Finger Lakes Wineries Without Walls
The Finger Lakes’ Pop-Up Wine Movement: Micro-wineries with no tasting rooms, big ambition, and a shared mission to connect through collaborative events
New York | Finger Lakes
Wineries Without Walls: The Finger Lakes’ Next Generation of Bold, Boutique Winemakers
If you’ve visited the Finger Lakes in recent years, you’ve likely noticed the momentum: the wine scene is evolving, diversifying, and opening its arms to a new generation of creative and courageous wine producers. At the heart of this evolution is the “Wineries Without Walls” movement—a group of micro-wineries without traditional brick-and-mortar tasting rooms, coming together in pop-up events across the region to bring their small-batch, soulful wines directly to the people.
A New Kind of Winery, A Stronger Community
In the past, the image of a winery was fairly fixed: sweeping vineyards, grand tasting rooms, a large staff, and a decades-long legacy. But for many rising winemakers, this model just isn’t realistic. High costs and logistical hurdles have inspired a new approach. These wine entrepreneurs are:
Sourcing grapes from trusted vineyard partners
Producing wine in shared spaces
Forging community alliances instead of going it alone
And instead of traditional tasting rooms, these winemakers take part in pop-up events, often hosted at established wineries like Bet The Farm, and Apollo’s Praise, or community spaces like the Finger Lakes Welcome Center.
The result? A vibrant, grassroots collective that supports small producers, introduces curious drinkers to cutting-edge wines, and reinvigorates the regional wine scene.
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The Spark That Started It All
According to Erin McMurrough of Little Clover, the movement truly began in February 2025 when Bet the Farm Winery invited a few micro-wineries to pour their wines at a ticketed tasting. Despite a snowy night and a community still recovering from a fire in nearby Ovid, the event was buzzing with energy—and sales. That night inspired Erin to rally the others under a shared identity: Wineries Without Walls.
Since then, the group has hosted events throughout the Finger Lakes, with more to come—including an educational seminar on July 17, 2025, at Pinnacle Wine & Liquor in Rochester, where consumers can learn the stories behind these wines and winemakers.
Wineries Without Walls Members at Pop-Up Event at Tin Barn Brewing
Wineries Without Walls Members at Pop-Up Event at Apollo’s Praise
Meet the Makers: Voices from Wineries Without Walls
These are not just wines—they are stories in a bottle. Below, meet some of the passionate, thoughtful, and fearless winemakers leading the Wineries Without Walls movement.
Little Clover
Broadway Sparkle Meets Finger Lakes Soul
Erin McMurrough of Little Clover
Erin McMurrough of Little Clover
Founder & Winemaker: Erin McMurrough
Founded: First vintage in 2018; released to the public in 2023
Specialty: 100% traditional method sparkling wines
The Story
Erin McMurrough didn’t begin her professional life in wine—she began it on Broadway. Working in theatre production, she became increasingly drawn to the energy and romance of wine regions. After falling in love with both the Finger Lakes and a vineyard manager, she and her husband David Stamp decided to build a life rooted in land, legacy, and traditional method sparkling wine. Little Clover was born from that vision: a winery dedicated to telling the Finger Lakes’ sparkling story through local grapes, long lees aging (minimum 36 months), and a stylistic commitment to elegance and authenticity. Erin is proud to be one of the few producers focused solely on méthode traditionnelle sparkling wines in the region.
