The Best Finger Lakes Wineries

The Finger Lakes region is a famous wine producing region well known for its Riesling and Gewurztraminer. There are over 100 wineries in the region, many of which are located along three distinct wine trails: Keuka Lake Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. The Finger Lakes region consists of 11 lakes that were formed by glaciers during the ice age. These deep lakes help to make the climate more moderate and optimal for growing grapes, and by planting the grapes on the hilly lake shores, the vines are able to get plenty of sun and sufficient drainage. It is a bonus that these lake-side winery locations also provide stunning views!

There are so many wineries in the region, it can be hard to select just a few to visit. Below is a list of the best Finger Lakes wineries that I visited during my recent trip to the Finger Lakes, as well as a few additional wineries that I did not have the pleasure of visiting but I hope to visit soon.

In my opinion this is one of the best Finger Lakes wineries. The views are stunning, their wine is fantastic, and the tastings are super affordable. Villa Bellangelo has won several awards for it’s wine and their “Berry Select Reisling” was included in Wine and Spirit Magazine’s list of “Top 100 Wines of 2018”. I tasted a Reisling, Gewurztraminer, and a Sparkling Wine here and thoroughly enjoyed them all.

2) Hermann J. Weimer

Hermann J. Weimer Vineyard is another one of the best Finger Lakes wineries well known for it’s Reisling. Hermann J. Weimer emigrated from Germany in the 1960’s, bringing along the tradition of wine making from Germany’s Mosel Valley. I particularly enjoyed their dry riesling as well as their sparkling wine. Be sure to make reservations as they are very popular and their availability fills up quickly. 

3) Dr. Konstantin Frank

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is one of the most famous wineries in the Finger Lakes. Dr. Frank emigrated to the United States in the 1950s and was one of the first winemakers to study how to grow European vinifera grape varieties in the cold New York climate. If you would like to do a tasting here be sure to make reservations well in advance, however, be prepared for a bit of pretentiousness from some of their employees.

4) Fox Run Vineyards

Fox Run’s motto is “Drink Wine, Be Happy”, and that is sure to happen if you visit their vineyard. Their vineyard has beautiful views of Lake Seneca and a wide variety of snacks available to accompany your tasting. Best of all, they are eco-friendly: as a certified lake-friendly farm their vineyard has no negative impact on the lake, and they operate on 100% self-generated solar energy. All tastings are first come first serve and no reservations are needed.

5) Hunt Country Vineyards

The Hunt family has been farming on Keuka Lake for 7 generations (since 1830… wow!). They were recipients of the 2020 Sustainability Award from the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, and are also increasing habitat for bees, birds, and other wildlife around the farm. In addition, they are very dog-friendly, with all of the dogs on their farm having been rescued or adopted. They produce over 20 different wine varieties 

6) McGregor Vineyard

McGregor Vineyard is located along the hillside of Keuke Lake and is one of the oldest wineries in the Finger Lakes. McGregor vineyard makes wine using the European method and their vineyard includes Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Muscat Ottonel, Cayuga White, and Vignoles.

7) Bully Hill

Bully Hill was one of the first wineries in New York after prohibition. Their founder Walter S. Taylor began the winery after being disappointed by other vineyards’ secrecy about the chemicals, water, and foreign grape juices being added to their wines. Be sure to come hungry- they also have a full restaurant at their winery. 

8) Domaine LeSeurre

Founded by Céline & Sébastien Leseurre, Domaine LeSeurre winery unites french heritage and new world wine experience. They are located on the Keuka Lake wine trail and their winery offers beautiful views of Keuka Lake. One of their most popular wines is their Cabernet Franc. 

9) Glenora Wine Cellars

Glenora Wine Cellars offers daily tastings and vineyard tours. Established in 1977, they were the first winery on Seneca Lake. A few of their most popular wines are their Willow White, Gewurztraminer, and barrel fermented Chardonnay. They are very well known and considered by many to be one of the best Finger Lake wineries.

10) Bloomer Creek Vineyards

Bloomer Creek vineyards is located on the east side of Seneca Lake. A few of their most popular wines include their Cabernet Franc, Tanzen Dame Petillant Natural, and fermented Riesling. 

Honorable Mention: Two Goats Brewing

Okay, Two Goats Brewing is not a vineyard, but I had to include them on this list. Their beer is fantastic and the views of Seneca Lake from their tasting room cannot be beat. Stop by “The Elf in The Oak” for lunch before you visit- their sandwiches are incredible (they even have vegan options!).

Tips:

How to get around: I recommend doing a wine tour from a company, or arranging your own transportation ahead of time. Ubers were very hard to get in the area (especially after 5:00 pm), and taxis were exorbitantly expensive. 

Where to stay: There are several cute towns in the region to choose from. If you prefer a large town with plenty of restaurants to choose from, I would recommend staying in Ithaca, NY (home to Cornell University and Ithaca College). For more of a quant small town vibe with still plenty of cute cafes and restaurants, Watkins Glen is a great option. If you are looking for a town that is more rural, I recommend Pen Yann. 

Other things to do in the area:  The Finger Lakes region has beautiful hiking trails and waterfalls. Check out this post for a list of the best waterfalls in the Finger Lakes. 

Do you have a favorite winery in the Finger Lakes? Leave a comment below!