New York | Finger Lakes | Keuka Lake Wine Trail

Location

Address: 489 NY-54, Penn Yan, NY 14527

Phone: (315) 536-4773

Website: www.roosterhill.com

Email: reservations@roosterhill.com

State: New York Wineries

Wine Region: Finger Lakes Wineries

American Viticultural Area: Finger Lakes AVA

Wine Trail: Keuka Lake Wine Trail

About Rooster Hill Vineyards

Perched atop a hill, overlooking Keuka Lake, stands a majestic black Rooster, proudly welcoming guests to the Rooster Hill Vineyards tasting room. This iconic Rooster serves as a symbol of the founders' Italian heritage and pays homage to the winery's history. You can choose to enjoy tastings on their terrace or lawn during the warmer months or within their tasting room year round. Rooster Hill Vineyards has recently introduced a new event called "Tunes on the Terrace," where guests can savor wood-fired pizzas, live music, Rooster Hill wines, and breathtaking sunset views over Keuka Lake. They do require reservations for the event so make sure to book in advance. Plus, they warmly welcome furry friends, making it a pet-friendly destination for all wine enthusiasts.

Rooster Hill Vineyards underwent a transition in 2018 when Paul Curcillo and Stephanie King, owners of CK Cellars, acquired it from its founders, Amy and Dave Hoffman, who had owned it for 16 years. During their tenure, Rooster Hill garnered 330 medals and received numerous press accolades. The Hoffmans decided to retire, passing the torch to CK Cellars.

Aside from Rooster Hill, CK Cellars operates various other enterprises, all housed on the Torrey Ridge campus, on the west side of Seneca Lake. These include Torrey Ridge Winery, Earle Estates Meadery, Worthog Cidery, and Cuki Fine Wines. Rooster Hill is the only one not located on the Torrey Ridge campus.

The story of Rooster Hill Vineyards is deeply intertwined with Amy's Italian family heritage. It all began when Amy and David Hoffman, both former corporate professionals, traded their urban lifestyle for a venture into winemaking on Keuka Lake. In 2002, they planted the Savina Estate Vineyard, featuring Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Lemberger grapes. Named after Amy's great-grandmother, Savina. The following year, in 2003, they established the Catherine Estate Vineyard, encompassing four acres, including Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Lemberger, and Gewürztraminer. Named after Catherine, Savina's daughter. In 2007, the Giuseppe Estate was planted with Vidal Blanc grapes, paying homage to Amy's great uncle Joe. These grapes predominantly contribute to the Silver Pencil blend. Lastly, the Barbara Anne Estate, founded in 2013, honors Amy's mother and features plantings of Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc.

Wine to Try: Cabernet Franc Lemberger Blend for a nice mix of red fruit and spice

Grapes and Wine Styles: