The Finger Lakes has been named the 2025 American Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast as part of the magazine’s prestigious Wine Star Awards. According to the magazine, the honor recognizes the region’s world-class winemaking, sustainable practices, and collaborative community that have helped define New York State as a leader in American viticulture.
“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,” Governor Kathy Hochul said. “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.”
In announcing the recognition, Christina Pickard of Wine Enthusiast wrote, “Today, the Finger Lakes boasts over 140 wineries and around 5,640 acres under vine. Its narrative is still being shaped by newcomers whose ideas and experiences are woven with the deep knowledge held by the region’s multi-generational families. Together they create a rich tapestry of both innovation and tradition.”
Finger Lakes Wine Alliance Executive Director Amy Navor said, “The Finger Lakes stands at a remarkable moment, a region born of resilience, defined by collaboration, and continuing to share its story with the world. Our multi-generational growers and emerging new wineries lift one another, shaping a community that thrives through change and crafts world-class cool-climate wines. This recognition from Wine Enthusiast affirms that collective spirit, proof that when the Finger Lakes wine rises, New York rises together. We’re proud to work with the New York Wine & Grape Foundation and our peers across the state to champion the innovation, authenticity and shared success that define New York’s wine regions today.”
New York Wine & Grape Foundation Executive Director Sam Filler said, “Many hands over many decades contributed to building the reputation of the Finger Lakes Wine Region. The region has a strong sense of community and collaboration. Its strength begins with unity. Together, we are redefining quality, tastes, and experiences. This award is special because it recognizes how the Finger Lakes holds a unique place on the international wine stage.”
Wine Enthusiast Media President Jacqueline Strum said, “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.”
New York State received a Wine Star Award for Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in 2014.
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