The Finger Lakes Wine Country Travel Blog

Catching up with Cathy Millspaugh of the Cayuga Wine Trail

2012-02-08T12:58:00.000-05:00

Next weekend the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail will be hosting Mardi Gras weekend. Get ready for food, wine, and of course - beads! (Enter to win tickets to Mardi Gras! We're giving away 15 pair - good luck!) I had the chance to catch up with Cathy Millspaugh (Cayuga Cathy!) the trail's executive director. She filled me in on all the exciting events like Mardi Gras, deals to take advantage of, and some history of the trail. Check out the Q&A below as well as the live interview in the YouTube link.

The Cayuga Wine Trail is the oldest wine trail in the country, tell us a brief history about how it got started.

Mary Plane, of Plane's Cayuga Vineyards (now called Cayuga Ridge Estates), looked at her empty parking lot and knew, if her fledgling winery was to succeed, she needed to fill it. What could she do to entice people to visit? Would people come if there were more to do, more to see? Thus began Mary's vision of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. In 1981 there were four small new wineries: Plane's (now Cayuga Ridge Estate) Lucas, Americana, and Frontenac but four unknown wineries weren't enough of a draw. They would meet in each others kitchens and discuss what to do next thus the beginnings of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. With solicited participation from other attractions along and near route 89 in 1983 the first brochure was published and audacious – an anonymous quote- “The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail offers a variety that is unmatched in wine touring and tasting... No where else will travelers experience such a multitude of premium wines, attractions, comfortable lodging, fine restaurants, friendly people, and splendid scenery." A bit overstated then, but coming to fruition now.

We know there’s wine on the wine trail, but we hear there are other things to enjoy as well, tell us more!

One of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail members Bellwether Hard Cider, produces Hard Cider as their main product, a new “old” beverage that once reigned as our nation’s most popular drink. They use a wide variety of Upstate New York apples to produce a range of carefully handcrafted, premium ciders. These ciders range from extremely dry Champagne-style ciders, to a semi-dry non-sparkling ciders made with traditional English and French cider apples and classic Upstate varieties.

Besides the cidery, the trail has 4 distilleries within the wineries Knapp Winery, Montezuma Winery, Six Mile Creek Vineyard and Swedish Hill Vineyard. Montezuma Winery uses a very impressive German Christian Carl column pot still that stands over 24 feet tall and 15 feet wide and makes their distilled products from honey. The other three wineries use a pot still and produce their products from grapes. Additionally Montezuma Winery produces mead products made from honey.

There are four wine trail events that take place throughout the year, can you give us a brief description of each event and where to get tickets?

10^THANNUAL MARDI GRAS

February 18-19

Saturday & Sunday 10:00AM-5:00PM

Celebrate with us by attending our 10^th Anniversary Mardi Gras event along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail by receiving a specialty anniversary set of beads. Experience the frivolity as you go from winery to winery receiving other Mardi Gras Beads, a chance to pick the lucky coin for instant prizes plus participate in a scavenger hunt for a sampler case of fine wines from the trail.

At your starting point winery you’ll receive a wine glass, wine and food pairings and recipe cards at each winery plus those incredible beads.

Make sure to hand in your ticket to be eligible to win one of our Grand Prizes from the Country Inn & Suites in Ithaca, Holiday Inn in Auburn, Inn at the Finger Lakes in Auburn, Maxie’s Supper Club and Oyster Bar and Metropolitan Limousine.

Advance ticket: $25.00 per person plus handling fee and sales tax

Designated Driver tickets: $20.00 per person plus handling fee and sales tax

At the door: $30.00 plus sales tax.

“Say Cheese & More”

March 24-25 Saturday & Sunday 10:00am -5:00pm

Savor the spectacular tastes of artisan cheese and fine wines along the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. Receive a wine glass and wine tote bag at your first starting point winery and travel along the trail to experience those creamy sensations paired with our fine wines. We’re hosting again a special “Say Cheese” photo contest so make sure to take all your favorite photos over the weekend and enter them via facebook or email. The winner will take home a Specialty Gift Basket from our local Creameries and Wineries.

Participants are eligible to win one of our Grand Prizes from: Cobtree Vacation Rental Resort, Finger Lakes Bed and Breakfast Association, Homewood Suites in Ithaca and LaTourelle Resort & Spa in Ithaca.

Advance tickets: $20.00 per person plus handling fee and sales tax

Designated Driver tickets: $15.00 per person plus handling fee and sales tax.

At the door $25.00 plus sales tax. Order early this event sells out fast!!

20^TH ANNUAL WINE & HERB FESTIVAL

April 27-29 or May 4-6

Friday, 1:00PM-5:00PM

Saturday & Sunday 10:00AM-6:00PM

Build your garden by planting herbs and edible flowers this coming spring when you visit us along the trail for our annual Wine & Herb Festival. This year join us as we celebrate 20 years of our most popular event. Here you’ll receive a commemorative token gift, a potted herb plant from each winery, a souvenir wine glass plus recipe cards as you savor herb prepared delicacies.

Visit only Six Mile Creek, Long Point, King Ferry or Montezuma wineries on Friday afternoon to start your weekend plans early. On Saturday visit King Ferry and Long Point wineries at a special time, 9:00am. Visit all 16 wineries on Saturday and Sunday.

Participants are eligible to win one of our Grand Prizes from: Courtyard by Marriott in Ithaca, Experience! The Finger Lakes, Kidders Landing, Mirbeau Inn & Spa and Rogue’s Harbor Inn.

Advance: Single ticket, $35.00, Couple ticket $50.00 per person plus handling fee and sales tax

DD ticket: Single ticket, $30.00, Couple ticket$45.00 per person plus handling fee and sales tax

At the door: Single ticket, $40.00, Couple ticket, $55.00 plus sales tax.

