Day 16 | Finger Lakes AVA, New York

Vines by the lake

As an East Coaster, I'm super excited about the Finger Lakes—so much so that anyone who shares this post on their social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X) will be entered into a drawing to win a free bottle of wine from the Finger Lakes!

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Grape Varieties Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay

The Finger Lakes AVA, located in upstate New York, is renowned for its stunning landscapes and exceptional cool-climate wines. With deep glacial lakes that moderate the climate, the region is particularly famous for producing some of the best Riesling in North America. The Finger Lakes’ winemaking tradition dates back to the 19th century, and today it is home to a thriving wine industry that continues to gain international recognition.

Why It’s Special

• Riesling Paradise: The Finger Lakes AVA is often compared to Germany's Mosel region for its world-class Rieslings. The cool climate, combined with the region's unique terroir, results in wines with vibrant acidity, crisp minerality, and a balance of fruit and floral notes.

• Diverse Terroir: The AVA encompasses a variety of soil types and microclimates, thanks to the region's glacial history. This diversity allows for the cultivation of a wide range of grape varieties, from aromatic whites to structured reds.

• Sustainable Practices: Many wineries in the Finger Lakes are leaders in sustainable viticulture, with a focus on preserving the region’s natural beauty and promoting environmental stewardship.

Interesting Fact
The Finger Lakes are named after the eleven long, narrow lakes that resemble fingers. These lakes, particularly Seneca and Cayuga, play a crucial role in moderating the local climate, protecting the vineyards from harsh winter conditions and extending the growing season.

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Premium Subscriber Content: Unveiling the Finger Lakes' Depths

Terroir Insights
The Finger Lakes AVA’s terroir is defined by its glacial history, which has left behind a diverse array of soils, including limestone, shale, and gravel. These soils, combined with the moderating influence of the lakes, create an ideal environment for cool-climate grape varieties. The steep slopes around the lakes help with drainage and expose the vines to maximum sunlight, further enhancing the quality of the grapes. The Finger Lakes region is known for its distinctive minerality and vibrant acidity in wines, particularly in its flagship Rieslings.

Educational Spotlight Check out this awesome video from the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, where wine writer and educator Dan Belmont takes you on a tasting tour of New York's AVAs.

Riesling and Beyond
While Riesling is the star of the Finger Lakes, the region also excels in producing a variety of other cool-climate wines, including Gewürztraminer, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay. Rieslings from the Finger Lakes are often described as having a bright acidity, stone fruit flavors, and a touch of sweetness balanced by crisp minerality. Cabernet Franc, the region’s signature red grape, produces wines with red fruit, herbal notes, and a lean, elegant structure. Winemakers in the region are also experimenting with sparkling wines and ice wines, adding to the diversity of the Finger Lakes’ offerings.