Unveiling the hidden gem of American winemaking

The Finger Lakes region produces some incredible wine

Growing up in the Finger Lakes it was the only wine I had ever known. As I moved west I learned that very few people even knew the Finger Lakes region produced wine, and I was very disappointed to hear that. The region is home to over 120 wineries, many of which have won awards from USA Today. The region's signature wine would be a Riesling because it is known for its cool climate-grown wine.

The five finger lakes are glacial lakes that are shaped like, well fingers. The lakes give the area its unique climate, with short summers and long, harsh winters, allowing the grapes to thrive in the region. The temperature of the lakes staying more consistent than the temperature of the air allows the grapes to bud late in the spring due to the cold water, and extend the growing season in the fall due to the lakes being heated by the sun. Without the lakes, the climate here would be unsuitable for wine growing, let alone for wine to flourish.

The soil is also a very important part of winemaking. Riesling in the Finger Lakes has a distinct mineral taste. Combined with the grapes’ acidity, this imparts a unique taste to the wine, making it both crisp and refreshing. The soil in the region is rich with slate and other minerals, which causes it to have this distinct flavor.

Riesling is the most-grown grape in the area. Riesling tends to thrive in cooler climates, and overall the Finger Lakes region is a relatively cool area. The lakes provide an almost constant breeze for the grapes, which prevents them from getting mildew. The hills in the landscape enhance water drainage, ensuring that the grapes receive just the right amount of water.

Although Riesling is not the sole grape variety grown in the region, it has played a crucial role in enhancing the Finger Lakes’ reputation as a prestigious wine-producing area. The acidity of Riesling allows it to be balanced well with the right amount of sugar, as long as the winemaker knows what they're doing. The area has many talented winemakers, and many wineries have won awards for such. The area was awarded 4th as a "must-visit wine region" in the United States, and rightfully so.

There are a lot of talented winemakers in the Finger Lakes region, and over the last 10 years, they have begun gaining the recognition of wine lovers around the world. Due to the climate, the Finger Lakes are not an easy place to grow wine, but the people who do so, do it right. The region is a great wine producer. As someone who grew up there, I am delighted to see the Finger Lakes get the recognition they deserve.