulous winemaking result in wines of exceptional quality and character.
Hermann J. Wiemer’s impressive barrel room offers an immersive tasting experience
Signature Wines: Single-vineyard Rieslings, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay
Visitor Experience: Sophisticated tasting room in a renovated barn, vineyard tours, and knowledgeable staff
3. Ravines Wine Cellars (Seneca & Keuka Lakes)
Founded by a French winemaker and his American wife, Ravines combines European winemaking traditions with Finger Lakes terroir. Their dry, food-friendly wines have earned international acclaim and regularly appear on prestigious restaurant wine lists.
Signature Wines: Dry Riesling, Cabernet Franc, and Meritage blends
Visitor Experience: Wine and food pairings, beautiful views, and educational tastings
4. Red Newt Cellars (Seneca Lake)
Known for both exceptional wines and farm-to-table cuisine, Red Newt Cellars offers a complete Finger Lakes experience. Their single-vineyard Rieslings showcase the diverse terroir of the region, while their bistro highlights local ingredients and producers.
Red Newt Cellars combines exceptional wines with farm-to-table dining
Signature Wines: Single-vineyard Rieslings, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris
Visitor Experience: Wine and food pairings, casual bistro dining, and lakeside views
5. Boundary Breaks (Seneca Lake)
A relative newcomer to the Finger Lakes wine scene, Boundary Breaks has quickly established itself as a Riesling specialist. Their focus on specific Riesling clones and careful vineyard management results in wines of remarkable precision and character.
Signature Wines: Clone-specific Rieslings (dry to sweet), Gewürztraminer
Visitor Experience: Panoramic lake views, educational tastings, and friendly, knowledgeable staff
Explore Seneca Lake’s Premier Wineries
Let the experts guide you to the best wineries along Seneca Lake with comfortable transportation included.
Navigating the Finger Lakes Wine Trails
The Finger Lakes wine region is organized into distinct wine trails surrounding each of the major lakes. Each trail offers its own unique character and wine styles:
Map of the major Finger Lakes wine trails
| Wine Trail | Number of Wineries | Known For | Signature Varieties | Recommended Time |
| Seneca Lake Wine Trail | 30+ | Largest concentration of wineries, diverse styles | Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Gewürztraminer | 2-3 days |
| Cayuga Lake Wine Trail | 15+ | America’s first wine trail, established 1983 | Riesling, Pinot Noir, hybrid varieties | 1-2 days |
| Keuka Lake Wine Trail | 8 | Historic wineries, birthplace of Finger Lakes wine | Riesling, Vignoles, sparkling wines | 1 day |
| Canandaigua Wine Trail | 5 | Proximity to Rochester, family-friendly | Riesling, ice wine, fruit wines | Half day |
Most visitors focus on one trail per day, visiting 4-5 wineries for a relaxed pace that allows for proper appreciation of each location. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail is the most popular and offers the greatest diversity of wineries, from large producers to small boutique operations.
Wine Tasting Etiquette & Tips
Make the most of your Finger Lakes wine experience with these helpful guidelines:
Proper wine tasting technique enhances your appreciation of Finger Lakes wines
Tasting Room Basics
- Most wineries charge $10-15 for a flight of 5-6 wines
- Tasting fees are often waived with bottle purchases
- Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends and for groups larger than 6
- Designate a driver or book a tour service for a safe experience
- Avoid wearing strong perfumes or colognes that can interfere with tasting
Tasting Like a Pro
- Start with lighter whites and progress to fuller-bodied reds
- Use the “5 S” method: See, Swirl, Smell, Sip, Savor
- It’s perfectly acceptable to use the dump bucket for wines you don’t finish
- Take notes on wines you enjoy for future reference
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions – winery staff love sharing their knowledge
“The Finger Lakes is one of the most welcoming wine regions I’ve ever visited. The people pouring your wine are often the same people who made it, creating an authentic connection you rarely find in more commercialized wine regions.”
Where to Stay in Finger Lakes Wine Country
The region offers accommodations for every preference and budget, from luxury lakeside resorts to charming bed and breakfasts nestled among the vineyards.
Find Your Perfect Wine Country Accommodation
Book your stay in the heart of Finger Lakes wine country for easy access to the region’s best wineries.
Many accommodations offer stunning views of both vineyards and lakes
Geneva & Northern Seneca Lake
The city of Geneva offers the widest range of accommodations and serves as an excellent base for exploring the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. The historic downtown area features boutique hotels and fine dining options.
Recommended: Geneva On The Lake, Belhurst Castle, Fairfield Inn & Suites Geneva
Hammondsport & Keuka Lake
This charming village at the southern tip of Keuka Lake offers a quintessential small-town experience with historic inns and access to some of the region’s oldest wineries.
Recommended: Black Sheep Inn, Keuka Lakeside Inn, Best Western Plus Hammondsport
Vineyard Accommodations
For the ultimate wine country experience, stay at a winery or vineyard property. Wake up to vineyard views and enjoy the convenience of having tastings just steps from your door.
Recommended: Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars, Vineyard Villas at Three Brothers, The Inn at Varick Winery
Pairing Local Cuisine with Finger Lakes Wines
The Finger Lakes region has developed an impressive farm-to-table food scene that perfectly complements its wines. Many wineries now feature on-site restaurants or cafés showcasing local ingredients and thoughtful wine pairings.
