Knapp Winery, close to Seneca Falls and along the shores of Cayuga Lake, offers 39 award winning wines and distillates and specializes in “firsts.” Around 1984, Knapp Winery was of the first in The Finger Lakes to plant and vinify the Cabernet Franc. Recognizing the importance of food, Knapp opened Vineyard Restaurant in 1992 and became the first winery-restaurant on Cayuga Lake. Current owners Gene Pierce and Scott Welliver have owned Knapp Winery Vineyard since 2000. Gene Pierce, who also owns Glenora Wine Cellars (first winery on Seneca Lake), is a pioneer of wineries in The Finger Lakes. The Knapp estate includes 65 acres that currently cultivates an impressive 12 varieties: Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Lemberger, Sangiovese, Merlot, Baco Noir, Cayuga, Catawba, Seyval, Vignoles, and DeChaunac.
Visitors to Knapp won’t be surprised to see Pierce harvesting grapes, directing traffic at large events, and ensuring a good experience overall. Our wine tastings include dry and semi-dry along with sweet red and white wines. Knapp even produces our own cordials and aperitifs, including the popular Knapp Limoncello.
The Vineyard Restaurant, perfect for brunch or a late lunch, is open daily from 11am – 5pm. We are known for our eclectic, casual, and gourmet meals and provide the opportunity to pair gorgeous wines with gourmet food that uses ingredients from local farmers. Our restaurant hosts an outdoor patio with grape vines winding up a trellis and looking out onto our estate. For the perfect setting in Finger Lakes Wine Country, come learn about and experience our historical and award winning wines in the venue of your choice.
