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

In the heart of New York State, the Finger Lakes region beckons wine lovers and adventurers alike. Known for its world-class Rieslings, this cool-climate gem combines stunning vistas of sparkling lakes and rolling vineyards with the inviting charm of its quaint towns. But there’s more to this destination than just wine – it’s a place where natural beauty and vibrant culture collide, offering an experience that lingers long after your visit.

In this second part of Wine, Dine, and Unwind: A Guide to the Finger Lakes Region, I’ll share more of the moments that made my visit truly memorable. From scenic winery tours and tastings to charming restaurants and unique experiences, this guide is meant to inspire your next trip or simply offer a glimpse into the magic of this incredible wine destination.

More Days to Explore

My second full day in the Finger Lakes started with a peaceful morning at Glen Hollow. Though the morning was cloudy, and rain was predicted, I still had hope for some sunshine to appear at some point during the day.

The peaceful surroundings and unhurried pace of the day mirrored the joy of exploring the Finger Lakes—a journey not about simply reaching a destination but about savoring the experiences and connections along the way.

Glen Hollow Vineyard Tour

The first destination for the day was Glen Hollow Vineyard, conveniently situated a short drive from the Glen Hollow property. This recently acquired Chardonnay vineyard was formerly part of Heron Hill Winery’s production. The vineyard, though modest in scale, held the promise of an exceptional vintage, with its Chardonnay grapes looking magnificent just weeks before harvest. This inaugural Glen Hollow Chardonnay is slated for release next year.

During my visit, I had the opportunity to meet winemaker Jordan Harris. With his deep understanding of the vineyard and a clear passion for his craft, Jordan has been instrumental in refining and enhancing the quality of the wines previously produced from this site.

During our vineyard walk, he explained its special qualities and the painstaking work put into every vine. In addition, he explained how the Finger Lakes’ distinct microclimate, characterized by its cool temperatures moderated by the deep glacial lakes, makes it an ideal location for cultivating grapes with vibrant acidity and complex flavors. The grapes thrive in the well-drained soils, and when nurtured by attentive vineyard management result in wines that authentically embody the region’s terroir.

Tasting at Heron Hill

We next traveled to Heron Hill Winery, a prestigious Finger Lakes winery with a charming tasting room by Canandaigua Lake. (I was met with a downpour upon arrival, dashing my hopes of capturing the spectacular landscape in photographs).

Founded in 1977 by John Ingle, Heron Hill has earned a reputation for producing various wines, especially Rieslings, Chardonnays, and Cabernet Francs. The winery’s reputation as a leader in the region’s thriving wine scene has been reinforced by its impressive collection of awards and accolades.

Entering the inviting Heron Hill tasting room, I was greeted by winemaker Jordan Harris, who began sharing a selection of their wines. As he poured, Jordan provided thoughtful insights into the winery’s approach, emphasizing the importance of showcasing the Finger Lakes’ terroir and the distinct characteristics of each grape variety. His deep understanding of vineyard practices and winemaking techniques added a layer of context to the tasting, turning it into an informative and engaging experience that highlighted the care and precision behind each bottle.

While the wines themselves were enjoyable, it was the welcoming atmosphere and Jordan’s depth of knowledge that elevated the experience. Heron Hill’s strong sense of community and dedication to quality have clearly contributed to its reputation as a favorite among both locals and visitors. This visit not only showcased the winery’s charm but also left me inspired to continue exploring the diverse offerings of the Finger Lakes region.

Lunch and Tasting at NY Kitchen

On the picturesque shores of Canandaigua Lake, New York Kitchen provides a vibrant gathering place for food and wine enthusiasts seeking to explore the Finger Lakes’ deep winemaking heritage. This nonprofit, established in 2006 by a partnership of Constellation Brands, Wegmans Food Markets, Rochester Institute of Technology, and the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, has consistently promoted the growth of New York’s wine industry.

