2024 New York Wine Classic Results
The BEst Finger Lakes Wine: Featuring Weis Vineyards, Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars, McGregor Vineyard, Damiani Wine Cellars, an Fulkerson Winery
New York | Finger Lakes | Wine Region Education
When planning a wine tasting trip, whether to a familiar region or a new destination, it's beneficial to research which wineries are winning awards. This can help you identify the best wineries that suit your taste preferences and discover the best expressions of each variety. Whether you're seeking the finest red wines, sparkling wines, or dessert wines, looking at wine competition winners is a great starting point to narrow down which wineries to visit for your upcoming wine tasting tour. While many award winners are established wineries in the region, competitions also highlight emerging wineries and new talents that you may not yet know about. Competitions are not the only way to find the best wine in the region, but they provide a solid foundation.
New York is the third-largest wine-producing state in the U.S., boasting an impressive 35,000 vineyard acres across its 11 AVAs (American Viticultural Areas). The state's wine industry excels in crafting world-class wines, particularly from cool-climate varieties like Riesling and Cabernet Franc. Among its diverse wine regions, the Finger Lakes AVA stands out, with nearly 11,000 acres dedicated to viticulture and a rich history shaped by its glacial lakes.
Located in upstate New York between Rochester and Syracuse, the Finger Lakes AVA is a prominent wine region characterized by its 11 long, narrow lakes formed during the last ice age. These lakes—Canadice, Cayuga, Canandaigua, Conesus, Hemlock, Honeoye, Keuka, Otisco, Owasco, Seneca, and Skaneateles—resemble fingers laid across Central New York. The Finger Lakes AVA is home to 144 of the state's 471 wineries, with most located around Keuka, Cayuga, and Seneca Lakes.
The New York Wine & Grape Foundation, through initiatives like the prestigious New York Wine Classic, works tirelessly to elevate New York's reputation and showcase its exceptional wines to a broader audience. By exploring award-winning wineries and their acclaimed wines, you can enhance your wine tasting journey and uncover the hidden gems of New York's vibrant wine regions. Each year, New York wine enthusiasts eagerly await The New York Wine & Grape Foundation’s New York Wine Classic results.
Where to Stay in Finger Lakes Wine County
The New York Wine Classic: Showcasing the Best New York Wines
Each year, the best New York wineries participate in the New York Wine Classic, a prestigious competition organized by the New York Wine & Grape Foundation based in Penn Yan. This esteemed event, running for nearly 40 years, highlights the finest wines produced in New York State, providing a significant boost to the marketing and reputation of participating wineries, especially newer and emerging ones.
Open to all New York wineries, the New York Wine Classic features categories for vinifera wines, hybrid wines, and wines made from labrusca grapes, other fruits, and honey. Each entry is meticulously evaluated by a trained sensory panel from the Beverage Testing Institute, which includes beverage directors, sommeliers, top bartenders, retail buyers, and educators. Wines are scored out of 100, and medals are awarded based on performance, including platinum, gold, silver, and bronze.
Major awards at the New York Wine Classic include:
Governor’s Cup: Recognizes the very best wine in the competition and serves as the top prize. The Best New York wine of that year.
Winery of the Year: Honors the winery with the best overall performance, considering the quality and number of awards received. The Best New York winery of that year.
Best of Category: Awards given for the highest-scoring red, white, pink, sparkling, and dessert wines. The Best New York wine of each type.
The New York Wine Classic is nationally recognized for its role in promoting New York's wine industry, celebrating the exceptional quality and diversity of wines produced in the state. Winning an award at this event can greatly enhance a winery’s visibility and credibility, making it a pivotal moment for many participants. It helps the public to know that they are one of the best New York wineries in the state.
