United States

Finger Lakes Wine Guide

New York's premier cold-climate wine region, famous for elegant Riesling and aromatic whites.

Country

United States

Key Varietals

5 varieties

Notable Wineries

6+ estates

About Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes region in upstate New York has established itself as America's premier source for cold-climate wines, particularly elegant, food-friendly Rieslings. The long, deep glacial lakes moderate temperatures and extend the growing season, while cool nights preserve acidity in grapes. Riesling thrives in the challenging climate, developing complexity and minerality comparable to German Mosel wines. The region also produces excellent Gewürztraminer, Macabeo, and increasingly impressive Pinot Noirs. Stunning lake scenery and a vibrant craft beverage community make Finger Lakes a premier tourist destination.

Climate & Terroir

Climate

Cool continental with lake-moderated temperatures; shorter growing season but excellent diurnal variation

Soil

Glacially carved soils with shale, clay, and gravelly loam; high mineral content

Key Grape Varieties

Finger Lakes is renowned for these grape varieties:

RieslingGewürztraminerPinot NoirChardonnayMacabeo

Notable Wineries

Some of the most celebrated producers in Finger Lakes:

1Dr. Konstantin Frank
2Sheldrake Point
3Corkscrew
4Castel
5Fox Run
6Hermann J. Wiemer

Recommended Vintages

These vintages are considered exceptional for Finger Lakes:

20212019201820172016201520142012

Visiting Finger Lakes

Beautiful lake scenery with numerous wineries along each finger lake. Ithaca and Corning offer cultural attractions. Fall colors are spectacular. Many wineries are close together, perfect for day touring.

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Related Regions

Explore More Wine Regions

Germany

Mosel

Spectacular steep vineyards producing Germany's most elegant Rieslings.

France

Alsace

France's aromatic white wine capital, producing distinctive Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and other Germanic varieties.

United States

Willamette Valley

Oregon's premier wine region, producing world-class Pinot Noir in a cool climate.

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