
Believe it or not, I spent most of my adult life thinking I didn’t like Finger Lakes wine. It wasn’t until I started visiting Keuka Lake more often that I realized I hadn’t been giving the region a fair chance—I had simply been going to the wrong wineries.
I had always assumed Finger Lakes wines were mostly sweet with very little variety, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. Keuka Lake is home to some of the most exceptional wineries in New York, producing everything from crisp Rieslings and elegant sparkling wines to bold reds and unique tasting experiences.
If you’re planning a trip to the Finger Lakes, these eight must-visit Keuka Lake wineries are the ones that have left the biggest impression on me—and I think they’ll leave one on you, too.
Looking for other Finger Lakes guides? Read one of these next:
- 10 Things Worth Doing Around Keuka Lake, New York
- How To Spend 48 Hours Exploring Steuben County, New York
- How to Spend A Perfect Weekend on Canandaigua Lake
Why Does Keuka Lake Produce Such Exceptional Wine?
While all of the Finger Lakes have their own unique charm, there’s a reason Keuka Lake has become one of New York’s premier wine destinations. Its deep, Y-shaped waters help regulate temperatures throughout the year, protecting the surrounding vineyards from harsh winter freezes while creating ideal conditions for grapes to ripen slowly and evenly.
The steep hillsides around the lake also provide excellent drainage and plenty of sunshine, allowing the vines to thrive without becoming overly stressed. Combined with generations of experienced winemakers who truly understand the land, it’s the perfect recipe for producing high-quality wines with incredible balance and character.
Keuka Lake offers an impressive variety that continues to earn recognition far beyond the Finger Lakes! It’s one of the many reasons I find myself coming back year after year.
Now that you know what makes this region so special, here are the eight Keuka Lake wineries I think deserve a spot on your itinerary.

1. Living Roots
This is where it all started for me! My first time visiting a winery in Keuka Lake was Living Roots, and since then, I’ve been back several times. It will always be a favorite of mine and for good reason.


The first thing you’ll notice is the view. Perched high above Keuka Lake, the tasting room overlooks the vineyards and the lake water below, making it one of the most beautiful spots to enjoy a glass of wine! Founded by husband-and-wife team Sebastian Hardy, a sixth-generation winemaker from South Australia, and Rochester native Colleen Hardy, the winery beautifully blends two renowned wine regions into one tasting experience. Alongside exceptional Finger Lakes wines, you’ll also find selections from Australia’s Adelaide Hills, giving visitors the opportunity to compare wines from opposite sides of the world.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, don’t miss one of their most unique experiences. In partnership with Mountain Rose Farm, Living Roots offers guided horseback rides through the vineyard, followed by a wine tasting overlooking the lake. It’s such a fun and memorable way to experience the property, and one of the most unique winery experiences I’ve found anywhere in the Finger Lakes. You can view their schedule here.
2. Weis
If you’re looking for a winery that offers more than just a tasting, Weis Vineyards is one of my favorite places around Keuka Lake to spend an afternoon. The atmosphere is relaxed, welcoming, and perfect for everyone—from serious wine enthusiasts to families simply looking to enjoy a beautiful day by the lake.
The property itself is stunning, with several different tasting spaces to choose from. There are multiple bars throughout the winery, including one with incredible views overlooking Keuka Lake, as well as a large outdoor lawn complete with Adirondack chairs, lawn games, and plenty of room for kids to run around. It has such an open, inviting feel that it’s easy to settle in for a few hours with a glass of wine.


What makes Weis Vineyards especially unique is its German influence. Co-owner and winemaker Hans Peter Weis grew up in Germany’s Mosel wine region, where his family has been making wine for generations before bringing those traditional winemaking techniques to the Finger Lakes. That combination of Old World craftsmanship and New York-grown grapes results in beautifully balanced wines that have earned the winery the title of New York State Winery of the Year multiple times.
3. Keuka Spring Vineyards
I had the chance to visit Keuka Spring Vineyards during the winter, and honestly, I don’t think I could have picked a better time. It was such a cozy escape, with a warm, inviting tasting room that made me want to settle in and stay awhile. The interior is beautifully designed, with plush velvet seating lining the bar, creating an atmosphere that feels both elegant and comfortable.


Beyond the tasting room, you can also tour the winery’s cellar to get a behind-the-scenes look at where the magic happens. It’s a fun addition to the experience and gives you a greater appreciation for the winemaking process.
One of my favorite parts of visiting was discovering Saperavi for the very first time. Originally from the country of Georgia, this deeply colored red grape isn’t something you come across every day, and I was so impressed that I couldn’t leave without buying a bottle to take home. If you’re someone who enjoys trying wines that are a little different from the norm, it’s definitely one to look for.
4. Dr. Konstantin Frank
One of my favorite wine tasting experiences to date has been at Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery. It’s one I’ll always think about because it was so much more than simply sitting down for a tasting. It was an experience that completely changed the way I appreciate Finger Lakes wine!
If you’re looking for something beyond the typical winery visit, I highly recommend the 1886 Experience, which should be booked in advance. The experience takes place in a stunning, separate building just down the road from the main winery, which makes for a more intimate experience.


