Our next stop of the day took us to our first distillery visit of the trip, and wow--Finger Lakes…read moreDistilling did not disappoint. What surprised us most? This was our very first time visiting, and we hadn't even realized they had been established since 2007! Knowing that they had been perfecting their craft for over 17 years, we were eager to dive into the tasting experience and see what they had to offer. The tasting room had a laid-back yet polished feel, with a friendly and knowledgeable staff ready to guide us through their lineup of small-batch, handcrafted spirits. The distillery prides itself on using locally sourced grains and fruits, and you could tell from the first sip that quality and attention to detail were at the heart of their process. The Tasting Lineup I opted for a tasting of four different spirits, and after enjoying those, I was encouraged to try two more--a bonus that made the experience even better. Here's what I sampled: 1 Straight Bourbon - This was beautifully balanced, with sweet corn and vanilla upfront, followed by a warming spicy rye kick on the finish. Smooth yet complex, it was a fantastic introduction to their bourbon lineup. 2 Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon - A true standout, this one had rich caramel and toasted oak flavors, along with the perfect balance of spice and warmth. Aged for at least four years and bottled at 100 proof, it had a bold yet refined character that made it easy to appreciate. 3 McKenzie Straight Rye - If you're a fan of rye whiskey, this one is for you. It had that signature spicy rye bite, but what really made it unique was the sweet sherry cask finish, adding a layer of richness and complexity that lingered beautifully. 4 Bottled-in-Bond Rye - One of the most interesting pours of the day, this rye was bursting with flavors of chocolate, nougat, and dried red fruit. The influence of the barrel aging was prominent, giving it a decadent, almost dessert-like quality while still holding onto its classic rye spice. After those four, I couldn't resist trying two additional spirits: 5 Apple Brandy (Aged 10 Years) - A masterfully aged apple brandy that showcased deep, caramelized apple flavors, balanced with warm baking spices and oak influence. The 10 years in the barrel really allowed this spirit to develop incredible depth and smoothness. 6 Grappa - This was an unexpected favorite--simply sensational. Grappa can sometimes be overpowering, but this one was smooth, refined, and packed with rich grape flavors, making it one of the best versions I've tried. Taking a Piece of Finger Lakes Distilling Home While every single pour was impressive, the one that stood out the most for me was the Straight Bourbon--so much so that I had to bring a bottle home. It reminded me of a classic Rye Whiskey, with just enough spice to keep things interesting but smooth enough to sip neat. Final Thoughts Finger Lakes Distilling far exceeded expectations, and I can't believe it took us this long to visit! With their commitment to quality, incredible range of spirits, and inviting tasting experience, this is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Finger Lakes region--whether you're a bourbon lover, rye enthusiast, or just appreciate finely crafted spirits. It was the perfect stop to break up a day of wineries and breweries, offering something distinctly different yet equally enjoyable. Next time, I'd love to stay a little longer, maybe sip on a whiskey cocktail and take in the atmosphere even more. Cheers to great whiskey and new discoveries!

I had a good feeling I was going to like Finger Lakes Distilling, but I didn't realize how much I…read morewould love it. Had tried their McKensie bourbon at a bar or top and liked it, so was happy that it was on the itinerary of our wine and spirits tour. The space, like most wineries/distilleries/breweries up here, overlooks a lake (Seneca in this case) which is very scenic. Inside of the place was very nice and the staff could not be friendlier. I can't underscore the importance of the latter. Selection here is awesome. Some places make 2 bourbons and call themselves a distillery. These guys do whiskey, gin, vodka, varietals and other specialty stuff. I focused on the whiskeys which were awesome. I can see why these guys have won so many medals. I tried the small batch, cannoli infused bourbon, applejack, rye, straight bourbon, bottled in bond, single malt and Applejack. Everything was at least noteworthy. Single malt was awesome, which is the biggest thing I look for as the true test of a distillery. They had just started making the applejack, and it one of these best I've tried. People don't what the hell this is, but it's basically cider-based whiskey; it's great for cooking, drinking and was the first American-invented spirit going back to colonial times. Don't sleep on it. Only one I wish I had tried was the pot stilled, but I had enough to know it's probably good. I took home the applejack and the single malt, as those are really my go to's, however there was a lot worth trying. Also nice to see them offer number of cool cocktail options for those less inclined to drink pure alcohol. We ended the visit with some cigars infused with their cordials, which were an awesome surprise. This place is destination worthy. People think of wine when they think Finger Lakes, but there's more up here than that. This places exemplifies that. Will be back, and will buy their stuff locally.

