Finger Lakes Wine Trails | Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes Wine Trails refer to a collection of interconnected wine routes throughout the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York, famous for its scenic beauty and world-class wineries. The region is one of the premier wine-producing areas in the United States, particularly known for its Rieslings, Gewürztraminer, and other cool-climate grape varieties.

Overview

The Finger Lakes region consists of 11 long, narrow lakes carved by glaciers, with surrounding rolling hills and fertile soil perfect for viticulture. The wine trails connect numerous wineries, tasting rooms, vineyards, and related attractions, offering visitors a diverse and immersive wine tourism experience.

Major Wine Trails in the Finger Lakes

Seneca Lake Wine Trail

The largest and oldest wine trail in the region, featuring over 30 wineries around Seneca Lake, the largest Finger Lake.

Known for Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and ice wines.

Highlights include tasting at well-established wineries like Hermann J. Wiemer, Ravines Wine Cellars, and Fox Run Vineyards.

Keuka Lake Wine Trail

Circles Keuka Lake, also called the "Crooked Lake" due to its Y shape.

Home to 14 wineries, this trail offers intimate tasting rooms and award-winning wines.

Famous wineries include Dr. Konstantin Frank, Heron Hill, and Bully Hill.

Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Around Cayuga Lake, featuring more than 20 wineries.

Known for a range of varietals, including Riesling, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines.

Notable stops include Thirsty Owl Wine Company and Six Mile Creek Vineyard.

Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail

Smaller but growing trail near Canandaigua Lake, offering boutique wineries with handcrafted wines.

Includes wineries like Three Brothers Wineries and Estates.

Wine Varietals and Specialties

Riesling: The Finger Lakes is especially celebrated for its crisp, aromatic Rieslings, ranging from dry to sweet ice wines.

Cabernet Franc: A red varietal that thrives in the cool climate.

Gewürztraminer and Chardonnay: Also popular for aromatic whites.

Ice Wine: Made from grapes frozen on the vine, a specialty of the region.

Wine Trail Experiences

Tasting Rooms: Each winery has its unique tasting room offering flights of wines, food pairings, and sometimes live music or events.

Tours: Many wineries offer guided tours of vineyards and production facilities.

Events: Seasonal festivals, harvest celebrations, and special tasting events are common along the trails.

Food and Dining: The trails often connect to local farm-to-table restaurants, cheese shops, and markets.

Scenic Beauty and Outdoor Activities

The trails run through stunning landscapes of rolling vineyards, lakefront views, and charming small towns.

Visitors often combine wine tasting with hiking, boating, cycling, or visiting historic sites.

Many wineries offer outdoor patios and picnic areas overlooking the lakes.

Planning a Visit

Transportation: Many visitors rent cars or join guided wine tours for safe travel between wineries.

Accommodations: The region has cozy inns, B&Bs, and boutique hotels often located near the lakes or in towns like Watkins Glen and Hammondsport.

Best Time to Visit: Late spring through fall is ideal, with harvest season (September-October) being particularly popular.

Summary

The Finger Lakes Wine Trails offer a rich and varied wine tourism experience combining award-winning wines, breathtaking natural landscapes, and warm local hospitality. Whether a casual wine lover or an enthusiast, visitors enjoy tasting unique vintages, learning about winemaking, and exploring one of New York’s most beautiful regions.