Keuka Spring Vineyards / November 1, 2026
We’re delighted to introduce the 2023 Serenity Merlot, the newest addition to our Estate collection at Keuka Spring Vineyards.
Merlot has a wonderful ability to reflect the character of the vineyard where it’s grown, and this release is one we’ve been especially looking forward to sharing. With more than two years of patient aging and the thoughtful work of Head Winemaker Daniel Bissell, the result is a beautifully developed wine that we’re proud to bring to your table.
Serenity is located within the historic Standing Stone Vineyard on the south side of Seneca Lake. The north-south orientation of the grape vines make for ideal ripening conditions, providing the vines with reflected midday sunlight and warmth from the lake. Under ownership of Herman J Weimer, this vineyard passionately practices biodynamic farming, strengthening the vineyard’s soil health and diversifying its ecosystem.
The 2023 vintage was fairly typical for the Finger Lakes, though not without its challenges. Warm weather at the end of April brought an earlier bud break across parts of the region, and crop development progressed well until a late season frost on May 18th resulted in some growers experiencing substantial loss. Higher-than-average rainfall followed through spring and summer, yet disease pressure remained low. Despite the long season of rain, the sun broke through the clouds just in time for September, ripening the fruit beautifully in time for harvest. Aged 26 months in combination of French and neutral oak barrels.
Tasting Notes
The Serenity Merlot is the captured essence of a warming late-fall campfire in a bottle. Cozy, yet refined, this wine displays depth and complexity that would make it a stand-out addition to any wine lover’s shelf. Bright acidity and bold flavors bring forth notes of cranberry, blackberry, tobacco and cedar followed by a lovely black pepper and nutmeg finish.
Food Pairing
This wine would pair beautifully with grilled or roasted meats such as pork or duck, mushroom-centric dishes, bolognese, or grilled vegetables.
