Sarah Gummoe Named Head Winemaker at Dr. Konstantin Frank

I normally don't cover this kind of movement anymore. The East Coast winemaking establishment has just become too big, And following people around by posting would be a full time job. Occasionally, though, there's that individual or winery, who's position kind of demands a note. This is one of them. Most notably, too, is that the winery is welcoming a woman winemaker, which also deserves applause. Looking forward to Sarah's contributions.

Also want to take the time to congratulate Mark Veraguth on his 35 year career at Dr. Frank. He has made some spectacular and incredible wines over the years. And deserves much applause.  

Finger Lakes, NY (September 15, 2026) Press Release

Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery announced the appointment of Sarah Gummoe as Head Winemaker. Gummoe brings global experience, regional knowledge, and a thoughtful approach to cool-climate winemaking. She steps into the role following the retirement of Mark Veraguth after a 35-year tenure. In her new role, Gummoe will oversee all aspects of winemaking and cellar operations, continuing the

winery’s legacy of producing world-class wines with a diverse portfolio of vinifera varieties.

A Rochester native, Gummoe earned her undergraduate degree from Hobart and William Smith Colleges and a Graduate Diploma of Oenology from the Eastern Institute of Technology in New Zealand. She also completed studies within the UC Davis Winemaking Extension Program and holds her Wine Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 certification. Sarah discovered her passion for wine and the Finger Lakes through early experience at Fox Run Vineyards and went on to work harvests in Austria, Oregon, New Zealand, and Australia. She later held winemaking roles at leading producers in Marlborough, New Zealand. After almost a decade honing her craft in New Zealand, Sarah returned to her Finger Lakes roots in 2024 to take on the Winemaker role at Dr. Frank Winery.

"Sarah pairs an exceptional eye for detail with a genuine, people-first approach that shapes the culture of our cellar," said Meaghan Frank, 4th generation and Vice President of Dr. Frank. "We affectionately call her the 'aromatics queen,' because few winemakers can draw out the delicate aromatics of a wine the way she does, an essential skill for a portfolio built on aromatic whites and especially Riesling. She's the natural choice to carry our commitment to quality and innovation forward."

"My passion for wine was first sparked in the Finger Lakes almost twenty years ago. After years away gaining experience abroad, being able to return home to a winery like Dr. Frank, working with the aromatic varieties this region does so beautifully is genuinely a dream," said Gummoe. "Dr. Konstantin Frank's legacy is foundational to vinifera winemaking here, and I'm honored to help carry it forward."