Knapp Winery

OUR STORY



          It all began with the purchase of the “big purple monster” in 1977. What was the “monster”? It was a big purple mechanized grape harvester. In an industry dominated my manual hand labor, Doug Knapp realized the purchase of the harvester was an investment in the future of grape growing. He bought the harvester while living and working in the Panama Canal Zone.

          He and his future wife Suzie successfully operated the harvester for several autumn harvests going from vineyard to vineyard. Doug bought an old chicken farm where Knapp Vineyards stand today in 1977. Shortly thereafter, Doug planted fifteen acres of grape vines on his new farm.

          Although, the majority of their business still came from harvesting every fall travelling from farm to farm, the Knapps also became “Taylor” growers. The Taylor Wine Company, an old established family wine business in New York State, dominated the industry for many years. The Taylor Wine Company was sold to Coca Cola in the 70’s and began its decline. As Doug harvested vineyards throughout the Finger Lakes he realized that some of the very best grapes were grown on his very own farm.

          The Knapps realized the best way to stay in business was to stop selling grapes to other wine producers but to go into business for themselves! They planted many more acres of vineyards, especially Vitis Vinifera species such as Riesling, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Lemberger, Nebbiolo, and the first Cabernet Franc in the Finger Lakes. They also learned to make wine themselves as they bonded Knapp Winery in 1982.

          Knapp Winery opened its doors in 1984. The Knapps quickly produced award winning wines. In 1991 Knapp Winery was awarded the Governor’s Cup for their Late Harvest Vignoles as the best wine in New York State. In 1992, Knapp opened the Vineyard Restaurant; the first winery restaurant on Cayuga Lake. Continuing their tradition of innovation, Knapp was the first winery on the east coast to purchase an Alembic Pot Still for the production of brandy in 1992. Along with brandy, Knapp makes grappa, port, limencello, and several fruit flavored cordials.

          As the 90’s came to a close Doug and Suzie thought the time was ripe to retire, so in 2000 they sold the winery to Gene Pierce and his business partner Scott Welliver. Along with Knapp Winery & Vineyard Restaurant, Gene and Scott own Glenora Wine Cellars which is the oldest winery on Seneca Lake. As the company President, Gene plays a very active role in the daily running of Knapp from selling wine to mowing the lawn. Gene also brought over 25 years of experience to Knapp.

          Gene and winemaker Steve DiFrancesco have continued a tradition of excellence and innovation at Knapp. In the past year alone, Knapp has won well over 100 medals and other awards!

          Knapp continues to progress into the 21^st century continuously adding to its product line. Along with our Vinifera wines and distilled products, Knapp continues the old New York tradition of producing wines from Native grapes (Vitis Labrusca) in the very popular “Kat” line of Kat Knapp (Catawba), Kat Knapp White (Niagara), Superstition (Concord), and our newer white hybrid blend Curiosity (Cayuga & Vignoles). Knapp continues to produce wines for every taste, from rich dry reds like Sangiovese and Merlot to sweet tastes like Kat Knapp and George’s Peach to strong liquors such as grappa and limencello. Knapp also harvested its first Ice Wine in December 2008. Knapp Winery & Vineyard Restaurant continues to provide a delightful adventure for everyone’s palate with 39 distinct products on our wine list!

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