19^TH ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING SPREE

November 16-18

November 30-December 2

Friday, 1:00PM-5:00PM

Saturday, 10:00AM-6:00PM

Sunday, 10:00AM–5:00PM

Snowflakes falling, the smell of pine and a crackling fire help us to experience the warmth of the Holidays here at our 19th Annual Holiday Shopping Spree. Take home a souvenir wineglass, a grapevine wreath, a unique specialized ornament from each winery, plus holiday recipe cards. One thing you’ll love unique to only our holiday trail event is our Shopper’s Discount Card that can be used at each winery during the weekend for those special wine purchases.

Visit Six Mile Creek, Long Point, King Ferry or Montezuma wineries on Friday afternoon only to start your weekend plans early. On Saturday visit King Ferry and Long Point wineries at a special time, 9:00am. Visit all 16 wineries on Saturday and Sunday.

Participants will be eligible to win one of our Grand Prizes from Barrister’s Bed and Breakfast in Seneca Falls, Cayuga Lake Wine Trail Season Pass for 2013, Corning Museum of Glass, Holiday Inn in Auburn and Through the Grapevine Bed and Breakfast.

Advance: Single ticket, $35.00, Couple ticket $50.00 per person plus handling fee and sales tax

DD ticket: Single ticket, $30.00, Couple ticket$45.00 per person plus handling fee and sales tax

At the door: Single ticket, $40.00, Couple ticket, $55.00 plus sales tax.

Order early these events sells out fast!! Tickets can be purchased online at www.cayugawinetrail.com by calling 800-684-5217 or at any area Wegmans.

What about the Vino Visa Coupon Book, the Seasons Pass and other offers?

2012 SEASON’S PASS

The Cayuga Lake Wine Trail Season’s Pass is your ticket to great savings when you attend our four trail events. Four great events to enjoy at a remarkable savings. You’ll receive, 35% OFF the regularly ticketed price.

A couple pass is $125.00 and a single pass is $75.00 plus handling fee and sales tax. They are available for a limited time and can be purchased through the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail office until February 17, 2012. A Season’s Pass makes a great gift for all your friends including yourself.

Mardi Gras-- Beads, Coins and a Scavenger Hunt – February 18 & 19

“Say Cheese” and More—Wine & Cheese pairings- March 24 & 25

Wine & Herb Festival—Potted Herb Plants - April 27-29 or May 4-6

Holiday Shopping Spree – Wreath, Ornaments and Shopper’s Card

November 16 - 18 or November 30 – December 2

VINO VISA COUPON BOOK

Coupons from each winery and other local businesses.

Free Tastings!

Discounted Purchases!

GREAT VALUE!

Available at the wineries, online at www.cayugawinetrail.com or by calling

800-684-5217.

$15 plus handling fee and sales tax.

SAMPLER CASE

Your specialized Sampler Case of Cayuga Lake Wine Trail fine wines. Choose from a mixed case or a Riesling sampler case. Order from our website www.cayugawinetrail.com

HARVEST HOOPLA

Join us in September and celebrate the Harvest at the wineries along the Trail. Experience grape stomping, live music and every type of food that you can think of made from grapes. Check our website www.cayugawinetrail.com for details.

What is one thing that many folks wouldn’t know about the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail?

That in the winter months you may receive a personal wine tasting from either the wine owner or wine maker where you can pick their brain for all kinds of details.

Why do you love calling Finger Lakes Wine Country home?

Finger Lakes Wine Country is my home because I have lived here more than any other place. When visiting here many years ago as the wineries were starting to blossom I fell in love with all the beautiful scenery, lake views, the scenic falls and the wide open spaces. Of course my husband was part of the picture too but it was an easy move from city life to country fanfare.

What’s the best wine and food pairing you’ve had recently?

Recently homemade coconut crème pie made by myself Cayuga Cathy paired with Vidal Blanc Ice Wine from Knapp Winery. Two sweet dreams mellowing together in a heavenly blitz. I personally was able to pick the ice wine grapes which made the wine so special. This is an experience not to be missed and is available to anyone who wishes to, at Knapp Winery.

The Corning Museum of Glass features live glass making on UStream

2012-02-06T15:10:00.004-05:00

Are you interested in the art of glass making? Have you been to The Corning Museum of Glass for a Make Your Own Glass session and become interested in furthering your glass education? CMOG recently began to host live glass making seminars on its Ustream channel. Best of all, you can watch any of the clips at your leisure.

Enjoy a romantic getaway to Sunrise Landing Bed & Breakfast

2012-02-06T14:32:00.001-05:00

Still looking for a last minute romantic getaway to Finger Lakes Wine Country this Valentine's holiday? Our friends at Sunrise Landing Bed & Breakfast just sent us details of an inviting and affordable getaway package. (You can view all the accommodation options in Finger Lakes Wine Country on our website.)

St. Valentine's Wine & Dine Deluxe Special (available 2/10-2/12 & 2/17-2/19
and during the week.)

2 nights in your of either of our two deluxe suites (both have a romantic bedroom, private bath and sitting room; all overlooking Seneca Lake.)
Full, gourmet breakfast each morning
Delicious, homemade cookies each afternoon
Cheese & Fruit tray with local cheese either before dinner or as your meal (BYOB wine.)
$50 gift card for dinner at Veraison's at the Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars
Complimentary wine tastings at six Seneca Lake wineries

Rates (depending on the room selection) $359.00 - $439.00 (Add a third night for just $49.)

Book now!

Red Newt Bistro releaes its Valentine's Dinner Menu

2012-02-03T14:54:00.009-05:00

Have you made your Valentine's Day dinner plans? With the romantic holiday falling on a Tuesday evening this year we want to remind you to not overlook a getaway or evening to Finger Lakes Wine Country. One of the region's most highly rated restaurants, Red Newt Bistro, has just released its February 14th menu. Enjoy this special menu from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. with live music performed by guitarist Lynn Wiles from 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.. For reservations please call 607-546-4100 or click here.

