Recognition by Global Magazine Highlights Region’s Vineyards, Vintners and Viticulture
Governor Kathy Hochul today congratulated the Finger Lakes region on being named the 2025 American Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast as part of the magazine’s prestigious Wine Star Awards. The honor recognizes the region’s world-class winemaking, sustainable practices and collaborative community that have helped define New York State as a leader in American viticulture.
“From the lakeside vineyards to family-run wineries, the Finger Lakes region continues to produce world-class wines and welcome visitors from around the world,” Governor Hochul said. “Working together with the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, the state continues to support its winemakers and vineyards, encouraging the industry to grow and flourish. To have the Finger Lakes named Wine Enthusiast’s American Wine Region of the Year is not only a testament to the talent and passion of New York’s winemakers — it’s a win for our state’s economy and our reputation as a global wine destination.”
The Finger Lakes, home to 11 glacial lakes and more than 140 wineries, is the largest and most established wine-producing region in New York State. Anchored by Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, the area is internationally recognized for its cool-climate native and hybrid varieties, as well as classic vinifera varieties, particularly Riesling and Cabernet Franc. The Finger Lakes also produces world-class rosés and sparkling wines. The region’s unique geography and microclimates have fostered a growing community of family-owned and operated wineries, many of which are pioneers in sustainable winegrowing. To date, 55 vineyards in the Finger Lakes have been certified under the New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program.
Wine Enthusiast Media President Jacqueline Strum said, “The Finger Lakes have been a beacon of innovation, resilience, and quality within American wine. The region's winemakers combine deep respect for tradition with a forward-looking commitment to sustainability and community, producing wines that consistently stand among the world’s best. We recognize the Finger Lakes with a Wine Star Award as the 2025 American Wine Region of the Year for its exceptional wines, people and sense of place that make the region truly special.”
Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The Finger Lakes wine industry's global recognition reflects the incredible partnership between growers, winemakers, and communities that continue to help elevate New York’s statewide wine industry. This family of wineries and vineyards supports good-paying local jobs in rural communities and regional economic growth and drives tourism as visitors from around the globe travel to experience the region’s bounty. This award is the result of decades of hard work, vision, and creativity, and we congratulate the dedicated teams who take the grapes from vine to wine.”
Read the full press release here.