Best 15 Wineries in The Finger Lakes NY: A Guide to the Top Vineyards and Tasting Rooms in the Region
The Finger Lakes region in New York is known for its picturesque landscapes and world-class wineries. With over 100 wineries, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones to visit. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a fun day trip, the Finger Lakes wine region has something for everyone.
From award-winning Rieslings to unique blends, the Finger Lakes wineries offer a variety of wines to suit every palate. Many wineries also offer tours and tastings, making it a great opportunity to learn about the winemaking process and the history of the region. Some of the most popular wineries in the Finger Lakes include Boundary Breaks, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, and Lamoreaux Landing, each offering its own unique experience.
Understanding the Finger Lakes Wine Region
The Finger Lakes region in New York is home to over 100 wineries and vineyards, making it one of the most important wine regions in the United States. The region is named after the 11 long, narrow, and deep lakes that were formed by glaciers during the last ice age. The Finger Lakes region is located in the north-central part of New York State, extending from Syracuse to Rochester.
The Finger Lakes wine region is known for its cool climate and unique microclimate, which is created by the lakes. The lakes help to moderate the temperature, making it possible to grow grapes that would not normally thrive in a colder climate. The region is also known for its rich soil, which is ideal for growing grapes.
The Finger Lakes wine region has a unique terroir, which refers to the environmental factors that affect the grapes and the wine produced from them. The terroir is influenced by the soil, climate, and topography of the region. The region’s terroir is characterized by its cool climate, which allows for a longer growing season, resulting in grapes with higher acidity and lower sugar content.
The Finger Lakes region is home to several grape varieties, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Gewürztraminer. Riesling is the most widely planted grape variety in the region and is known for its crisp acidity, citrus flavors, and floral aromas.
The Significant Lakes and Their Wineries
Wineries Around Seneca Lake
Seneca Lake is the largest of the Finger Lakes and has the most wineries. It is home to many award-winning wineries, including Atwater Estate Vineyards, Wagner Vineyards, and Glenora Wine Cellars. Atwater Estate Vineyards is known for its Riesling and Cabernet Franc, while Wagner Vineyards is famous for its ice wine. Glenora Wine Cellars, on the other hand, is known for its sparkling wine.
Wineries Around Keuka Lake
Keuka Lake is the most picturesque of the Finger Lakes and is home to some of the most renowned wineries in the region. Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is one of the most famous wineries in the region, and it is known for its Riesling and Chardonnay. Heron Hill Winery is another famous winery, and it is known for its Cabernet Franc and Riesling.
Wineries Around Cayuga Lake
Cayuga Lake is the second-largest of the Finger Lakes and is home to some of the most beautiful wineries in the region. Sheldrake Point Winery is known for its Riesling and Gewurztraminer, while Hosmer Winery is famous for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Swedish Hill Winery is another famous winery, and it is known for its Riesling and Cabernet Franc.
Wineries Around Canandaigua Lake
Canandaigua Lake is the fourth-largest of the Finger Lakes and is home to some of the most beautiful wineries in the region. Heron Hill Winery is known for its Riesling and Cabernet Franc, while Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards is famous for its Cabernet Franc and Riesling.
The Finger Lakes region is known for its unique climate and soil, which makes it an ideal place for growing grapes. The region is home to over 100 wineries, each with its own unique flavor and style. Visitors can explore the region’s wineries by following one of the four wine trails, which are designated around each of the significant lakes.
Prominent Wineries in Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region in New York is home to some of the best wineries in the United States. Here are some of the most prominent wineries in the Finger Lakes region:
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is one of the most famous wineries in the Finger Lakes region. It was founded by Dr. Konstantin Frank, who is credited with bringing the European winemaking tradition to the United States. The winery is known for its Riesling and Chardonnay wines.
Website: http://www.drfrankwines.com/
Address: 9749 Middle Rd, Hammondsport, NY 14840, United States
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard
Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard is another well-known winery in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling wines, which are made using traditional German winemaking techniques. The winery also produces Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: https://www.wiemer.com/
Address: 3962 NY-14, Dundee, NY 14837, United States
Red Tail Ridge Winery
Red Tail Ridge Winery is a relatively new winery in the Finger Lakes region, but it has already gained a reputation for producing high-quality wines. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir wines.