Enjoy Wine and the Bright Sounds of Brass at the Rockwell

2012-01-26T14:43:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, lend your eyes, ears and wine palate to the Rockwell Museum of Western Art. The Orchestra of the Southern Finger Lakes will present The Brass Menagerie, a hand-picked quintet of the region’s finest brass players. Performing in the Visions of the West gallery, this concert perfectly blends visual and performing arts. A wine tasting session will feature Hector Wine Company. Seating is limited, so reserve yours today!

Musicians' Choice Chamber Music featuring, The Brass Menagerie

Friday, January 27, 2012

7:00 p.m. - Wine Tasting Featuring Hector Wine Company

7:30 p.m. - Concert in the Visions of the West Gallery

$25 Adults, $5 Students

For tickets, please call 607-936-2873 or visit www.osfl.org.

Catching up with Yvette Sterbenk from The Corning Museum of Glass

2012-01-23T14:49:00.002-05:00

Recently I had the opportunity to catch up with Yvette Sterbenk, Communications Manager at The Corning Museum of Glass. Last year the Museum, located in Corning, NY, celebrated its 60th anniversary and this year, the Museum is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the American Studio Glass Movement. Yvette explains why this is so important to the museum, as well as some exciting Make Your Own Glass experiences available right now. Take a few minutes to watch the video below to learn more. For more information about planning your trip to Finger Lakes Wine Country, visit www.FingerLakesWineCountry.com.

1. How would you sum up the experience at The Corning Museum of Glass to someone who hasn’t had the chance to visit?

The Museum is unique, in that it explores glass from all angles. For art lovers, we present incredible works of art in glass, from miniature portraits made in the ancient world, to contemporary sculpture made by living artists. If history is your passion, we showcase glass made in every civilization and time period throughout its 35-century existence. An exploration of glass would not be complete without looking at the science and technology of the material. In our Innovations Center, we offer live glass demos and hands-on displays that shed light on the amazing properties of glass. Live, narrated Hot Glass Shows give even greater depth to the experience by allowing visitors to experience the art of glassblowing first-hand. Then, they can go across the parking lot to our state-of-the-art glassmaking school to try it themselves with our 40-minute Make Your Own Glass experiences, available for all ages!

2. What exciting events and exhibitions do you have on display in 2012?
The American Studio Glass movement began in 1962, bringing glassmaking out of the factory and into the artist studio. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the workshops that started the movement, and the Museum is celebrating with a variety of exhibitions focused on contemporary glass:

· Founders of American Studio Glass: Harvey K. Littleton
Now through January 6, 2013

· Founders of American Studio Glass: Dominick Labino
Now through January 6, 2013

· Masters of Studio Glass: Erwin Eisch
March 15, 2012 – February 3, 2013

· Making Ideas: Experiments in Design at GlassLab
May 19, 2012 – January 6, 2013

3. What kind of hands-on activities are available at the museum?
In addition to 3,500 years of glass art and history on display, the Museum also features the science and technology of glass in the Innovations Center. Here, guests can enjoy live glass demos and an array of interactive displays. Make Your Own Glass sessions offer all ages the opportunity to have the ultimate hands-on glass experience. The Museum’s trained artists work closely with guests, helping them each step of the way to create a personalized glass project. Options range from sandblasting drinking glasses and fusing colorful designs, to blowing glass ornaments and shaping glass flowers.

4. How much is admission? What about a Make Your Own Glass session?
The Museum is committed to offering guests an affordable and fun destination. Admission for kids and teens, 19 and under, is always free. Adults in the 148, 149, and 169 ZIP codes pay only $6 with valid ID. Adults from outside the area pay $15. Make Your Own Glass experiences start at just $9. Reservations are recommended (visit www.cmog.org/myog).

5. What’s one of your favorite pieces of glass on display in the museum?
Choosing a favorite object in the Museum’s collection of almost 50,000 pieces is close to impossible. I have many favorites but one that particularly sticks out to me, and to many visitors, is Karen LaMonte’s Evening Dress with Shawl. A life-sized, cast-glass dress, draped to the floor and complete with a free-standing shawl, this piece is incredible, not only for its immense beauty and technical excellence, but also for the individual images it can evoke for the viewer. For instance, I can easily imagine the woman for whom that dress was made, standing elegantly on the stair and taking a deep breath before gliding effortlessly down the mahogany staircase to join her guests below.

6. What do you love about living and working in Finger Lakes Wine County?
By making a life in the Finger Lakes Wine Country, I have the best of all worlds. The area is full of cultural institutions and activities, without the traffic and smog of a big city. We get to enjoy world-class museums and events, as well as the incredible array of outdoor activities the region has to offer. In the warmer months, we can swim in any number of natural lakes, hike through beautiful hillsides, and explore the many waterfalls. My family and I especially love taking advantage of the culinary bounty of the region. We spend all summer visiting farms and picking fruit at local orchards. In the cooler months, we can ski, snowshoe, and enjoy the many regional festivities. As the halfway point between New York City and Niagara Falls in Corning, NY, we also have the opportunity to experience all the major hubs have to offer without driving too far.

Vote For Hammondsport!

2012-01-07T11:11:00.002-05:00

Hammondsport has been chosen by Budget Travel as a top ten contender in the race for the Coolest Small Town in America. You helped us get Hammondsport over 8,000 nominations last fall and now we need your help again. Voting for the Coolest Small Town in America takes place now through January 31st and you can vote once every day. VOTE NOW!

Thank you for your support! Let's make sure everyone knows that Finger Lakes Wine Country is home of the Coolest Small Town in America!

VOTE NOW!

