Wine Savant: Finger Lakes Wine Fest

by: John Ney - Wine Savant Magazine (Sept/Oct 2005 issue) john@winesavantmag.com

(July 15 & 17, 2005 – Watkins Glen, NY) Wine and NASCAR, not your typical pairing, however the wineries of the Finger Lakes Region once again joined forces with Watkins Glen International, the world famous NASCAR owned road racing facility in Watkins Glen, NY on the southern edge of Lake Seneca. The Finger Lakes Wine Festival brought nearly 80 wineries from several states and Canada; together in one venue side by side for this three day event. No need to worry about the weather conditions because the NASCAR Service Garage and surrounding areas are transformed into a giant indoor tasting room, where nearly 30,000 people gathered for the three day event held July 15th through the 17th. Three days of non-stop wine tasting and parties, it is no wonder that thousands of visitors took advantage of the opportunity to spend the entire weekend camping at the track avoiding all the traffic jams.
The Annual Kick-Off Celebration began on Friday night with live music at the Coliseum Village with Launch of the Lakes which is probably the world’s largest Toga Party, an event that would certainly have made Bluto and the entire Animal House entourage envious.
A champagne breakfast both Saturday and Sunday at the track’s exclusive Glen Club, featuring Great Western Champagnes.... For the Whole Story Visit: www.winesavantmag.com