Acquilano Wine Cellars in Canandaigua, New York: Meet the Vintner
We sat down with Vintner/Owner James Acquilano of Acquilano Wine Cellars in Canandaigua, New York. Acquilano Wine Cellars is a boutique farm winery located in New York's Finger Lakes region. They are committed to sustainable and renewable farming practices, including maintaining ground cover and designing vineyard rows to enhance airflow, which reduces the need for chemical sprays. All of their grapes are handpicked, and machinery is used sparingly to minimize their environmental footprint.
Acquilano Wine Cellars in Canandaigua, New York: Meet the Vintner
Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?
I start in the winery checking-in on the wines that are fermenting and aging. I end my day reflecting on how well I educated and served patrons in the tasting room.
What’s a good way for someone to start developing their wine palate?
Taste wines that are blind to you, focus on the aromas, body, and taste, rather than the variety. Expand your senses prior to New York specific wines.
Can you explain the difference in your own words between Old World and New World wines?
Old World wines have greater history and tend to be more consistent in their profile due to restrain on how they are made and tend to be blends to a higher degree than New World wines. New World wines can be equally as good as Old World wines.
Acquilano Wine Cellars in Canandaigua, New York: Meet the Vintner
What kind of wine do you typically enjoy the most?
I typically enjoy dry reds and whites the most, but do also have a fondness for ports.
What’s a wine that surprised you recently?
A Blanc de Blanc from a local winery.
What up-and-coming wine region are you excited about?
The Finger Lakes Wine Region.
What’s your Instagram so that readers can follow you?
You can follow @acquilano_wine_cellars.
Acquilano Wine Cellars in Canandaigua, New York: Meet the Vintner
What’s one common wine myth you’d love to debunk?
That the most expensive wine on the menu is the best.
What’s a grape varietal most people overlook but should try?
Blaufränkisch. It is a wonderful medium body red that can be quite fruitful, intricate and dry.
Tell readers why they should visit your wine bar?
I serve my own award-winning wines, but also one of the larger selections of Finger Lakes wines, and we have live music on the weekends.