This Upstate NY Winery Planted America’s Oldest Pinot Noir—And Now It’s One of the Best Tasting Rooms in the U.S.

One of the best wine tasting rooms in the entire country is just a short weekend getaway from NYC—perched above a glimmering Finger Lake, in a town known as New York’s own “Little Lake Como”. Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery in Hammondsport, NY just earned a coveted spot on [USA Today’s 2025 list of the 10 best wine tasting rooms in the U.S](https://10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-wine-tasting-room/). , and you need to add it to your end-of-summer bucket list. With sweeping Keuka Lake views, world-class sparkling wine, and a rich family legacy dating back to the 1950s , it’s long been a cornerstone of New York’s wine scene — and now the rest of the country is finally catching on. The legendary history of Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery ---------------------------------------------------- Known for being the birthplace of New York’s vinifera wine revolution, Dr. Konstantin Frank was the first to successfully plant European grape varieties like Riesling and Pinot Noir in the Finger Lakes — including the oldest Pinot Noir vines in America still in production. But it’s not just about history. USA Today editors praised the winery for its “knowledgeable staff, exceptional views, and personalized experiences” — whether you’re seated on the terrace sipping flights at Eugenia’s Garden or diving deeper into their winemaking legacy through their signature tour. And their sparkling wine program? It’s one of the best on the East Coast. The winery’s sister property, Chateau Frank , is home to their méthode champenoise program — and dates all the way back to 1886. What you’ll experience — from casual tastings to the world-class 1886 Wine Experience ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Whether you’re stopping by for a spontaneous sip or planning a full afternoon of wine education, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery offers a tasting for every type of visitor. If you’re looking for a wine tasting that goes beyond the basics, book the 1886 Wine Experience — the winery’s most in-depth and immersive offering . Set in the historic Chateau Frank building on Keuka Lake, this elevated tasting blends gourmet food, stunning views, and expertly guided storytelling for a truly memorable afternoon. Here’s what you can expect depending on the day: * Thursdays & Fridays : A vineyard tour that explores grafting, growing, and the Finger Lakes terroir * Saturdays : A sparkling wine tour inside the underground cellar, highlighting traditional *méthode champenoise* production * Sundays : A barrel room tasting, including a sample of red wine aging in barrel Each tour ends with a seated tasting of premium wines paired with creative small bites — all served at one of just six exclusive tables. The experience runs through November 2, 2025 , and costs $75 per person ($60 for wine club members). Pets and guests under 21 are not permitted. For those after something simpler, the Standard Bar Tasting is available daily on a walk-in basis, with themed wine flights served at the main tasting room bar. Or you can reserve a Signature Seated Tasting with optional cheese pairings and lake views. There’s even a seasonal outdoor wine garden where you can relax with a glass or bottle in hand—no reservation required. Plan your visit to Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery ---------------------------------------------- * 📍 Location: Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, 9749 Middle Rd, Hammondsport, NY * 🍷 Tasting Room Hours: Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm * 🗓️ Reservations: Highly recommended for weekends and the 1886 Experience * i️ Additional information: Head to the winery’s website for more information Source: https://secretnyc.co/top-wine-tasting-room-in-us-2025-dr-konstantin-frank-winery/