Plenty of parking. The inside is very clean, floors are…read morepretty and cool for the dog to lay down and cool off while we sample. The lady working the counter was friendly and helpful. We tried all the the samples-4 bourbons, 2 creams and 3 Absinthe's. My husband and I loved the regular Bourbon. The creams were flavorful. I didn't the the Absinthe ones because I don't like black licorice, My husband loved it - he bought two bottles to go. Bathroom was very clean.

We were driving past this place and I said it's a distillery and wasn't popping up anywhere. let's…read morestop and see what this place is all about. I said it may be a bust but what the hell. We arrive and the woman came to us and said here is the list, I'll be back as she was finishing up a tasting with three other guys. You were able to select a single pour tasting, FLX Tasting which was three for $10, Whiskey Flight which was Reserve, SM, Bourbon for $16, Full flight for $22 and a cocktail flight for the same. The whole flight was 12+ and I'd not be able to drive if I did that. I decided on a few which the smoked bourbon, single malt and Distillers Reserve 7 year at 120 proof at $120 bottle. It was really good, but I couldn't justify paying that much for a single bottle, although I've paid $150 for a single malt two years ago. At the end of the day my favorite was the Smoked Bourbon at $70 for a bottle. It was good and different, but I think the Distillers Reserve was probably the best but at a better price then I'd gone for that. Overall this is a place for tasting and buying. But they do offer cocktails, beer and spirits by the glass. Seating outside is nice.

Caveating this review with the fact that we did not do the distilled liquor tasting but got…read morecocktails instead. It's small and nice inside, but the cocktails are underwhelming. They aren't balanced and don't enhance the liquors. Either two sweet or too bitter or not much of anything it seems like the focus is quantity over anything else - they are 9 oz each! Personally I might go back to try the actual liquors but they could benefit from someone who could come in and craft a genuine cocktail - they just don't highlight the alcohols at all.

A great distillery with great drinks, beer,wine and mocktails making this a great family friendly…read morelocation. Food is occasionally by ChrisB's food truck which is one of the best trucks around Keuka Lake. Service is friendly with views of the lake and weekend music. Everything you could want.

Wow, this place was super busy when we arrived. We found seats on the deck to enjoy our drinks…read more We only had one round and decided to move on. We weren't completely wowed by the drinks we ordered.

A distillery that takes pride in what they do! Not only do they make well balanced drinks, but it…read moreis clearly a family run business that wants to do well for the community and for those coming to visit. We came for drinks, but came back because the owner and her son personally invited us to upcoming events. The atmosphere is perfect (with a great view) for a traveler stopping in. But it is also a place where locals can stop in and enjoy a friendly game or live music. I would highly recommend!!!

We got the opportunity to sample some of the distilled products while at The Windmill in Penn Yan…read more All of their products had a great flavor and smoothness. The star of the show (IMO) is their buckwheat bourbon. This just had an amazing flavor. It has became a staple in our home bar. Make sure to give them a try.

Stopped here on a whim on the way out of town. I Am so glad that a did. The gentleman was super…read morenice and informative. He was great company. The spirits were all delicious as well. Make sure you stop by this hidden gem!

5 stars for excellent craft cocktails, nice property design, and great use of local ingredients…read more There is nice attention to details all around. Bravo! The bartender seemed... hmmmm... idk.... not interested in our presence? But that's ok. She did not lack drink making skills and that's worth 5 stars. It seems harder and harder to find an excellent drink. We had 4. Each great! Took home a bottle of vodka too. It is in the middle of nowhere (seriously) with no cell reception so best to know your way there and back.

We came across this on vacation and it was a big W. Service-Ambiance- and the drinks are second to…read morenone! Great local family business! 10 for 10.

Three of us visited here in June and we all tried cocktails. None of us cared much for them,…read moreunfortunately. You can sit inside or out. They have a nice big porch area and also some picnic tables in the grass. Really nice place! Staff were friendly.

