Raise a Glass Beyond the Vine at Krookid Leyk Distillery on Keuka Lake
The Finger Lakes Region is famous for award-winning Rieslings and breathtaking vineyard views, but every now and then it’s worth stepping away from the wine trail to discover another handcrafted beverage. Nestled along the eastern shore of Keuka Lake, Krookid Leyk Distillery offers visitors an authentic experience with spirits that perfectly complements a day exploring the region.
From the moment you arrive, the chic and sophisticated architecture and lake views take you away. The friendly bar staff (known as Spirit Guides here) welcome you and the relaxing atmosphere invite you to slow down and savor the experience.
Crafted with Local Pride
Krookid Leyk is a family-owned micro-distillery, dedicated to producing small-batch spirits using locally sourced New York grains and traditional distilling methods. Grains are sourced directly from nearby farms before being mashed, fermented, distilled, and bottled on-site. Small-batch production allows the distillers to carefully watch every stage of the process, ensuring exceptional quality from grain to glass. Every bottle reflects the agricultural heritage and craftsmanship that have made the Finger Lakes a destination for lovers of locally made beverages. Krookid Leyk’s lineup of premium spirits captures the character of the Finger Lakes just as beautifully as the region’s celebrated wines.
A Tasting Worth Remembering
At Krookid Leyk try a spirit flight for an introduction to the bold flavors and aromas that only handcrafted vodka, gin, bourbon, and whiskey spirits can provide. Your Spirit Guide will walk your through each pour, explaining the ingredients and distillery process.
For those who prefer cocktails, Krookid Leyk’s signature cocktail creations showcase their spirits in creative ways. The list is seasonal and ever changing. Our current favorites are the Citrus Cruiser and the Dockside Derby. Can’t decide? Have a Cocktail Flight with four 9oz cocktails served on a wooden flight board.
All the cocktails can be made sans the spirits for a refreshing mocktail. Your designated driver won’t feel left out and also a great pretty drink for friends under 21. Trust me, they are so good! The kids in our party were raving about their mocktails all day!
Best day of the week to go? Visit on a Sunday for their specialty Boozy Coffees! Every month the menu features four fancy boozy coffees! Just look at this photo here, its so pretty!! The flavor combos are incredibly creative each month. We are becoming Sunday Funday fans very quickly!
And this summer there is one more specialty boozy beverage that is a must try, the frozen cocktail slushy! These boozy slushees come in three flavors: Blue Raspberry, Lemon, and Cherry or get it as a Bomb Pop swirl. These boozy slushees are made with Eagle Eye Vodka.
Plan Your Visit
Located at 14322 NY-54 in Hammondsport, Krookid Leyk Distillery welcomes guests for tastings, cocktails, and tours throughout the week. Before visiting, it’s always a good idea to check current hours and seasonal events on their website. For all their menu updates and some funny reels to entertain you - follow them on Facebook & Instagram.
Water & Wine Weekly Tip
Don’t limit your Finger Lakes adventure to wine alone. The region’s growing craft distillery scene showcases the same passion, local ingredients, and artisanal craftsmanship that have made the area one of New York’s premier food and beverage destinations. Be sure to make a stop at Krookid Leyk Distillery, some of Keuka Lake’s finest pours come from a still instead of a vineyard.
