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Weis Vineyards named Winery of the Year in NY Wine Classic | Fingerlakes1.com

Weis Vineyards, a gem nestled in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region, has recently been crowned "Winery of the Year" at the prestigious New York Wine Classic, a testament to its exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to producing world-class wines. This accolade, announced on July 17, 2025, highlights the winery’s remarkable contributions to the state’s burgeoning wine industry and underscores the Finger Lakes as a premier wine destination. The New York Wine Classic, an annual competition that celebrates the best of New York’s viticulture, recognized Weis Vineyards for its outstanding portfolio of wines, innovative approaches, and commitment to quality, placing it at the forefront of the state’s winemaking scene.

Located in Hammondsport, New York, Weis Vineyards is a family-owned operation that has quickly risen to prominence since its establishment. Founded by Hans Peter Weis and his wife, Ashlee, the winery reflects a deep passion for winemaking that is rooted in both tradition and innovation. Hans Peter, originally from Germany’s Mosel region, brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience from one of Europe’s most storied wine-producing areas. His background in the Mosel, known for its steep slate slopes and crisp Rieslings, has profoundly influenced the style and philosophy of Weis Vineyards. This transatlantic connection is evident in the winery’s focus on cool-climate varietals, particularly Riesling, which thrives in the Finger Lakes’ unique terroir characterized by glacial soils and moderating lake effects.

The Finger Lakes region, often compared to European wine regions like the Mosel and Alsace due to its climate and geography, provides an ideal setting for producing elegant, balanced wines with vibrant acidity. Weis Vineyards has capitalized on these conditions to craft wines that are not only reflective of the region but also distinctive in their expression. The winery’s portfolio includes a range of offerings, from dry to semi-sweet Rieslings, as well as other varietals such as Gewürztraminer, Pinot Noir, and Chardonnay. Each wine is meticulously crafted to showcase the purity of fruit and the nuances of the Finger Lakes terroir, earning the winery critical acclaim and a loyal following among wine enthusiasts.

Winning "Winery of the Year" at the New York Wine Classic is no small feat. The competition, organized by the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, is a rigorous evaluation of the state’s wineries, with entries judged by a panel of esteemed wine experts, sommeliers, and industry professionals. The award recognizes not just individual wines but the overall excellence of a winery’s production, consistency, and contribution to the advancement of New York’s wine industry. For Weis Vineyards, this honor is a culmination of years of hard work, experimentation, and a relentless pursuit of quality. It also serves as a spotlight on the Finger Lakes region, which has increasingly garnered attention on the national and international stage as a producer of world-class wines.

Hans Peter Weis’s approach to winemaking is deeply personal and hands-on. His philosophy centers on minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the grapes to speak for themselves. This respect for the raw material is paired with a keen understanding of modern winemaking techniques, resulting in wines that are both authentic and polished. At Weis Vineyards, sustainability is also a key focus, with practices aimed at preserving the natural beauty and health of the vineyard’s ecosystem. This commitment to environmental stewardship resonates with consumers who value ethical and sustainable production methods, further enhancing the winery’s reputation.

The winery’s tasting room, overlooking the picturesque Keuka Lake, offers visitors an immersive experience that combines stunning views with exceptional wines. Guests are invited to explore the range of offerings, often guided by Hans Peter or Ashlee themselves, who share stories of their journey and the inspiration behind each bottle. This personal touch has made Weis Vineyards a beloved destination for wine tourists visiting the Finger Lakes, contributing to the region’s growing reputation as a must-visit wine trail. The winery also hosts events and pairings that highlight the versatility of their wines, fostering a sense of community among locals and visitors alike.

The recognition from the New York Wine Classic is expected to bring even more attention to Weis Vineyards and the Finger Lakes as a whole. It serves as an invitation for wine lovers to discover the region’s unique offerings and for industry professionals to take note of the talent and potential emanating from this corner of New York. For Hans Peter and Ashlee, the award is not just a milestone but a motivator to continue pushing boundaries and exploring new possibilities in winemaking. Their vision includes expanding their reach while maintaining the artisanal quality that defines their brand, ensuring that each bottle tells a story of place, passion, and precision.

Beyond the winery itself, this achievement reflects the broader narrative of the Finger Lakes wine industry, which has evolved from a niche player to a respected name in the global wine community. The region’s wineries, including Weis Vineyards, have played a pivotal role in this transformation by focusing on quality over quantity and by embracing the unique characteristics of their environment. The success of Weis Vineyards at the New York Wine Classic is a celebration of this collective progress, highlighting how dedication and innovation can elevate an entire region.

The story of Weis Vineyards is also one of cultural fusion. Hans Peter’s German heritage, combined with the distinctly American landscape of the Finger Lakes, creates a bridge between Old World and New World winemaking traditions. This blend is evident in the wines themselves, which carry the precision and minerality of European styles while embracing the fruit-forward exuberance often associated with American wines. It’s a balance that appeals to a wide range of palates, making Weis Vineyards a standout in a competitive field.

As Weis Vineyards basks in the glow of being named "Winery of the Year," the future looks bright for both the winery and the Finger Lakes region. This accolade will likely inspire other local producers to strive for excellence, fostering a spirit of friendly competition that benefits the industry as a whole. For consumers, it’s an opportunity to explore the wines of Weis Vineyards and discover why they’ve earned such high praise. Whether it’s a crisp Riesling enjoyed on a summer afternoon or a robust Pinot Noir paired with a hearty meal, the wines of Weis Vineyards offer a taste of the Finger Lakes’ magic—a magic now recognized as among the best in New York.

In conclusion, Weis Vineyards’ recognition as "Winery of the Year" at the New York Wine Classic is a well-deserved honor that celebrates the artistry, dedication, and vision of Hans Peter and Ashlee Weis. It also shines a light on the Finger Lakes as a region of immense potential and beauty, inviting wine lovers from near and far to experience its treasures. As Weis Vineyards continues to innovate and inspire, it stands as a beacon of what is possible when passion meets place, crafting wines that are as memorable as the landscape from which they come. This achievement is not just a moment in time but a stepping stone toward an even brighter future for both the winery and the vibrant wine culture of New York’s Finger Lakes.

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