Wednesday, September 2, 2009

100 Things To Do In Finger Lakes Wine Country This Summer, #55-62 Visit the Wineries Along the Keuka Lake Wine Trail


Fall foliage in Finger Lakes Wine Country is like nothing you have ever seen before making autumn, the most popular time to visit Finger Lakes Wine Country. Fall foliage begins in late September, reaching its peak in October. Vivid oranges, patches of deep reds and bright golds canvas the trees that cover the rolling hillside of the Finger Lakes region. This is the perfect time to enjoy the scenery and take in some wine tastings.

Everybody that lives on Keuka Lake or is a frequent visitor knows that it’s unique because of the Y shape. Being the smallest of the wine trails in the Finger Lakes, visitors can enjoy the small-town hospitality and individual attention they will get wherever they go. Eight wineries are sprinkled along the trail occupying both sides of the lake. And from experience, the view is great no matter what part of Keuka Lake you’re exploring.

The Keuka Lake region is rich in wine history. It was here in 1860 that the first bonded winery was established. Dr. Konstantin Frank also brings a lot of history to the region making it 55th on our top 100 tings to do this summer. Dr. Frank was a pioneer grower of European grape varieties on Keuka Lake. Today, the winery is still regarded as an outstanding winery that produces world-class wines.

Keuka Spring Vineyards is another winery that is constantly being recognized for producing outstanding wines so that’s why they are 56th on our list. They are now pouring 8 award-winning wines in their tasting room with an excellent selection of reds and whites.

Being named as having one of the best tasting rooms in the world, gives Heron Hill a spot on our list at 57. Not only is their view spectacular, you get to enjoy it either from their deck where you can grab something to eat or once inside their vaulting tasting hall.

The proprietor credits a lot of success to Morten from Ravines. At 60 on our list, Ravines is a charming boutique winery that produces wines using 100% Finger Lakes grapes.

Another small winery, Barrington Cellars, is perfecting their wine making technique. At 61 on our list, Barrington Cellars offers an amazing view and delicious wine made from their own grapes and a few from their neighbors.

Stever Hill Vineyards has a unique tasting room. Their tasting room is a restored barn making it a fun stop on the Keuka Trail.

If you are looking for some good ice wine, head to Hunt Country Vineyards. Hunt Country definitely deserves a spot on our list as they have been producing fine wines for 28 years.

Next on our list is McGregor. Not only can you sample some delicious wine, they pair it with fine artisanal cheeses. They also have chocolate and red wine events which that alone, gives them a spot on our list!

The Crooked Lake is a perfect way to cap off your summer in Finger Lakes Wine Country and usher in the fall season. Take a drive on 54A, grab some lunch on the deck at Heron Hill and taste some wine from charming boutique wineries, world-known wineries and everything in between.

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