Finger Lakes (AVA)
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American Rhineland? The Finger Lakes AVA is the Empire State’s largest wine-growing region, with approximately 11,000 acres under vine and close to 100 operating wineries.

The AVA’s similarities to Germany’s Rhine area begin with its bitterly cold winters and short growing season. Also reminiscent is the preferred grape, Riesling, and the picturesque, river-like lakes, with their steep vine-clad slopes running down to the shoreline. Besides Riesling, a wide range of cold-tolerant vinifera, French hybrid and native American varieties thrive. Appellation specialties include sparkling and icewine.

This upstate viticultural area centers around the four main lakes: Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuga, with the latter two having their own AVA status. The long, narrow, deepwater lakes help moderate the climate against the very cold and snowy winters, and then extend the summer heat into a protracted growing season. Steep slopes along the lakes provide good sun exposures and excellent air drainage, helping to reduce frost risks at both ends of the season.

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In the southern Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina and Georgia vineyards are small and few, yet the establishment of the Upper Hiwassee Highlands could bring much more.  [>] continue


Appellation Features

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See the best wines of Finger Lakes

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Finger Lakes

BLUE BOOK PROFILES

Blue Book Taste Profiles for the Finger Lakes AVA

Gewurztraminer

Pinot Gris | Grigio

Riesling

Sangiovese

Tocai Friulano

Alive & Well here


Chardonnay: You are the world’s greatest star. Your fame has infiltrated every nook and cranny of the globe, regardless  [>] continue

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Featured Wines

Standing Stone Vineyards 2007 Dry Vidal Elegant, but fun, with bright flavors and a clean finish. Great with cheddar cheese or chicken burritos.
buy wine $9.99


Dr. Frank's Vinifera Wine Cellars 2008 Merlot With aromas of ripe plums, fennel and smoky oak notes. This vintage of Merlot has a mouth-feel of black pepper and a robust fruity finish.
buy wine $19.99

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Winery sponsors of Appellation America’s coverage of the Finger Lakes appellation.