Finger Lakes Named 2025 Wine Region of the Year

By Blake Jackson

The Finger Lakes has been named the 2025 Wine Star Award American Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast, recognizing two centuries of innovation, sustainability, and excellence in cool-climate winemaking.

This award celebrates the region’s ongoing legacy as a vibrant, collaborative hub where family-owned wineries and local partners continue to shape New York’s wine story.

The Finger Lakes’ viticultural history dates back to 1829 with the first plantings along Keuka Lake. Pioneers such as Charles Fournier and Dr. Konstantin Frank revolutionized the cultivation of Vitis vinifera in the region, laying the groundwork for its global reputation.

Today, the region spans over 10,000 vineyard acres across eleven glacial lakes and more than 140 wineries, producing a wide range of wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, sparkling wines, and heirloom varieties that combine tradition and innovation.

Collaboration drives the region’s success. Family-owned wineries remain the backbone of the Finger Lakes, supported by organizations like the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance (FLWA), which promotes the area and connects visitors to wine trails along Cayuga, Seneca, Keuka, and Canandaigua Lakes.

Sustainability remains central to the Finger Lakes’ identity. Through the New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program (NYSWP), 55 vineyards are Certified Sustainable, and more than 30 wineries display the Sustainability Trustmark, ensuring their practices are environmentally, socially, and economically responsible.

Finger Lakes also plays a key role in promoting New York wines globally. Supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service, local wineries introduce their products to markets from London to Tokyo.

“This honor from Wine Enthusiast celebrates not only the Finger Lakes, but the strength and evolution of New York’s entire wine community,” said Sam Filler, Executive Director of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation.

“This recognition highlights our community’s shared success and innovation, proving that when the Finger Lakes grows, the entire New York wine industry grows. We’re honored to work alongside the New York Wine & Grape Foundation and our peers to showcase the region’s authentic story to the world,” said Amy Navor, Executive Director of the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance.

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