Good liquor, just okay cocktails! Really sorry to write the second part because they are awesome…read morepeople. Amazing property and a chill time to spend your time (regardless of group size). Loved their gin that they ate in a whiskey barrel. Highly recommend. They have a bunch of other gins that they make onsite. All their liquor is amazing if you taste them neat. The cocktails are a bit under thought.

Set sail for True Love, a truly enjoyable time!…read more Bottom Line Up Front: We had a wonderful, relaxing, and fun time for a good price. The Good: The history of the John Alden designed schooner is worth reading before you go. We had some more "salty" members of our group that recognized the name of the schooner from the 1956 movie "High Society" starring Bing Crosby, Gene Kelly and Frank Sinatra and after that we were on board for a wonderful time. We even were seated in the seats once occupied by Gene and Bing. We purchased our tickets after being approached by Terry who negotiated a decent price with us because he wanted a full boat for the next trip. Captain Bill was an experienced Captain and is well known in the area. He got us underway and was a delightful host regaling us with stories about the "True Love", Seneca Lake and surroundings, as well as, some stories about racing the "True Love" and his crew, Spencer and Marena. Captain Bill even assisted another sailing boat that was in distress and precariously close to the lake edge. The trip was two hours long and on time. The crew served non-alcoholic and adult beverages (some free, some for a price) while underway and also sold some souvenirs (Whisky and glasses). The Bad: There was nothing bad, from start to finish, this was a very enjoyable trip and the crew definitely enjoyed sharing their love of the "Trie Love" with the joyful passengers. The Ugly: Absolutely nothing other than we could not be out for longer. If you find yourself in Watkins Glen, this is definitely an enjoyable to kick back, relax, and let the wind fill your sails. They say a picture is worth 1000 words, so I am going to end my post with a few that we snapped along the way. May you have fair winds, and following lake waters!

Excellent sailing experience The crew was great and was…read morevery eager to make sure we had a great time The boat was in excellent condition

A distillery wasn't on our original path but some one at a prior winery told us we must go for the…read morePeanut Butter vodka. Well that was intriguing!! We went and loved that! Reminded us of a Reece's, and would be delicious mixed in coffee! All the samples we had were wonderful! The woman serving was a delight and told us some of the history of the distillery and her family relation to it. It was near the end of the day but she didn't seem to care that we were there and chatted away happily afterwards! For those of you intimidated by a distillery, the woman next to us was about 80 and having the time of her life!

While driving from Ithaca to Geneva on our recent trip to the finger lakes I noticed Myer Farm…read moreDistillers had a sign. Well lucky for us we stopped in on a whim (let's be honest I'm a sucker for good branding). The property is clean and simple, the tasting room was in line with what we experienced last last in Kentucky in more rural spots. They make gin, vodka and whiskey. I'm not much of a liquor drinker but my husband bought 4 bottles and said it's fantastic- he is very into bourbon and if he says it's good then it is. To my untrained palate it tastes like alcohol. It's $3 for 3 tastings and you can also get a cocktail. There is a fair amount of branded products and souvenirs. So it would be a good spot to pull together a gift basket for Fathers Day or Christmas. Absolutely worth a visit- a beautiful craft distillery with a friendly knowledgeable staff.

This place was recommended the owners of Runaway Blue , and it was such a cool experience. We…read morewalked in and the owner Peter immediately greeted us and talked about doing a tasting. We followed him to a bar in the back room. With 5 different tastings to choose from I went with the sippin cream madness! Chocolate was tasty, orange creamsicle was so spot on in flavor, strawberry and cream was smooth but their butter pecan was amazing! I had to buy one! Peter told us how he started the distilled and his experience on the show master distiller and winning. Loved their pre prohibition bourbon with the recipe from 1919!! So many options to choose from, we will definitely have to come back!

Fun little adventure when we ran into this place. Immediately greeted by Pete, and later found out…read morehe was the owner. Check out their logo, Cop chasing bootleggers. Smoke off dual pipes as they outrun cops hence the name, "smoking tails distillery". I sampled the creams abs found all of them delightful. I asked if they offered a sample pack of some sort, but they do not. Unfortunately, smaller bottles just cost too much to procure. Service was wonderful. Beers available. Mixed drinks available with their liquors. Fun times. Something for everyone!