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Ventosa Vineyards takes top medals at NY Wine Classic | Fingerlakes1.com

Ventosa Vineyards Shines Bright: Sweeping Top Honors at the Prestigious New York Wine Classic

In a triumphant display of viticultural excellence, Ventosa Vineyards has emerged as a dominant force at the 2025 New York Wine Classic, securing multiple top medals and solidifying its reputation as one of the Finger Lakes region's premier winemakers. The competition, held annually to celebrate the best of New York's burgeoning wine industry, saw Ventosa's entries not only impress judges but also highlight the innovative spirit and terroir-driven quality that define this family-owned estate. This year's event, which took place amid the scenic backdrop of the Finger Lakes, underscored the growing global recognition of New York wines, with Ventosa leading the charge.

Nestled on the eastern shores of Seneca Lake in Geneva, New York, Ventosa Vineyards has long been a beloved fixture in the Finger Lakes wine scene. Established in 2005 by the visionary duo of Lenny and Jenna Cecere, the vineyard spans 23 acres of meticulously tended vines, specializing in a diverse array of varietals that thrive in the region's cool-climate conditions. From robust reds like Cabernet Franc and Lemberger to crisp whites such as Riesling and Pinot Grigio, Ventosa's portfolio reflects a commitment to both tradition and experimentation. The winery's name, inspired by the Italian word for "windy," pays homage to the breezy microclimate that influences its grapes, imparting unique flavors and aromas that have captivated wine enthusiasts for nearly two decades.

The New York Wine Classic, organized by the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, is more than just a competition—it's a benchmark for excellence in the state's wine industry. This year, over 800 entries from more than 100 wineries across New York vied for accolades, judged by a panel of international experts including sommeliers, winemakers, and critics. Categories spanned dry whites, sparkling wines, reds, and dessert varieties, with awards ranging from bronze to double gold, and special honors like "Best of Class" and "Governor's Cup" for the pinnacle achievements. Ventosa's performance was nothing short of stellar, earning them the coveted Governor's Cup for their standout 2022 Riesling, alongside double gold medals for their 2021 Cabernet Franc and a sparkling Rosé that wowed with its effervescence and balance.

At the heart of Ventosa's success is their 2022 Riesling, which claimed the Governor's Cup as the overall best wine of the competition. This semi-dry expression showcases the Finger Lakes' signature minerality, with notes of ripe peach, citrus zest, and a hint of petrol that evolves elegantly on the palate. Judges praised its impeccable acidity and lingering finish, attributes that stem from the vineyard's sustainable farming practices and careful hand-harvesting. "This Riesling embodies the essence of what makes Finger Lakes wines world-class," remarked one judge during the awards ceremony. "It's a testament to the region's potential to rival the great Rieslings of Germany and Alsace." For Ventosa, this win marks a milestone, as it's their first Governor's Cup, though they've been consistent medalists in past years.

Not to be outshone, Ventosa's 2021 Cabernet Franc secured a double gold, affirming the winery's prowess in red wines. This bold yet approachable red features layers of dark cherry, black pepper, and subtle herbal undertones, with soft tannins that make it versatile for pairing with everything from grilled meats to aged cheeses. The vineyard's winemaker, Santiago Achával—hailing from a background in Argentine viticulture—credits the success to a meticulous blending process that incorporates small lots from different vineyard blocks. "Cabernet Franc thrives here because of our cool nights and long growing season," Achával explained in a post-award interview. "We aim for elegance over power, and this vintage really captured that balance."

Adding a touch of sparkle to their haul, Ventosa's Sparkling Rosé earned another double gold, delighting judges with its vibrant strawberry and floral notes, fine bubbles, and refreshing dryness. Made from a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay using the traditional méthode champenoise, this wine represents Ventosa's foray into effervescent offerings, a category that's gaining traction in New York as consumers seek lighter, celebratory options. The winery's investment in state-of-the-art sparkling production equipment over the past few years has clearly paid off, positioning them as innovators in a region traditionally known for still wines.

