History

About the Owners   |   About the Vineyards   |   The Winemaking Facilities

About the Vineyards

It is often said that wine is an expression of the vineyard... The natural beauty of the Finger Lakes affords the grape grower one of the world's finest locations to grow quality grapes. The key element is the terrain of the region. Growers look to the gentle slopes and the warming influence of the deep lakes for sites less susceptible to frost, as cold heavy air masses tend to settle in valleys and bring unwelcome late spring freezes.

Combine the terrain with an exceptional growing climate of warm days and cool evenings along with the deep, well-drained gravelly soil and you have the Finger Lakes region of New York State - a world-class viticultural area.

The grapes used to create Heron Hill's wines come from two main locations in the Finger Lakes region; Ingle Vineyards situated on the western slopes of Canandaigua Lake and Heron Hill Vineyards located on the western slopes of Keuka Lake.

Ingle Vineyards are maintained by Heron Hill's owner, John Ingle, Jr. Planted in 1972, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Riesling and Pinot Noir grapes are harvested from these vineyards.

Heron Hill Vineyards, located at the winery, are maintained by Heron Hill's winemaker, Thomas Laszlo. Planted in 1968, the Chardonnay and Riesling vineyards are some of the oldest Vinifera vines in the Finger Lakes region.

Both Thomas and John realize that grapes are a labor-intensive crop with each vine needing year-round individual care. With their dedicated team of workers and careful site management, the vineyards produce grapes that are consistent with Heron Hill's commitment to quality.

Join Heron Hill in celebrating the gifts of the true beauty found in the Finger Lakes region.
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