We have no problem finding sophisticated wine, both red and white, in the Finger Lakes. Now that we’ve visited the Finger Lakes five times over the past ten years, we’re starting to establish our favorite Finger Lakes wineries. These are our favorites:
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Back in 1958, Dr. Frank demonstrated the ability to grow European style Vitis Vinifera in the Eastern United States to a skeptical public. Now a new generation is following in Frank’s footsteps, providing their own stamps upon the up and coming wine region.
Over the ensuing decades, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery became a leader in the Finger Lakes wine community. Frank’s winery deserves credit for bringing European standards to the Finger Lakes in its production of wines like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir and Grüner Veltliner.
Not willing to sit on its laurels and revel in old vines originally planted by its Ukranian founder, Dr. Konstantin Winery continues to push forward with excellent wines and wine varietals. Plus, the winery is one of the few Finger Lakes wineries to offer free tastings.
We sampled a good selection during our comprehensive tasting with Brandon Thomas (pictured above). Standouts were the 2013 Blanc de Blanc Chardonnay and the 2015 Lena with a blend of the winery’s best red grapes.
Pro Tip
Weather permitting, check out the Terrace at 1886. If there’s a more scenic tasting spot overlooking Lake Keuka, we have yet to find it.
Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery is located at 9749 Middle Road, Hammondsport, NY 14840, USA.
