Learning New Words, But Make It Blaufränkisch…and by Heather “Coolidge”.
While the winters in the Finger Lakes are icy, the warmth of our neighbors keeps us in good spirits. It’s only fitting that we warm everyone up with this spicy 5 course dinner in collaboration with Imelda & Johannes of Kemmeter Wines. While her dumplings are famed, we are excited to see Imelda’s full culinary talents on display. Nancy and Johannes, meanwhile, will each take a course to pair with one of their wines. It’s going to be an evening to remember.
Please note that we can accomodate some food restrictions, but you must be able to handle spicy dishes. We cannot modify the level of heat for this dinner. Please contact us prior to ticket purchase if you have a food restriction.
Red Tail Ridge Nominated for a Wine Enthusiast Wine Star Award
Cold weather may have tightened its grip outside, but inside Red Tail Ridge Winery, the mood was anything but chilly.
Our recent winter dinner brought serious heat, heart, and hospitality. Guest chef Jamie Davis, joined by his wife and sous chef Jennifer Davis, created a menu driven by passion and soul. Each course leaned into comfort and creativity, making the evening feel both elevated and deeply personal.
Those flavors met their match with stunning wines from Nancy Irelan, whose bottles brought elegance, depth, and just the right amount of winter warmth to the table. Together, the food and wine sparked conversation, laughter, and that unmistakable glow that only a shared meal can create.
Despite the cold snap outside, our tasting room stayed cozy and full of life. Guests lingered, glasses clinked, and the energy in the room reminded us why these nights matter so much. None of this would have been possible without everyone who braved the weather to join us and show love to our incredible collaborators.
📽️ Be sure to watch the recap video below to relive the evening’s highlights, from the plates to the pours.
If you missed this one, don’t worry. More unforgettable experiences are on the way. Check out our upcoming events and join us for the next gathering around the table.
Blaufränkisch continues to gain attention as one of the most compelling red wine grapes shaping the future of cool-climate regions, including New York’s Finger Lakes. In a recent feature published by GuildSomm, the grape’s Central European origins, versatility, and rising global relevance take center stage. The article highlights why Blaufränkisch matters now and why producers such as Red Tail Ridge Winery play a role in that conversation.
Traditionally rooted in Austria and neighboring regions, Blaufränkisch thrives in cooler climates with extended growing seasons. It delivers vibrant acidity, savory spice, and layered fruit without excessive weight. These qualities make the grape a natural fit for the Finger Lakes, where climate, soils, and thoughtful vineyard practices allow Blaufränkisch to show clarity and balance.
At Red Tail Ridge Winery, Blaufränkisch reflects both place and intention. The grape responds well to the winery’s sustainable farming approach and precise cellar work. The resulting wines show freshness, structure, and age-worthy potential. These traits mirror the characteristics described in the GuildSomm feature, reinforcing why Blaufränkisch continues to gain credibility among sommeliers, educators, and wine professionals.
The article also places Blaufränkisch within a broader global context. Wine drinkers now seek expressive varieties that deliver authenticity rather than excess. Blaufränkisch answers that call. Its adaptability allows winemakers to highlight terroir while offering food-friendly structure and complexity. In the Finger Lakes, that expression feels especially compelling.
To explore how Blaufränkisch fits into Red Tail Ridge Winery’s portfolio, visit our dedicated Blaufränkisch page.
Published on October 6, 2025
As the sun sets over the Riesling block ridge at Red Tail Ridge, our celebration of the Day of the Dead with our FLX neighbor and friend, La Monarka will be in full swing! Come in costume for this traditional Dia de los Muertos fiesta. We will have traditional small bites with paired tastes of Red Tail Ridge wine; cellar tours; a costume contest; music; a Piñata contest, and much more. If the weather is nice, bring your furry friends dressed in costume. We will have the Pavilion open until the temperatures drop. Also, bring a memento of a loved one to remember in community on the alter. After all, the Day of the Dead is a celebration of our lives and the one of our ancestors.
Tickets are available by clicking on the image above. The Fiesta happens from 4pm-7pm on November 7, 2025.
If you are a longtime FLX Fan, you may very well know Chef Christina McKeough, a Finger Lakes native, who is now the Executive Chef of High Street Hospitality in Philadelphia. She is coming back to visit us at Red Tail Ridge on November 1st for a fabulous dinner as part of our Visiting Chef Series. We are excited to showcase her distinctive culinary style with dishes using the flavors of the season to pair with our wines.
Join us as we celebrate Harvest 2025 with this very special dinner with local Chef Matt Hummel of Hazelnut Kitchen. Served outside in the fresh air of late September, we will enjoy the sunset as we enjoy a beautiful meal and Red Tail Ridge wines.
Have you wanted to get out into the vineyard and enjoy the views from different spots along the way? Have you stopped on the drive out of Red Tail Ridge to admire the vista of Seneca Lake over the irrigation pond? Then this experience may just be the unique way you want to enjoy time here at Red Tail Ridge. By creating your own piece of landscape art with local artist and teacher, Steve Duprey on August 17, 2025. During this one-day Plein Air art class, you will venture to a spot around the property with Steve and learn the basics of landscape art. Steve will be providing all the equipment and the paints, while Red Tail Ridge will be providing lunch with a glass of wine.
Come and experience Red Tail Ridge in a calming and fun way that soothes the soul and allows you to bring home your own creation to enjoy!
Wine Enthusiast Highlights The Finger Lakes and Red Tail Ridge
Wine Enthusiast writer, Christina Pickard, in July wrote about The Finger Lakes as a destination to visit for its natural beauty along with the robust wine scene and dining experiences. Red Tail Ridge Winery is honored to have been mentioned as one of the places to visit.
Click Below to go to the article