Catching up with Paul Thomas of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail

2012-01-06T12:57:00.001-05:00

I had the opportunity to chat with Paul Thomas, Executive Director of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, this week about what the trail is gearing up for in the coming months. From the Polar Passport to the enticing food and wine pairing events, there's something for everyone to enjoy along the region's largest wine trail. Just another few reasons why Finger Lakes Wine Country is the perfect winter escape!

Chatting more with Paul Thomas, Executive Director of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail

1. What is the history of the Seneca Lake Wine Trail?

The Seneca Lake Wine Trail was formed in 1986 to help better market their member wineries, as a consolidated destination, pooling their resources and creating various wine and food pairing events, among other tactics, to help introduce more people to our excellent wines and wineries.

2. Why visit the Seneca Lake Wine Trail in the winter?


Paul Thomas

While our region is traditionally viewed as a summer or fall destination, with many assuming the industry hibernates in the winter, the reality is that the winter is the *best* time for fans of our wineries to visit. During the winter you are more likely to encounter owners and senior staff, who are busy in the vineyards during the busy summer/fall seasons, and with far fewer people visiting the region, the tasting rooms are quiet, giving visitors a terrific opportunity to enjoy leisurely conversations with staff while sampling their award-winning wines.

3. What events do you have and how do I get tickets?

The Seneca Lake Wine Trail helps manage and promote several, themed wine and food pairing weekend events, hosted by most of our member wineries. For example, our next event is the Pasta & Wine Weekend, taking place January 13-15, followed by our Chocolate & Wine Weekend event February 10-12. Detailed descriptions of all our events can be found on our website at senecalakewine.com which is also were e-tickets to all our events can be securely purchased.

4. Are there packages available for the events or for general wine tasting experiences?

We create very limited numbers of packages for all our wine and food pairing weekend events. Each package is a little different, but all of them are comprised of tickets for two to the event, transportation all day Saturday of the event, and accommodations for two for both Friday and Saturday nights. Our packages are a great way to simply, and safely enjoy our events.

5. What is the best wine and food pairing you’ve had recently?

My family and I harkened in the new year with a sushi party! We bought all the ingredients, including the raw tuna and salmon, at our local Wegmans with each of us making a few custom rolls of various ingredients. We then paired the sushi with a chilled bottle of zesty LakewoodVineyards Gewürztraminer, and my favorite specific pairing was between that wine and my tuna/avocado/carrot/bell pepper sushi roll. Clean and delicious.

6. What do you love about the Finger Lakes Wine Country region?

I love the.... pairing of our uniquely complex cultural and culinary experiences with our beautiful, bucolic and genuine environment. Real people, creating really beautiful and delicious things and all without the overpriced hubbub of a metropolis. Here in the Finger Lakes I can enjoy a world class meal at the Red Newt Bistro on Seneca Lake, with at least one of the hundreds of wines they serve, enjoy visiting the Rockwell Museum of Western Art in Corning, and finish off my day with a live performance by They Might Be Giants at Ithaca’s State Theatre. It doesn’t get any better than that.

New Event on Seneca Lake for 2012

2011-12-21T11:05:00.000-05:00

Savor the delicious culinary bounty and take in the natural beauty of summer on Seneca Lake. On June 2-3, at Watkins Glen’s Clute Park, experience all the best of Seneca Lake at Wine & Food 2012. This is a new event offering world-class wines and top regional cuisine. On top of sampling great wines and food, you will also be able to buy wines – a complimentary wine-check service will be available.

Early bird gets the savings! Buy your Seneca Lake Wine & Food 2012 tickets now through December 31, 2011, and receive $15 off with coupon code FLWC15.

Buy tickets or learn more about the event >

Cool Holiday Gift Idea

2011-12-15T10:55:00.000-05:00

How do you make a snowman without snow? If you’re in Corning, NY, the answer to that riddle is easy – you make it out of glass. The staff at The Corning Museum of Glass will guide you in using traditional glassmaking tools to stretch and shape molten glass into an elegant snowman form. The project is both interactive and safe for all ages – everyone, from age two to 102, can blow a glass ornament. Your masterpiece will need to cool overnight and can be picked up the next day, or shipped.

Imagine giving your Make Your Own Glass Snowman as a holiday gift, and the delight on someone’s face when see it. Then imagine being able to say, “Yeah, I made that”. Or, if you’re like me, you’ll want to add the beautiful ornament to your own collection of holiday decorations, to enjoy year after year.

Watch a video of George Kennard and a team of glassblowers in The Studio at The Corning Museum of Glass, create a large snowman out of glass.

Holiday Gifts Made in the Finger Lakes

2011-12-14T15:15:00.001-05:00

As the holidays inch closer, we’re here to help inspire you with creative gift ideas for just about everyone on your list. We pulled together a list of ideas that are dedicated to Finger Lakes – regionally-unique gifts are a brilliantly thoughtful way to give. Plus, these gifts are ones your friends and family will love and won't leave you in debt.

Give a great bottle of Finger Lakes wine and spread holiday cheer. Search and Buy Wine>
A beautifully decorated basket full of hand-made chocolate will make them say “wow wee”. Shop>
The stories of Finger Lakes winemakers in Evan Dawson’s book, Summer in a Glass, will charm and inspire the reader on your list. Buy>
A glider plane ride over Mark Twain Country is a gift no one could forget. Learn More>
Tickets to a Jackals Hockey Game will delight any sports enthusiast. Find Tickets>
Hand-made glass ornament from The Corning Museum of Glass adds a personal and artistic touch. More>
Hand-crafted beer from a Finger Lakes brewery will surely be savored. Search and Shop>
A map necklace of the Finger Lakes will put a sparkle in her eye. Shop>
A charted fishing trip is a memorable, off-the-hook gift for any outdoorsman. More>
Maple Syrup from the Finger Lakes will satisfy any sweet tooth. Search Maple Producers>
The Finger Lakes Harvest Cake is not your Great Aunt’s fruit cake – made with New York Apples, Almonds, and Finger Lakes Riesling, it is yummy! Buy>
Think outside the box and give race tickets to the sports fan or Finger Lakes Wine Festival tickets to the wine connoisseur. Shop Watkins Glen International>

The Perfect Wine Gift Under $20

2011-12-13T11:49:00.000-05:00

The Wine Trails in Finger Lakes Wine Country offer the perfect holiday gift for under $20… passport and coupon programs. Each pocket-sized booklet is packed full of discounts for wine purchases and free wine tastings. They are the perfect wine-lover gift, especially if you’re not sure what type of wine the person on your shopping list prefers. The gift recipient will love the opportunity to conveniently and affordably visit participating wineries.

