Knapp Winery

Knapp Winery
2770 County Rd 128 (Ernsberger Road)
Romulus, New York
USA 14541
Phone: 800-869-9271
http://www.knappwine.com/

Contact: Gene Pierce
Email: [email protected]

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.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!

Winemaker: Steve DiFrancesco

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