Amy,

You should check our Upstate NY Travel Map, where we have info on a number of wineries upstate. We've got some other less-boozy options on the map, too.

--Paul Brady, jaunted.com

Posted By Paul Brady on November 19, 2007, 12:07 PM

Look up the Rosewood Inn in Corning, NY on the internet. Stu and Sue, the owners, can give you suggestions. Travel to any of the small towns along any of the lakes, and you will learn of many fun places to visit. Enjoy!

Posted By charles anthony on November 19, 2007, 12:21 PM

I live in Canandaigua, NY, in the heart of the Finger Lakes. Check out the brand new Wine and Culinary Center here in town (www.nywcc.com) for tastings, cooking and food/wine pairing classes, and some great meals. Don't miss Dr Konstantin Frank's winery, or Heron Hill Winery - fabulous rieslings at both places (the Finger Lakes are known for their rieslings). Unfortunately, you missed the blaze of autumn color, but the hilly landscapes are still beautiful. Have fun!

Posted By Heather Ward on November 19, 2007, 12:32 PM

If you are going to be in the Fingerlakes area, you should really plan to make a visit to Watkins Glen. The most relaxing experience is to walk up (or down) the Glen itself. There is a shuttle bus which runs during the main season around the local roads from the bottom to the top. It really is an enchanting place.

Posted By Steve Anderson on November 19, 2007, 1:03 PM

The other readers are right, you can almost throw a dart and not miss. But to distinguish your trip, go to beautiful Aurora on the east side of Lake Cayuga and visit the Mackenzie Childs factory and show-room for world famous hand painted glasses for your wine and dishes for your cheese or chocolates. Then stay in the E.B Morgan Mansion - or if it is full the Aurora Inn down the street - redone by American Girl doll founder Pleasant Rowland -or go across the street to the original Wells Fargo office to enjoy your wine.

Posted By Tom Dunn on November 19, 2007, 1:18 PM

I grew up in the Finger Lakes and now live about 90 minutes west in Buffalo. My wife and I love the area, especially in the fall, and have taken many wine tours through the region. Our favorite winery is the Bully Hill winery in Hammondsport. They have a nice restaurant on site and have the most entertaining wine tasting experience in the Finger Lakes. Cheers.

Posted By Ed Thompson on November 19, 2007, 1:22 PM

Some of my favorite Finger Lakes wineries are located around Seneca and Keuka lakes. Dr. Frank's on Keuka lake has wonderful Reisling this year, and McGregor on Keuka has fantastic Gewurztraminer. Try Keuka Overlook for a fun, laid-back tasting. Over on Seneca, try Red Newt (and definitely don't miss their restaurant) or Standing Stone on the east side of the lake. Yum! The restaurant at Bully Hill is also fantastic, and if you like sweeter wines, try their tasting - it's a tasting and a performance all in one.

Posted By Cara O'Donnell on November 19, 2007, 1:28 PM

If going to the Finger Lakes be sure to stop in Owego NY, www.villageofowego.com, and visit Riverrow Bookstore. The owner, John Spencer, is an expert on Finger Lakes wines & wineries. They also have many winerie guide books and information.

Posted By Kevin Millar on November 19, 2007, 1:30 PM

The Rochester Democrat has extensive data on this at http://www.fingerlakeswine.com

Be sure to check out the interactive map under multimedia.

(NB: My comments are more about the wine than the tours or tasting rooms ... I only remember visiting Bully Hill MANY years ago)

My favorite wine from the region is made by Hosmer ... great Cabernet Franc!

Chateau Frank (aka Dr. Franks Vinifera Wine Cellar) has been the benchmark of the region for years and it would be tough NOT to visit.

Bully Hill is worth going to more for it's history than it's wine. The folks behind it are the Taylor's, the most famous name in American wine until the Mondavi's came around. Beautiful tasting room there.

Other properties turning out notable wines include Glenora, Hermann J. Weimar, Heron Hill and Lamoreaux Landing (though be sure to see who conducts a tour v. who has self guided tours ... I'm guessing your not going SOLELY to drink)

The best wines in the region are usually the Rieslings ... generally low in alcohol so don't worry too much.

Also, don't miss
http://www.uncorkny.com

Posted By Christopher on November 19, 2007, 1:58 PM

My husband and I just celebrated our first wedding anniversary in the Fingerlakes Region. We stayed in Trumansburg, 20 min. from Ithaca. One of my favorite wineries was Frontenac Point Vineyards in Trumansburg. They have an annual production of only 5,000 cases and are not even listed in brochures. This gives them an edge over some of the more commercial wineries in that they are small enough to focus on quality (try their Premium Riesling) and friendly enough to make you feel comfortable and not intimidated. I would stay away from Lucas and Knapp, too commercial with gift shops and hords of people. I do recommend Thirsty Owl, Buttonwood and Sheldrake Point (great bistro for lunch). Lakeshore Winery is interesting because wine tasting is done seated by the fire while the owner shares stories about the wines in a very humorous way. The wine, however, is not worth mentioning, it's more of an experience.