Cayuga Lake Wine Trail

Vino Visa Coupon Book, $15, Valid through December 31, 2012 at 16 wineries, plus many attractions, accommodations, and restaurants.

Coupon Book holders receive free wine tastings and coupons for wine purchases.

Keuka Lake Wine Trail

2011 Passport, $10 + tax, Valid through March 31, 2012.

Passport holders receive a free standard tasting and discounts/coupons for partner wineries.

Seneca Lake Wine Trail

Polar Passport, $12 + tax, Valid through March 31, 2012 at nearly 30 participating wineries.

Visit any of the 20+ participating wineries, receive a free flight of wines at each winery, and the winery will stamp or mark the appropriate space in your Polar Passport.

Holiday Party Recipes from Finger Lakes Wine Country

2011-12-09T17:39:00.002-05:00

If you're like me you'll be spending the weekend ahead prepping for the holidays right around the corner. Many of us will be hosting our family and friends at our homes for holiday get-togethers. While always exciting, this can also be a stressful undertaking. We're here to help! Below are a few of my favorite recipes from FingerLakesWineCountry.com that would be perfect for any holiday soiree. Three different cocktails and two appetizers that will keep your guests merry and bright.

Juniper Royale
Recipe courtesy of The Starlite Room, http://www.thestarliteroomelmira.com/
3 oz Glenora Raspberry Spumante
1 oz Finger Lakes Distilling Gin
½ oz Orange Juice
½ oz Cranberry Juice
Splash of Grenadine

Rosemary & Riesling Mulled Wine
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup sugar
2 Tbsp rosemary
1/4 cup honey
2 lemons
2 bottles Finger Lakes Riesling
Simmer (but not boil) the water, sugar, rosemary, and honey for 10 minutes. Add in the wine. Peel the lemons and add in the peels. Let sit for a length of time to seep in the flavors, without boiling. Strain out the larger bits and serve warm.

Finger Lakes Wine Country Eggnog
1 3/4 oz Finger Lakes ruby port
1 3/4 oz Finger Lakes red wine
3 1/2 oz milk
3/4 oz cream
1/2 tsp powdered sugar
1 egg yolk
1 pinch nutmeg
Shake well over ice cubes in a shaker, and strain into a large highball glass over ice cubes. Sprinkle with nutmeg, and serve. Serve in a highball glass.

Spicy-Sweet Mixed Nuts

Recipe by Rochelle Bilow, http://www.rochellebilow.com/
Warning: these nuts are addictive. The combination of deeply sweet brown sugar and spicy chili powder will keep you coming back for more, and the addition of fresh thyme brightens the whole mixture, making it a worthy partner for a Finger Lakes Riesling. Make sure to serve these warm.
2 cups mixed walnuts, almonds and cashews
2 tablespoons butter
2 teaspoons fresh thyme, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees. Spread the nuts in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 7-8 minutes, until toasted and fragrant. Remove from oven and pour in a mixing bowl. Melt the butter and pour over the nuts. Add the thyme, sugar, chili and sea salt over the mixture and use a spatula to mix everything completely. Serve warm. Note: Feel free to use any combination of nuts you have on hand, or substitute chili powder for cayenne.

Finger Lakes Fondue
Recipe courtesy of Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars, http://www.lamoreauxwine.com/
1 tablespoon roasted garlic paste
2 cups Lamoreaux Landing 42 North (click here to buy)
½ lbs. assorted Finger Lakes cheeses, shredded
1 tablespoon fresh local apple cider
2 tablespoon all purpose flour
½ teaspoon freshly ground nutmeg
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Rub the roasted garlic paste all over the inside of the fondue pot. Pour the wine and apple cider into the pot and slowly head up to a light simmer. Add the shredded cheese and mix well with a wooden spoon. Fold in the flour and seasonings until a good flavor and texture develops. If the mixture is too hard, add more wine. If the mixture is too soft, add more cheese. Guests should dip and stir in a figure-8 to help maintain consistency.

Have a wonderful weekend and stay tuned in the coming weeks to the Finger Lakes Travel Journal for more great holiday tips!

Wine Country Insider - December 2, 2011

2011-12-02T13:04:00.000-05:00

We continue to usher in the holiday season in Finger Lakes Wine Country this weekend with many exciting events. Both the Seneca Lake Wine Trail and the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail are hosting their second weekends of holiday festivities, Corning lights up with a beloved annual event, and two of our museums offer free admission.

The Seneca Lake Wine Trail welcomes ticket holders to Deck the Halls and Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is hosting the Holiday Shopping Spree. These annual wine trail events both feature wine, food, and plenty of holiday cheer. Tickets may still be available for the Holiday Shopping Spree. Visit www.CayugaWineTrail.com for details.

Deck the Halls is sold out, but you can still take advantage of all the excitement on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail this winter with the Polar Passport. The Polar Passport offers complimentary tasting at participating wineries along the trail. Details can be found at www.SenecaLakeWine.com.

