Wine, Dine, and Unwind: A Guide to the Finger Lakes Region-Part One

If you’re looking for a wine destination that’s both off the beaten path and brimming with charm, the Finger Lakes Wine Region might be your ideal escape. With its rolling hills, glimmering lakes, and vineyard-strewn landscapes, this area invites you to experience a world-class wine destination with a warmth and accessibility all its own. No matter the season—whether spring’s fresh bloom, summer’s lush greenery, fall’s vibrant colors, or winter’s quiet beauty—the Finger Lakes offers a delightful, year-round wine-tasting journey.

So, what finally led me there?

The Finger Lakes had been on my radar for years, yet the allure of international wine regions and the lure of the West Coast kept pulling me elsewhere. The East Coast’s vineyards seemed like an unexplored treasure waiting in my own backyard, and an invitation to celebrate Finger Lakes Wine Month in August finally presented the perfect opportunity. I could finally discover, firsthand, what makes this region so distinctively enchanting.

Renowned for its stunning landscapes, world-class wineries, and welcoming small towns, this region is a magnet for wine enthusiasts from around the globe. In this series, I’ll guide you through the key highlights, offering a detailed day-by-day itinerary to help you make the most of your visit. I will be sharing insights on exceptional wineries, notable wines, and memorable meals, providing you with some ideas to plan your own Finger Lakes getaway.

How do you Get There?

Getting to the Finger Lakes is refreshingly easy. I flew into Rochester, NY, a gateway to the region with the charm of a small, efficient airport. The transition from deplaning to luggage claim and rental car pickup was seamless, setting a relaxed tone for the journey ahead. From Rochester, it’s a pleasant drive under an hour to reach the heart of the Finger Lakes. As you leave the cityscape behind, you’ll find yourself amidst rolling hills and pastoral scenery—a tranquil introduction to what lies ahead.

For those a little closer, the Finger Lakes region is an easy drive away, offering beautiful, scenic routes no matter your starting point. With its well-connected highways, it’s perfect for a weekend road trip that unfolds at your own pace.

Where to stay?

With a bit of research, you’ll discover many enchanting locations in the Finger Lakes region, ranging from quaint small towns to picturesque countryside retreats. Amid these options, Glen Hollow stands out as a distinctive choice. This English-style cottage, located between Canandaigua and Naples, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern luxury.

At Glen Hollow, you immediately feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. The historic home, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, exudes a timeless charm that transports you to a bygone era. Yet, despite its old-world allure, Glen Hollow is far from antiquated. The property has been meticulously restored by the design firm Cultrara Associates, who spent over two years breathing new life into this fairytale-like estate.

Glen Hollow consists of two main structures: the Main House and the Guest House. The Main House boasts two bedroom suites and two and a half baths, making it an great choice for families or couples looking for a luxurious getaway.

The Guest House, offers a downstairs bedroom, a cozy loft bedroom, and a full bath as well as a kitchen.

Award-winning poets are known to stay here, drawing inspiration from the serene surroundings and the rich history of the area.

Behind the Guest House, you’ll find a sanctuary designed to enhance your well-being. A hot tub, sauna, and tranquility room are nestled within the property’s lush landscape. These wellness amenities encourage you to slow down, breathe deeply, and immerse yourself in the present moment, all while surrounded by the soothing sounds of nature.

Dining Elegance at Lake House Canandaigua

After settling into Glen Hollow, my Finger Lakes adventure began with a scenic drive to Lake House Canandaigua. As the sun set, Canandaigua Lake was illuminated with hues of gold, creating a stunning backdrop for the evening.

The meal at Rose Tavern began with a crisp Finger Lakes Riesling, perfectly paired with a beautifully presented charcuterie board. The board featured an array of local cheeses, grilled crostini, and seasonal accompaniments that highlighted the region’s artisanal offerings.

Forge Cellars, founded in 2011 by Rick Rainey, Justin Boyette, and Louis Barruol, has quickly earned a reputation for crafting exceptional wines that truly embody the Finger Lakes’ distinct terroir.