If you come across a winery not listed in brochures, this does not mean you should not stop. You may be surprised.

I also must tell you about the B&B we stayed in: Gothic Eves in Trumansburg. The owners are exceptional, the breakfast is absolutely delicious, planned very creatively and all with fresh local produce (omelett with home made pesto, lemon French toast with apples, cranberries and walnuts (yum!) Rooms are charming and comfortable. Special feature is the outside, wood-burning hot tub! Great restaurants within walking distance (Hazelnut Kitchen is a must).

Did I mention we had a great time??

Enjoy!

Posted By Suzana Volquarts on November 19, 2007, 2:27 PM

My wife and I and some friends that travel with us really enjoy the wines around Lake Seneca but especially the wines at the Chateau Lafayette Reneau Winery on the east side of Seneca. By the way hit the Italian restaurant in downtown Watkins Glen and make sure you order the garlic knots.

Posted By S.W. on November 19, 2007, 7:33 PM

Widmer's in Naples New York is a winner. A number of good B and Bs nearby.

Posted By bill clair on November 19, 2007, 7:54 PM

One of the nicest parts of the Finger Lakes is the quaint towns. Check out AVOCA. There is a hotel there that has 6-7 old train cabooses that you can rent instead of a room. Each caboose is equiped with kitchenette, bathroom and several forms of bedding. There is even piped in train sounds for authenticity. Its not far from Dannsville, NY. Be sure to check it out for a different expierience. There was also a dinner in an old train car where you can get a good homecooked meal right across the street from the hotel.

Posted By Sandy DePirro on November 19, 2007, 9:41 PM

I agree whole completely about Dr. Konstantin Frank's winery. Do not miss it if you like German style Riesling wines.

Posted By Wendy on November 19, 2007, 9:58 PM

I spent every summer growing up at Keuka Lake where my family still has a summer house. The story of Walter Taylor at Bully Hill is by far the most interesting, entertaining and tragic. Be sure to ask about the naming of their Goat wine. The restaurant there is quite good, especially if you can sit outside on a beautiful day when you will have an incredible view of the lake below. Pleasant Valley Wine Co. in Hammondsport is, I believe, one of the oldest, still operating wineries in the region. Their visitor center is in one of the old Taylor/Great Western buildings - an interesting area in itself. If you get as far as Penn Yan, Keuka Spring Winery sponsors some fun events during the year in addition to wine tasting. You should check out keukawinetrail.com for events that highlight the wineries and restaurants. Not sure how much time you have, but while in the area, you really should visit Corning. It is less than an hour from the Hammondsport end of Keuka Lake. Take a tour at the Corning Glass Museum; it is really very interesting and well done. The Steuben Glass factory also has a great presentation. While there, walk Market street and visit some of the very talent boutique glass artisans. Enjoy!

Posted By Patti Fiore on November 20, 2007, 9:06 AM

I love visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes. My suggestion would be to pick one lake and just go up one side and down the other. Stop at any or all of the wineries along the way. It makes for a great day. If you have more than one day pick another lake the next day. Enjoy!

Posted By judy heavey on November 20, 2007, 9:23 AM

I would recommend you visit Seneca Falls (home to Women's Rights) as it is a quaint town nestled in between Rt. 89 and Rt. 96; both central to the Fingerlakes Wine region. On Rt. 89, I suggest visiting Knapp for its out of this world grape juice and wine tasting of course! Continuing on down this route you have the beautifully scenic views of Cayuga Lake; fall leaves and glistening wakes of water brushing against the shoreline. I would also recommend Hosmer Winery as they do have a delicious Pinot Grigio and a Sangria to enjoy for the holidays.

Along the way you may find lunch lakeside at Simply Red Lakeside Bistro. If after basking in all the ease of Upstate hasnt tired you out or one too many vinos hasn't sacked you out, try Swedish Hill Winery. And this is just one lake to be traversed in the region and near and dear to me as a Seneca Fallsian now living in Westchester. Salute!

Posted By Melissa H on November 20, 2007, 1:01 PM

My Boyfriend and I just visited the Finger Lakes and it was awesome .. it is beautiful up there ...I highly recommend Bully HIll .. like Patty Fiore said it is by far the most interesting as far as the whole story goes on the Winery itself. When you and if you go there ask for "Dan" and tell him I sent you .. friend of Danielle's .. the wine is definitely the best there ... we brought back a whole case of it and I am still enjoying every last drop.. we also visited Heron Hill... I personally liked Bully Hill the best ... also, like the other posts have said .. you have to visit Hammondsport ..it is a very beautiful town .. hope you guys have a great time :)

Posted By Stephanie Davies on November 20, 2007, 2:36 PM

My wife & I used to live about 3.5 hours from the Finger Lakes. We would go there at least twice a year. For reds we liked Glenora on the west coast of Seneca Lake. For whites we liked Wagner Winery on the east coast of Seneca Lake. Wagner also has a micro-brewery plus a bistro that over looks the lake.

