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Wine & Cheese Pairing Kicks Off January

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, January 16th 2026 at 7:45 GMT by Democrat and Chronicle

January Kicks Off with Wine and Cheese Perfection

The year begins with a sophisticated and satisfying experience: a Wine & Cheese Pairing at Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard on January 20th, 2026. This curated event offers a harmonious blend of expertly chosen wines and artisanal cheeses, creating a truly unforgettable sensory experience. Reservations are essential, highlighting the popularity and intimate nature of this early-year offering. Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard is a cornerstone of the Finger Lakes wine scene, consistently producing award-winning Rieslings and other varietals, so this pairing promises to showcase the best of the region's viticulture.

February: A Celebration of Craft and Cuisine

February brings a double dose of enjoyment. The first weekend, February 5th to 7th, is dedicated to the vibrant world of craft beer at the annual Craft Beer Festival in Geneva. This weekend-long celebration will showcase breweries from across the Finger Lakes and beyond, offering attendees a wide range of styles and flavors to explore. Tickets are available online, indicating the popularity of the event and the need to secure your place ahead of time. The following week, on February 14th, those seeking to hone their culinary skills can participate in a Cooking Class: Italian Cuisine at The Culinary Institute of Finger Lakes. This immersive experience provides the opportunity to learn authentic Italian techniques from experienced chefs - a perfect Valentine's Day activity or simply a way to expand your repertoire.

March and April: Sweet Traditions and Decadent Indulgences

As the weather begins to thaw, March 15th brings the delightful Maple Syrup Festival in Skaneateles. This family-friendly event celebrates the time-honored tradition of maple syrup production, offering tastings, demonstrations of the syrup-making process, and activities geared towards all ages. The aroma of warm maple syrup is practically synonymous with the Finger Lakes in springtime. Then, in April, the region transforms into a chocolate lover's paradise with Chocolate Decadence Weekend, April 10th to 12th. Prepare for a weekend saturated in the rich and deliciousness of chocolate, with tastings, decadent desserts, and interactive workshops.

May: A Culinary Journey Through Local Restaurants

Finally, May 1st to 7th marks the much-anticipated Finger Lakes Wine Country Restaurant Week. This event provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the diverse culinary landscape of the region by sampling prix fixe menus at some of its finest restaurants. It's a chance to discover new favorites and appreciate the creativity and talent of local chefs while enjoying exceptional value. Restaurant Week always proves to be a popular draw, highlighting the quality of the dining experiences available across the Finger Lakes.

Planning Your Finger Lakes Food & Drink Adventure

To secure your place at these exciting events, be sure to visit the event websites listed in the descriptions above. Early booking is highly recommended, especially for limited-capacity experiences like the wine and cheese pairing and the cooking class. The Finger Lakes region is poised to deliver a memorable year of culinary experiences; don't miss out!