New York’s Finger Lakes is one of the country’s largest wine-producing regions, but many don’t realize that there are also many spots to enjoy a frosty brew. Already known by wine aficionados for both its famous Rieslings and its stunning scenery, beer connoisseurs will find much to love, as well. Many world-class beers are brewed in the Finger Lakes using fresh, robust ingredients. And, there is no better place to enjoy hearty ale than overlooking a serene blue lake.
For those new to the prospect, we have taken the liberty of listing some of our favorite breweries in the Finger Lakes.
Wagner Valley Brewing Co.
One of the oldest wineries in the Finger Lakes is also a brewery... and quite a successful one at that. Wagner Valley Brewing Co. has won many prestigious awards for its beers, including Great American Beer Festival, World Beer Cup, and Tap New York medals. Wagner Valley produces six standard beers along with a variety of seasonal brews.
Genesee Country Village
For those after a one-of-a-kind experience, look no further than Genesee Country Village. GCV is a living museum that brings the 1800s to life, but the best part may be that they have just opened the only working 19th-century style brewery in the country. It is based on the practices and look of an actual brewery that was operated in Geneva, NY in the early 1800s.
War Horse Brewing Company
If you love your beer but don’t want to lose the Finger Lakes wine experience, try the best of both worlds at Three Brothers Winery and Estates where ther are three separate wineries and a brewery all on one property. Three Brothers’ War Horse Brewing Company is also sure to surprise you with their Riesling Ale, a light-bodied beer blended with pure New York Riesling juice.
New York Wine & Culinary Center
Interested in learning more before you taste? The New York Wine and Culinary Center (NYWCC) is an educational and experiential destination that celebrates two of the region’s biggest industries. NYWCC doesn’t brew its own beer, but it does offer tastings along with beer education classes, beer and food pairing classes, and brewmaster dinners with various brewmasters from around New York State.