Posted By Stewart B. on November 20, 2007, 11:43 PM

We've done this trip many times and lived in the area for 3 years. The two must visits that are only a few miles away from each other are:

1. Herman J. Wiemer
2. Glenora

Then throw in anything else that fits your style. Enjoy!

Posted By John on November 21, 2007, 7:26 AM

I highly recommend the Belhurst Castle on Seneca Lake in Geneva, NY. Outstanding rooms - Excellent wine - great food.

Also, Knapp Winery IS a good stop.

Posted By Joe on November 21, 2007, 9:39 AM

My husband & I visit the Finger Lakes at least once a year. Our favorite lake, and accompanying wineries, are on Keuka (Dr.Franks, McGregors, Heron Hill). We also just found a PERFECT B&B - it's called The Black Sheep Inn in Hammondsport, an octogon shaped house restored by 2 lovely people. If you haven't made arrangements as to where to stay yet, think about them www.stayblacksheepinn.com. Enjoy!

Posted By Linda on November 26, 2007, 1:57 PM

Glenora is very good, but for a real treat go North just outside of Rochester on Turk Hill Rd. to the Casa Larga Winery.

Posted By David Stevens on November 26, 2007, 2:00 PM

Along with the Bully Hill recommendation, one of the few who still perform the old manual & expensive French style of making champaign which includes riddling & disgorgement), I would also recommend Casa Larga Vineyards who make icewine, among other varietals.

Posted By Frank Marticelli on November 26, 2007, 3:48 PM

Make sure and ck out Henry B's restaurant in Senecal Falls. A wonderful dining experience....wonderful atmosphere, excellent cuisine. My husband and I love going there for a wonderful couples nite out.

Posted By Suzanne on November 27, 2007, 4:11 PM

A really great to experience the wine trails is with Quality Wine Tours with your own driver-guide in a sedan for two. The driver-guide knows the best wineries and scenic spots along the trail a really fun way to spend a day tasting wine and taking in all the scenic beauty of the Finger lakes. check out Quality wine tours at www.qualitywinetours.com

Posted By Jim Havalack on November 27, 2007, 4:17 PM

I live here and my favorite winery is on Cayuga,Thirsty Owl.

Posted By Michelle Lerario on November 27, 2007, 4:23 PM

For delicious dry reds and wonderful whites, check out the Damiani Winery on the east side of Seneca Lake. They will treat you like family while you are tasting. They produce a limited quantity, so , if you like it, buy it then. It may be gone later. For fine dining in a semi-casual setting, check out The Red Newt Bistro. Excellent local fare prepared by Chef Deb Whiting. The menu changes about every six weeks to take advantage of the local produce. Try their Wine Flights while you are there. Enjoy your stay in the Finger Lakes!

Posted By Donna Davis on November 27, 2007, 4:33 PM

Wine touring and tasting has become an art. The Finger lakes wineries have upped their standards and make visiting them a total experience to remember. With their close proximity to major cities such as Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse, the Finger Lakes has become a weekend getaway destination. Tour operators such as Carpe Diem Travel (www.carpediemrochester.com) are your best bet for organizing a visit and getting the most for your money because of the discounted rates they provide. Joseph DeMars

Posted By Joseph DeMars on November 27, 2007, 4:50 PM

We liked the wineries on the west side of Seneca Lake, especially Fox Run Vineyards. The wine is great and they have a small cafe where you can get something to eat. We always try to stop there whenever we're in the area.
(www.foxrunvineyards.com)

I reccommend the Palmer House in Waverly, NY. The rooms are nicely comfortable and the rate is very reasonable. Dolly Johnson & her husband have owned the Palmer House since 1999. They treat you like family. (www.palmerhousebnb.com)

If you like birding, don't forget to stop and visit the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.
(www.fws.gov/r5mnwr)

Posted By Marje Chavez on November 27, 2007, 5:03 PM

There are so many great wineries in the region, but we are partial to Standing Stone on the east side of Seneca Lake. Wonderful wines, very friendly people, and a fabulous view. In the summer they also have a bistro and veranda overlooking the lake, and they always have great dips and sauces to sample with the wines.

