The Finger Lakes region in New York has been named the 2025 American Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast magazine as part of its Wine Star Awards. The recognition highlights the region’s achievements in winemaking, sustainability, and community collaboration.
Governor Kathy Hochul acknowledged the honor, stating, “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. 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 region is recognized as New York’s largest and most established wine-producing area. It includes more than 140 wineries and is anchored by four major lakes: Canandaigua, Keuka, Seneca, and Cayuga. The region is known for its cool-climate grape varieties, especially Riesling and Cabernet Franc, as well as its production of rosés and sparkling wines. The unique geography and microclimates have contributed to a strong community of family-run wineries. Additionally, 55 vineyards in the area have achieved certification under the New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program.
Wine Enthusiast Media President Jacqueline Strum commented on the award: “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.”
Hope Knight, President, CEO and Commissioner of Empire State Development, 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.”
The award is expected to further promote tourism and economic development in the region.