The 2021 Railroad Vineyard Riesling from Forge Cellars immediately captivates with vibrant aromas of green apple, ripe pear, and a subtle hint of wet stone, showcasing the classic minerality for which the Finger Lakes is known. On the palate, the wine offers a crisp acidity, beautifully balanced by bright citrus and orchard fruit flavors, with notes of lemon zest and a touch of white peach. The mineral undertones continue through the finish, adding depth and complexity. Its refreshing profile made it an ideal pairing with the appetizer, enhancing the dish without overpowering it.

For the main course, I opted for the Beef Tenderloin, accompanied by a trio of expertly crafted sauces that elevated the perfectly cooked steak. Beef Tenderloin is often my go-to when it appears on a menu, and Rose Tavern’s rendition did not disappoint. The Filet was beautifully seared, and each sauce added a distinct layer of complexity to the dish. Paired with an array of local vegetables the meal showcased the restaurant’s skillful approach to highlighting regional ingredients with finesse.

The wine opened with aromas of dark berries, black currant, and subtle herbal undertones. On the palate, it showcased layers of ripe fruit, complemented by a touch of spice and smooth, well-integrated tannins. It was a solid pairing for the evening’s main course.

For dessert, a classic crème brûlée. To accompany this rich dessert, we were presented with two Finger Lakes Riesling Ice Wines— the 2020 Boundary Breaks Wine and the 2019 Sheldrake Point Winery. Both wineries are renowned for their ice wine craftsmanship, and tasting them side by side was a delightful experience. Boundary Breaks, located on the eastern shore of Seneca Lake, is known for its dedication to producing top-tier Riesling. The 2020 Ice Wine offered a bright acidity with notes of apricot, honey, and citrus, which contrasted beautifully with the sweet custard of the crème brûlée.

On the other hand, the 2019 Sheldrake Point Ice Wine, hailing from a vineyard on Cayuga Lake, had a more concentrated depth of flavor. Sheldrake Point has a history of producing award-winning ice wines, and this vintage did not disappoint. Rich layers of tropical fruit, peach, and a hint of spice provided a perfect complement to the dessert’s richness. While both wines were exceptional in their own right, I found myself slightly more captivated by the complexity and balance of the Sheldrake Point—it was a standout pairing that elevated the entire dessert experience.

This first taste of the Finger Lakes not only set a high standard for the rest of the trip but also offered a glimpse into the region’s diverse and exceptional offerings.

Exploring Naples, NY

My first full day in the Finger Lakes was spent exploring the captivating town of Naples, a place where rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a blossoming wine culture converge. Tucked at the southern end of Canandaigua Lake, Naples feels like a serene retreat shaped by rolling hills and verdant vineyards—a perfect refuge for anyone seeking the pleasures of wine, the beauty of nature, or simply a moment of peaceful escape.

A short, scenic 15-minute drive from Glen Hollow, Naples has a vibrant cultural pulse, attracting painters, sculptors, actors, and musicians drawn to the area’s natural inspiration. Each year, the town hosts its renowned Grape Festival, celebrating the region’s winemaking roots and the rhythmic beauty of harvest time, a tradition that’s deeply woven into Naples’ character. Here, the spirit of the season and the artistry of winemaking come alive, inviting visitors to become part of the rich, ongoing story of this unique town.

My first stop in Naples was Inspire Moore Winery, a boutique vineyard at the heart of this quaint town. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the welcoming yet distinctly creative atmosphere. Inspire Moore is a winery where every detail feels intentional—from the artistic labels on the bottles to the thoughtful way each wine is crafted. Their philosophy of sustainability and minimal intervention in both the vineyard and cellar is evident in the character of their wines, which truly capture the essence of the Finger Lakes terroir.

Each wine at Inspire Moore carries an evocative name like “Harmony,” “Love,” and “Wisdom,” underscoring the winery’s focus on individuality and creativity. The tasting experience was immersive, with the knowledgeable staff sharing insights into their organic practices and the care that goes into producing wines that not only reflect the land but also resonate on a deeper, more personal level.

For those seeking wines that are expressive and crafted with purpose, Inspire Moore offers a memorable tasting experience. The winery’s dedication to sustainable practices and its creative, small-batch approach make it a standout in the Finger Lakes region.

Lunch at Caruso’s Café, Naples

After a morning of tasting at Inspire Moore, I headed to Caruso’s Café for lunch, a well-regarded spot in the center of Naples.