These accolades come at a pivotal time for the Finger Lakes wine industry, which has seen exponential growth in recent years. With over 130 wineries now dotting the landscape around Seneca, Cayuga, and Keuka Lakes, the area is often dubbed "America's Riesling Capital" due to its ideal conditions for the grape. Ventosa's wins not only boost their own profile but also shine a spotlight on the collective excellence of Finger Lakes producers. "We're thrilled to represent our region on this stage," said Jenna Cecere, co-owner and the creative force behind Ventosa's Tuscan-inspired tasting room and event spaces. "Winning these medals validates the hard work of our team and the passion we pour into every bottle."

Beyond the medals, Ventosa Vineyards offers visitors a holistic experience that blends wine with hospitality. Their estate features a stunning villa-style building with panoramic views of Seneca Lake, a popular wedding venue, and a café serving Italian-inspired cuisine. Events like live music series, yoga in the vines, and harvest festivals draw thousands annually, making Ventosa a cultural hub as much as a winery. This multifaceted approach has helped them weather challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, during which they pivoted to virtual tastings and expanded e-commerce, emerging stronger with a loyal following.

The New York Wine Classic's results also highlight broader trends in the industry. There's a noticeable shift toward sustainable and organic practices, with many winners, including Ventosa, emphasizing low-intervention winemaking. The competition's emphasis on blind tastings ensures merit-based judging, leveling the playing field for smaller producers against larger operations. For Ventosa, these wins are expected to drive increased tourism and sales, with their award-winning wines likely to see heightened demand in markets beyond New York, including exports to Europe and Asia.

Looking ahead, Ventosa plans to build on this momentum. They're expanding their vineyard acreage to include more experimental plantings, such as Grüner Veltliner and Blaufränkisch, aiming to push the boundaries of Finger Lakes winemaking. "This is just the beginning," Achával noted. "We're committed to evolving while staying true to our roots." Community involvement remains a priority, with Ventosa supporting local initiatives like the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance and educational programs for aspiring winemakers.

In an industry where climate variability and market fluctuations pose constant challenges, Ventosa's success at the 2025 New York Wine Classic serves as an inspiring narrative of resilience and artistry. As the Finger Lakes continues to gain acclaim—evidenced by recent features in publications like Wine Spectator and Decanter—wineries like Ventosa are at the forefront, proving that New York wines deserve a place at the world's finest tables. Wine lovers eager to taste these medalists can visit Ventosa's tasting room or order online, where the Governor's Cup Riesling is already generating buzz. For those in the know, it's clear: Ventosa Vineyards isn't just winning medals; they're redefining what Finger Lakes wine can be.

This achievement resonates deeply within the local community, where wine tourism contributes significantly to the economy. The Finger Lakes region attracts over 5 million visitors annually, many drawn by the promise of world-class wines paired with stunning natural beauty. Ventosa's story is intertwined with this vibrancy, from their family-run operations to their dedication to eco-friendly practices like solar power and water conservation. As climate change impacts grape growing worldwide, the Finger Lakes' moderate temperatures and glacial soils provide a resilient foundation, allowing producers like Ventosa to experiment and excel.

Critics and enthusiasts alike are taking note. Robert Parker Jr., in a recent review, lauded Ventosa's Riesling for its "purity and precision," while local sommeliers are incorporating their wines into high-end pairings. The double gold for the Cabernet Franc has sparked discussions about the varietal's potential as a Finger Lakes flagship, challenging perceptions that the region is solely white-wine territory.

In conclusion, Ventosa Vineyards' haul at the New York Wine Classic is a celebration of craftsmanship, innovation, and the indomitable spirit of New York's wine country. As they bask in the glow of these top medals, the future looks bright—and bubbly—for this Finger Lakes gem. Whether you're a seasoned oenophile or a casual sipper, Ventosa's wines invite you to discover the magic of the region, one award-winning sip at a time.

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