7 Shocking Secrets Of Deer Run Winery NY: The Westernmost Gem Of The Finger Lakes (2025 Update)
Are you looking for the freshest, most current information on Deer Run Winery in Geneseo, NY? This family-run farm winery, celebrated as the westernmost gem of the entire Finger Lakes region, is not just a scenic stop on Conesus Lake; it's a dynamic hub for award-winning wines, unique hybrid grapes, and year-round events. As of late 2025, the winery continues to innovate, hosting popular gatherings like the 'Candlelight Nights' and 'Tapas in the Vineyard,' making it an essential destination for any New York wine enthusiast.
This deep dive reveals the seven most surprising and essential facts about Deer Run Winery, from its founding family to the globally unique wines they are pouring right now. Prepare to uncover the secrets behind this Livingston County treasure and plan your perfect visit to the oldest operating winery on Conesus Lake.
The Kuyon Family Legacy: Deer Run Winery Biography & Profile
- Winery Name: Deer Run Winery
- Location: 3772 W Lake Rd, Geneseo, NY 14454 (North end of Conesus Lake)
- Status: Oldest operating winery on Conesus Lake; Westernmost Finger Lake winery.
- Founding Year: 2003
- Founder: George Kuyon
- Current Ownership/Management: Family-run farm winery, owned by George and Joan Kuyon. Son Scott Kuyon and his wife Marie Kuyon have expanded the winery's role, particularly as a premier wedding and event venue.
- Vineyard Size: Approximately 5 acres, contributing about 20% of their wine production, with the remainder sourced from other Finger Lakes growers.
- Key Grape Varieties Grown: Vidal, Valvin Muscat, Noiret, Corot Noir, Traminette, Marechal Foch, Frontenac.
- Signature Offerings: Award-winning Max Black, Runway Red, Saperavi, Wine Slushies, Cafe Menu (including famous Artichoke Dip).
Secret #1: It’s the Unofficial Gateway to the Finger Lakes Wine Region
While most people associate the Finger Lakes with the 'big four' lakes—Seneca, Cayuga, Keuka, and Canandaigua—Deer Run Winery holds a unique geographical distinction. It is officially recognized as the Westernmost Finger Lake winery.
Located on the northern shores of Conesus Lake, a smaller but equally beautiful Finger Lake, Deer Run acts as the perfect entry point for visitors traveling from Western New York, including Rochester and Buffalo.
This strategic location makes it an essential stop on the ROC/FLX Craft Beverage Trail, offering genuine hospitality and a taste of the region without the crowds found further east.
The winery’s setting, high above the northwestern edge of the lake, provides picturesque views that enhance the tasting room experience year-round.
Secret #2: The Award-Winning Wine List is Dominated by Uncommon Hybrid Grapes
Unlike many Finger Lakes wineries that focus heavily on Riesling, Deer Run Winery has carved out a niche by specializing in cold-hardy hybrid varietals, which thrive in the Conesus Lake microclimate.
Their on-site 5-acre vineyard grows a fascinating selection of grapes, including Noiret, Corot Noir, Marechal Foch, and Frontenac.
These grapes are the backbone of their most celebrated blends:
- Max Black: This is their best-selling, gold medal-awarded wine, often praised for its rich, complex flavor profile.
- Runway Red: An off-dry red blend of Corot Noir and Noiret, this jammy table wine has also earned gold medals and "Best in Category" awards, noted for its smooth and balanced finish.
This focus on hybrid varietals demonstrates a commitment to sustainable, local viticulture that maximizes the potential of the New York terroir.
Secret #3: They Pour a Rare, Ancient Red Wine Called Saperavi
One of the most unique offerings at Deer Run Winery is their Saperavi. This intensely dark, deeply colored red wine is made from an ancient grape that originated in the Republic of Georgia, one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the world.
Finding a quality Saperavi in the Finger Lakes is a rare treat, and Deer Run is one of the few producers championing this bold varietal.
The Saperavi is frequently featured in their high-end pairing events, such as the 2025 'Candlelight Nights,' where it is expertly matched with dishes like a charcuterie skewer.
This commitment to cultivating and vinifying such an exotic, "New World Saperavi" elevates Deer Run’s reputation beyond the standard Finger Lakes fare, appealing to serious wine connoisseurs seeking something truly different.
Secret #4: The 2025 Event Calendar is Packed with Immersive Food & Wine Pairings
Deer Run Winery is far more than just a tasting room; it's a culinary destination, especially with its recent 2025 event updates. The winery hosts several themed, ticketed events that offer a full sensory experience.
A highlight is the annual Candlelight Nights, a multi-course food and wine pairing dinner. The 2025 menu features gourmet combinations such as:
- Brie stuffed pastry with wine jam paired with 2023 Chardonnay.
- Chicken picatta meatballs paired with Saperavi.
- Creamy chicken alfredo with wine cheese sauce paired with Reserve White.
They also host 'Tapas in the Vineyard,' which includes a Spanish chocolate cake paired with their Saperavi, transforming the vineyard into a vibrant, romantic dining space.
These events showcase the winery's dedication to pairing their handcrafted wines with high-quality, inventive cuisine.
Secret #5: They Offer More Than Just Wine: Slushies and Gourmet Bites
For a more casual visit, Deer Run Winery provides delightful, non-traditional offerings that have become local favorites. Their Wine Slushies are a massive hit, especially during the warmer months, providing a refreshing and fun way to enjoy their wines.
The winery also operates a cafe that serves fantastic food, perfect for a light lunch or a snack during a tasting. A must-try item that consistently earns rave reviews from visitors is the famous Artichoke Dip, served warm with freshly made, toasted sourdough bread.
This combination of a traditional tasting room experience with fun, casual options like the slushies and cafe menu ensures that Deer Run appeals to a wide range of visitors, from seasoned wine lovers to casual tourists.
Secret #6: It’s a Top-Rated, Highly Recommended Wedding Venue
Beyond wine production, Deer Run Winery has established itself as one of the premier wedding and event venues in the Geneseo and Conesus Lake area. The Kuyon family, particularly Scott and Marie, expanded the winery’s role as an event space starting in 2016.
The beautiful, picturesque setting nestled at the north end of Conesus Lake provides a stunning backdrop for ceremonies and receptions.
Reviews consistently praise the venue for its beautiful setting and, more importantly, the incredible staff. Couples highly recommend the winery, noting that the team is "incredibly thorough" and makes the wedding experience "perfect."
The combination of a charming location, great wine, and dedicated service makes it a sought-after location for any special event.
Secret #7: You Can Join Their Exclusive Wine of the Month Club
For those who fall in love with the unique Deer Run portfolio, the winery offers a popular Wine of the Month Club. This club is the best way to keep your cellar stocked with their award-winning wines, including the Max Black and Runway Red, without having to make the drive to Geneseo.
Members receive quarterly wine club releases, which often include exclusive happy hour events with food and wine samples, providing an added layer of community and engagement for loyal customers.
The club ensures that fans of their distinctive hybrid varietals, like the Corot Noir and Noiret, can enjoy their favorites year-round, affirming Deer Run Winery's status as a true family-run farm winery dedicated to its community and its craft.
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