If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “I’d love to go somewhere new… but I don’t even know where to start,”—this one’s for you.

Because there’s a wine region quietly making a name for itself… and once you hear about it, you might just start checking flights.

Let’s talk about the Finger Lakes.

I sat down with Caley McKnight, who’s studying enology at Cornell University (yes, right in the heart of it all), and what unfolded was more than a conversation about wine. It was a reminder of how powerful it can be to step into something new—especially in this season of life.

And if you’re coming to Wine Camp with me? Consider this your inside scoop.

It’s Not Just Beautiful—It’s a Big Deal

The Finger Lakes isn’t just a pretty place with water views and vineyards (although… yes, it absolutely is that too).

It’s a region with serious credibility.

Between its cool climate, unique soil, and growing conditions, it produces wines that are distinct, expressive, and—honestly—surprising if you’ve never experienced them before.

Riesling shines here. So do Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir. And unlike some higher-alcohol wines you might be used to, many of these are lighter, more balanced, and incredibly food-friendly.

Which means… you can sip, savor, and actually enjoy the experience without feeling like you need a nap afterward.

From “I Like Wine” to “I Want to Make It”

Caley’s story is one so many women will recognize—starting somewhere practical, following curiosity, and then realizing… wait, I want more of this.

She began in the restaurant world in California, where food and wine pairings sparked her interest. But it didn’t stop there.

After taking a sommelier course, she had a moment of clarity: she didn’t just want to serve wine—she wanted to make it.

So she made the leap into studying enology and is now fully immersed in the science, the land, and the process behind every bottle.

And I love this reminder: sometimes the next step isn’t obvious until you try something new.

Wine Is Science… and a Little Bit Magic

Before this conversation, you might think of wine as something you drink, enjoy, and maybe have a favorite of.

But when you start peeling back the layers?

There’s soil. Weather. Sunlight. Timing. Chemistry. Human decision-making at every step.

There’s also intuition. Connection. Even a little talking-to-the-vines energy (yes, really).

It’s both technical and deeply human—which feels like a pretty perfect metaphor for life, doesn’t it?

What You Can’t Miss in the Finger Lakes

If you’re planning a trip (or dreaming about one), here are a few highlights from Caley:

• Wineries known for European-style wines and award-winning blends

• Scenic lake views that make every tasting feel like an experience

• Cideries crafting dry, complex ciders (not the sugary kind you might expect)

• Distilleries doing creative, unexpected things (including mushroom-based spirits!)

In other words… come curious.

Why This Matters (Beyond the Wine)

Here’s what I kept coming back to during this conversation:

This isn’t just about wine.

It’s about giving yourself permission to explore something new. To go somewhere different. To say yes to experiences that light you up.

Because so many women I talk to are craving that.

Not more on their to-do list. Not more pressure.

Just… something that feels good again.

A Little Preview of What’s Coming

If you’re joining me for Wine Camp 2026, you’re going to experience all of this firsthand—the wine, the views, the conversations, and the connection.

And if you’re not (yet)… consider this your invitation.

Because you’re not too late to try something new.

Not even close.

To learn more and join us at Wine Camp: https://www.pennyforyourshots.com/winecamp