The New York Wine Classic 2024 Finger Lakes Winners:
The 2024 New York Wine Classic competition featured 715 entries from 92 wineries from across the state of New York
Governor’s Cup: Weis Vineyards - 2018 Riesling Ice Wine
Winery of the Year: Weis Vineyards (This is the second year in recent history, as they also won in 2022)
Best White Wine: Dr. Frank Winery - 2022 Reserve Riesling
Best Sparkling Wine: Damiani Wine Cellars - 2017 Brut Méthode Champenoise
Best Pink Wine: Fulkerson Winery - 2023 Estate Syrah Rosé
Best Dessert Wine: Weis Vineyards - 2018 Riesling Ice Wine
Best Specialty Wine: CK Cellars Earle Estates - Apple Enchantment
Best Cabernet Sauvignon: Damiani Wine Cellars - 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon
Best Chardonnay (Unoaked) / Best Overall Chardonnay: Bright Leaf Vineyard - 2021 Chardonnay
Best Chardonnay (Oaked): Glenora Wine Cellars: 2022 Barrel Fermented, Chardonnay
Best Force Carbonation/Transfer Method Sparkling: Fox Run Vineyards 2023 - Estate Brillante Riesling
Best Fortified (Port-Like): Toast Winery - 2022 Luminescence Dessert Wine
Best Fruit Wine: CK Cellars - NV Earle Estates Apple Enchantment Semi-Sweet Apple Wine
Best Gewurztraminer: Ryan William Vineyard - 2019 Estate, Gewurztraminer
Best Gruner Veltliner: Weis Vineyards - 2022 Gruner Veltliner
Best Lemberger/Blaufränkisch: Keuka Lake Vineyards - 2022 Blaufränkisch
Best Other Red Vinifera Varietal: McGregor Vineyard 2020 Reserve, Saperavi
Best Pétillant Naturel (Pét-Nat): Inspire Moore - NV Unsupervised Petillant Natural
Best Pinot Gris: Thirsty Owl Wine Company - 2023 Pinot Gris
Best Red Blend (Non-Vinifera): Toast Winery (NY) - 2022 Bougie Cuvée Rouge Red Blend
Best Riesling (Dry): Smallholdings - 2021 Lot 10 Vineyard Dry, Riesling
Best Riesling (Medium Dry): Wagner Vineyards (NY) - 2022 Semi-Dry, Riesling
Best Riesling (Medium Sweet): Red Newt Cellars - NV Circle, Riesling
Best Riesling (Sweet) / Best Overall Riesling: Dr. Konstantin Frank 2022 Reserve, Riesling
For a complete list of results visit: New York Wine Classic
#NewYorkWineClassic #BoldlyNY
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New York Wine Travel Guide
About the 2024 New York Wine Classic Winners – Best Finger Lakes Wineries of 2024
Celebrating Weis Vineyards: Winery of the Year and Governor’s Cup Winners
Weis Vineyards - 2024 New York Wine Classic Winery of the Year
Weis Vineyards, a standout in the Finger Lakes wine region, has rapidly grown in both reputation and facility size since its establishment in 2017. Known for the phrase “Zum Wohl” (Cheers in German) adorning their tasting room, Weis Vineyards has been recognized as "Winery of the Year" in the New York Wine Classic in both 2024 and 2022. Additionally, in 2024 they clinched the prestigious Governor’s Cup for their 2018 Riesling Ice Wine, solidifying their status as one of the Best Finger Lakes Wineries. Top Awards in the 2024 New York Wine Classic:
Governor’s Cup: 2018 Riesling Ice Wine
Winery of the Year: Weis Vineyards
Best Dessert Wine: 2018 Riesling Ice Wine
Best Gruner Veltliner: 2022 Gruner Veltliner
Peter Weis, a German winemaker, brings a rich heritage rooted in six generations of winemaking in Mosel, Germany, to the Finger Lakes. His Finger Lakes journey began in 2006 when he accepted a position at Dr. Konstantin Frank’s winery, where he specialized in German and white wine varieties. The Finger Lakes’ unique soil and climate, reminiscent of Mosel, provided an ideal environment for crafting cool-climate German-style wines such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer.
Weis Vineyards Tasting Room - Keuka Lake Wine Trail
In 2017, Peter and his wife Ashlee transformed the former Lime Berry Winery into Weis Vineyards. Starting with an old Schoolhouse building as their tasting room, they expanded by restoring a nearby barn and adding a modern barrel room and tasting area. An expansive outdoor seating area overlooking Keuka Lake has become a popular spot for visitors on pleasant days.
Weis Vineyards collaborates with 22 grape growers throughout the Finger Lakes to source their grapes, ensuring a diverse and high-quality selection. In 2020, they planted their first estate vineyard, Day Road Estate Vineyard, just minutes from the winery. This vineyard features Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, and Saperavi, further enhancing their portfolio.
Peter Weis's background in traditional Mosel winemaking, combined with his innovative techniques, has positioned Weis Vineyards as a leader in the Finger Lakes wine scene. The winery’s commitment to excellence is reflected in their numerous awards and the high-quality wines they produce.
