Dr. Konstantin Frank, a Ukrainian immigrant, has been instrumental in elevating the Finger Lakes as a notable region for sparkling wine production in North America. The Finger Lakes boasts a history with sparkling wine dating back to 1867 when Hammondsport’s Pleasant Valley Wine Co earned accolades at the Exposition Universelle in Paris for its sparkling Catawba. However, it was Dr. Frank’s arrival in 1952 that began a revolution in growing vinifera grape varieties in New York.
Frank, with his extensive background in viticulture from Ukraine, challenged the prevailing belief that vinifera could not thrive in the Finger Lakes’ cold climate. He gained employment at the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station, where he met Charles Fournier, a former production manager at Veuve Clicquot, who aided Frank in experimental plantings that shifted New York’s wine focus from native to vinifera grape varieties.
In 1957, Frank purchased 188 acres near Keuka Lake and started planting vinifera vines, officially establishing his winery, Dr Konstantin Frank & Sons, in 1962. Interestingly, while sparkling wine had some success with the Urbana Wine Company, Frank initially dismissed it, believing that traditional still wines were far superior.
His son, Willy Frank, however, took a different approach. After buying a nearby house, he started to plant Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier with the goal of producing sparkling wines. In 1985, Willy launched the Finger Lakes’ first traditional method sparkling wine, paving the way for an expansion of their sparkling offerings.
Today, under Eric Bauman’s leadership since 2005, the sparkling program has flourished, incorporating modern techniques while keeping traditions alive. This evolution includes the introduction of different styles, from Célèbre Brut and Rosé to the younger, versatile Cuvée ’85 Brut. Bauman emphasizes freshness and a reduction in dosage due to climate changes, showcasing a drier wine profile as the vineyard’s grapes become better ripened.
The winery has also embraced innovative practices, such as avoiding malolactic fermentation, which helps maintain brightness in the wines, while still aging on the lees for complexity. Their portfolio now includes a range of sparkling options, including a 100% Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier Blanc de Noirs, with ongoing exploration of varietals that honor Dr. Frank’s heritage.
This family legacy has not only solidified Dr. Konstantin Frank as a leading name in Finger Lakes wines but has also significantly contributed to the region’s recognition within the global wine community.
For more on Finger Lakes wines, visit Finger Lakes.