Did you know? . . . Grapes of the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes wine region is best known for two grape varietals--the Riesling and the Cabernet Franc. Given the long tradition of farming in the region, and the influence of the agricultural school at Cornell University, however, a very wide range of grapes is grown for wine in the region. They include classic Vitis Vinifera varietals, native varietals, and hybrid grapes.

 Vinifera Varietals:

These are grapes that were brought over from Europe, and are often referred to as "European Varieties". You'll be able to find these grapes in your local wine shop -- as they are grown for wine all over the world. You might even recognize some of these as "Noble Grapes."

• Riesling
• Pinot Grigio
• Chardonnay
• Viognier
• Sauvignon Blanc
• Gewurztraminer
• Rkatsitelli
• Muscat Ottonel
• Cabernet Franc
• Cabernet Sauvignon
• Pinot Noir
• Merlot
• Lemberger
• Syrah

Native & Hybrid Varietals: 

Varieties native to the U.S. (called "Lambrusca") are often more suited to grape juice (they are just too grape-y). But, when fused with European (Vinifera) grapes, can create unique hybrids. These are often unique to the Finger Lakes, so less common in your local wine shop.

• Cayuga White
• Niagara
• Diamond
• Catwaba
• Isabella
• Chancellor
• Baco Noir, and a range of hybrids around the Pinot Noir grape
• Traminette
• Vignoles
• Chambourcin
• Vidal Blanc
• Seyval Blanc
• Marechal Foch

This is not meant to be a comprehensive, all-inclusive list of grapes, but a chance to better understand labeling and what's unique to the Finger Lakes region.