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
certification
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
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
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