Finger Lakes
Deep glacial lakes, and the best Riesling in America.
Finger Lakes: the home of Riesling
In upstate New York, a set of long, deep glacial lakes moderates the cold enough to grow vines, and the result is the finest Riesling in the United States. The Finger Lakes are scenic and welcoming, the wineries are friendly and affordable, and the Riesling ranges from bracingly dry to lusciously sweet, much like its German inspiration.
The wines
Riesling is the star, in every sweetness level, fresh and aromatic with bright acidity. Cool-climate reds like Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir are improving, and there is good sparkling and Gewürztraminer too.
Where to go
Seneca and Cayuga, the two largest lakes, are ringed by wine trails of cellar doors looking over the water. The towns of Geneva and Ithaca, the latter home to Cornell, anchor the region.
Eat
Farm-to-table dining has grown alongside the wine, with lake fish and local produce. Off-dry Riesling with the area's growing food scene is the easy match.
Getting there
Fly into Rochester or Syracuse, then drive about an hour. A car is needed to follow the lakeside wine trails.
Know the wine before you go.
The app teaches you Riesling in five minutes, then helps you order it with confidence. Learn the grape, then come back and plan the trip.
Finger Lakes wine tours & tastings
Browse wine tours, tastings and cellar-door visits in Finger Lakes, booked through Viator. The price you pay never changes.
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Finger Lakes, quick answers.
What wine is the Finger Lakes known for?
Riesling, widely considered the best in the United States, made in styles from bone dry to sweet, plus cool-climate reds.
Why can wine grow in upstate New York?
The deep glacial lakes hold heat and moderate the harsh winters and springs enough for vines to survive on the slopes above the water.
When should I visit the Finger Lakes?
Late summer through autumn for harvest and the changing leaves, when the lakeside scenery is at its best.