To more about Finger Lakes Sparkling Wine read: Finger Lakes Sparkling Wine: America’s Sparkling Wine Capital
Specialty & Signature Style
Traditional Method Sparkling Wines
Grapes: Riesling, Cayuga White, Delaware
Signature Style: Refined, elegant, expressive with extended lees aging for complexity
Awards
2018 Sparkling Cayuga White: Gold – Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition 2024
2018 Sparkling Cayuga White: Silver – Finger Lakes International Wine Competition 2024
2018 Sparkling Riesling: Bronze – Finger Lakes International Wine Competition 2023
2020 Sparkling Delaware: Bronze – Finger Lakes International Wine Competition 2025
Featured in VinePair’s 25 Best Sparkling Wines for 2024 (92 pts)
Included in VinePair’s 25 American Wines to Drink This Fourth of July
Mentors and Supporters
Little Clover would not exist without the generosity and open doors offered by Finger Lakes wineries. Erin credits the winemaking community at large—particularly Lakewood Vineyards, where her wines are produced under an alternating proprietorship—for sharing their space, experience, and encouragement.” Erin is also deeply grateful for the sales and distribution mentorship she received from Finger Lakes legend Sandy Waters, whose guidance and generosity left a lasting impact.
Being Part of Wineries Without Walls
“Wineries Without Walls has been a lifeline,” Erin says. “Not just in terms of reaching customers, but as a morale boost and creative network. From the host side, I’ve been blown away by the generosity of the venues who showcase us. And from the peer side—owning a small business is hard. Being able to commiserate, brainstorm, and celebrate with others in the same boat has been deeply meaningful.”
Where to Buy and Taste
Website: www.LittleCloverWine.com – shipping available to 41 states
Retailers: Retailers: New York Kitchen (Canandaigua), GCP Liquors and Wine (Horseheads), Watkins Glen Wine & Spirits (Watkins Glen)
Restaurants: Kindred Fare (Geneva), Graft (Watkins Glen), Dean Lane Dining (Dundee)
Private Tastings: Available by appointment via email
Events: Wineries Without Walls pop-ups and other regional events
Connect
LittleCloverWine.com | IG: @littlecloverwine | Email: littlecloverwine@gmail.com
John Albert Wine
Thoughtful, Minimalist Wines from a Philosopher-Turned-Winemaker
John Monnier of John Albert Wine
John Monnier of John Albert Wine
Founder & Winemaker: John Monnier
Founded: 2023
Specialty: Aromatic whites, stainless steel reds, and small-batch experimentation
The Story
John Monnier’s introduction to wine came while studying philosophy. A visit to a tasting room revealed a world of happiness and purpose he hadn’t seen in other careers. That moment sparked a pursuit that led him to the Finger Lakes in 2015, where he enrolled in the FLCC viticulture and enology program and started working at Ravines Wine Cellars. He grew from cellar hand to associate winemaker before launching John Albert Wine in 2023—a personal project focused on thoughtful experimentation and honest storytelling through wine. His small-batch releases reflect his desire to better understand varietal expression, texture, and style.
Specialty & Signature Style
Stainless steel whites and light reds
Grapes: Riesling, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc
Signature Style: Clean, varietally driven, modern-yet-minimalist experimentation
Awards
Although John hasn’t submitted to competitions yet, his wines have garnered praise from local sommeliers, retailers, and wine bar buyers.
Mentors and Supporters
John acknowledges the generosity of several key mentors, including Morten Hallgren from Ravines Wine Cellars, Peter Becraft, and Paul Brock & Gina Lee from Silver Thread Vineyard. He also credits his friend Wes Andrew from Atwater Vineyards for many deep discussions about wine philosophy. Ravines Wine Cellars has been both employer and incubator, offering space and encouragement during John’s transition to his own label.
Being Part of Wineries Without Walls
“Until my first pop-up, I had never seen my wines in a customer’s hand,” John recalls. “Wineries Without Walls gave me that moment. It helped me reflect on what I’m doing, why I’m doing it, and how my wines fit into the regional story. Beyond that, it’s allowed me to collaborate with people who want to see each other succeed. That kind of community is rare—and incredibly motivating.”
Where to Buy and Taste
Retailers: Once Finger Lakes (Trumansburg), Bottleland (Rochester), Pinnacle Wine & Liquors (Rochester)
Wine Bars: Microclimate Wine Bar (Geneva – limited availability)
Private Sales: Email John directly for inquiries or small orders
Events: Wineries Without Walls and seasonal tastings
Connect
johnalbertwine.com | IG: @john_albert_wine | Email: john@johnalbertwine.com
Nine-Four Wines
Minimal Intervention, Maximum Expression
Josh Carlsen of Nine-Four Wines
Nine-Four Wines Logo
Founder: Josh Carlsen
Founded: First vintage in 2016
Specialty: Chardonnay, Riesling, and traditional method sparkling wines
The Story
Nine-Four Wines was founded in 2016 by Josh Carlsen and Phil Arras, born out of years of friendship and shared passion for vineyard-first winemaking. With a background in wine retail, restaurants, and consulting, Josh brings a nuanced palate and intentional restraint to every wine he makes. Following Phil’s relocation, Josh assumed full control of the brand, working closely with Damiani Wine Cellars winemaker Katey Larwood to continue the vision: expressive wines with minimal interference. Focused on Chardonnay, Josh also produces Riesling, sparkling rosé, and red blends that highlight terroir and the distinctiveness of each site and vintage.
Specialty & Signature Style
Focus on Chardonnay and site-specific expressions
Also produces Riesling, red blends, and sparkling rosé
Signature Style: Native fermentation, no new oak, low intervention—letting the vineyard speak
Awards
Favorable review by Jason Wilson for Vinous
Supported by sommeliers and chefs across the Finger Lakes restaurant scene
Mentors and Supporters
Josh credits Damiani Wine Cellars as a critical incubator for Nine-Four, not only for providing space and equipment, but for offering consistent support. He also highlights F.L.X. Provisions as an early and loyal retailer, helping his wines reach adventurous drinkers and local collectors alike.
Being Part of Wineries Without Walls
“Wineries Without Walls is about energy,” Josh says. “It’s easy to feel isolated in small-scale winemaking—there’s a lot of risk, a lot of grind. But working alongside like-minded people who care deeply and want to collaborate? That’s rare. It reminds me that I’m not alone and makes the work feel a little less Sisyphean.”
Where to Buy and Taste
Website: www.ninefourwine.com – ships via VinoShipper
Retailers: Azzu Wines (Geneva), The Falls Wine Room (Ithaca), Red Feet (Ithaca)
Restaurants: Moosewood (Ithaca), Graft (Watkins Glen), Kindred Fare (Geneva), Lucky Hare (Watkins Glen Marina)
Events: Participates in Wineries Without Walls and pop-up tastings around the region
Connect
ninefourwine.com | Email: ninefourwine@gmail.com | IG: @sommeliercarlsen
Vagabond Wines
Wines of Energy, Made by Heart and Hand
Alexandra Doniger Bond of Vagabond Wines
Alex and James Bond of Vagabond Wines
Founder & Winemaker: Alexandra Doniger Bond
Founded: First vintage in 2022
Specialty: Dry Rieslings, piquette-style sparkling reds, experimental blends
The Story
Alex Bond has spent the last 14 years making wine for some of the best-known producers in the Finger Lakes, including Hector Wine Company, Forge Cellars, and Damiani Wine Cellars. But it was the pandemic—and new motherhood—that caused her to reassess her path and launch Vagabond Wines, a brand that reflects her values of honesty, intimacy, and creative freedom. Co-owned with her husband James (who manages Knapp Vineyards), Vagabond Wines is a micro-label rooted in land, family, and intuition. Each wine is produced in tiny lots, often just a few barrels, using ambient fermentations and minimal handling to let the wine express itself.
Specialty & Signature Style
Dry Riesling, Blaufränkisch, red blends, low-alcohol sparkling (Farmer Fizz), Chardonnay, Cab Franc
Signature Style: Expressive, small-batch, ancient techniques with an intuitive and energetic touch
Awards
Vagabond wines are highly regarded by top retailers and restaurants; formal competition entries are expected in future vintages.