Address: 10014 Day Road, Hammondsport, NY 14840 | PH: (607) 284-4011 | weisvineyards.com
Read more about Weis Vineyard and the Keuka Lake Wine Trail: East Keuka Lake Self-Guided Wine Tour
Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars: Dominating Riesling at the New York Wine Classic
Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars - Best New York Riesling
Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars has long been synonymous with exceptional Riesling in the Finger Lakes, a legacy that continues to shine at the New York Wine Classic. Dr. Frank, who brought Riesling to the region, laid the foundation for their success. In 2018, they were named Winery of the Year, and in 2024, they secured top honors with the Best Finger Lakes Riesling of the year. Their Riesling takes home three separate awards:
Best White Wine: 2022 Reserve Riesling
Best Riesling (Sweet): 2022 Reserve Riesling
Best Overall Riesling: 2022 Reserve Riesling
Dr. Konstantin Frank, a Ukrainian viticulturist with a Ph.D. from Odessa, immigrated to New York after World War II. In 1950, he became Director of Research at Gold Seal Vineyards, where he pioneered grafting vinifera grapevines onto American Hybrid rootstock to combat phylloxera. By 1956, Dr. Frank had acquired his own land on Keuka Lake's western shores and established Vinifera Wine Cellars in 1962, now known as Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars. The winery quickly gained recognition for its Rieslings and remains a family-operated, fourth-generation winery producing outstanding wines. The tasting room, located on the original vineyard land, continues to yield exceptional wines.
View of Keuka Lake and Vineyards - Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars
Willie Frank, Dr. Frank's son, revived sparkling wine production in the Finger Lakes, using the traditional Méthode Champenoise with classic Champagne grapes: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay. This blend of historic sparkling wine heritage and vinifera innovations has earned the winery significant acclaim. The Dr. Konstantin Frank 2017 Blanc De Blanc won Best Sparkling Wine at the 2022 New York Wine Classic, highlighting their excellence in sparkling wines.
Dr. Konstantin Frank Wine Cellars stands as a testament to quality, tradition, and innovation in the Finger Lakes wine region.
Address: 9749 Middle Road, Hammondsport, NY 14840 | PH: (800) 320-0735 | drfrankwines.com
Lean more about Dr. Frank and the History of the Finger Lakes Wine Region: History of Finger Lakes Wine Region
McGregor Vineyard: Celebrating Saperavi with a New York Wine Classic Award
McGregor Vineyard, situated on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail’s east side, was a pioneer in adopting Saperavi, originally marketing it as "Black Russian Red." This unique wine quickly became a popular draw for visitors. Recently, McGregor Vineyard rebranded it simply as "Saperavi," solidifying its reputation as a key player in introducing this varietal to the region. In 2024, McGregor Vineyard's dedication was recognized with the New York Wine Classic award.
Best Other Red Vinifera Varietal: 2020 Reserve Saperavi.
McGregor Vineyard - Best Finger Lakes Saperavi
The McGregor family has been at the forefront of cultivating vinifera grapes in the Finger Lakes since the 1970s. After extensive research, they identified Saperavi as a red grape variety well-suited to the region's cool climate. They began planting Saperavi vines in the spring of 1980, driven by a passion for this unique grape.
McGregor Vineyard regularly hosts educational events like "Saperavi Stories, History, and Wine," led by John McGregor and organized by Saperica. Saperica aims to promote Saperavi and other Georgian grape varieties, along with Georgian food and culture, across the United States. These events offer guests the chance to sample McGregor's Saperavi wines alongside Georgian Saperavi wines, paired with Georgian cuisine and enriched by stories of Georgian traditions and McGregor Vineyard's journey with Saperavi.
Often compared to the Cabernet Sauvignon of the Finger Lakes, Saperavi has found a distinctive expression in the region. With the Finger Lakes leading U.S. production of Saperavi, this grape is quickly becoming a favorite among Finger Lakes wine enthusiasts.
Address: 5503 Dutch Street, Dundee, NY 14837 | PH: (800) 272-0192 | mcgregorwinery.com
Learn More about Finger Lakes Saperavi: GEORGIAN GRAPE VARIETIES RESHAPING THE FINGER LAKES - SAPERAVI AND RKATSITELI
Damiani Wine Cellars: Sparkling Success at the New York Wine Classic
Damiani Wine Cellars - Best New York Red Wines
Founded in the late 1990s, Damiani Wine Cellars was established by Lou Damiani and Phil Davis with a bold vision to craft the best Finger Lakes red wines in a region renowned for its cool-climate whites like Riesling. In 2007, the partnership expanded with Glenn Allen joining as General Manager. They planted their first vineyards with Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir, setting out to challenge the Finger Lakes' reputation for white wines.
