Winemaker's New Venture Preserves View of Keuka Lake

A New Chapter for Winemaker Jordan Harris

Winemaker Jordan Harris has embarked on a new journey, joining the Point of the Bluff Hospitality Group in July after five years at Heron Hill Winery, just 4.2 miles away. Both wineries overlook the west side of Keuka Lake in New York’s Finger Lakes region, north of Hammondsport. This move marks a significant shift in his career, as he now works at a smaller facility with a strong emphasis on specific wine varieties.

Point of the Bluff Vineyards, established in 2008 and located at 10489 County Route 76, is known for its focus on producing Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Blaufränkisch. Harris highlights that Riesling is the flagship variety, but he also sees great potential in Pinot Noir as the estate vineyard matures. The winery also offers popular sparkling Rosé and Riesling, along with Chardonnay, Cab Franc, and Blaufränkisch.

For the 2025 vintage, Harris aims to produce primarily small lots of ultra-premium and luxury-level wines using these varieties. He describes the estate vineyard as unique due to its south-facing slope, which is rare in the Finger Lakes. The steep terrain and shallow gravelly loam over shale contribute to the concentration and mineral-driven characteristics of the wines, while maintaining the region’s signature acidity.

The winery is open daily from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with events including live music on Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. and wine and food pairings, such as one scheduled for Friday, September 19, that will feature mushrooms paired with its wines.

Beyond the winery, the Point of the Bluff Hospitality Group includes several other ventures. Glenn Scott Farms provides CSA and premium produce, while Park Inn Restaurant offers farm-to-table dining and a wine bar. Accommodations are available at both Park Inn and Glenn Scott Manor. The group also hosts Point of the Bluff Concerts, featuring a state-of-the-art acoustic pavilion that welcomes rock, Americana, jazz, and country artists. Clint Black is set to perform with Claudia Hoyser on Sunday, September 21.

Harris is not only focused on his own winemaking but also on supporting the broader industry. He mentioned plans to expand an incubator model for local winemakers and vineyards, along with custom crush services. Additionally, he hinted at a program launching in early 2026 aimed at helping underrepresented demographics enter the wine industry.

Before joining Point of the Bluff, Harris began his career in Ontario, Canada, and later spent 13 years as winemaker and general manager at Tarara Winery in Virginia’s Loudoun County, known for its long-running summer concert series. While the winery closed in 2021, the concert series continues.

Harris joined Heron Hill in July 2020 during the pandemic. When asked what drew him to Point of the Bluff, he cited the group's direction toward high-quality, focused wines, the exceptional farming practices at Glenn Scott Farms, and the attention to detail at the restaurant and accommodations. He emphasized that the team's passion and dedication were key factors in his decision.

One of the biggest challenges of his new role, according to Harris, is living up to his own expectations. He praised the support from the owners, managers, and team, as well as the incredible vineyard site. He believes the team is set up for success, and he is excited to create the best wines imaginable.