The Finger Lakes may be best known for Riesling, but there’s a quiet revolution happening along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail — and it’s deep ruby in color. The region’s unique cool climate, moderated by the deep waters of Seneca Lake, is producing exceptional dry red wines with elegance, balance, and character.
From Cabernet Franc and Lemberger (Blaufränkisch) to bold red blends, Seneca Lake wineries are crafting reds that rival those from some of the world’s most renowned regions. Here’s where to sip your way through the best of them.
Tucked along Route 14 just 15 minutes north of Watkins Glen, Hickory Hollow Wine Cellars is a hidden gem known for its approachable style and small-batch craftsmanship. Their dry reds are a testament to the power of precision winemaking.
Don’t miss their Cabernet Franc — a medium-bodied beauty with notes of black cherry, cedar, and spice.
Winemaker Nathan Kendall’s commitment to minimal intervention allows the vineyard’s character to shine through, resulting in wines that feel both refined and distinctly Seneca Lake.
On the east side of Seneca Lake, Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars continues to define quality and consistency in Finger Lakes winemaking. Their dry reds reflect the elegance of cool-climate viticulture paired with the structure of world-class reds.
Try their T23 Cabernet Franc, made entirely in stainless steel to highlight the grape’s pure fruit and herbal complexity.
For something more robust, their Merlot-Cabernet Franc blend delivers rich depth with a silky finish — perfect for pairing with roasted meats or winter stews.
Red Newt Cellars, perched above the lake’s southeast shore, has built a reputation for thoughtful, terroir-driven wines. Their dry reds showcase precision, age-worthiness, and a strong sense of place.
The Cabernet Franc Glacier Ridge Vineyard stands out — full-bodied and aromatic with layers of dark fruit and savory spice.
Red Newt’s reds are made to complement food, and their on-site bistro (seasonally open) offers the perfect setting to experience those pairings firsthand.
A trailblazer in sustainable farming and forward-thinking production, Fox Run Vineyards has been cultivating red wine excellence for decades. Their Lemberger (Blaufränkisch) is a standout — spicy, vibrant, and perfectly suited to the region’s cool climate.
The Merlot and Cabernet Franc at Fox Run demonstrate how thoughtful vineyard management and a hands-on approach can yield reds with beautiful balance and longevity. Stop by their tasting room for a flight that showcases the full range of Finger Lakes reds.
Just north of the village of Watkins Glen, Lakewood Vineyards blends three generations of family dedication with a forward-thinking approach to winemaking. While their Cabernet Franc and Lemberger remain Finger Lakes classics — vibrant, structured, and beautifully balanced — it’s their Reserve Pinot Noir that truly turns heads.
This wine showcases the elegance and nuance that cool-climate reds can achieve: delicate aromas of cherry and rose petal, a silky texture, and a long, graceful finish. Each vintage reflects meticulous vineyard care and restrained oak aging, resulting in a Pinot that stands shoulder to shoulder with some of the best in the region.
Known for pushing boundaries (pun intended), Boundary Breaks has expanded beyond its acclaimed Rieslings to craft dry reds that are garnering serious attention. Their Cabernet Franc and Harmonic Blend (Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon) are powerful examples of what Seneca Lake’s microclimate can achieve.
Expect bold, structured wines with notes of blackberry, graphite, and subtle oak influence. These reds are rich yet balanced, with the kind of complexity that rewards slow sipping and cellar aging alike.
Exploring Seneca Lake’s dry reds is more than a tasting experience — it’s a journey through the evolving story of Finger Lakes winemaking. Each sip tells a tale of patience, passion, and the region’s one-of-a-kind terroir.
From the boutique charm of Hickory Hollow to the timeless craftsmanship of Lamoreaux Landing and Lakewood, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail invites you to discover just how impressive cool-climate reds can be.
So, bundle up, bring your curiosity, and plan your own red wine trail around Seneca Lake. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the artistry of these winemakers — and maybe a few new favorite bottles to enjoy at home.
