Thirsty Owl - award winning winery in Finger Lakes

By Blake Jackson

Thirsty Owl Wine Company exemplifies the power of passion, vision, and dedication in winemaking. Nestled on the west side of Cayuga Lake in New York’s Finger Lakes region, this family-run winery has become a favorite destination for wine lovers, renowned not just for its award-winning wines, but also for its rich family history.

The winery’s journey began in 2001 when Ted Cupp purchased 150 acres of land, previously owned by Robert and Mary Plane, pioneers of the Cayuga Wine Trail. This prime location, with sloping vineyards and proximity to the lake, offered ideal conditions for growing grapes.

Construction of the winery and tasting room started soon after, and by 2002, Thirsty Owl opened its doors with just four wines and a small production of 1,200 cases.

Jonathan Cupp, Ted’s son, took over as president and led the company through rapid expansion. Today, Thirsty Owl produces significantly more wine, with 41 acres of vineyards growing a wide variety of grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, and Malbec, a rare grape for the region.

A key element of Thirsty Owl’s success is its commitment to using 100% Finger Lakes-grown fruit, mostly estate-grown, supporting local farmers and the region's wine industry.

The winery’s winemaker and vineyard manager, Shawn Kime, joined the team in 2002 and has been instrumental in shaping its success.

With agricultural expertise and degrees from SUNY Morrisville and Cornell University, Kime has crafted wines that have earned national recognition. His efforts led Thirsty Owl to win the prestigious Governor’s Cup in 2007, a highlight in his career.

Signature wines like Riesling and the Meritage blend reflect the winery’s dedication to quality and creativity.

Thirsty Owl’s Riesling captures the balance of acidity and fruit typical of the Finger Lakes, while the Meritage showcases Kime’s passion for blending.

Sustainability is at the heart of Thirsty Owl’s operations. As part of New York’s Sustainable Winegrowing Program, the winery has adopted eco-friendly practices, from solar-powered operations to sustainable farming techniques. This commitment ensures that their vineyard practices reduce environmental impact, meeting consumer demand for eco-conscious products.

With a blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability, Thirsty Owl Wine Company continues to be a standout in the Finger Lakes wine industry, set to thrive for years to come.

Photo Credit: istock-jhvephoto