In just a few decades, riesling has become the unofficial grape of New York’s Finger Lakes region. Since 1957, local winemaker Dr. Konstantin Frank (and the subsequent four generations of the Frank family) have been working wonders with the fruit at their winery on Keuka Lake.

I knew this was must-visit wine tour during our Finger Lakes getaway. With beautiful views of Keuka Lake, this progressive tasting will take you through the history of the winery, explore their current innovations with winemaking, and spotlight the women the of the Frank family.

Folklore has it that Dr. Konstantin Frank brought Saperavi vines to the Finger Lakes when he immigrated from Europe. Fred Frank, President of Konstantin Frank Winery and grandson of Dr. Frank, explains, “Konstantin first introduced this variety to the Finger Lakes in his original plantings back in 1958. His first wines were produced in 1962.”

This Finger Lakes producer is credited with bringing Riesling to the region and turns out several examples of the grape including this brisk, easy-drinking lime and pear-inflected example.

One cannot talk about FLX sparklers without mentioning Dr. Frank. In 1985, Konstantin’s son Willy produced the first vinifera sparkler in the region. Meaghan Frank, Konstantin’s great granddaughter and the winery’s VP and general manager, continues the tradition.

Whichever way you decide to eat your cake, just don’t forget the bubbly. I’ve been a fan of Dr. Frank wines for about 15 years now. Their Blanc de Blancs is reminiscent of the finest champagnes and would be a wonderful way to ring in the New Year (who else is ready for 2020 to be over?!).

Sipping never felt so good! New York’s Finger Lakes (aka #FLX) wine region produces world-class wines, notably Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir. Meaghan Frank, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, one of the pioneer producers in the #FLX, discusses the wines and region.