Three Finger Lakes Rosés For Summer Sipping

The Finger Lakes has the perfect cool climate to produce crisp, dry rosés.  The region is known to use cool red varietals like Lemberger, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir to produce great dry rosés.  Here are three great Finger Lakes rosés for summer sipping.

Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars

For three generations the family has been growing grapes on the shores of beautiful Seneca Lake using only sustainable winegrowing practices.  They believe in sound environmental management practices, which minimize the use of synthetic fungicides, pesticides, fertilizers, fuel, energy and waste. These conscious decisions not only protect the health of their employees, consumers, and neighbors but also ensures their economic viability and continued ability to grow and deliver the best possible wines for generations to come.

The 2019 Lamoreaux Landing Dry Rosé is a Cabernet Franc rosé that is fresh, crisp and dry from the terroirs of Seneca Lake.  It is expressive with bright berries and fruit notes.   This is the ideal summer sipper for the patio or by the pool.  Serve it with a light summer salad or elegant poultry dishes.

Zugibe Vineyards

In June of 2005, on the banks of Seneca Lake, Zugibe Vineyards began as 23 acres of vinifera wine grapes. Since then, it has grown to 40 acres, comprising 11 different varietals, including Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Merlot, Lemberger, Sauvignon Blanc and Grüner Veltliner.  The goal of Zugibe Vineyards has always remained constant: to produce innovative, complex, and delicious wines.

Zugibe Vineyards Dry Rosé 2019 is a blend of Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir.  The wine is gentle, delicate and finessed. There are aromas of tart cherries, cranberry and basil, with flavors of melon, cherry and blood orange on a lengthy finish. Pair it with grilled shrimp, cheese torte or mushroom quiche.

Keuka Spring Vineyards

Keuka Spring Vineyards began as a family dream that has evolved into a flourishing, successful business and one of the most highly regarded wineries in the Finger Lakes.  In the early 1980s, Len and Judy Wiltberger had the opportunity to purchase 30 acres of land overlooking beautiful Keuka Lake. Throughout the 1980s and 1990’s the Wiltberger family produced and sold wine primarily out of this tasting room.

In 2003, the Wiltberger’s designed and constructed a new tasting room on the opposite side of the vineyard overlooking the lake.  The vines they planted in 1981 continue to bear delicious, mature fruit. They have added plantings of Lemberger, Cabernet Franc, and Gewurztraminer to the original Chardonnay, Seyval Blanc, Riesling, and Vignoles vines.

Keuka Springs Vineyard Dry Rosé 2019 is a refreshing Dry Rosé that is best when paired with lighter foods or all by itself. Beneath its light garnet hue is a complex blend of Lemberger, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Stone fruit and hints of maraschino cherry shine on the palate.  Try a nicely chilled glass with a slice of wood-fired pizza, grilled ratatouille, cheese dishes, tandoori chicken, or salmon burgers.  Perfect for your summer picnic or barbecue!