🍷 5 Finger Lakes Wines You Need to Try


Hi Reader,

I’ve already taken you on a deep dive into a few Finger Lakes favorites.

But let’s zoom out for a sec and talk about the wines. 🍷

From crisp, aromatic whites to elegant reds and bubbly sparklers (because who doesn’t love a good toast? 🥂), these bottles are perfect for the holidays.

Whether you’re pairing them with festive meals or popping one open for New Year’s 🎉, these five varieties are a solid intro to what the Finger Lakes does best:

Riesling – The Finger Lakes’ signature wine is all about bright acidity and a clean, mineral finish. Most are made in a dry, crisp style with citrus and green apple, although you’ll find some off-dry versions.

Producers to try: Kemmeter Wines, Forge Cellars, Weis Vineyards

Cabernet Franc – Finger Lakes Cabernet Franc balances bright red and black fruit with herbaceous notes and gentle spice, all with a cool-climate freshness.

Producers to try: Ravines Wine Cellars, Heron Hill Winery, Boundary Breaks Vineyard

Chardonnay – Expect crisp citrus flavors and subtle minerality. The Finger Lakes also shines with sparkling Chardonnay, known for its elegance and finesse.

Producers to try: Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, Red Tail Ridge Winery, Living Roots Wine & Co.

Pinot Noir – Cool-climate Pinot Noir here is light and silky, with vibrant red berry flavors and a touch of earthiness.

Producers to try: Heart & Hands Wine Company, Forge Cellars

Lemberger (aka Blaufränkisch) – This under-the-radar red thrives in the Finger Lakes, with black fruit notes, vibrant acidity, and a peppery finish.

Producers to try: Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, Fox Run Vineyards, Keuka Lake Vineyards

There’s so much more to the Finger Lakes to discover!

From its fascinating history to its unique terroir, check out the full story behind this incredible wine region.

Cheers,

Laura

P.S. From its cool-climate wines to its game-changing history, unique AVAs, and scenic wine trails, explore what makes the Finger Lakes region so special.


Finger Lakes Wine Country Itineraries

Dreaming of wine tasting in the Finger Lakes but stressed about the planning? My ready-made itineraries take the hassle out of it.

They're packed with all my expert tips to save hours of research and make your experience unforgettable!

  • Seneca Lake is the heart of this wine region, home to more than 50 wineries, waterfalls, and watersports.
  • Keuka Lake is the birthplace of Finger Lakes winemaking, with historic towns, iconic wineries, and lakeside activities.

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Wine Travelista

Hi! I'm Laura, your go-to source for all things wine and wanderlust. Whether you're a wine newbie or a seasoned pro, I'm here to help you experience the same joy and education that wine country travel has brought me. From wine travel basics to wine region guides to done-for-you itineraries, I make planning a wine tasting trip simple…and fun!

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