The Crystal City Christmas celebrations are in full swing and tomorrow is the popular event, Sparkle. Sparkle is a street fair filled with twinkling lights, hot chocolate, plenty of festive entertainment, and every example of why this is in fact the most wonderful time of the year! Sparkle is free to attend and is not to be missed! More can be found at www.GafferDistrict.com.

While Sparkle is an evening celebration, during the day you are urged to attend the Holiday Open House at The Corning Museum of Glass. The museum is offering free admission, activities for the kids, and of course, an opportunity to see the 14 foot glass ornament tree - and do some great holiday shopping in the Glass Market. More information can be found at www.CMOG.org.

Across the Chemung River, the Rockwell Museum of Western Art is hosting a Jewelry Trunk Show and sale as well as having their Treasures Under the Tree, Holiday Toy Exhibit, on display. On Sundays throughout the winter month, the Rockwell Museum of Western Art offers free admission. More information can be found at www.RockwellMuseum.org.

This is just a taste of all the holiday fun taking place in the region this weekend. For a full listing of events, things to do, places to eat, and where to stay, visit www.FingerLakesWineCountry.com.

Boston-based French Oak TV video series on Finger Lakes Wine Country

2011-11-30T17:00:00.005-05:00

The husband and wife team at Boston-based French Oak TV visited four wineries in Finger Lakes Wine Country last spring after discovering the region's wines at the 2011 Boston Wine Expo. Damiani Wine Cellars, Fulkerson Winery, Red Newt Cellars and Ravines Wine Cellars are featured in the four part series. If these videos inspire you to take trip this winter to the Finger Lakes, all four wineries are participating in our Winter Wine Weekends promotion.

Wine Country Insider - November 18, 2011

2011-11-18T10:12:00.000-05:00

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards

Another weekend is upon us and this weekend happens to be one of holiday festivities in Finger Lakes Wine Country. The Keuka Lake Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and Cayuga Lake Wine Trail all have exciting holiday events taking place this weekend. Event goers will enjoy delicious Finger Lakes wine paired with savory and sweet dishes that are sure to warm them heart and soul. Deck the Halls on the Seneca Lake Wine Trail has sold out of tickets, but the Keuka Lake Wine Trail and Cayuga Lake Wine Trails may have tickets still available - but don't hesitate to buy as both of these events will sell out.

Take a few minutes to listen to this week's Wine Country Insider for some other great ideas for the upcoming weekend!

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Don't forget to book your Winter Wine Weekend - great savings and a perfect getaway from the stress of the holidays. Treat yourself!

Have a great one!

Wine Country Insider November 11, 2011

2011-11-11T10:03:00.000-05:00

This weekend kicks off holiday festivities in Finger Lakes Wine Country. Enjoy Holidazzle in Corning's Gaffer District and Keuka Holidays on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail. Take time to relax in cozy tasting rooms, enjoy warm comfort foods at regional bistros, and experience world-class art at area museums. There's something for everyone this weekend in Finger Lakes Wine Country!

Take some time to listen to the 15-minute Wine Country Insider podcast.

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In case you missed it, here is the 15-minute podcast about Keuka Holidays.

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Have a great weekend!

Appraisal Day at the Rockwell Museum of Western Art

2011-11-04T09:00:00.005-04:00

Do you wonder what your family heirloom is worth? Or do you long to know the story behind it? You’re chance to get some answers is tomorrow.

On Saturday, November 5, the Rockwell Museum of Western Art will host What's it Worth? Appraisal Day with Heritage Auctions. Bring items from your personal collections to the Museum, for Heritage Auctions appraisers to determine their worth and insurance value. Anything that can’t be carried should be photographed, emphasizing details – don’t forget to also measure the object and record the dimensions.

Heritage Auctions is the largest collectibles auctioneer and third largest auction house in the world. Ten appraisers will be on hand to examine American & Western Art, Decorative Arts & Memorabilia, American Coinage & Currency, Sports Memorabilia, Fine Art, Comics, Americana, Photography, Decorative Arts, Native American Art & Artifacts, and Jewelry & Silver. Meet the appraisers >

If you’re a fan of the PBS show Antiques Roadshow, at Saturday’s event, you will recognize expert appraiser, Kathleen Guzman. She has 25 years of experience in the art and antiques industry. Kathleen has personally auctioned over 1,500 sales with over 500,000 objects valued at over a half billion US dollars. She brings 15 years experience from the world-renowned international auction house Christie's, selling such items as a Monet watercolor for $4.3 million and the Ruby Slippers from "The Wizard of Oz" for $660,000.

Watch Kathleen in action!
On an Antiques Roadshow episode, a guest brings in an unusual napkin for appraisal. The napkin turns out to be a $20,000-30,000 payday!

In another episode, Kathleen examines a Dr. Seuss "Cat in the Hat" Lunch Box Art (ca. 1970). You won’t believe how much this art is worth – definitely enough to buy you lunch, for life!

What's it Worth? Appraisal Day with Heritage Auctions, will take place at the Rockwell Museum of Western Art on Saturday, November 5, 2011, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost is $20 for up to two items for Museum Members and $30 for Not-Yet-Members. Additional items cost $10 – maximum of three additional items per person. Get directions to the Museum >

Wine Themed Halloween Costume Ideas

2011-10-28T13:51:00.002-04:00

Halloween weekend is upon us and if you're like me you've been carving pumpkins, sipping hot cider, and stocking up on plenty of your favorite candy. Despite all of this Halloween themed fun I'm still without a costume for this weekend's festivities! On the way into the office this morning my head was spinning with easy and affordable costume ideas. I've narrowed it down a few choices - all wine themed, naturally! I figured that there are likely Finger Lakes Wine Country fans like me out there in need of some inspiration, so here you go. Easy, affordable, wine-themed Halloween costumes.

