Over the years, I’ve been lucky enough to taste wines from all over the world, but there’s something truly special about the Finger Lakes. Nestled in upstate New York, it’s one of those regions that constantly surprises me with its elegance, diversity, and depth. Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars is one of my favorite producers from this area—and after tasting through their lineup, I’m more convinced than ever that they’re one of the most important wineries shaping the region’s future.

I’m proud to say we even sell their wines here in Tennessee, and honestly, if I could, I’d drink Lamoreaux Landing wines every day. Their production is vast, their quality is remarkable, and they truly make something for everyone.

A Legacy Rooted in the Land
Lamoreaux Landing is a family-run, sustainably farmed winery with deep roots in the Finger Lakes. Their philosophy is simple yet profound: to care for the land so that future generations can continue to farm it. For over 75 years, they’ve taken a holistic approach to sustainability—each vineyard decision directly linked to wine quality.

They’re farmers first, proud to grow on the same soil their ancestors worked for generations. With over 132 acres of vineyards spread across five unique farms, Lamoreaux Landing cultivates ten varietals across more than fifty distinct vineyard blocks. Each block is managed to yield the finest fruit possible, influenced by soil type, microclimate, clone, and rootstock.

All vines are dry-farmed, meaning they rely solely on natural rainfall and deep-rooted strength to find water and nutrients. The team uses a vertically split trellis system to balance sun exposure and airflow—pulling leaves on the east side to dry dew quickly while shading the west side to protect from afternoon heat. Their dedication to detail is remarkable, and it shows in every sip.

The Taste of the Finger Lakes
Lamoreaux Landing’s vineyards slope toward the lake, where Riesling, Chardonnay, and other aromatic whites thrive. The large temperature swings between day and night help preserve acidity and build flavor—a defining trait of their wines. Their Pinot Noir and Bordeaux varietals benefit from warmer western-facing hillsides, resulting in wines that are elegant, structured, and expressive.

Certified sustainable by the New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program in 2022, Lamoreaux Landing continues to honor both tradition and progress. Many of their vineyards bear the names of families who once farmed the land, and that sense of legacy runs through every bottle.

Wines I Loved

The 2022 76 West absolutely blew me away. It’s one of the most seductive, complex, and luxurious New York wines I’ve ever tasted—deep, smooth, and layered with dark fruit, cocoa, and spice. I paired it with a filet from Light Hill Meats (of course), and it was a perfect match. This is a wine to buy by the case—some to drink now, and some to age. It’s that special.

Then came the Sparkling Riesling, which I paired with roasted bone marrow from our cows and Chevoo goat cheese. This bottle is pure joy—lively, expressive, and bursting with Finger Lakes terroir. The balance of minerality, citrus, and texture is flawless.

The 2023 Red Oak Vineyard Riesling was another standout—bold and bright with apple, lemon oil, and pear balanced by lively acidity. This one sings with seafood and spring vegetables.

Their 2019 Brut, made in the traditional Champagne method, is simply extraordinary. In blind tastings, I’d easily choose it over many Champagnes at the same price. It offers black cherry, almond, and meadow notes, leading to a palate of raspberry and lemon tart. Elegant, layered, and long—it’s the kind of sparkling wine that reminds you why the Finger Lakes are world-class.

The 2023 Dry Riesling opens with melon, lime zest, and peach, finishing crisp and mineral-driven. It’s perfect with blue cheese, jamón ibérico, or aged Parmesan. The 2023 Semi-Dry Riesling, which we sell a lot of in Tennessee, glows pale gold with tangerine, lime, and baked apple aromas. It’s lively and juicy, pairing beautifully with herb-crusted pork or apple desserts.

Then there’s the 2023 Gewürztraminer—a grape I adore and one that shines here. It bursts with lychee, ginger, and spring blossom, finishing steely and clean. It’s made for spicy cuisine or my creamy asparagus soup.

The 2021 Yellow Dog Vineyard Riesling had more honeyed notes and minerality, showing jasmine, melon, and dried pineapple with a lovely clove warmth. Perfect for grilled seafood or roasted chicken.

And let’s talk about their Rosé—unbelievable! Bright, juicy, and elegant, it’s filled with notes of white peach, raspberry, and melon. The balance of acidity and fruit makes it refreshing and versatile—serve it with Mediterranean dishes, grilled vegetables, or a light seafood salad.

Then came one of my true loves: Cabernet Franc. The 2021 vintage is stunning—dark cherry, raspberry, and pepper woven through fine tannins and vibrant acidity. It’s age-worthy, soulful, and an absolute steal for the price.

They also poured me the T23 Unoaked Cabernet Franc, and I was floored. It’s fresh and expressive with herbal strawberry notes and a juicy raspberry palate. Serve it slightly chilled with barbecue or local cheese fondue—it’s fun, bright, and quintessentially Finger Lakes.

Lastly, the 2009 Brut, still available at the winery, is worth every penny of its $85 price tag. If you love vintage sparkling wines, grab it while you can—it’s mature, luxurious, and proof that Lamoreaux Landing can rival the best.

A Final Toast
They were so incredibly generous with the wine samples, and I couldn’t be more grateful. They also sent some Ice Wines that will have their own dedicated feature so stay tuned because it’s fire pit season and thats when I love to break them out! Lamoreaux Landing embodies everything that makes the Finger Lakes so special: respect for the land, a passion for craft, and a spirit of generosity that flows through every glass. Their wines are soulful, precise, and a beautiful expression of one of America’s greatest cool-climate regions.

These are bottles you want to share, cellar, and celebrate. For me, Lamoreaux Landing is not just a winery—it’s a reminder of what happens when farming, family, and artistry come together in perfect harmony. Please pair responsibly!