Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery
Where Konstantin Frank planted the first vinifera vines in the eastern United States in 1958, for $6,000.
Frank held a doctorate in viticulture from the Odessa Polytechnic Institute and knew the 300-year failure to grow vinifera in the northeast was a rootstock problem, not a cold-climate one. He found a sympathetic partner in Charles Fournier at Gold Seal Winery, with whom he communicated in French. In 1958 he purchased 188 acres on Keuka’s west shore for $6,000 — chosen for its shale-based soil and southwest-facing slope — and planted with evening and weekend help from volunteers. The vines he planted that year are among the oldest in the United States. All Chateau Frank sparkling wine, made by the traditional method with bottle fermentation, comes from the Keuka estate. Meaghan Frank, Konstantin’s great-granddaughter, is now the lead winemaker. The 1886 Reserve terrace tasting overlooks the original vineyard and requires a reservation. Open daily. Not a Keuka Lake Wine Trail official member.
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