Are you planning a wine tour to Finger Lakes in 2023? It is one of the best regions in America for producing wines, and you can explore several wineries in the area. However, there are a few things you should know before heading out on your tour. This article will provide you with some background information, relevant data, and perspectives from experts to help you plan your Finger Lakes wine tour seamlessly.

Finger Lakes is a notable grape-growing region situated in Upstate New York. With over 9,000 acres of vineyards and more than 100 wineries, the region is famous for producing some of the finest wines in the US. The most popular varieties of grapes grown in Finger Lakes include Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Each winery in Finger Lakes has its distinct style, and you may want to explore several to experience the variety.

Before planning your wine tour, you should consider the timing since it plays a vital role in your experience. We highly recommend visiting Finger Lakes in August or September when the grapes are ripe for harvest. Apart from that, the weather conditions are ideal, and the scenery is breathtaking. Moreover, several wineries conduct special events and festivals during this period, so you will have more options for entertainment.

While on your wine tour, it is essential to have a designated driver or explore nearby accommodations. There are numerous lodging options available in Finger Lakes, such as hotels, bed and breakfasts, and even luxury resorts. However, ensure you book your accommodations in advance to avoid any last-minute disappointments.

In terms of transportation, you can choose to hire a tour company or rent a car. Some wineries might require reservations in advance, so it is imperative to check the policy and make necessary arrangements. However, if you are looking for a more sustainable option, you can hop on a bike and cycle through the scenic roads of Finger Lakes.

It is always helpful to research the wineries you plan to visit before heading out. Apart from the usual wine tasting, several wineries offer unique experiences such as wine blending classes, food pairings, and vineyard tours. Some notable wineries in Finger Lakes include Dr. Konstantin Frank, Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, and Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery.

As an expert suggests, don\’t hesitate to ask questions to the tasting room staff or wineries\’ owners. They have a wealth of knowledge about wine-making, and you might learn something new about the process. Moreover, you can also seek their recommendations for food and wine pairings or places to visit in the region.

Finally, it is essential to be flexible with your schedule and enjoy the experience. Take your time and savor every sip of the wine you taste. Finger Lakes is a beautiful region, and you might stumble upon some hidden gems if you let yourself explore beyond your initial plans.

Where to Stay in Finger Lakes?

If you plan to stay in Finger Lakes for a few days during your wine tour, you can explore several accommodation options in the region. There are hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and even camping options available in Finger Lakes. However, here are some of the recommended places to stay in the area:

1) The Black Sheep Inn and Spa – A charming bed and breakfast that offers luxurious rooms, a spa, and a gourmet breakfast.

2) The Statler Hotel at Cornell University – A grand hotel located in the heart of Finger Lakes that offers a luxurious stay with top-notch amenities.

3) La Tourelle Hotel, Bistro & Spa – A French-inspired hotel that provides a serene and tranquil stay with a focus on wellness.

4) Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel – A picturesque hotel located on the shore of Seneca Lake that offers breathtaking views and top-notch amenities.

5) The Chalet of Canandaigua – A romantic bed and breakfast designed for couples, located near Canandaigua Lake.

The Best Time for Finger Lakes Wine Tour

If you want to have the best experience on your Finger Lakes wine tour, it is essential to plan your visit according to the season. While the region is beautiful all year around, some months are better than others for exploring the wineries. Here are the best times to plan your Finger Lakes wine tour:

1) August – September – This is the best time to visit Finger Lakes for wine tasting. The weather is ideal, and the grapes are in their prime for harvesting. Moreover, several wineries host events and festivals during this period.

2) October – November – If you plan to visit Finger Lakes during the fall season, you can experience the beautiful fall foliage, sample some of the best wines, and witness the harvest season.

3) December – February – If you want to avoid the peak season crowd, you can head to Finger Lakes during the winters. Although some wineries might be closed, you can still find several tasting rooms open with fewer crowds.

The Sustainable Wine Tour in Finger Lakes

If you are looking for a sustainable way to explore Finger Lakes, you can plan a bike tour through the region. Biking is eco-friendly, and it allows you to explore the scenic route at your own pace. Moreover, several bike rental companies offer guided tours that cover several wineries with wine tasting included. Here are some of the recommended bike tour companies in Finger Lakes:

1) Grapevine Country Tours – A renowned bike tour company in Finger Lakes that offers customizable tours with guided routes, tastings, and food pairings.

2) Seneca Lake Bike Tours – A bike tour company that offers a self-guided tour with top-notch bikes, lunch, and tasting at several wineries along the route.

3) Rails to Trails Bike Shop – A bike rental company that offers guided tours, rentals, and repair services in the region.

The Top Wineries in Finger Lakes

With over 100 wineries in Finger Lakes, it might be challenging to choose the best ones to visit during your tour. However, here are some of the top-rated wineries in Finger Lakes recommended by experts:

1) Dr. Konstantin Frank – A renowned winery in Finger Lakes that specializes in cool-climate wines, especially Riesling. You can experience unique tastings and tours at this winery.

2) Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard – A winery that produces some of the finest white wines in the region, including Riesling, Chardonnay, and Gewurztraminer. You can experience unique tastings and vineyard tours at this winery.

3) Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery – A family-owned winery that offers an impressive range of wines and one of the largest tasting rooms in the area. You can experience tastings, tours, and food pairings at this winery.

4) Fox Run Vineyards – A winery that specializes in a wide range of wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir. You can experience tastings, tours, and food pairings at this winery.

5) Ravines Wine Cellars – A winery that produces high-quality dry Riesling and Cabernet Franc. You can experience tastings, tours, and food pairings at this winery.