Posted By Pete Head on November 27, 2007, 5:03 PM

I grew up in CANADAIGUA i recommend driving around th lake on a crisp fall day and stopping in NAPLES for grapes/lunch opping at the many fruit stands along the way

Posted By Suzanna Pickering on November 27, 2007, 5:04 PM

We travel to the fingerlakes every summer and have several standing orders to bring back cases of Bobsled Red from Glenora winery--their Riesling is also good, check their pottery out. With that out of the way the adventure begins with Dr Konstantin Frank-a must stop, Heron Hill for their Gamebird Red for Thanksgiving and upper end whites. Hike the watkins glen falls trail then have lunch/drinks at Roosterfish--stumble across the street to the outdoor shop shop--Great Brands.
Penquin Bay for Maroon four,Rednewt for both wines and food at the bistro.
Then find Rasta Ranch and buy a tie-died t-shirt and a big bottle of seneca rain and some anklets.
Ravines is high quality wine and Rooster Hill is a must stop for wines, gift shop and really nice people.
Buy two bottles of the brandy-lemon liquer at Knapp winery and if time go to Bully Hill to just have fun.
While in Ithaca dine at both the Moosewood for veggie fair and the Dogfish for darn good eclectic food.
Glenora Tree Farm is a good place to stay with a walking trail through the christmas trees and steve is great.

Posted By mike on November 27, 2007, 5:04 PM

Grew up in the area and also highly recommend the wines of Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard. Third or fourth generation German vintner who started out in NY at Bully Hill many years ago. For top notch accomodations and spa experience check out La Tourelle a sort of modern European feel B& B Enjoy!!!!

Posted By Boneatnik on November 27, 2007, 5:59 PM

When traveling the Finger Lakes there are so many good wineries to choose from that we purchase wine from several wineries on each trip.

Problem: When traveling with one or more other couples it can be hard to remember who bought which bottles especially if you split cases to get a discount.

Soulution: We travel with a package of muticolored adhesive dots. Each couple choses a color and puts their "mark" on each bottle as they buy it. We also write the price on the bottle at the time of purchase, so we will know which ones to keep for special occasions.

Posted By Stan & Jane on November 27, 2007, 6:03 PM

My husband and I got married at Heron Hill winery on Keuka Lake last month. We heard rave reviews from our guests about the quaint town of Hammondsport (Blushing Rose, Amity Rose, Elm Croft, and Black Sheep Inn were the favorite B&Bs) and the restaurants (Snug Harbor is on the water and has an amazing menu and NY wine list!) Also, stop by Hunt Country Vineyards in Branchport. It is still small and family owned, so they give a very in-depth, tour and let you eat their 1904 grapes right off the vines! They also have a wonderful dry red Meritage (dry reds being hard to find the area).

Enjoy your trip!

Posted By Marti Post on November 27, 2007, 6:06 PM

My wife and I have been to the Finger Lakes twice in recent years, once at Keuka & this summer mostly at Seneca. The wineries to visit are DR Konstantin Frank, Heron Hills, Castle Greisch & Red Newt but there are many more that are just wonderful. We try to stay @ B & B's but we also stayed this summer @ the Bellhurst Castle at the top of Seneca Lake. Reislings, Seyval Blancs, & Gurtstraminers are the best & will compete w/ the best in the world, but '05 & '06 were very good for reds in the Finger lake region because of the very warm summers. When we stayed @ Keuka Lake, we stayed w/ the Ericksons @ their B & B near Keuka College but cannot find them anymore. If anyone out there has info. on how to find that B & B, please email me. It was one of our favorite B & B's.
You definitely need to visit Watkins Glen and if you are in good shape, hike the Falls in the park.

Posted By DAN KELLY on November 27, 2007, 6:51 PM

Love the Finger Lakes but missed it this past summer.
Being partial to reisling really like Dr. Franks on Keuka and Bully Hill has a nice lunch but wines are somewhat sweet. Heron Hill has a nice tasting room.

On Seneca Lake don't miss Herman J. Weimar and Glenora has a Peach Spumanti that goes down easy. The Inn at Glenora is great too. On the east side of Seneca try Chateau Lafayette Reneau and Standing Stone for late harvests and reislings. Also ate at the Red Newt in Hector and Suzanne's Fine Regional Cuisine in Lodi.

Can't wait to get back to all these places, you just have to "hand it" to the Finger Lakes.

Posted By Bob & Jean Wilson on November 27, 2007, 7:39 PM

My wife and I visited the finger lakes in March of 2006. This time of year will probably be similar as far as the intimacy you'll find at the various wineries. More so than going in the warmer months.
Seneca Lake is where we started and Atwater Estate Vineyards, on the East side, is very good for Riesling amongst others.
The West side has many fine wines as well such as Fulkerson. Drinkable reds and decent whites await you.

Cayuga lake was next in line. Hosmer was very good as well as a great expience at Thirsty Owl. The reds were light but the conversation with the owner was part of that nice intimacy I mentioned.

