Sips and scenery in the Finger Lakes

WATKINS GLEN, New York - Two million years ago, glaciers clawed 11 long, deep gashes into what is now central New York. The resulting Finger Lakes are among the deepest in the United States, creating a microclimate perfect for growing cool-weather wine grapes.

The region, some 250 miles (400 km) northwest of New York City, is home to more than 100 wineries and has a reputation for world-class wines. My husband, Rick, and I were eager to explore these vineyards and take in some of the region's scenery: rolling hills, farms, country roads and waterfalls. We compiled a list of top-rated wineries and narrowed it down to those near our base on Seneca Lake over a long weekend visit.

We began at the north end of the lake and stopped at three wineries along the east shore: Wagner Vineyards Estate, Chateau Lafayette Reneau and Atwater Estate Vineyards.