Largest AVA area in New York State south of Lake Ontario. The geographical area includes a total of eleven glacial lakes, but the vineyards are mainly located on the two lakes Canandaigua and Keuka (after which a grape variety is named). The Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake areas are separate AVA's within the large area. A first mention of viticulture dates back to 1829, and by the end of the 19th century the area under vines had grown to about 25,000 hectares, but this was greatly reduced by phylloxera, prohibition (1020-1933) and strong competition from California. The Russian-born and viticulture pioneer Dr. Konstantin Frank (1897-1985) worked at the Viticulture Station of Cornell University. He founded the "Vinifera Wine Cellars" winery in Keuka Lake and paved the way for the successful cultivation of European noble varieties. The area became known primarily for its sparkling and sweet wines.
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