Inside, the café has a welcoming, unpretentious charm that reflects the town’s character. Caruso’s is the kind of place where locals gather for coffee and conversation, and where visitors like myself can enjoy a relaxed meal that feels distinctly tied to the community.

For lunch, I opted for their artisan Cuban sandwich, which was crafted using fresh, local ingredients. It was a delicious reminder that sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most rewarding when done well.

Whether you’re in town for a quick stop or a more leisurely meal, Caruso’s Café provides the ideal spot for a midday break. Their friendly service and inviting space make it a must-visit when exploring Naples.

My next stop in Naples was Joseph’s Wayside Market, a local institution that has been serving the community since 1950. Open from April through December, this vibrant market offers an exceptional variety of seasonal produce, baked goods, and specialty items that celebrate the rich agricultural traditions of the Finger Lakes region. As an avid gardener and someone passionate about incorporating locally grown products into my cooking, this visit became one of my favorite stops on the journey.

But Joseph’s isn’t just a destination for produce. Inside the market, the selection extends to local wines, cheeses, and specialty items like handmade chocolates and nostalgic candies. Shelves were lined with artisan cheeses, rich in flavor and perfect for pairing with the local wines on offer. The bakery section boasted freshly baked pies, cookies, and other sweet treats, while the variety of local honeys and jams were tempting additions to my shopping basket.

This stop embodied the essence of the Finger Lakes—a place where community, agriculture, and craftsmanship come together to create something special. For anyone exploring Naples or the surrounding area, Joseph’s is not just a market but a celebration of local flavors and a must-visit on your itinerary.

After my stop at Joseph’s Wayside Market, it was time to take a scenic drive to some of the area’s vantage points, despite the cloudy and overcast skies. The moody weather added a certain atmosphere, casting a soft, diffused light over the landscape, which seemed to enhance the beauty of Canandaigua Lake. The winding roads offered glimpses of the lake both up close and from a distance, each new angle providing a different perspective.

Stopping at a few overlooks, I had the chance to take in the full scale of Canandaigua Lake, its expansive waters stretching out between the hills. The contrast of the calm water against the dramatic backdrop of vineyards, forests, and open meadows was breathtaking, and I couldn’t help but marvel at the natural beauty that defines the Finger Lakes region.

Though the weather wasn’t ideal for outdoor activities, the drive itself became a highlight of the day—a serene and reflective way to absorb the area’s stunning scenery. Each vantage point offered something unique, from panoramic views that showcased the lake’s full sweep to intimate spots where you could hear the soft lapping of the water against the shore. The experience left me eagerly anticipating the coming days, knowing there was still so much more to explore across the other Finger Lakes.

The tasting room was warm and inviting, offering an authentic, down-to-earth atmosphere.

During my visit, I had the pleasure of meeting the owner Jim Acquilano, whose passion for winemaking was clear as he shared stories of his winemaking journey and philosophy. While sampling a selection of their wines along with other wines from the region, I found each to be a unique reflection of the Finger Lakes terroir, showcasing the variety and complexity that this region has to offer.

Acquilano Wine Cellars is a worthwhile stop for anyone looking to explore the flavors and nuances of the Finger Lakes region.

We gathered around the table for delightful salmon dinner, paired thoughtfully with a Hosmer 2022 Dry Rosé. The wine opened with subtle aromas of wild strawberries, red currants, and a touch of rose petal, setting a bright, lively tone. On the palate, its crisp acidity and hints of fresh raspberry, watermelon, and soft minerality complemented the richness of the salmon. The clean, dry finish left a refreshing impression, each sip seamlessly enhancing the flavors of the meal.

The conversation unfolded easily, weaving through the day’s discoveries, the quiet beauty of the Finger Lakes, and stories of the area’s rich history. The evening’s warmth—both from my hosts’ hospitality and the gentle calm of Glen Hollow—created a setting that captured the spirit of this region. As night settled in, I found myself reflecting on the day’s experiences, a quiet anticipation building for what lay ahead.

Stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3, where I’ll dive deeper into my time here, offering insights and ideas to help you plan your own journey through the Finger Lakes.

Thank you for joining me in discovering this captivating region—there’s much more to come.

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