Website: http://www.redtailridgewinery.com/
Address: 846 NY-14, Penn Yan, NY 14527, United States
Ravines Wine Cellars
Ravines Wine Cellars is a family-owned winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling wines.
Website: http://www.ravineswine.com/
Address: 400 Barracks Rd, Geneva, NY 14456, United States
Hosmer Winery
Hosmer Winery is a winery that has been producing wine in the Finger Lakes region since the 1980s. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: http://www.hosmerwinery.com/
Address: 7020 NY-89, Ovid, NY 14521, United States
Heron Hill Winery
Heron Hill Winery is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: http://www.heronhill.com/
Address: 9301 Co Rd 76, Hammondsport, NY 14840, United State
Lamoreaux Landing
Lamoreaux Landing is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: http://www.lamoreauxwine.com/
Address: 9224 NY-414, Lodi, NY 14860, United States
Fox Run Vineyards
Fox Run Vineyards is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: http://www.foxrunvineyards.com/
Address: 670 NY-14, Penn Yan, NY 14527, United States
Glenora Wine Cellars
Glenora Wine Cellars is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: https://www.glenora.com/
Address: 5435 NY-14, Dundee, NY 14837, United States
Sheldrake Point Winery
Sheldrake Point Winery is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: http://sheldrakepoint.com/
Address: 7448 County Rd 153, Ovid, NY 14521, United States
Keuka Springs Vineyard
Keuka Springs Vineyard is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: http://www.keukaspringwinery.com/
Address: 243 Route 54, East Lake Rd, Penn Yan, NY 14527, United States
McGregor Vineyard
McGregor Vineyard is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: https://www.mcgregorwinery.com/
Address: 5503 Dutch St, Dundee, NY 14837, United States
Forge Cellars
Forge Cellars is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Pinot Noir and Riesling wines.
Website: http://www.forgecellars.com/
Address: 3775 Mathews Rd, Burdett, NY 14818, United States
Standing Stone Vineyards
Standing Stone Vineyards is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Vidal Blanc wines.
Website: https://standingstonewines.com/
Address: 9934 Route 414 Hector, NY 14841
Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery
Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery is a winery that produces some of the best wines in the Finger Lakes region. The winery is known for its Riesling, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Franc wines.
Website: https://wagnervineyards.com/
Address: 9322 NY-414, Lodi, NY 14860, United States
These are just a few of the many wineries in the Finger Lakes region that produce high-quality wines. Visitors to the Finger Lakes region should take the time to visit some of these wineries and sample their wines.
Popular Wine Varieties in Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes region is known for producing a variety of high-quality wines, with Riesling being the most popular grape variety. The cool climate and unique soil composition make it an ideal location for growing grapes that produce crisp, acidic wines.
Riesling
Riesling is the star of Finger Lakes wine country, with its crisp acidity and fruity flavors making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. This grape variety is known for its ability to thrive in cooler climates, and the Finger Lakes region provides the perfect growing conditions for Riesling grapes.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is another popular grape variety in the Finger Lakes, with its rich, buttery flavor and crisp acidity. The region’s cooler climate produces Chardonnay grapes with a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from other Chardonnays.
Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a red grape variety that is known for its delicate flavor profile and light body. While it can be difficult to grow in cooler climates, the Finger Lakes region has found success with this grape variety, producing Pinot Noir wines that are light and fruity.
Cabernet Franc
Cabernet Franc is a red grape variety that is known for its complex flavor profile and tannic structure. The Finger Lakes region has found success with this grape variety, producing Cabernet Franc wines that are full-bodied and rich.
Gewürztraminer
Gewürztraminer is a white grape variety that is known for its spicy, floral notes and high acidity. The Finger Lakes region produces Gewürztraminer wines that are crisp and refreshing, with a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from other white wines.
Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wine is a popular choice in the Finger Lakes, with many wineries producing high-quality sparkling wines using the traditional method. These wines are crisp and refreshing, with a light body and fine bubbles.