Keuka lake was a treat. First we had to pay homage to Dr. Konstantin Frank. We were not disappointed. Along with some of the finest riesling and chardonnay in the region, he had some reds that were bigger than most in a colder climate. He also has another label for less expensive varietals under the name Salmon Run. Try Heron Hill as well, I doubt you'll be disappointed. Bully Hill is found in many places and is very drinkable. Too many to try in a day, but a good experience as well. Saving my personal favorite for last, McGregor Vineyard offers a unique tasting experience. Seated at an indoor picnic table with the cat sitting on your lap, you'll taste varietals indiginous to the region as well as grapes found in Siberia for a nice, juicy, red wine. Try the Black Russian Red, and the Rob Roy. The chardonnay was wonderful as well as the riesling. Served with some treats to cleanse your palate, every swallow was a party.
Many other great wineries are amongst the few I mentioned, don't be afraid to discover your own treasures. A second trip is overdue for us. I'd like to rediscover a few.
One bit of advice though, apon leaving Dr Frank's, don't take the dirt road to Heron Hill especially if it is raining, has rained recently, or snowed. There is a steep downgrade followed by a steep incline. At the bottom it can be a foot or more of mud. No problem for 4 wheel or all wheel vehicles.
Happy tasting!!

Posted By William Julig on November 27, 2007, 8:35 PM

Dr. Konstantin Frank's on beautiful Keuka Lake is the place to go. Dr. Frank's wines have earned many awards and their rieslings are a delight to the German in any of us. The hospitality that the staff gives is wonderful as well as the view from their deck.
While on Keuka Lake you can also stop in for lunch at Bully Hill and some more fun tasting.

Posted By Pat Gleason on November 27, 2007, 8:50 PM

My husband and I have been travelling up to the Finger Lakes for 2 years now. Fall is our preferred time of year to visit.Our favorite place to stay is the 1819 Red Brick Inn in Dundee. Rob and Wendy are the best hosts and will treat you like family. We prefer the wineries are on the west side of Seneca Lake. Do not miss Hermann Wiemer, Heron Hill and Anthony Road. All have outstanding Rieslings.
For dining, do not miss Red Newt or Suzanne's. We also make time to travel to Ithaca for dining. ZaZa's Cucina is fantastic if you love Italian food, the risotto is to die for. Another favorite is Dijon-we have not had a bad meal there yet.

Posted By Wendy M on November 27, 2007, 9:10 PM

Went for a long weekend trip to Seneca Lake in October. Definitely a must for dinner is Suzanne's in Lodi - great food and service! Also, The Stonecat Cafe in Hector - have appetizers overlooking the vineyard and lake and watch the sun set over the lake then go inside for a great dinner.

As far as wineries, we liked Fox Run on the West Side - very generous with their tastings. We took a Wine Trolley tour on Saturday - very reasonable and you get to meet great people. Wagner, while a beautiful setting, was a tourist trap and expensive when it came to tastings.

If you are into Reislings and Sparklings, the Finger Lakes is for you. Not too crazy about their Reds although picked up a great Pinot Noir at Fox Run!

Posted By Beth on November 27, 2007, 9:27 PM

The region is beautiful. An excellent place to head out on your road bike or mountain bike.
If you like red wine check out Shalestone on the east side of Seneca Lake. They do only reds and they do them brilliantly. An excellent place to eat is Madderlake (sp?) restaurant on Seneca a few miles from Geneva. A great menu and also very nice to kids. They made our daughter feel like a princess.

Posted By Charlie on November 28, 2007, 5:02 AM

We visited the Finger Lakes for the first time this past July. Our favorites were Atwater, Heron Hill and Ravines. We also really enjoyed Dr Frank's and had a fun time on the tour at Bully Hill. The view at Glenora is just amazing.

Posted By Bob and Susan Lyons on November 28, 2007, 9:23 AM

If your a member of AAA you can get a map of the finger lakes It is really big and has All road to wander about and enjoy our wonderful scenery. Free the Johnson Museum at Cornell The Wed Ithica Times and the Thursday Ithaca journal has weekly event many free The times is free.

Posted By vilasini mills on November 28, 2007, 11:51 AM

I live at the southern end of Seneca Lake. My boyfriend and I are veterans of the wine trails on Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuga. Some of my hints for everyone....

1. Don't pick a major trail event (e.g. Deck the Halls) as your first time to a wine trail. They are usually big events with large crowds and limited tastings.

2. PICK a trail event if you've tried a few wineries here and there, but have not experienced the whole lake.

3. Pace yourself. The Finger Lakes wineries are close together and serve ample tastings. I often concentrate on a particular grape or variety (e.g. Pinot, Riesling, Cab Franc) when we're going to lots of wineries in one day.

4. And finally... Don't skip the reds. You'll be surprised. I've purchased red wine by the case at Long Point (Cayuga), Shalestone (Seneca), Atwater (Seneca), Ravines (Keuka), among others. I've heard good things about the new Shaw winery on Seneca (near Wiemer). Can't wait to try it.

