RISMEDIA, May 1, 2009-Join Finger Lakes Wine Country, New York this May for a month-long celebration of its award-winning varietal: Riesling. During “May is Riesling Month,” the Finger Lakes will host special events and promotions, including special Riesling tastings and dinners with some of the leading winemakers and hotels and inns will feature affordable getaway packages.
The microclimate within the Finger Lakes, created by the glacial-formed lakes, is what allows Riesling to thrive. The unique slate and shale soils also help make Finger Lakes Wine Country one of the leading producers of Riesling in the world. The Finger Lakes attracts visitors year-round and the wineries continue to be internationally recognized for their world-class wines in such publications as Wine Spectator, Wine Enthusiast, and Wine & Spirits.
In addition to excellent quality wines, the Finger Lakes has quietly developed its position in the wine world for its production of some of the world’s most affordable Rieslings. Most of the region’s Rieslings can be purchased at the wineries for under $20 per bottle. And to make things even more affordable, this May many of the Finger Lakes wineries are also participating in free shipping on all Rieslings throughout the month.
“We are thrilled to showcase the best that Finger Lakes Wine Country has to offer from world-class Rieslings to outstanding hospitality at our area hotels and inns” said Morgen McLaughlin, president of Finger Lakes Wine Country.
Some highlights of the month include the 17th Annual Herb and Wine Festival along the Cayuga Wine Trail, May 1 – 3, the Seneca Lake Wine Trail offers its hugely popular Riesling to Visit Passport, a Riesling winemaker dinner at Fox Run Vineyards on May 9, Feast and Fest at Glenora Wine Cellars, Rieslings in Riedel at Rooster Hill Vineyards, a special Riesling drawing at Dr. Konstantin Frank’s Vinfiera Wine Cellars, and a huge Riesling sale at Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards. The Inn at Glenora Wine Cellars is offering a Riesling to Visit Tour Package and the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is offering a Riesling month package from $199 per night.
Among the rolling hills and tranquil lakes of upstate New York are 9,000 acres of vineyards and over 100 fine wineries, making the Finger Lakes the largest wine producing region in the East. Easily accessible within a five-hour drive from major cities such as New York City, Philadelphia and Toronto, the region is convenient, affordable and the place to retreat and recharge this summer. With over 200 places to stay, there is an accommodation for every traveler’s budget.
