The Finger Lakes is known for producing some wonderful cool-climate wines, and November is a great time to explore beyond your usual favorites. Whether you love a bold red, a crisp white or something sweet to finish the evening, here are five Finger Lakes wines worth putting on your November tasting list.
1. Cabernet Franc – The Perfect Fall Red
If there is one red wine that deserves a place at your November dinner table, it's Cabernet Franc. Often considered one of the Finger Lakes' signature red varieties, Cabernet Franc is known for its beautiful balance of red fruit, subtle earthiness and a hint of peppery spic
Expect flavors of cherry, raspberry and plum, sometimes accompanied by herbal notes and a smooth, medium-bodied finish. It's flavorful without being overly heavy, making it a wonderful companion for cool-weather meals.
Pair it with: Roast turkey, grilled pork tenderloin, herb-crusted lamb, roasted mushrooms or a hearty pasta with tomato sauce.
Where to explore: Fox Run Vineyards on Seneca Lake is a great place to start your Cabernet Franc adventure. Weis Vineyards on Keuka Lake also features Cabernet Franc among its handcrafted wines.
2. Lemberger – A Little Spice in Your Glass
Looking for something a little different? Give Lemberger a try!
Also known as Blaufränkisch, this European grape has found a welcoming home in the Finger Lakes. Lemberger produces a lovely red wine with dark berry flavors, bright acidity and a touch of spice
Depending on how it's made, it can be lighter and fruit-forward or more structured and robust. It's a fun wine to explore if you enjoy reds but want something a little outside the ordinary.
Pair it with: Grilled sausages, roasted pork, barbecue, mushroom risotto or a charcuterie board with aged cheeses and savory meats.
Where to explore: Rooster Hill Vineyards in Penn Yan grows Lemberger and offers red wines worth discovering. You can also ask about Lemberger at Seneca Lake tasting rooms such as Anthony Road Wine Company and another of our favorites, Lakewood Vineyards.
3. Baco Noir – A Finger Lakes Classic
For those who enjoy a rich, approachable red, Baco Noir is a Finger Lakes favorite worth seeking out.
This hybrid grape thrives in cooler climates and produces wines known for their deep color, dark fruit flavors and sometimes smoky or earthy character. Depending on the winemaking style, you may find notes of blackberry, plum, cherry and spice
Baco Noir is especially enjoyable during the colder months when we're craving hearty meals and something satisfying in our glass.
Pair it with: Slow-cooked beef stew, braised short ribs, grilled burgers, smoked meats or a rich mushroom and beef pasta.
Where to explore: Look for Baco Noir on the tasting menus at Finger Lakes wineries, including Leidenfrost Vineyards on Seneca Lake or Bully Hill Vineyards on Keuka Lake.
4. Dry Riesling – Crisp, Refreshing and Surprisingly Versatile
When many people think of Finger Lakes wine, Riesling is probably the first grape that comes to mind. And for good reason!
While Riesling is often associated with sweeter wines, the Finger Lakes produces some exceptional dry versions. These wines are crisp and refreshing, with bright acidity and flavors that can include green apple, citrus, pear and mineral notes.
Dry Riesling is one of the most versatile wines you can bring to the dinner table. It works beautifully with lighter fall dishes and can even stand up to some of the richer flavors of the season.
Pair it with: Roasted chicken, Thanksgiving turkey, seafood, creamy pasta, butternut squash soup or dishes with fresh herbs.
Where to explore: Boundary Breaks Vineyard on Seneca Lake is especially well known for its Riesling program. Scout Vineyards near Penn Yan is another wonderful stop for those who enjoy exploring dry white wines. Weis Vineyards is also worth adding to your Keuka Lake tasting itinerary.
5. Late-Harvest & Dessert Wines – A Sweet Finish to November
Sometimes the best part of a meal is the last glass of wine.
Late-harvest wines are made from grapes left on the vine longer than usual, allowing additional sugars and concentrated flavors to develop. In the Finger Lakes, Riesling is particularly well suited to this style because its naturally bright acidity helps balance the sweetness.
These wines can offer beautiful flavors of ripe peach, apricot, honey and tropical fruit. They are delicious on their own but truly shine when paired with dessert.
Pair it with: Apple pie, pumpkin cheesecake, crème brûlée, fruit tarts, blue cheese or a simple cheese and honey board.
Where to explore: Fox Run Vineyards, Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery and Heron Hill Winery are all worth checking for late-harvest or dessert-style selections. Availability and current vintages vary, so ask the tasting room what's being poured.
Make a November Wine Country Adventure Out of It
Why settle for just one bottle when you can spend an afternoon discovering something new?
November is a wonderful time to visit the Finger Lakes tasting rooms. Take a leisurely drive along Seneca or Keuka Lake, enjoy the changing landscape, and ask the tasting room staff to help you find a wine that fits your palate.
Try a Cabernet Franc with a savory cheese board, compare a couple of dry Rieslings, or finish your tasting with a sweet late-harvest wine. You may even discover a new favorite to bring home for Thanksgiving dinner.
And don't forget to pick up a few extra bottles for holiday entertaining or hostess gifts. A locally made Finger Lakes wine is always a thoughtful way to share a little taste of our region.
This November, SIP local, SAVOR the season and raise a glass to Finger Lakes wine country! And SHOP local to get a little jump start on the holiday!!
Cheers!