It begins with a welcome glass of sparkling wine before heading out on a guided walk through the vineyard. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the winery, the grapes, and the pioneering work of Dr. Konstantin Frank, whose innovative techniques helped prove that European grape varieties could thrive in the Finger Lakes, forever changing the region’s wine industry.
After the tour, you’ll return for a beautifully curated food and wine pairing that was honestly one of the best I’ve experienced anywhere. You could tell just how much care and attention had gone into every detail. Every sip and every bite felt intentional, making for an unforgettable experience!
5. Bully Hill
Bully Hill Vineyards is one of those places that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or someone who usually reaches for sweeter wines, you’ll feel completely at home here. Their philosophy is simple: wine should be fun, approachable, and enjoyed by everyone—not intimidating or pretentious. And I think they accomplish that perfectly.


With more than 40 wines ranging from dry reds and crisp whites to fruit wines and sweeter varieties, there’s something to suit just about every palate. If you’re someone who enjoys sweeter wines, you’ll especially love the selection here.
Beyond the wine, Bully Hill is a destination where you can easily spend an entire afternoon. Their restaurant is a fantastic spot for lunch or dinner, serving delicious food alongside beautiful views overlooking Keuka Lake. After your meal, take some time to wander through the Walter S. Taylor Art Gallery, where you’ll find colorful artwork created by the winery’s founder. Walter Taylor was not only a pioneering winemaker but also a talented artist, and many of his whimsical illustrations still appear on Bully Hill’s wine labels today. It’s such a fun detail that gives the winery its own personality and charm.
6. Domaine LeSeurre
If there’s one winery on this list that I’m most excited to return to, it’s Domaine LeSeurre. I visited for the first time just a few months ago, and from the moment I arrived, I was completely blown away. The winery is absolutely beautiful, with stunning views overlooking Keuka Lake and a tasting room that feels elegant yet incredibly welcoming.
One of the things that immediately caught my attention was their unique tasting experiences. They offer everything from traditional guided tastings to thoughtfully curated food pairings. They even have a French macaron and wine pairing, which instantly went on my must-do list! Unfortunately, the day I visited they hadn’t yet received their shipment of macarons, so I went with the Signature Wine & Food Pairing instead. Let me just tell you, it was phenomenal! It was clear just how much thought had gone into creating an experience where each flavor complemented the next.


What made the visit even more memorable was the staff. The employee who guided my tasting was incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to share the story behind the winery. Learning about owners Céline and Sébastien LeSeurre—their journey from France to the Finger Lakes and their passion for combining six generations of French winemaking tradition with New York-grown grapes—made me appreciate every glass even more.
7. Point of the Bluff
Point of the Bluff Vineyards is one of those places that instantly makes you feel at home! Housed inside a beautifully restored 1800s schoolhouse, it has so much charm and character from the moment you walk through the front door. It’s cozy, welcoming, and feels like the kind of winery where, if you lived nearby, you’d find yourself becoming a regular. I know I definitely would be!


While the indoor tasting room is full of historic charm, the outdoor patio is just as inviting. It’s the perfect place to sit with a glass of wine and take in the beautiful views. You’ll also be spoiled for choice with a wonderful selection of crisp whites, bold reds, and refreshing rosés.
Throughout the year, they also host concerts, live music, and special events that really bring people together, creating a true gathering place for both locals and visitors!
8. Keuka Lake Vineyards
From the outside, Keuka Lake Vineyards is a bit unassuming, but don’t let that fool you. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly discover that it has one of the most spectacular views around Keuka Lake. The tasting room has a rustic, laid-back feel that perfectly complements the surrounding vineyards, making it an easy place to slow down and enjoy the scenery.


The winery offers several different tasting experiences, so whether you’re new to wine or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s an option for you. If you’re looking to make a meal out of your visit, I highly recommend building your own cheese or charcuterie board. With a variety of cheeses, meats, and accompaniments to choose from, it’s the perfect pairing to enjoy alongside a tasting or a glass of wine while taking in the incredible lake views.
Keuka Lake Vineyards has been producing small-batch wines since the early 1990s and is especially well known for its outstanding dry Rieslings and commitment to sustainable, minimal-intervention winemaking. Their philosophy is all about letting the vineyard speak for itself, and it really shows in the quality of the wines.
If you’re searching for a winery that feels authentic, relaxed, and a little off the beaten path, Keuka Lake Vineyards is a wonderful place to end a day of exploring the Keuka Lake Wine Trail.
Enjoy Your Time Around Keuka Lake
Keuka Lake truly is such a gem, and I don’t think you can go wrong with a visit to any of these wineries. After exploring the area several times and experiencing each of them myself, I can confidently recommend every one on this list. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking to spend a relaxing afternoon with a great glass of wine, I hope this guide has given you some inspiration for your trip. Happy travels!




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