Founded in 2009 by Finger Lakes native Christopher Bates, MS, Element Winery is a small-production winery shaped by a winemaker who is also a Master Sommelier and executive chef. Its wines are made to show the character of the Finger Lakes, with a minimalist approach that lets the grapes and their sites speak for themselves. The winery is particularly distinctive for using experimental work to test the region’s potential beyond its established white-wine reputation.
Master Sommelier
Red Newt CellarsFounded in 1998, Red Newt Cellars makes Finger Lakes wines in Hector and pairs them with a wine-focused bistro experience. The winery is especially rooted in Riesling and site-driven bottlings from nearby vineyards, while its small-lot Laboratory Wine Series reflects an experimental, inquisitive side. Visitors can taste current releases alongside reserve and library wines and enjoy seasonal, shared-table food in the bistro.HECTOR, NY
Sawmill Creek EstateOn Seneca Lake’s east shore, Sawmill Creek Estate makes handcrafted Finger Lakes wines from a vineyard farmed by the Hazlitt family for seven generations. Founded in 2010 by seventh-generation grower Jason Hazlitt and veteran Finger Lakes winemaker Justin Boyette, the estate’s wines are shaped by the long history of Sawmill Creek Vineyards and Boyette’s low-intervention approach. Its Hector tasting room pairs those wines with a laid-back welcome and a marketplace featuring local food products.HECTOR, NY
Coffee Pot CellarsBorn from a sunset glimpse of Orient Point’s Coffee Pot lighthouse, Coffee Pot Cellars has made small-batch wines from 100% North Fork of Long Island fruit since Adam Suprenant founded the Cutchogue winery in 2008. Suprenant brings more than 30 years of winemaking experience, a UC Davis master’s degree in enology, and training at Château Lafite Rothschild and in Napa Valley to a traditional, minimalist approach. The winery’s intimate tasting room is hosted by Suprenant and Laura Klahre, with a focus on the character of Long Island wine country and conservation efforts such as its Merlot for Monarchs program.CUTCHOGUE, NY
Inspire Moore WineryFounded in 2007, Inspire Moore Winery makes small-lot, vineyard-driven Finger Lakes wines in Naples, New York, with Riesling at the heart of its cellar. The boutique winery also operates as a tasting destination and event venue, pairing its wines with views of the vineyard and Bristol Hills and an 1860s barn preserved for weddings and private gatherings.NAPLES, NY