New York | Finger Lakes | Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Location

Address: 4704 NY-414, Burdett, NY 14818

Phone: (607) 546-5557

Website: www.damianiwinecellars.com

Email: info@damianiwinecellars.com

State: New York Wineries

Wine Region: Finger Lakes Wineries

American Viticultural Area: Finger Lakes AVA, Seneca Lake AVA

Wine Trail: Seneca Lake Wine Trail

About Damiani Wine Cellars

Damiani Wine Cellars, founded in the late 1990s by Lou Damiani and Phil Davis, emerged with a bold vision: to craft the finest red wines in the Finger Lakes, a region traditionally known for its cool-climate whites like Riesling. The winery planted its first vineyards with red varieties such as Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir, challenging the area's reputation for white wines. Over time, Damiani Wine Cellars diversified its portfolio, gaining recognition for both their reds and an array of other wine styles.

Damiani Wine Cellars, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Finger Lake Winery

In 2007, the team expanded with Glenn Allen joining as General Manager, furthering their commitment to quality. Their dedication was recently highlighted when they won the Best Fortified Port-Like Wine award at the 2022 New York Wine Classic for their 2013 Gem Dessert Wine. In 2024, Damiani Wine Cellars received new accolades, winning awards for their 2017 Brut Méthode Champenoise as Best Sparkling Wine and their 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon as Best Cabernet Sauvignon. It is a key Seneca Lake winery to visit during a Finger Lakes Wine Tour.

The vineyards are located in the "Banana Belt" region on the southeastern shores of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, a microclimate known for its warmer temperatures, abundant sunlight, and extended growing season, making it perfect for cultivating red grape varieties.

Under the guidance of winemaker Katey Larwood, who brings extensive experience from top wine regions around the world, Damiani continues to innovate and excel. Katey’s journey through California, Australia, New Zealand, France, and finally the Finger Lakes, has infused Damiani Wine Cellars with a rich diversity of winemaking techniques and styles.

The tasting room at Damiani Wine Cellars offers breathtaking views of Seneca Lake, making it an ideal spot to relax with a glass or bottle of wine while on your Finger Lakes Wine Tour. Throughout the summer months, visitors can enjoy live music and food trucks, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The tasting room also serves local cheese and charcuterie, enhancing the wine-tasting experience.

Damiani Wine Cellars offers standard tasting options, allowing visitors to explore a range of their exceptional wines. For those seeking a more in-depth experience, private tastings are available by reservation. These private sessions feature a curated selection of library wines, vertical tastings, and charcuterie, providing an intimate and educational wine experience. Whether you're there for a casual glass of wine or an immersive tasting, Damiani Wine Cellars offers an unforgettable visit in the heart of the Finger Lakes wine region.