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When you first try to describe Corning, it can be difficult to get outsiders enthused. We’re a small town surrounded by big swaths of farmland. We get slapped with the labels “upstate New York” and “Southern Tier”, both of which sound nondescript and unappetizing. Add in our long snowy winters, and you can see where the problem arises.
Common assumption of what non-NYC New York is like. Photo courtesy of flickr user mozillaman
BUT WAIT. Some marketing genius realized a while back that the “Finger Lakes region” has appeal, intrigue, and dare I say, an element of fun. No longer is this region of New York limited by our previous claim to fame, “Rural Halfway Point Between New York City and Niagara Falls. Decent Place to Stop for Lunch and a Pee Break.” (Not that this was ever an official area slogan. I think.)
While we do tout the appeal of our many lakes, waterways, natural glens, and hiking trails, there is one attribute of this region that differentiates us and brings us the big bucks. We market it mercilessly, and for good reason. WE’VE GOT WINE, BABY!
Now this is what the Finger Lakes is all about. Photo courtesy of Keuka Lake Wine Trail facebook page
Corning, however, is not located directly upon one of the Finger Lakes. I know, I know, after all that build up, we don’t even get the water or the vineyards that bring this area its fame. We may not be lakeside lushes here in Corning, it’s true, but before you start crying into your bag of Franzia, let me fill you in on a little something… a place with wines that you’ll actually enjoy drinking.
Ta-da!
Bottles and Corks! They describe their store as “The Wine Education Center of the Southern Tier”. It’s a fitting title:
1) Free 90 minute seminars.
Yep. You can practically become your own sommelier right here in Corning. On select Tuesdays from 6:30-8*, these focus either on varieties (Rosé or Australian wines for instance) or knowledge from local FLX winemakers (such as Standing Stone or Damiani). These are laid back, fun sessions that encourage questions and feel inclusive to those with all levels of wine knowledge. Did I mention the free samples included in each session?
2) Free local in-store tastings.
From 4-7 every Friday throughout the year, a local winery sends bottles of wine and a knowledgeable tasting expert to the store to conduct free wine tastings. Not only do you get to experience the best of that winery right here in town, you also receive 10% off any of the wines tasted that night. Hollaaaaa to that extra dolla or two you’ll save!
3) Free staff-chosen tastings.
Rain or shine, there’s always fun to be had in Corning on Saturday afternoons. Because that’s when the staff of Bottles and Corks often uncorks tried and true faves from among the store selection, all for your tasting pleasure. This is a great way to branch out of your comfort zone, and perhaps stumble upon a new favorite of your own!
4) Friendly, welcoming staff.
These people love sharing what they know with their customers. The staff are happy to help you choose a bottle or 3 that will please your palette, even on a budget. From assisting those who already have well-stocked wine cellars, to those who only know they want a step up from Boone’s Farm, you’re in for an inclusive, welcoming experience. Side note: if you’re old enough to drink, you’re old enough to stop drinking Boone’s Farm.
5) Super convenient location.
Right at the West end of Market Street (directly across from Walker Cake Company), this location makes it a breeze to stop by when walking, driving, or taking the free downtown bus that loops through CMOG/Rockwell/Market Street drop off points. Did I mention it’s across from Walker Cake Company? Wine + chocolate cupcakes… you do the math. Better yet, you bring me both of those items, and I’ll do the math for you!
6) Winning Wine Wednesday.
Most Wednesday afternoons, try your luck by ringing in with the weekly trivia question on the B&C facebook page. Whoever provides the correct answer first will have a bottle of staff-picked wine waiting for them at the store. Plus, the questions themselves are always fun- a free mini-lesson in vinology! (Vinology- a word I just made up, because I don’t know how to pronounce oenology.) Competition is fierce though, you’ve been warned.
BONUS! 7) An array of assorted liquors beyond wines.
From big ol’ handles of vodka to Chilean reds to mi amigo Jose Cuervo, B&C has more than just local wines for your imbibing pleasures. Sadly, they do not stock beer. With the ever-growing list of local breweries joining the Finger Lakes Beer trail, I would love to see a selection of regional brews for sale in the future! For all other spirits though, you should be all set.
So there you have it. While nothing beats taking a real wine tour– a cool glass of Finger Lakes white, the warm breezes of Keuka and Seneca caressing your smiling, sun-drenched face– save yourself the gas money and hassle of roping someone into being your DD for a day, and stroll on over to Corning’s very own wine mecca. I’ll see you there!
Some of the author’s current favorites.
Check out the website for the most up-to-date information on the dates and wineries participating in the seminars and tastings. Like them on Facebook for winning wine Wednesdays and any special announcements.
*Seminar Tuesdays usually run twice per month in the summer, and less often in the fall through spring.
Bottles & Corks | 130 W Market St, Corning, NY 14830 | 607-936-2222
Ellen Thompson
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