Posted By Wendy on November 28, 2007, 1:10 PM

Growing up along Seneca Lake left so many memories that my husband and I HAD to make our way back. We have been all over the world and this is the prettiest place on earth. And we have great wineries...some where you can have a nice dinner or lunch, enjoy a grand view of the lake, where you can watch fishing or sailboats. In Watkins Glen, you have a fantastic gorge that most people have never heard about with 19 waterfalls and lovely trails. Watkins Glen or Montour Falls are located centrally to stay the night and travel to Corning Museum of Glass, Ithaca and it's gorges and lake, Hammondsport and it's wineries and lake. So much to do, so little time! Each of these towns have lovely Bed & Breakfasts where you can stay overnight and get a delicious complimentary breakfast in the morning.

Posted By Barb on November 28, 2007, 1:10 PM

1- Pace yourself and eat heartily throughout your visit. Many a newbie to winery touring has exceeded themselves, skipped meals, and then ended up buying a regretable case or two near the end of a day overly dense with wine samples.

2- Visit during the off-season! While somewhat counter-intuitive, the off-season (from early Nov. through the end of May) is hands down the best time to visit the wineries when owners, vineyard managers and winemakers are most apt to be staffing the tasting rooms.

3- Avoid gum, strong perfume/cologne and other persistent aromas/tastes that might interfere with your ability to gauge how much you like a given sample.

4- Forget the experts! What is the best wine? The wine YOU like best. While a particular wine with a 90 rating might tend to appeal to most people most of the time, you should only use that as a guide, not a rule.

5- Do a little research before arriving. Wineries in the region specialize in various types of beverages (grappa and mead, to name a few) and types of grapes. Find the wineries that brag about awards in the wine types, or specialize in certain types, you tend to prefer and focus on them primarily.

6- Buy a "Passport". Some Trails- yes, ours included, I have to confess here- sell "Wine Passports" that go by various names. The gist is that you can buy the booklet for $10 - $15 typically, and then get a complimentary flight of wines at participating wineries, not having to pay the incremental tasting fees most locations charge these days.

7- And last, but by no means least, be safe. Take your time, don't rush yourself, enjoy each individual sample, possibly even taking notes, and take advantage of the knowledge wineries' expert staff bring to bear. This will result in not only a more informative, engaging experience, but also a safer one. After all, ALL wineries want you to enjoy yourself while visiting AND get home safely, so you're ready to come back for another visit in the near future!

Posted By Paul Thomas on November 28, 2007, 2:06 PM

First start with http://www.newyorkwines.org/ and you will see that there are more wineries than you can even think to visit unless you are planning an extended trip. As you click through the pages, you will find specific websites for the individual lakes.

As others have stated, for a first time trip, go during an "off" time, staying away from event weekends which are far too crowded to enjoy your time at each winery.

We take a day trip to the FLs from the Syracuse area twice a year (early spring and late summer) and usually favor the west side of Seneca Lake, but enjoy taking side trips to other favorite wineries as well.

Favorites by lake region:

Canandaigua:
* Casa Larga (actually in east Rochester area)
* Widmer

Keuka:
* Dr Frank's

Seneca (west):
* Glenora (also great inn and restaurant)
* Fox Run

Seneca (east):
* Wagner (also great restaurant)
* Hazlitt

Cayuga (west):
* Knapp
* Lakeshore

Cayuga (east):
* Long Point

Also note, if you enjoy shopping, there is an outlet center nearby. http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=9

Enjoy your trip!

Posted By Patti & Pat M on November 28, 2007, 10:05 PM

Every year a group of us go to the Finger Lakes to taste their wine and if you truly like your wine you are going to want to stay over night at least one night. A trip in the Fall is one of my favorites. You have the beautiful fall foliage, the harvesting of the grapes and many wineries have special festivites. I would recommend visiting the wineries at Seneca Lake first because they are close together and seem to give you the most variety. Fulkerson Winery has a new wine tasting room and gift shop. The wine selection is very good for which ever kind of wine you prefer. Glenora and Belhurst both have a beautiful setting over looking the lake and excellant accommodations. In the summer on the weekend Glenora has a wonderful Jazz fest and Lobster and Leaves fest outside on the lawn.Torrey Ridge,Miles,Wagner,Red Newt,Shalestone,Poplar Ridge are ones you don't want to miss. If you want to have fun you must go to Hazlett for the Red Cat. They are always having a good time at Hazlett.Wagners Winery offers you both wine and beer plus food and a gift shop. You can finish off the trip with a romantic evening at the Belhurst Castle with dinner and beautiful accommodations. If you have any spare time don't forget to check out Cayuga Lake and Americana Winery.

Posted By Cindy Pickett on November 28, 2007, 10:34 PM

There are a few state parks that have campsites and beaches right along the wine trails. It was perfect for my boyfriend and I b/c we were able to have a cheap vacation (only a few hundred for our own food and lodging in the cabin for us for the week). Instead of spending a ton on airfare, we invested in bottle after bottle of wine and had campfires everynight to enjoy. Because of the location of Cayuga Lake State Park, we were able to travel to wineries on both Seneca and Cayuga Lake.