Ice Wine
Ice wine is a unique style of wine that is made from grapes that have been frozen on the vine. The Finger Lakes region is known for producing high-quality ice wines, with their sweet, rich flavors making them a favorite among wine enthusiasts.
Red Blend
Red blends are becoming increasingly popular in the Finger Lakes, with wineries blending different grape varieties to create unique flavor profiles. These wines are full-bodied and rich, with complex flavor profiles that make them perfect for pairing with hearty meals.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is a white grape variety that is known for its crisp acidity and herbaceous flavors. The Finger Lakes region produces Sauvignon Blanc wines that are light and refreshing, with a unique flavor profile that sets them apart from other white wines.
Pinot Gris
Pinot Gris is a white grape variety that is known for its light, crisp flavors and high acidity. The Finger Lakes region produces Pinot Gris wines that are refreshing and easy to drink, with a unique flavor profile that makes them perfect for pairing with seafood and other light dishes.
Teroldego
Teroldego is a red grape variety that is known for its bold, tannic structure and dark fruit flavors. While it is not as widely grown in the Finger Lakes as other grape varieties, it is gaining popularity among winemakers who are looking to produce unique, complex wines.
Wine Tasting Experiences in Finger Lakes
Finger Lakes is home to some of the finest wineries in the country, offering a unique wine-tasting experience for visitors. Whether you are a wine enthusiast or just looking for a fun weekend activity, there is something for everyone in the Finger Lakes. Here are some of the wine-tasting experiences you can expect in the region.
Tastings
Most Finger Lakes wineries offer tastings, where visitors can sample a selection of wines. Tastings typically include a flight of wines, ranging from dry to sweet, and may also include food pairings. Visitors can learn about the winemaking process, the history of the winery, and the unique characteristics of the wines.
Tasting Rooms
Finger Lakes wineries have some of the most beautiful tasting rooms in the country, featuring stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding countryside. Tasting rooms are often decorated with local artwork and offer a cozy atmosphere for visitors to enjoy their wine flights.
Wine Tours
For a more immersive experience, visitors can take a wine tour of the Finger Lakes. Wine tours typically include visits to multiple wineries, with transportation provided between each stop. Visitors can learn about the different grape varieties grown in the region, the winemaking process, and the history of the wineries.
Wine Trails
The Finger Lakes region has several wine trails, which are self-guided tours that take visitors through multiple wineries in a specific area. The most popular wine trail is the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, which features over 30 wineries along the shores of Seneca Lake. Other wine trails include the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, the Keuka Lake Wine Trail, and the Canandaigua Wine Trail.
Additional Attractions for Wine Lovers
Wine lovers visiting the Finger Lakes region will find plenty of additional attractions to enjoy beyond the numerous wineries. From restaurants and breweries to waterfalls and bistros, there’s something for everyone.
For those looking to explore the local food scene, there are several restaurants in the Finger Lakes that offer delicious cuisine to pair with local wines. The Red Dove Tavern in Geneva is a popular spot that features a seasonal menu of locally sourced ingredients. The FLX Table in Penn Yan offers a unique dining experience with a set menu that changes nightly. For a more casual option, the Stonecat Cafe in Hector serves up farm-to-table fare in a picturesque setting.
Beer enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy in the Finger Lakes. The region is home to several breweries, including the Ithaca Beer Company and the Genesee Brewing Company. The Lucky Hare Brewing Company in Hector is also worth a visit and offers a variety of craft beers to sample.
For those looking to try something other than wine or beer, there are also several distilleries in the Finger Lakes. The Finger Lakes Distilling Company in Burdett offers tours and tastings of their handcrafted spirits, including whiskey, gin, and brandy.
Nature lovers will appreciate the many waterfalls in the Finger Lakes region. The Taughannock Falls State Park in Trumansburg boasts a 215-foot waterfall that is a must-see for visitors. The Watkins Glen State Park is another popular spot with several waterfalls and scenic hiking trails.
Finally, for a more relaxed atmosphere, wine lovers can visit the many bistros in the Finger Lakes. The Stonecat Cafe in Hector offers a cozy atmosphere and live music on weekends. The Kindred Fare in Geneva is another popular spot with a farm-to-table menu and an extensive wine list.