Kate Polak is an expert on boat tours on the Finger Lakes... and knows the wineries also! Asked which wineries she sends people to, she said the answer depends partly on the flavor profile you want and partly on the vibe, and then breaks it down into the following three groups.
01
Classy and swanky
Hermann J Wiemer, Lamoreaux Landing, Sheldrake Point, and Damiani. In Kate's words, each has "a very classy, swanky aesthetic" and a distinct set of flavor profiles. All four make what she calls amazing Cab Franc and Rosé.
02
Down-home but fancy-adjacent
Airy Acres, Billsboro, and Fox Run. Less polish, still serious. Kate singles out their Lembergers and red blends as superb.
03
Rustic but elegant
Shalestone, Shaw, and Finger Lakes Cider House. The last one is a cidery rather than a winery, and it made her list anyway.
Kate's note: "The list can go on!"
Good to know
What days are they open?
All ten are open Thursday to Sunday.
Do I need a reservation?
Hermann J Wiemer Vineyard and Fox Run Vineyards take walk-ins. Shalestone Vineyards LLC asks you to book ahead.
How much is a tasting?
Posted tastings run $10 to $15, with Damiani Wine Cellars at the low end.
What regions does this list cover?
Seneca Lake and New York.