1. A bunch of grapes. Head to a local party store or craft store and pick your favorite color (green, purple or red) balloons, some green felt, and safety pins. Ahead of time you will want to make your leaves. Using a large piece of green felt, cut a hole in the middle (where your head will go) and then cut the remaining fabric around the hole into leaf shapes. Make sure you make them large enough to stand out against the large balloons. For an added touch, grab an old headband, wrap it in scrap green felt and then hot glue a few green leaves to it. When you're ready to go, get dressed in tights/leggings/sweatpants and long sleeve shirt/sweatshirt. You can either go with all black, which is likely the easiest to find last-minute, or a color that matches your grapes. Now you'll definitely need a friend to help you blow up and pin the balloons on. If you're headed to a party you may want to do this step once you've arrived because traveling in a car - especially driving - will be near impossible! This costume will also make sitting down a bit of a challenge. So - if you're not traveling and don't mind standing around, this is an easy and fun costume.

2. Bacchus, The God of Wine. A perfect option for the wine loving guy, this costume is easy to pull together and super comfy! All you need is a solid color flat sheet, a different solid color piece of fabric, safety pins, fake grapes and grape leaves, green and gold fabric remnants, some crafting wire or even pipe cleaners to use as the base of the crown. Now men, depending on how warm it is or how daring you are, you can choose to wear whatever you like under the sheet. If you want to be authentic you can wear a pair of gym shorts and your favorite flip flops or sandals. Now, think back to the frat house and drape your flat sheet around you to create the one shoulder toga look. You can either belt the toga with some gold or white rope - or let it hang. Now drape the fabric over your other shoulder and either tuck the ends into the belt or simply tie it together on the other end. (This other piece of fabric isn't totally necessary) Now for the crown, just form the wire or pipe cleaners in a circle to fit your head. Wrap green and/or gold fabric around it tightly using hot glue to secure it. Now glue small grape bunches, grape leaves, and any other charms you find at the craft store to the crown. On the easy-o-meter, this one definitely wins! This costume could also be great for women.

3. Grape Stomping Lucy. We all know everyone loves Lucy, and having just celebrated the 100th anniversary of her birth, this is a perfect way to pay homage to America’s favorite redhead. All you’ll need is a long (preferably blue) peasant skirt, an off-the-shoulder white blouse, a thick belt, and a white or printed handkerchief or scarf. Besides the classic outfit, another key is the hair and makeup. While you may not be lucky enough to be a natural redhead, you have three choices – wig, temporary dye, or just go with what you got. Make sure you pull your hair back in that classic Lucy coif with lots of curls peeking out from the front of your scarf. A defined cat eye and bright red lips are a must! This is a fun, feminine and classic costume that is sure to be a hit.

If you decide to go with any of these, please make sure to share your picture on the Finger Lakes Wine Country Facebook page. Happy Halloween!

Keuka Holidays, November 12-13 & 19-20 - Get Your Tickets Now!

2011-10-24T14:36:00.000-04:00

We are still enjoying the stunning colors of fall in Finger Lakes Wine Country, but the holiday season is just around the corner! While we may have a few weeks before we have to get serious about all things holiday, it's not too early to purchase your tickets to exciting events like Keuka Holidays. In fact, these events are sure to sell out, so don't put it off.

I had the opportunity to chat with Erin from the Keuka Lake Wine Trail about Keuka Holidays on the Escape to the Finger Lakes podcast. Keuka Holidays takes place over the course of two weekends so event goers can choose the weekend that works best for their busy schedules. The event features wine, food, and lots of holiday cheer. Visit the eight wineries around the crooked lake and sample yummy dishes - everything from hearty stews with local root vegetables to light and sweet desserts - all paired with the award-winning wines from around the trail.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

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Gather inspiration for your own holiday tables at this event. Perhaps you find a new dish you just have to share with your family or you find a wine that will pair perfectly with your secret stuffing recipe. Visiting the wineries during the holiday season is always a treat as the tasting rooms are decorated to celebrate the season.

To purchase tickets, visit http://www.keukawinetrail.com/ or call 800-440-4898.

The Peak of Fall Foliage in Finger Lakes Wine Country

2011-10-21T16:54:00.000-04:00

This weekend the fall foliage will peak in Finger Lakes Wine Country. I really thought last weekend was the peak, but from what I've seen around the region this weekend will certainly be rich with deep reds and stunning golden hues.

Yesterday I flew into the Elmira Corning Regional Airport and snapped this shot just before landing. A small taste of how beautiful the hillsides are in the region right now.

And the best news is that despite a rather rainy fall, this weekend is supposed to be sunny and in the high 50's, perfect pumpkin picking weather if you ask me!

Have a wonderful weekend! If you take any spectacular fall photos, be sure to share them on our Finger Lakes Wine Country Facebook page.

Escape to the Finger Lakes Podcast featuring Heron Hill Winery

2011-10-19T12:31:00.000-04:00

Heron Hill Winery overlooking Keuka Lake

I had the chance to chat with Kitty Oliver, Marketing & PR Director at Heron Hill Winery. Kitty was able to fill me in with some exciting harvest happenings over at Heron Hill and also give me some inside scoop about their upcoming Tunes in the Tent series this fall.

Take 15-minutes to listen to this podcast.

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I actually had the pleasure of visiting Heron Hill at Bristol on Canandaigua Lake last week. Having been to both the Heron Hill homestead over on Keuka Lake as well as the Seneca Lake tasting room, this rounded out my Heron Hill experience in the Finger Lakes. It's a beautiful tasting room and offers visitors along the Canandaigua Wine Trail a look at the famed Ingle Vineyards (the tasting bar looks out over the gorgeous rows of grapes). Definitely a must-visit if you're over that way.

Owner John Ingle and his wife Jo.

