New York’s Finger Lakes is the country’s second largest wine-producing region, 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. These beers are made with fresh, robust ingredients, and there is no better place to enjoy hearty ale than overlooking a serene blue lake.
• Custom BrewCrafters- This microbrewery, located in the western part of the region in quaint Honeoye Falls, started in 1997 by partnering with local restaurant and tavern owners to create customized craft-brews for each establishment. Today, they have added a tasting room and a gift shop to educate visitors on microbrewing. Cutsom BrewCrafters also hosts a “Festival of Ales” in the autumn.
• Genesee Country Village & Museum- This living museum brings the 1800s to life. Starting in June 2010, visitors will also be able to visit the only working 19th-century brewery in the country. The brewery is based on an actual brewery that was operated in Geneva, NY in the early 1800s. It will be using the same practices as early brewers to craft robust brown ale.
• Genesee Brewing Company- Located in the lively city of Rochester, Genesee Brewing Company is the ninth largest brewing company in the U.S. They brew several nationally-distributed beers, including Dundee’s Ales and Lagers, Genny Light, the Genesee family of brands, and Michael Shea’s Irish Amber.
• Keuka Brewing Company- Keuka Brewing Company is perched among world-class wineries on the shore of picturesque Keuka Lake. This family-owned microbrewery uses only the finest malted barley, wheat, and hops to produce a quality beer. Many beers are named after locations in the Finger Lakes, from “Bluff Point Brown” to “Briglin Road Red.”
• Market Street Brewing Co. and Restaurant- Located in historic Corning, Market Street Brewing Co. and Restaurant brews six beers and offers an upscale menu. In addition to sampling the beers brewed on premises, discerning diners can enjoy rooftop seating and a bier-garden.
• New York Wine and Culinary Center- The New York Wine and Culinary Center (NYWCC) is an educational and experiential destination that celebrates two of the region’s largest industries- wine and agriculture. NYWCC doesn’t brew its own beer, but it offers many classes and events throughout the year, including beer education classes, beer and food pairing classes, and brewmaster dinners with brewmasters from around New York State.
• Rohrbach Brewing Company- All ales and lagers are made with two-malted barley from Belgium and fresh hops from Europe and the Pacific Northwest. In addition to regular tastings, Rohrbach’s sponsors events and festivals throughout the year.
• Roosterfish Brewing- Roosterfish Brewing currently runs on a ten barrel specific mechanical system, using organic ingredients and crisp Seneca Lake water. It recently took first place as best brewery at the Sample New York Beer Festival.
• Three Brothers Winery and Estate- This unique property features three separate wineries and also a brewery, War Horse Brewing Company. War Horse brews several beers including Riesling Ale, a light-bodied beer blended with pure New York Riesling juice. It is the perfect destination for a group that wants a little bit of everything.
• Wagner Vineyards Winery, Brewery, & Restaurant- Located on Seneca Lake, Wagner Valley Brewing Co. has won many prestigious awards for its beers, including G.A.B.F, World Beer Cup, and Tap New York medals. Wagner Valley produces six standard beers and a variety of seasonal products.
