Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York is home to almost 100 wineries centered around the three main Finger Lakes: Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuga Lakes. In addition, most of the wineries are also members of their respective wine trails and host year-round wine and food event weekends. The Finger Lakes is a world-class wine producing region that specializes in aromatic white varieties like Riesling and Gewurztraminer. Throughout May the region celebrates its signature variety, Riesling, with special older vintage and new release tastings, tasting room only promotions, and free shipping.And of late, the region is also finding exciting success with cool-climate reds like Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir. The terroir of the region is special because of the microclimate created by the lakes; extreme cold weather in the winter is avoided and warm, breezy days during the summer help ripen the grapes. Also the the slate and limestone glacial soils help produce wines of distinctive character.
Search all the wineries in our database by lake, type of wine produced, and amenities.
What is the Finger Lakes Wine Tasting experience Like?
Wine tasting in Finger Lakes Wine Country is a world-class experience in a quaint and charming atmosphere. Most wineries have a small tasting fee—averaging at $2 or $3 per person—which is often refunded with a purchase of wine*. Most of the wineries are open year-round though during the winter some do close for the season or have limited visiting hours. Unlike in other wine destinations, like Napa Valley, tasting appointments are not generally needed. However it is always helpful to check ahead with the wineries you plan on visiting for special events and promotions. Click here for some helpful wine tasting tips.
Wine Events at Wineries and Along the Three Wine Trails
There are many events centered on wine and wine tasting in Finger Lakes Wine Country throughout the year. From themed wine trail events along the Cayuga, Seneca, and Keuka Lake wine trail to the Finger Lakes Wine Festival, one of the largest festivals in the country, held every July on the grounds of Watkins Glen International , there is something for everyone. For a complete list of wine events in the Finger Lakes visit our event calendar and search by date, price, and location.
What Types of Wines are Produced in the Finger Lakes?
- The wines of the Finger Lakes are produced in a range of styles from dry, crisp early harvest whites to full-bodied dry reds to sweet and fruity blush wines. We like to say "there is a wine for everyone" in the Finger Lakes!
- Look for Vinifera varieties such as Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Lemberger, Pinot Noir and Merlot during your tastings. Also many wineries pour sweeter wines made from Native and hybrid varietals like Cayuga White, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc and Traminette.
Get more information on wine touring including the Seven S's of Wine Tasting. Click here.
Need some wine and food pairing tips for serving Finger Lakes wines at
home? Click
here.
See the videos... check out a local news media's new series, On the Wine Trail, and learn about making wine, the perfect wine with dessert, and pairing foods and wines.