Over the years, Damiani Wine Cellars has diversified its wine portfolio, becoming known for its outstanding red wines while also expanding into various styles. Their dedication to quality was recently highlighted with a 2022 New York Wine Classic award for Best Fortified Port-Like Wine for their 2013 Gem Dessert Wine and Gewürztraminer. In 2024, they achieved new acclaim with not only the red wine they are known for, but also sparkling wine.
Best Sparkling Wine: Damiani Wine Cellars - 2017 Brut Méthode Champenoise
Best Cabernet Sauvignon: Damiani Wine Cellars - 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon
Beautiful Views of Seneca Lake at Damiani Wine Cellars
Their vineyards are located in the "Banana Belt" region on the southeastern shores of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail. This area benefits from a unique microclimate characterized by warmer temperatures, abundant sunlight, and an extended growing season, making it ideal for nurturing red grape varieties.
The current winemaker, Katey Larwood, brings a wealth of experience from prestigious wine regions around the world. Katey worked in notable wine regions, including California, Australia, New Zealand and France. Her journey led her to the Finger Lakes in 2015, where she worked at Keuka Lake Vineyards before joining Damiani Wine Cellars.
The Finger Lakes, often called "America's Champagne Region," offers a climate akin to Champagne, France, making it ideal for sparkling wine production. The region’s diverse styles, from traditional Méthode Champenoise to Pét-Nat, have garnered acclaim for their quality and value. In addition to their award winning 2017 Brut Méthode Champenoise, Damiani Wine Cellars produces several high-quality sparkling wines in different methods.
Address: 5102 State Route 54, Dundee, NY 14837 | PH: (607) 243-7742 | damianicellars.com
Learn More about Finger Lakes Sparkling Wine: THE FINGER LAKES: AMERICA’S SPARKLING WINE CAPITAL
Fulkerson Winery: Unique Syrah Rosé winning the New York Wine Classic
Fulkerson Winery has a rich family history that traces back to 1805, when Caleb Fulkerson settled on the western slopes of Seneca Lake. Operating as a raspberry farm, the property transitioned to grape cultivation in the 1960s. In 1989, Sayre Fulkerson founded Fulkerson Winery, and today, his son Steven Fulkerson continues the family tradition as the seventh generation on this historic land. In 2024, Fulkerson Winery achieved recognition at the New York Wine Classic as the Best Rosé wine in New York State.
Best Pink Wine: Fulkerson Winery - 2023 Estate Syrah Rosé
Fulkerson Winery now produces over 25 varieties of Finger Lakes wines, including less commonly found in the Finger Lakes vinifera varieties like Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah. Among the nearly 11 acres of Syrah in the Finger Lakes, Fulkerson Winery cultivates almost 3 acres, making it one of the largest plantings in New York State. This Syrah vineyard, planted in 2014, is situated on the farthest downslope of the original 1805 farm.
The growing popularity of Dry Rosé in recent years has been embraced by the Finger Lakes wine community, including Fulkerson Winery. Many local wineries release their own versions each spring and early summer, with some becoming so sought-after they sell out quickly. The diverse array of grapes used, such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Lemberger (Blaufränkisch), Syrah, and Saperavi, allows Finger Lakes Dry Rosés to highlight unique varietal characteristics.
Additionally, Fulkerson Winery distinguishes itself by offering grape juice for home winemaking, resulting in over 13,000 cases of homemade wine produced annually. Proudly known as the “winemakers’ winery,” they provide more than 30 varieties of grape juice for home wine makers. The Fulkerson Farms also features a U-Pick farm with grapes, apples, cherries, peaches, and asparagus.
Address: 5576 State Route 14, Dundee, NY 14837 | PH: (607) 243-788 | www.fulkersonwinery.com
Learn More about Finger Lakes Dry Rosé: Finger Lakes Dry Rosé Self-Guided Wine Tour
Exploring the diverse and award-winning wines of the Finger Lakes is a rewarding adventure for any wine enthusiast. The New York Wine Classic serves as a valuable guide, showcasing the exceptional quality and innovation that define the region. This wine competition serves to help consumers find the Best New York Wine. From the standout Rieslings of Weis Vineyards and Dr. Konstantin Frank to the unique Syrah Rosé from Fulkerson Winery and the exceptional sparkling wines of Damiani Wine Cellars, each award reflects the dedication and talent within the Finger Lakes wine community. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, visiting these acclaimed wineries offers a chance to experience the best New York Wine in a vibrant wine scene. As you plan your next Finger Lakes wine tasting tour, let these prestigious results inspire your exploration of the Finger Lakes and beyond, where tradition meets innovation in every glass.
