Brian McKenzie opened Finger Lakes Distilling in Burdett in 2009, producing grape-based spirits before the term gained wide currency in the region, and building the McKenzie Whiskey line into the most recognized distillery brand in the Finger Lakes. The distillery uses locally grown grains and fruit, and the production facility is visible from the tasting room, where flights of whiskey, brandy, and fruit liqueurs are poured alongside bottles available for retail. Tours run on weekends; the tasting room is open daily year-round. The Burdett location places it among the highest concentration of east-shore Seneca Lake producers.















