Keuka Lake Vineyards . September 12, 2025
Harvest has begun, a bit earlier than normal—this season has surprised us all year long. After a spring of constant rain that made it difficult to get tractors into the vineyards to protect the vines, the weather suddenly changed around flowering in late June. The rain gods gave us a break, and we had a very good fruit set that promised a bumper crop.
However, the sun has shone with force ever since. The warm, dry summer left the grapes largely disease-free, but they didn’t have enough water to put on much weight. Our young vines, like schoolchildren with much to learn, suffered more from the drought than the older, deep-rooted vines.
Now, the fruit looks beautiful but a bit small. This concentration, however, is likely to result in first-class wines.
You’re Invited: Our Annual Riesling Harvest Day!
Riesling Harvest Day is special at KLV! Since our beginning, every year (minus a brief Covid hiatus), we’ve gathered a crew of friends and KLV wine lovers on one day to help bring in our flagship Riesling. The day includes hard work, fantastic food by Chef Chris Garlock, a special wine tasting of current and library wines, and exclusive discount for pickers.
Schedule:
Noon: Brief training session.
12:15 – ~5:00pm: Grape picking! Please be prepared to stand for the duration.
Afterwards: Special wine tasting and harvest dinner.
Date (Tentative): The final date depends on the weather. Our best guess is:
Sept 27th (60% probability)
Oct 4th (40% probability)
We will confirm the date next week.
Interested? This is a ticketed event ($25 Wine Club / $40 Guests).
To join, please email tastingroom@klvineyards.com with:
Your available date(s).
The number of people in your party.
We can’t wait to hear from you and hopefully share this incredible day together!