Some of our favorites included Glenora, Hazlitt, Bully Hill, Thirsty Owl, and Wagoner.

Every wine we tried at Glenora was awesome!

Hazlitt and Bully Hill were fun and laid back establishments with great tasting wine for any budget and knowledgeable tasting hosts to tell us (non-experts) about the flavors of the wines and good food pairings.

We went to Thirsty Owl for lunch at their patio Bistro. The food was good at a fair price, and the view was awesome(the deck is perched upon a hill and you look out over a part of the vineyard and down to the lake as you eat).

Wagoner made the list because they had a micro-brewery on site as well. If any guys are on the trip, it's always nice to promise a little micro-brew action. The beers there were very good - they offered tastings of the beer in a separate room from the wine tastings.

We had a wonderful time and can't wait to make our way back to visit more wineries. Helpful travel hints - check out the uncork new york webpage for links to the individual wine trails (broken up by each Finger Lake). You can print out maps of the various trails or check the calendar of events (there's usually something going on). Enjoy!

Posted By Irene on November 29, 2007, 9:12 AM

Growing up within an hour - hour 1/2 from Cayuga and Seneca lakes I have been going to the wineries for 20 years! I have also organized two wine tours with 15+ people. On our last trip we discovered Cascata winery just up from Watkins Glen on the West side of Seneca. What a fun winery, esp. for a group, and they have an award winning Reisling. Some of my long time favorites are - Glenora on the West side of Seneca, Hazlitt on the East side - tons of fun! Lamaroux Landing is very nice and Wagner is always a favorite.
On Cayuga may all time favorite is Hosmer, small, quaint and very nice wines. Goosewatch has great wines and a beautiful view of the lake. Sheldrake is nice, right next to the lake with a cute cafe. Make a reservation if you have a group larger than 10 to be safe.
There are many others worth trying and I will continue to explore and taste.

Another must see if your at Cayuga is Taughannock Falls/ State Park and the Fabulous Inn with an incredible restaurant! There are so many other falls and Parks along the lake too! The Finger lakes is truly one of New York's most beautiful areas!

Posted By Beth on November 29, 2007, 1:04 PM

We live right over the border in NE PA and do a bus trip to the Fingerlakes Wineries at least once a year and usually make a trip in between to pick up our favorites. There are so many beautiful places to visit and climbing the gorge in Watkins Glen is a definite. Our favorite wineries are Hazlitt, Americana and Bagley's Poplar Ridge. Belhurst Castle in Geneva is absolutely beautiful and a must visit. I can't comment much on a place to stay as we live so close we really have never spent the night. Once you visit you'll definitely want to come back!

Posted By Teri on November 29, 2007, 1:10 PM

Stay at Glenora Wine Cellars - centrally located on the west side of Seneca Lake 10 miles north of Watkins Glen. You will enjoy an expansive, spectacular view of the vineyards, the lake, and the opposing hillside from your room with private deck at the Inn. The restaurant and winery are equally impressive and the staff is enthusiastic and outstanding. Glenora was the first winery on Seneca Lake and is owned/managed today by founder, Gene Pierce. Keuka and Cayuga lakes are close by. Glenora may have a package that includes a wine tour. Check rates and packages page of their website www.glenora.com (under the Inn). Enjoy!!

Posted By Julie on November 29, 2007, 2:06 PM

Wineries and restaurents are great ways to experience the Finger Lakes wine country. BUT, the most exquiste experience is to feel the essence of the grape is through a grape oil therapeutic massage, a herbal grape bodywrap, a grape peel pedicure or a champagne facial at the Finger Lakes Wellness Center and Health Spa in Bath.
This facility is a well kept secret, and is a must for men and women - even kids are welcome! The staff were very compassionate and attended to all our needs. Also has a lovely gift shop and spa lunches are available if ordered ahead. Ah - I felt grape/great!

Posted By Helen on November 30, 2007, 2:06 PM

My husband and I love the Finger Lake Region. Some of our favorite Wineries are Swedish Hill on Senaca, Goose Watch on Cayuga and Hosmer on Cayuga. If you are looking for a unique tasting experience you should stop at The Professors Place or it is also called Cascata. They have a fantastic Riesling and a beautiful display of art work located just outside of Watkins Glen.

Posted By Cheri Rozinski on December 1, 2007, 6:01 AM

My in-laws brought me to the Finger Lakes for my 21st Birthday, and we loved it so much, we have been going every year for the past 11 years. You have to do the Seneca Lake wine trail. It has over 20 wineries and takes 2 days to them, but they are all great. You need to have a desniated driver or rent a limo or bus tour. Wagner is a winery/brewery you don't want to miss, they have a very large varity of wines and beers and also have a nice resturant(Genny Lee Cafe). The White Rose Bed and Breakfest is a great bed and breakfest. The owners are very sweet and the breakfest is unbelieveable, you wont start your day hungry. Gerlando's resturant in Watkins Glenn is a must, the have great Italian food at resonable prices.

