October 5, 2011

Wednesday's Window... The Finger Lakes


This week we take you to the beautiful Finger Lakes Region of Upstate New York.  If you have never been, it is truly one of the prettiest places in the country.  These lakes are home to one of the lesser known wine regions in the world.  It's not quite Napa or Sonoma when it comes to the wines produced, but there is a charm here that its big brother is missing.  It's much more laid back and WAY less expensive, and I think it's much more fun.  Tastings will only set you back about two dollars per winery as opposed to some places out west where I remember paying upwards of $25.00 to taste. Don't get me wrong Napa was great, but it can't beat scenery of the Finger Lakes.  I hope you enjoy this weeks Wednesday's Window.

View from Dr. Frank's Winery, Keuka Lake in the background
That's my wife!
A lot of places don't charge to taste, the most we paid was four dollars
Keuka Lake
A lot of tasting rooms are in old barns
Groups gather around old wine barrels
One of the better producers, and one of the better wines
It's harvest season on Seneca Lake
Vineyards line the banks of Seneca Lake
You get views like this from the tasting rooms
One winery is only good for popcorn, but after a long day... it's worth it
Sun is setting on Two Goats Pub
The Idlewilde Inn, the B&B we always stay at

There are over a hundred wineries in total, some good and some not so good.  They are known for their Rieslings more than anything.  Take a journey and find out for yourselves. This area will always be home to me, as I grew up near the westernmost of the Lakes. It's a region that draws me back every year and one that I hope to retire to one day, at least part of the year.

John Willey - Daddy's in Charge?

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10 comments:

  1. Looks awsome, i'm personally not a wine man, can't stand the stuff much prefer my whiskey to anything else but still looks like a very nice place to visit.

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  2. Ben, Finger Lakes Distilling is a standalone distillery in the Finger Lakes. Several wineries also have distilleries, such as Montezuma Winery/Hidden Marsh Distillery. There's also a cheese trail and several microbreweries.

    John, have you taken your kids to the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester?

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  3. I've been thinking of this area for a family vacation. We could drive there, though it might make for a long car trip. I hear there are lots of good things for families in this area too, but wine is a big draw for me any time (unfortunately - well, fortunately for him, but unfortunately re: wine tastings -, my husband is in AA, so I'd be imbibing alone!). Your wife is beautiful, by the way.

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  4. We have... But they would much rather stay at my parents house in Geneseo and play with Gtandma and Grandpa. It's amazing how much has been added in the past 15 years, distilleries, breweries and not to mention the countless number if wineries. tEe didn't get to some places that have supposedly improved their wines over the past few years but are most assuredly going to check them out. It gets better with each visit

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  5. Well look on the bright side Erin, at least you have a designated driver then. It's a GREAT place. Lots of beautiful hikes, beautiful lakes, and the wine is really a hidden gem. The rieslings and gwurtztraminers are outstanding. If you take the drive you will be more than happy.

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  6. That looks so awesome and peaceful and fun. I havent had a drink in almost 4 years, but for some reason doing this would be cool. Stuff looks so nice there. Very laid back. And correct me if I am wrong but your wife doesnt look like she is enjoying you taking that picture of her.

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  7. The only thing more beautiful than the scenery was my wife. She makes every picture better!

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  8. Sounds lovely and relaxing! I'll tuck it away on my list of places to go and things to do.:) I do love wine, and I tried some Riesling just a few weeks ago on our anniversary dinner out. It was quite nice.

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  9. Nice of you to say about the scenery and your wife. And I know you mean it too. Awesome

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  10. This post is giving me ideas... I could use a getaway, and what better place than a winery and B&B?

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