Complex Soil, Climate, and Results
Within a few miles of a single lake, the soil conditions, airflow, sunlight, and temperature can vary dramatically. The terroir that results in each location produces unique, delightfully complex cool-climate wines that all exhibit food-friendliness.
Rapid Glaciation
Hundreds of thousands of years in the making, the Finger Lakes were carved out by successive waves of rapid glacier formation. These large and deep freshwater lakes and the soil deposits of limestone, shale, gravel, and silt surrounding them are the glaciers’ gifts to modern winemakers.
Deep Lakes
The massive bodies of water, visible from our vineyards, have a profound effect on the grapes. During the winter, cold air drains naturally from the sloping vineyards to the lakes. In spring, cool air bathes the vines, delaying the start of the growing season so that the tender shoots are not injured by spring frosts. In the fall, the sun-warmed lakes prevent early frosts and extend the growing season.
Creating Microclimates
The lakes are vital to Finger Lakes viticulture. This is a cool-climate region, and the temperature-moderating influence of the deep lakes supports quality grape growing.
Bold Attitude. Awesome Latitude.
The Finger Lakes wine region has an approximate latitude of 43 degrees North. The 43rd parallel offers diverse conditions but generally supports cool to moderate climates ideal for high-acid, expressive wines. For comparison, Willamette Valley, Oregon is on the 43rd North and Catalonia, Spain, known for its Cava, is on the 43rd in Europe. Also, Central Otago, New Zealand and Tasmania, Australia are on the 43rd South.