Posted By Rosemarie on December 1, 2007, 7:40 AM

I got alot of my information from the internet.My husband and I really enjoyed everything. Hazlett Winery is the best it has a hourseshoe shaped tasting bar really neat.We also enjoyed Ticklehill Winery.We even order there wines through the mail.The Finger Lakes Wine Country travel brochure is very helpful.It has maps,hotels,B&B's,places to eat ,shopping.Great wine country

Posted By karen conkle on December 2, 2007, 1:28 PM

My wife and I spent a very busy, but enjoyable day in the Finger Lake Wineries on Nov.25th. That was a Sunday, so some of the wineries did not open until 11 am. Since we were visiting family, we only had 1 day and I wanted to make the most of it. We traveled over from Skaneateles, NY and enjoyed 9 wineries before closing at 5 pm.
I studied the articles in May, 2006 Wine Spectator to get their ideas. We are part of a small wine club in Georgia and I wanted good wines to bring back for the club to be introduced to NY wines. We decided to limit ourselves to wineries on west of Cayuga and east of Seneca Lakes to get a good comparison. I recommend that you try Knapp, Hosmer, Lamoreaux Landing, Standing Stone, Wagner, Red Newt, Bloomer Creek and Atwater. All of these have a good variety and wines which have won several awards. Rieslings are good at most all wineries, but be sure to try Gewurztraminer, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. We found the Merlots and Pinot Noirs to be too light in color and flavor for us.
If you like a white wine with a little sweetness, try Hosmer's Cayuga Lake White. The grape was developed for the area at Cornell and makes a nice wine for $8.
Lunch at Wagners Ginny Cafe was a good break and great view of the lake. Check websites for complete info on the wineries and the Wine Trail for both lakes for a map.
Hope you enjoy your visit as we did.

Posted By Don Varnadoe on December 3, 2007, 2:55 PM

Best advise I have is to go at harvest time in the fall. The Finger Lakes region is incredibly beautiful. I personally like Bully Hill winery. Best wine, fun people doing the wine tasting and it is near at least 5 other wineries. Enjoy!

Posted By Gina Profitt on December 3, 2007, 8:13 PM

Visit www.fingerlakeswinecountry.com for the most complete information including listings for all the wineries in the Finger Lakes. There is such a wide range of wineries that anyone can easily find a favorite.

The white wines are the leaders for the region because of our cooler climate.

Some people forget that the region is enjoyable year-round, not just in the summer and fall. The off-season (November - May) provides for quieter tasting rooms and more lodging availability.

Posted By Nathaniel Smith on December 8, 2007, 6:51 PM

I am lucky enough to work at The Corning Museum of Glass and live right in Corning, which is a stone's throw away from most of the region's wineries. my husband and I got Pleasant Valley wine for our wedding reception and everyone loved it. I personally enjoy the sweeter wines so the fruity wines at Glenora Wine Cellars and Red Cat from Hazlitt are my favorites. If you go to the wineries near Corning, I definitely can suggest a stop on Historic Market Street, where you'll find adorable shops and really good restaurants, as well as a trip to the two museum's right in town. You can visit The Corning Museum of Glass and the Rockwell Museum of Western Art easily in the same day as they are right across the river from eachother and offer combo tickets. Coupled with a wine tour, it's just a really nice way to spend the day.

Posted By Dara Riegel on December 10, 2007, 12:02 AM

My husband and I have been doing the Deck the Halls event for the past 5 years.We have so much fun at all the wineries. Our favorite place to end each day is at Rasta Ranch. The wines are delicious and the owners and staff are fun and friendly. The setting and music is from the 70's and we are able to go in there and reminisce about our youth! This past trip we visited 3 Brothers Winery which is actually 3 wineries and were pleasantly surprised. The Rogue Hollow Winery was our favorite and even though it was cold we sat outside with our wine and enjoyed the Christmas spirit in this fun place. Visiting the Finger Lakes is a good choice for anyone who likes good wines and good people!

Posted By Mary Humeniuk-Smith on December 14, 2007, 11:14 AM

I work at Fox Run so of course, I am partial. But I must say I am really looking forward to our Garlic Festival this year. The 16th annual Garlic Festival August 2 & 3, 2008 promises to be great fun. We will have more vendors that ever before selling garlic and all kinds of garlic fare. But also other vendors selling craft items, flowers, jewelry, glass work, ice cream and locally grown organic produce just to name a few! Of course our Chef Frank Caravita serves delicious festival food to accompany our award winning wines.

Posted By Leslie Kroeger on March 31, 2008, 2:15 PM