Cayuga Lake
The Cayuga Lake AVA is located in upstate New York, near the eponymous lake. The AVA was granted in 1988, the first for any of the Finger Lakes. Varieties, planted on hillsides up to 800 feet, include an intriguing mix of hybrids such as Baco Noir, Catawba, Chambercin and Diamond, along with international varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling. Because of the cool breezes and moderate temperatures, the wines have very good acidity and as the growing season is long, even Ice Wines can be produced (Vidal is often used to produce this heady dessert wine). Overall, the wines have good varietal character, and are medium-bodied with a pleasant fruitiness. Prices are reasonable, in the $14-$20 range for most table wines, and many of these wines are very good values.