Featured Finger Lakes AccomModations
More results from past New York Wine Classic Competitions:
2023 Finger Lakes Winners
Best White Wine: Boundary Breaks - 2022 Gewurztraminer
Best Red Wine: Keuka Spring Vineyards - 2021 Blaufrankisch
Best Fortified (port-Like): Weis Vineyards - NV One Eighty Three Dessert Wine
Best Gewurztraminer: Boundary Breaks - 2022 Gewurztraminer
Best Gruner Veltliner: Dr. Konstantin Frank - 2021 Gruner Veltliner
Best Iced Wine (frozen After Harvest): Boundary Breaks - 2020 Ice Wine, Riesling
Best Lemberger/Blaufränkisch: Keuka Spring Vineyards, 2021 Blaufrankisch
Best Other Red Vinifera Varietal: Dr. Konstantin Frank - 2020 Reserve, Saperavi
Best Other Vinifera White Varietal: Sheldrake Point Winery - 2022 Blanc De Noir, Gamay
Best Pétillant Naturel (Pét-Nat): Toast Winery, 2022 Pétillant Naturel, White Muscat
Best Petit Verdot: Château LaFayette Reneau : 2018 Estate, Petit Verdot
Best Red Blend (Vinifera & Non-Vinifera): Knapp Winery, NV Pasta Red Reserve
Best Riesling (Dry) / Best Overall Riesling: Anthony Road - 2017 Art Series, Riesling
Best Riesling (Medium Dry): Sheldrake Point Winery - 2021 Estate, Riesling
Best Riesling (Medium Sweet): Dr. Konstantin Frank - 2021 Reserve Medium Sweet, Riesling
Best Riesling (Sweet): Weis Vineyards - 2021 Winzer Select A, Riesling
Best Syrah: Château LaFayette Reneau : 2018 Estate, Syrah
Best White Blend (Vinifera): Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards - NV Schooner White Blend
Featured Wine Travel Tips
2022 Finger Lakes Winners
Winery of the Year: Weis Vineyards
Governor’s Cup: Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards: Solera Sherry
Best White Wine: Weis Vineyards: 2020 Winzer Select Riesling A
Best Sparkling Wine: Dr. Konstantin Frank - 2017 Blanc De Blanc
Best Dessert Wine: Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards - Solera Sherry
Best Red Wine: Keuka Lake Vineyards - 2020 Leon Millot
Best Pink Wine: Weis Vineyards - 2021 Dry Rosé
Best Cabernet Sauvignon: Fox Run Vineyards - 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon
Best Chardonnay (Unoaked): Glenora Wine Cellars - 2021 Chardonnay
Best Dry Riesling: Château LaFayette Reneau - 2019 Dry, Riesling
Best Force Carbonation/Transfer Method Sparkling: Sheldrake Point Winery - 2020 Riesling Bubbles
Best Fortified Port-Like: Damiani Wine Cellars - 2013 Gem Dessert Wine, Gewürztraminer
Best Gewürztraminer: Prejean Winery 2020 Semi-Dry, Gewürztraminer
Best Lemberger/Blaufränkisch: Knapp Winery - 2020 Blaufränkisch
Best Medium-Dry Riesling: Three Brothers Wineries & Estates - 2020 First Degree Off-Dry, Riesling
Best Medium-Sweet Riesling: Bravery Wines - 2020 Riesling
Best Other Vinifera White Varietal: Dr. Konstantin Frank - 2021 Rkatsiteli
Best Overall Riesling: Weis Vineyards: 2020 Winzer Select A, Riesling
Best Pétillant Naturel: Atwater Estate Vineyards - 2021 Pétillant Naturel
Best Pinot Gris: Hector Wine Company - 2020 Pinot Gris
Best Rosé (0 to 2% RS): Weis Vineyards - 2021 Dry Rosé
Best Sauvignon Blanc: Bravery Wines - 2020 Bébé, Sauvignon Blanc
Best Syrah: Château LaFayette Reneau - 2017 Syrah
Best Traditional Method Sparkling: Dr. Konstantin Frank - 2017 Blanc De Blanc
Best White Blend Non-Vinifera: Keuka Spring Vineyards - NV Crooked Lake White Blend
Best White Blend Vinifera: Hector Wine Company - 2020 Sauvling White Blend
