The finalists for the James Beard Awards have been announced, and the Finger Lakes is not on the list.

Nancy Irelan, co-owner and winemaker for Red Tail Ridge winery in Penn Yan, had been named a semifinalist in the category of Outstanding Wine, Spirits or Beer Producer, but did not advance in the competition.

"The feedback and support we’ve experienced locally and in the market has been very generous and heart-warming," Irelan said via email. "Michael and I are really not sure how we ended up on the semi-finalist list, but we are grateful for the exposure and the opportunity; we hope that it will help position the Finger Lakes for future consideration. We congratulate all the folks who were selected to move forward in the nomination process."

A 52-acre vineyard and winery on the western shore of Seneca Lake in Penn Yan, Red Tail Ridge is owned by Irelan along with her husband, Mike Schnelle, who is the winery's viticulturist. The winery grows Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling grapes, as well as more obscure red varieties that grow well in cooler regions of Europe.

Red Tail Ridge is also noted for its "green" efforts, such as its building, which uses geothermal energy for heating, cooling and refrigeration. The winery is at 846 State Route 14 in Penn Yan.

Established in 1990, the James Beard Awards recognize culinary professionals for excellence and achievement in their fields. The 2019 James Beard Awards Gala will take place on Monday, May 6, at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

TRACYS@Gannett.com