Heron Hill is making some really amazing wines. The owner, John Ingle is a true lover of the land and it's very apparent when you have a glass of his wine or even take a peak at his vineyards. He has been utilizing sustainable practices long before it was trendy. Bernard Cannac is the winemaker and is a newer edition to the Heron Hill team. The friendly faces at Heron Hill, whatever tasting room you should visit, are always warm and welcoming. The wine speaks for itself and the view - specifically at the Keuka Lake location in Hammondsport, are spectacular.

Heron Hill is certainly a must on your list when visiting Finger Lakes Wine Country. Every Sunday this fall they have Tunes in the Tent, live music, food, wine and beer - what's not to love?

Cayuga Lake Wine Trail’s 18th Annual Holiday Shopping Spree

2011-10-18T13:26:00.000-04:00

Experience the warmth of the Holidays by joining the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail at their 18^th Annual Holiday Shopping Spree, on November 18th through the 20th and on December 2nd through the 4th. Receive a souvenir wine glass, grapevine wreath, a unique winery ornament at each of the sixteen wineries, wine and food pairings plus holiday recipes from each of the wineries that are part of the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. A unique offer to our Holiday customers is our event weekend shopper’s card where you can save $5.00 off a $35.00 wine purchase at each winery to help you purchase all those special holiday gifts.

Start your event weekend plans early by visiting Montezuma, Long Point, King Ferry and Six Mile Creek wineries on the Friday of the event. On Saturday mornings at 9:00 a.m. visit King Ferry and Long Point Wineries for their Early Bird Opening and then travel along the trail to visit the rest of the wineries.

Each winery offers a wine and food pairing plus recipes. Hosmer winery is serving “Marinated Sweet Potatoes and Broccoli” while Cobblestone Farm Winery is offering a sweeter dish, “Fudgy Cherry Brownies”. Six Mile Creek will follow suit with a festive sweet concoction, “Eggnog Cheesecake” and Long Point Winery will be serving a hot delectable soup “Italian Wedding Soup”.

Another great added feature to the events are Special Event Packages, which include a one or two night stay, transportation to the wineries on Saturday only and tickets to the event. Accommodation packages range from $245.00 to $625.00 for either a one or two night stay from these great hotels and inns: Ramada Inn, Homewood Suites and LaTourelle Inn in Ithaca; Microtel Inn and Holiday Inn in Seneca Falls or Waterloo; Inn at the Finger Lakes and the Holiday Inn in Auburn. Check out the wine trail package page on CayugaWineTrail.com

Participants are eligible to win one of our Six Grand Prizes: a gift certificate from Corks and More in Ithaca, a hand blown glass ornament from Corning Museum of Glass, or a one night stay at these great hotels: Holiday Inn in Auburn, Holiday Inn in Ithaca, Homewood Suites in Ithaca and the Ramada Inn in Ithaca.

This event sells out quickly, so reserve your tickets today! Advance tickets: Single ticket $35.00, a Couple ticket $50.00 plus handling fee and sales tax. Designated Driver tickets are available plus tickets at the door as long as the event does not sell out.

For information and tickets, call: 800-684-5217, visit the website CayugaWineTrail.com or purchase at any Wegmans Store.

Fall is a great time to paddle our rivers

2011-10-07T10:01:00.001-04:00

Fall is a beautiful time to enjoy the Chemung River in Mark Twain Country. The trees are ablaze with colors reflecting off the water. The temperatures are comfortable. The mosquitoes and gnats are long gone. The crisp fragrances of autumn combine with the sights and sounds of wildlife to make for a gorgeous float and commune with nature.

The 45-mile Chemung River flows by farmlands, steep shale cliffs, forests, meadows and several towns and cities. The river is rich in history, passing by former Native American villages, a Civil War Prison Camp and the locations of some of area’s first settlers.

Mark Twain spent over 20 summers in Elmira writing his greatest novels. It’s a good bet that he visited the river and sought its inspiration as he wrote “Life on the Mississippi” and the “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.”

The shallow Chemung River is easy to paddle – great for beginning or novice boaters. There are 10 public boat launches and plenty of beautiful places to come ashore to picnic, take nature photos or to relax in the grass in the warm sun and watch the river flow.

With so many boat launches you can paddle for few hours or all day.

And let’s not forget the health benefits. Paddling is a low-impact sport and the perfect activity to strengthen and define your upper body. Paddling a kayak burns about 342 calories per hour.

River side trails and levees make for great hiking and cycling along the river. Best of all, the river is free of charge, open 24/7 and you don’t need reservations.

For more information, including river maps and places to rent canoes or kayaks visit the Friends of the Chemung River Watershed website at www.chemungriverfriends.org.

Wine Country Insider for September 30, 2011

2011-09-30T12:25:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is the first day of October, an enchanting month in Finger Lakes Wine Country. The hills are dotted with bright reds and golden yellows, the breeze is cool and crisp, and the vineyards are busy with harvest activities. Fall is certainly a magical time of year in the region. With all the hustle and bustle of the grape harvest and fall festivals matched with the stunning beauty of the region there's no question why.

This weekend is full of exciting fall fun for the entire family. The Hunt Country Vineyards Harvest Festival is taking place both tomorrow and Sunday. This exciting festival features the best of the region; food and wine! Also enjoy cellar tours and tastings and be the first to taste the new releases. This weekend is also the Wineglass Marathon. Around 5,000 runners will journey 26.2 miles from Bath to Corning. Another wondeful event that you could take part in is the Riesling Harvest Extravaganza at Keuka Lake Vineyards. If you take part in this event you actually are able to help pick the grapes and then enjoy lunch and dinner with the staff at Keuka Lake Vineyards. Talk about a wonderful harvest experience! Other fun activities to consider this weekend are apple picking and wine tasting. Whatever you choose to do this weekend, enjoy it!

Listen to our 15-minute Wine Country Insider podcast her for more details on this fun fall weekend ahead.

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