Many Finger Lakes wineries offer exceptional dining experiences featuring local ingredients
Notable Winery Dining Experiences
- F.L.X. Table (Geneva): An intimate dining experience by Master Sommelier Christopher Bates, featuring innovative dishes paired with exceptional wines. Reservations essential.
- Veraisons at Glenora Wine Cellars (Dundee): Farm-to-table cuisine with panoramic views of Seneca Lake. Their seasonal menu highlights local producers.
- Fox Run Café (Penn Yan): Casual lunch spot offering artisanal sandwiches, salads, and cheeseboards designed to pair with their wines.
- Stonecat Café (Hector): A beloved local institution serving seasonal, locally-sourced cuisine with an extensive Finger Lakes wine list.
“The Finger Lakes food scene has evolved dramatically over the past decade, with talented chefs drawn to the abundance of local ingredients and the opportunity to work closely with winemakers. The result is a truly distinctive regional cuisine.”
Local cheeses and charcuterie make perfect companions to Finger Lakes wines
Seasonal Wine Events & Festivals
The Finger Lakes wine region hosts numerous events throughout the year that showcase its wines and provide enhanced visitor experiences:
The Finger Lakes Wine Festival draws thousands of visitors each summer
| Event | When | Where | What to Expect |
| Finger Lakes Wine Festival | Mid-July | Watkins Glen International | The region’s largest wine event featuring over 90 wineries, live music, culinary classes, and pace car rides |
| Finger Lakes Wine Month | May | Region-wide | Special tastings, winemaker dinners, and events throughout the region |
| Deck the Halls Weekend | November-December | Seneca Lake Wine Trail | Holiday-themed wine and food pairings at participating wineries |
| Keuka in Bloom | Early May | Keuka Lake Wine Trail | Wine tastings paired with herb and flower samples for your garden |
Experience a Finger Lakes Wine Festival
Book a guided tour that includes transportation, tastings, and festival admission for a worry-free experience.
Practical Tips for Your Finger Lakes Wine Tour
Many Finger Lakes wineries offer outdoor tastings with spectacular views
Planning Your Itinerary
- Limit yourself to 4-5 wineries per day to avoid palate fatigue
- Mix well-known wineries with smaller, off-the-beaten-path gems
- Check winery websites for current hours and reservation requirements
- Allow extra time for scenic drives between wineries
- Consider scheduling lunch at a winery restaurant to break up your day
Wine Shipping & Purchasing
- Many wineries can ship directly to residents of certain states
- Consider joining wine clubs for exclusive wines and member benefits
- Bring a cooler with ice packs if traveling by car in warm weather
- Most wineries offer case discounts (typically 10-15% off)
- Some states have restrictions on bringing in alcohol, so check regulations
Important: Drink responsibly and always have a designated driver or arranged transportation when visiting multiple wineries. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in New York State is 0.08%.
Most Finger Lakes wineries offer shipping services to bring your discoveries home
What to Taste: Finger Lakes Wine Specialties
While the Finger Lakes region produces a wide variety of wines, certain grape varieties thrive in this cool climate and have become regional signatures:
Riesling grapes thrive in the Finger Lakes’ cool climate
Riesling
The flagship grape of the region, Finger Lakes Rieslings range from bone-dry to ice wine sweet. Look for vibrant acidity, mineral notes, and distinctive terroir differences between lakes and vineyards.
Try at: Hermann J. Wiemer, Boundary Breaks, Ravines
Cabernet Franc
The region’s standout red variety produces elegant, medium-bodied wines with red fruit flavors, herbal notes, and excellent aging potential. The cool climate creates distinctive expressions unlike those from warmer regions.
Try at: Forge Cellars, Bloomer Creek, Red Newt
Sparkling Wines
The high acidity of Finger Lakes grapes makes them perfect for sparkling wine production. Many producers create traditional method sparklers from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Riesling that rival those from more famous regions.
Try at: Dr. Konstantin Frank, Lamoreaux Landing, Glenora
Beyond the Classics: Don’t overlook other varieties thriving in the region, including Gewürztraminer, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and interesting hybrids like Traminette and Vignoles.
Plan Your Finger Lakes Wine Adventure
The Finger Lakes wine region offers a perfect blend of world-class wines, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a serious oenophile or simply enjoy the occasional glass, this beautiful region of New York provides an accessible and rewarding wine experience that rivals more famous destinations.
The perfect end to a day of wine tasting in the Finger Lakes
From the pioneering history of Dr. Konstantin Frank to the innovative approaches of new generation winemakers, the Finger Lakes continues to evolve while maintaining its commitment to quality and sense of place. The region’s cool climate wines—particularly its world-class Rieslings—offer exceptional value and distinctive character that truly reflect this special corner of New York State.
Ready to Experience Finger Lakes Wine Country?
Start planning your perfect wine getaway with flights, accommodations, and guided tours.
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, a friends’ getaway, or a solo wine adventure, the Finger Lakes welcomes you with open arms and full glasses. Your perfect wine country experience awaits in this beautiful region where pristine lakes, rolling vineyards, and passionate winemakers come together to create something truly special.
The above is subject to change.
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