With its prime position in the Finger Lakes, the center offers an ideal launchpad for wine trail explorations. Its modern test kitchen hosts cooking demos that pair perfectly with wine tastings. More than just a culinary hub, New York Kitchen provides access to the dynamic wine and food scene of the Finger Lakes.

For lunch I enjoyed a beautifully crafted Beet Salad that featured a vibrant mix of red and gold beets, peppery arugula, creamy goat cheese, and a delightful crunch from glazed pecans, all dressed in a light white balsamic vinaigrette.

I also indulged in the Beef on Weck—a Finger Lakes classic—featuring tender shaved roast beef piled high with caramelized onions and a sharp horseradish spread, all served on a traditional weck roll.

I opted for both a Finger Lakes Red and Sparkling wine tasting, each offering a unique expression of the region’s winemaking prowess. The knowledgeable staff added depth to the experience, sharing insights into the winemaking techniques and the distinctive characteristics of each wine. Their expertise provided a richer understanding of the region’s varietals, further enhancing my appreciation for the Finger Lakes’ vibrant wine culture.

In an upcoming post, I’ll be sharing more about my experience at New York Kitchen, including a cooking class I took part in—another highlight of my time in Canandaigua.

Exploring, Reading and a Little Writing

Returning to Glen Hollow from the NY Kitchen, I took the opportunity of a brief respite from the rain to explore the grounds and photograph them.

The greenhouse, a cozy, light-filled space brimming with vibrant plants and charming vintage furniture, immediately caught my eye. It was also a great place to catch up on and reply to emails, enjoying the tranquil surroundings. I strolled over to the main house patio, where a charming wrought iron table and chairs stood gracefully amidst the final blooms of late summer, seeming to beg to be captured in a photo.

Once I wrapped up my work, I settled into the cozy guesthouse to unwind with a selection of Finger Lakes wines and flip through a few magazines and books that had piqued my interest over the past couple of days.

One wine that truly stood out was the 2019 Essence from Hector Wine Company, a bold red from Seneca Lake. This Bordeaux-style blend features 46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 34% Cabernet Franc, and 20% Merlot, resulting in a richly layered wine that’s as inviting as it is complex. Its aroma and taste reveal a blend of rich dark berries, a refreshing mint touch, and subtle earthy mushroom undertones.

I then turned my attention to some local authors and their captivating works. Among them was The History and Mystery: The Folklore and Legends of the Bristol Hills by John Holtz and Anna Overmoyer. This beautifully illustrated book delves into the regions folklore and has a chapter dedicated to Glen Hollow itself, making it a must-read for anyone curious about the area’s deep-rooted legends. Another compelling read was Canandaigua and Canandaigua Lake by Preston E. Pierce, offering rich insights into the history and landscapes of the picturesque Canandaigua region.

I put the 2020 HJW Vineyard Riesling by Hermann J. Wiemer aside for another evening, looking forward to another night of Finger Lakes wine and stories.

Kindred Fare and Trestle 31

Kindred Fare, a cozy, farm-to-table restaurant in Geneva, provided the perfect setting for dinner that night, seamlessly combining rustic charm with culinary sophistication. This lively spot in Geneva is a top destination for those looking to experience genuine local flavors. With wooden tables, cozy lighting, and an open kitchen, Kindred Fare offers an inviting ambiance that mirrors the care put into its dishes, allowing guests to feel at home while witnessing the creation of local delicacies.

I was fortunate to enjoy this meal with Chris Brenner from Glen Hollow and Brian Cadamatre, the co-owner of Trestle 31, a local boutique winery making waves. While tasting Trestle 31’s wine pairings, Brian described the winery’s journey with his winemaker wife, Nova, and their passion for the Finger Lakes’ distinct terroir. Hearing him discuss the complexities of the region’s cool climate and the challenges and rewards of growing grapes here added a new dimension to the experience.

Dinner at Kindred Fare was the ideal way to conclude my day of exploring Naples. The evening was a celebration of the Finger Lakes—the commitment to high-quality food and drink, the connection to the land, and the joy of sharing it all with good company— thanks to the delicious meal, the fine wine, and the conversation with Brian.

