Dr Konstantin Frank, the Pioneer of Vinifera
Originally from Ukraine, Dr. Konstantin Frank moved to the USA in the 1950s. He escaped the devastation from the war with the hope to find a better life for his family. Upon discovering Upstate NY, he knew that he had found the perfect place to continue raising his family and advancing his career. Notwithstanding the title, Dr Konstantin Frank was not a medical doctor. He became an academic Dr. after earning his PhD in viticulture (the study of grapevines). Once he settled in the Finger Lakes, his extensive viticultural knowledge came in handy. He revolutionized the local industry by being the first one to successfully grow the European grape species (Vitis Vinifera). Until then, grape growers believed that it was simply too cold here to grow those high-quality grapes.
The Legacy Lives On
Today, Fred (Konstantin’s grandson) alongside his daughter Meaghan, continue building on Dr Konstantin Frank’s legacy. This benchmark producer is recognized as Ner York’s most award-winning winery. In addition, their pioneer spirits also drove them to be a trendsetter in the world of sparkling wine.
Growing grapes on Keuka and Seneca lakes allows Dr Konstantin Frank’s winemakers to create a plethora of styles. On one hand, the blends masterfully combine the intensity and fruitiness from the Seneca fruit, with the elegance and structure of its Keuka counterpart. On the other hand, the single-vineyard expressions are quintessential examples of each site’s unique terroir. Moreover, Dr Konstantin Frank’s Keuka vineyard is home to some of the oldest vines in the region. Older plants yield smaller, but much more intense and complex crops than younger vines. These include 50+ year old Riesling vines alongside the country’s second oldest vineyard of Pinot Noir!
Few wineries offer as many different activities for visitors as Dr Konstantin Frank. If you are looking for an unforgettable winery-visit, joining one of their 1886 Wine Experiences is a must!
If you are interested in discovering other benchmark wineries that make wines as celebrated as Dr Konstantin Frank’s… Check out Forge Cellars and Hermann J Wiemer.
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