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Varieties

Riesling - World renowned in Alsace and most wine growing regions in Germany, Riesling is undoubtedly the signature vinifera grape of the Finger Lakes.  Depending on the raw materials (hopefully Tuller grapes), Riesling can be made into rich desert wines or steely dry wines and everything in between thanks to the ever-present acidity.

Chardonnay - Depending on the vintage and influence of oak, Chardonnay is made into many different styles in the Finger Lakes.  Lighter unoaked Chablis style Chardonnays seem to be gaining in popularity in our region.

Cabernet Franc - Known to many as a minor blending grape in Bordeaux, it also featured as a varietal in the Loire Valley in northern France.  In the Finger Lakes it is also blended (with Lemberger for example) but more often made as a varietal.  Probably considered by many in the region to be the signature red vinifera grape, others may believe it to be Pinot Noir or one day Lemberger.  Time will tell.

Pinot Noir – Due to its tendency to morph, there are hundreds of recognized Pinot Noir clones.  We grow seven clones and intend to plant more acreage of our favorites.  Our Pinot clones include the following:

-Mariafeld clone (aka clone 23)

-Jackson clone (aka clone 29)

-Martini clone (aka clone 13)

-Dijon clone (aka clone 113)

-Champange clone (aka clone 2a)

-Dr. Frank clone (aka clone 7)

-Gamay Beaujolais clone (aka upright clone)

Our favorite clones include clone 113, 23 and 29.  However, all the clones undoubtedly add to the complexity of our blend.  Pinot Noir is now featured in geographically diverse regions such as California, Oregon, New Zealand, Argentina, Germany, and most famously Burgundy, France.  The style in the Finger Lakes leans toward lighter, velvety Pinots with more finesse than power and alcohol.