While the Finger Lakes doesn’t have the same kind of name cache as Sonoma and Napa, there are plenty of thriving wineries making excellent varietals. Here are five of the best to check out with consideration to atmosphere and experience.
The scenic deck of Dr. Konstantin Frank’s tasting room. (Photo: Dr. Konstantin Frank)
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Located on a picturesque stretch of Keuka Lake, Dr. Konstantin Frank opened in 1962. Its namesake founder, a Ukrainian immigrant with a Ph.D. in viticulture, was a pioneer for growing European grapes in the region. While they have excellent Rieslings, the vineyard also features lesser-known top-notch varietals like the summer red Blaufrankisch.
9749 Middle Road, Hammondsport, NY
Ravines
It’s hard to find a better dry riesling than the ones at Ravines. That’s saying something, as the Finger Lakes are known for the varietal. Its great for the summer and pairs nicely with tasty bites like a savory tart with pork belly and sweet onion. While there are several kinds available at the tasting room, Ravines also offers an array of reds, including a delightfully subtle pinot noir.
400 Barracks Rd, Geneva, NY
Ventosa Vineyards
With a large terrace on Seneca Lake, Ventosa Vineyards is easily one of the most scenic places to enjoy a glass of vino. They have about a dozen wines plus an easily quaffable dry rose. Come for happy hour (Wednesdays 5-6pm) when it’s buy-one-get-one-free followed by live sets of local musicians.
3440 New York 96A, Geneva, NY
Wagner Vineyards
Wagner has been making wine in the Finger Lakes since the 70s, but it’s also the only winery in the region that also has its own on-site brewery that features several sessionable beers and a few stronger ones. There are over thirty different wines to choose from, but it’s the Rieslings that have won awards for this veritable vineyard. Leashed dogs are welcome on the lawn and select areas of the café and brew deck, which overlooks Seneca Lake.
9322 State Route 414, Lodi, NY
Heron Hill’s expansively picturesque winery. (Photo: Heron Hill Winery)
Heron Hill Winery
While this powerhouse vineyard has three locations, the one on Keuka Lake is the most expansive with a café serving locally sourced salads, wraps, and flatbreads. Heron Hill makes over twenty wines, including a series of special aged blends called Eclipse. These are sustainably produced and bottled using solar energy. Perhaps most impressive is this award-winning vineyard has remained family owned since it opened in 1977.
9301 County Route 76, Hammondsport, NY
By Christopher Kompanek