As the leaves begin to change and the air grows crisp, the Finger Lakes region of New York comes alive with the energy and beauty of the annual grape harvest. This is a time when the Loch & Quay, a refined destination known for its upscale dining experiences, local cuisine, and scenic waterfront ambience, truly shines. By embracing the bounty of the season and thoughtfully pairing local produce with artisanal wines, our culinary team crafts a dining experience that celebrates the essence of the harvest.
Autumn Harvest
As summer fades, the markets and orchards of our region come alive with the vibrant hues and distinct flavors of autumn’s bounty. Crisp apples, plump pumpkins, and an array of squash varieties take center stage, offering a wealth of culinary possibilities.
Apples are a quintessential fall ingredient, and our chefs relish the opportunity to showcase their versatility. From tart Cortlands used in a savory pork dish to sweet Honeycrisps in a caramel-drizzled tart, these seasonal gems lend their unique personalities to both sweet and savory preparations. When paired with the bright acidity and subtle umami notes of a local dry Riesling or the bold, fruit-forward character of a Finger Lakes Cabernet Franc, the flavors of autumn truly shine.
Similarly, pumpkins and winter squash varieties like butternut, acorn, and delicata are celebrated throughout our menus. Roasted and seasoned with warming spices, these hearty vegetables lend themselves beautifully to creamy soups, rich risottos, and even decadent desserts. The natural sweetness of these autumn staples pairs exceptionally well with the vanilla, caramel, and spice notes found in an oaked Chardonnay or the concentrated fruit flavors of a Finger Lakes Merlot.
Winter Crops
As the harvest season transitions into winter, the Loch & Quay’s culinary team turns its attention to the bounty of root vegetables, cruciferous greens, and citrus fruits that flourish in the cooler months.
Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, beets, and potatoes become the foundation for nourishing and comforting dishes. Roasted to caramelization and seasoned with herbs, they provide a delightful counterpoint to the bright acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc or the earthy, structured characteristics of a Cabernet Franc.
Equally versatile are the cruciferous vegetables that thrive in the winter, such as Brussels sprouts, kale, and cauliflower. When sautéed with aromatic umami-rich ingredients like garlic and shallots, these hearty greens pair beautifully with the subtle minerality and bright fruit flavors of an unoaked Chardonnay or the ripe berry notes of a Finger Lakes Merlot.
As the season progresses, the arrival of citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, and Meyer lemons adds a refreshing zing to our menus. Whether featured in a salad, incorporated into a dessert, or complementing a seafood dish, these bright, acidic fruits find harmony with the crisp, al fresco character of a local sparkling wine or the elegant, structured profiles of our award-winning Cabernet Sauvignons.
Spring Produce
With the arrival of spring, the Loch & Quay’s culinary team eagerly anticipates the emergence of the season’s most vibrant and delicate produce. Tender leafy greens like arugula, spinach, and butter lettuce provide the foundation for nourishing salads that pair delightfully with the herbaceous, mineral-driven characteristics of a Finger Lakes Sauvignon Blanc or the delicate floral notes of a dry Riesling.
As the season progresses, we celebrate the arrival of berry varieties like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries. These juicy, sweet-tart gems lend themselves beautifully to both savory and sweet preparations, from compotes and sauces to tarts and parfaits. Their bright, umami-forward flavors create a harmonious balance with the fruit-forward profiles of our Finger Lakes Pinot Noir and Merlot.
Finally, the emergence of asparagus signals the true arrival of spring. Whether grilled, roasted, or incorporated into a risotto, this verdant vegetable with its distinct herbaceous notes finds a perfect pairing in the crisp, refreshing character of a local dry Riesling or the delicate, earthy nuances of a Finger Lakes Chardonnay.
Pairing Principles
At the Loch & Quay, our culinary team understands that the art of pairing seasonal produce with artisanal wines goes beyond simple flavor matching. By considering the interplay of sweet, savory, and acidic profiles, as well as the varied textures of each ingredient, we create harmonious and elevated dining experiences.
Flavor Profiles: A sweet preparation, such as a roasted butternut squash puree or a fruit-forward compote, can be beautifully complemented by the bright acidity and mineral backbone of a dry Riesling or the lush, fruity character of a Finger Lakes Merlot. Conversely, savory dishes highlighted by earthy, umami-rich vegetables like mushrooms or roasted root vegetables pair exceptionally well with the structured tannins and dark fruit notes of a Cabernet Franc or the creamy, vanilla-tinged profile of an oaked Chardonnay.
Textures: The crunchy bite of a fresh salad or the soft, velvety mouthfeel of a puree can be enhanced by the contrasting textures found in our wine selections. A Finger Lakes Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc, with their lively acidity and bright, refreshing profiles, provide a delightful counterpoint to the juicy sensation of a perfectly ripe tomato or the tender mouthfeel of a slow-roasted pork tenderloin.
Preparation Techniques: Our chefs also consider the impact of various cooking methods when crafting their seasonal pairings. The caramelization and warm, aromatic spices that develop during roasting lend themselves beautifully to the rich, full-bodied characteristics of an oaked Chardonnay or the structured elegance of a Finger Lakes Cabernet Sauvignon. Conversely, the quick cooking and vibrant aromatics of a sautéed dish often find harmony with the crisp, herbaceous notes of a Sauvignon Blanc or the bright, fruit-forward profile of a Finger Lakes Pinot Noir.
Preserving the Harvest
In addition to celebrating the bounty of the season through our menus, the Loch & Quay also takes great pride in preserving the flavors of the harvest for year-round enjoyment. Our culinary team meticulously cans and pickles an array of seasonal produce, from juicy tomatoes to crisp cucumbers, ensuring that the essence of the harvest is captured and celebrated long after the last leaves have fallen.
These preserved offerings not only grace our seasonal menus but also serve as thoughtful gift items for our discerning guests, allowing them to recreate the ambience and flavors of the Loch & Quay in their own homes. By embracing the power of local sourcing and seasonal eating, we not only celebrate the bounty of our region but also contribute to the sustainability of our culinary landscape.
Nutritional Benefits
Beyond the exceptional flavor profiles and textural experiences that our seasonal produce pairings offer, the Loch & Quay is also committed to providing our guests with the nutritional benefits of eating with the seasons. Our autumn and winter dishes, rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, nourish the body and soul, while our spring and summer offerings tap into the rejuvenating power of leafy greens, berries, and other vibrant produce.
By championing the use of locally sourced ingredients, we not only support our regional farmers and purveyors but also reduce the environmental impact of our operations. This commitment to sustainable practices is woven throughout the Loch & Quay experience, from our carefully curated wine list featuring Finger Lakes vintners to our meticulously crafted menus that showcase the region’s culinary treasures.
Harvest Celebrations
As the Loch & Quay celebrates the arrival of each new season, we invite our guests to join us in savoring the bounty of the harvest through a variety of special events and experiences. From intimate al fresco dinners that highlight the season’s freshest produce and the region’s finest wines to interactive cooking demonstrations that teach the art of preserving the harvest, our team takes great pride in immersing our guests in the ambience and flavors that define the Finger Lakes culinary landscape.
Whether you’re enjoying a cozy winter meal featuring slow-roasted root vegetables and a bold Cabernet Franc or indulging in a springtime brunch showcasing the vibrant greens and berries of the season paired with a crisp, mineral-driven Riesling, the Loch & Quay promises an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates the very essence of the harvest. We invite you to join us in raising a glass to the bounty of the seasons and the artistry of pairing the region’s finest produce with our award-winning selection of Finger Lakes wines.