Mentors and Supporters
Alex credits Damiani Wine Cellars for taking a chance on her and providing production space while she worked there. She also acknowledges Hector Wine Company as her wine family, and Forge Cellars for sharpening her skills and instincts. She describes the FLX wine community as “one of the most collaborative and generous I’ve ever known.”
Being Part of Wineries Without Walls
“This community reminds me why I chose this life,” says Alex. “Wineries Without Walls is filled with people who are passionate, supportive, and deeply kind. At a time when so much of the world feels divisive, this group gives me hope. We’re stronger—and better—together.”
Where to Buy and Taste
Website: vagabondwinescellars.com
Retailers: Red Feet Wine Market (Ithaca), Cellar d’Or (Ithaca), Ryan’s Wines & Spirits (Canandaigua)
Restaurants: Stonecat Café, Hazelnut Kitchen, FLX Table, Lucky Hare
Pick-up: Available at Damiani’s tasting room by request
Private Tastings: Available by appointment
Events: Regular participant in Wineries Without Walls tastings
Connect
vagabondwinescellars.com | IG: @vagabondwinesflx | Email: alexbondflx@gmail.com
Featured Finger Lakes Wine Education
Check out these other wineries without walls producers
These are just a few of the passionate producers changing the game in the Finger Lakes. Also part of the Wineries Without Walls family are:
Stay tuned for more interviews and tastings events as the movement continues to grow.
How to Use Guided Wino’s New York Wine Travel Guide
Our New York Wine Travel Guide is designed to be user-friendly, whether you’re planning your trip on a desktop or on the go. Here’s how to make the most of this powerful tool:
Pinterest Integration: If you’re a Pinterest user, save this post to a board for easy access during your trip. Use the Pinterest icon below.
Mobile Phone Convenience: For quick access, create a Guided Wino shortcut on your phone’s home screen. Though Guided Wino doesn’t have a dedicated mobile app, our website is fully optimized for mobile use. By adding a shortcut, you can operate it as a mobile app. If you’re visiting the Finger Lakes wine region, we suggest creating a shortcut to the Guided Wino New York Wine Travel Guide for easy reference.
Why This Movement Matters
Wineries Without Walls is more than a branding concept—it’s a shift in mindset. It shows that in the Finger Lakes, wine is about community, not competition. The region thrives when winemakers collaborate, share space, lift one another up, and invite the public to be part of the journey.
Visitors to the Finger Lakes are encouraged to follow these micro-wineries on social media, attend their pop-up tastings, and connect directly. This is where the future of the Finger Lakes wine scene is being built—glass by glass, story by story.
Upcoming Event:
Wineries Without Walls Seminar
📍 Pinnacle Wine & Liquor, Rochester - Sign up Here
📅 Thursday, July 17, 2025 | 7-8:15pm
🎟 Hear the stories, taste the wines, meet the winemakers.
Wineries Without Walls Tasting
📍 Apollo’s Praise
📅 Thursday, August 31, 2025 | 12-5pm
🎟 Taste the wines, meet the winemakers.
Want to Explore More?
The best way to support these innovative winemakers is to follow them individually on social media, join their mailing lists, and keep an eye out for upcoming Wineries Without Walls pop-up events. These gatherings are your chance to meet the winemakers, hear their stories, and taste wines you simply won’t find anywhere else—many produced in batches of fewer than 100 cases. Whether it's a cozy winery tasting room lending space for a weekend or a vibrant pop-up at a local market, these events are where discovery happens.
These winemakers may not have tasting rooms or vineyard estates—yet—but what they do have is vision, talent, and a fiercely supportive community behind them. They’re not just making wine; they’re reshaping what it means to be part of the Finger Lakes wine scene. So seek them out, show up for a pop-up, and raise a glass to the next generation of Finger Lakes wine. Their stories are just beginning—and trust us, you’ll want to say you were there from the start.