Some stories, like this one, deserve more time and space to be fully shared. In an upcoming piece, I’ll dive deeper into a few of the region’s wineries, winemakers, and the other local gems that make the Finger Lakes so special—including Trestle 31.

Another Day to Explore

A leisurely pace marked the following day, providing the perfect chance to sleep in and work on photo editing. Having the whole day at my disposal, I was excited to explore the region’s natural beauty, letting the landscape dictate my course.

Taking advantage of the serene setting, I spent part of the day capturing the beauty of Glen Hollow through my lens, from the tranquil vineyard rows to a secluded waterfall hidden within the forest.

These moments were not only beautiful for my travel blog but also provided me with personal memories of the peaceful walk through the woods. More than just scenic vistas, the hike provided a guided forest immersion experience, called forest bathing, that encouraged me to slow down, engage my senses, and truly connect with nature.

The afternoon unfolded with a scenic drive around Canandaigua Lake, where every turn seemed to present a picturesque photo moment. The inspiring journey was enriched by the beauty of rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and the peaceful lake views.

While I enjoy exploring the food and drink of a place, it’s the natural beauty that truly moves me. Exploring, wandering through vineyards, and driving along winding lake shores always make my travels more memorable. Immersing myself in nature enhances my understanding of the world, enabling me to capture its essence through my photography. The Finger Lakes journey offered mesmerizing undulating hills, shimmering water views, and lush countryside, with a surprise encounter of a tranquil buffalo herd.

As I drove through the countryside, a stop to take a photograph led to my chance encounter with John Ingle, the owner of Heron Hills Winery, who was busy pruning his Pinot Noir vineyard. Despite being brief, our exchange highlighted the deep-rooted history of the area and the dedication of its people.

It was one of those serendipitous moments that made me feel even more connected to the heart and soul of the Finger Lakes.

Dinner at Glen Hollow with Makenzie’s Table

Every creation skillfully balances taste, aesthetics, and nutrition, showing that health and pleasure can coexist.

Mackenzie’s services encompass more than just cooking, offering private dinners that prioritize connection through delectable and nourishing meals, customized to the host’s specifications. Her online cooking classes offer a hands-on chance to explore new recipes using accessible ingredients, blending creativity and simplicity in the kitchen. Her expertise was evident in each dish at Glen Hollow, embodying her belief that food should be as inspiring as it is satisfying.

Mackenzie’s thoughtfully crafted dishes weren’t the only stars of the evening. Each course was perfectly complemented by a selection of Finger Lakes wines from Heron Hill, carefully chosen to enhance the flavors on the plate.

Among the evening’s highlights were two exquisite offerings from Heron Hill Winery: their renowned Ice Wines. Both wines were perfect companions to the dessert course, providing a luxurious and memorable finish to an already spectacular meal.

The evening was truly one to remember, thanks to the warm hospitality of my hosts, Chris and Lisa, the engaging presence of Jordan Harris from Heron Hill and his wife Jen, and the other remarkable guests who gathered around the table. Beyond the exceptional food and wine, the evening unfolded as an educational journey, filled with vibrant discussions about the Finger Lakes’ unique terroir, its distinct cool-climate wines, and the dedication of those who bring them to life. The passion and effort of the people working tirelessly to share the story of this remarkable region were evident in every conversation, making the evening not just a culinary delight but an inspiring celebration of the Finger Lakes’ rich wine culture.

I love sharing my travel adventures through photos and stories, especially in wine regions. Each adventure is a layered tale waiting to be shared, filled with moments too intricate to be summed up in a few words. Through my photographs, I try to tell small stories, preserving memories for myself and others. I know my articles sometimes read more like novelettes, but I’m not sorry about that, these discoveries deserve to be explored in full.

I’m hoping you’ll enjoy reading about the Finger Lakes and agree that each story and photo reflects the magic these places hold. Stay tuned for Part Three, it’s coming soon. Cheers!

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