Unique to the Finger Lakes, grape pies were first created in the 1950s and are credited to longtime Naples, N.Y., resident Irene Bouchard. Best made with freshly picked grapes in late summer and early fall, this juicy dessert strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart—and one slice is never enough.
A Small Town with a Big Claim to Fame
Since Irene Bouchard first introduced her now-famous creation, the Town of Naples, N.Y., has become known far and wide for this local specialty, earning the nickname “Grape Pie Capital of the World.” Each year, this picturesque village celebrates the harvest at the beloved Naples Grape Festival—a weekend-long celebration dedicated to all things grape.
Festival highlights include arts and crafts vendors, local and regional cuisine, a wine and craft beverage garden, live music, and, of course, the highly competitive “World’s Greatest Grape Pie Contest.” The competition is fierce, and the coveted title draws talented bakers from near and far.
The Art of Making Grape Pie
Crafting a grape pie is no small task. The process involves carefully separating the skins from the pulp and removing the seeds before preparing the filling. Most recipes call for Concord grapes, prized for their bold, unmistakable flavor. And if you ask around Naples, you’ll quickly learn that many family recipes are closely guarded secrets.
For the most authentic experience, die-hard fans can pick their own grapes at Jerome’s U-Pick Farm during harvest season. Prefer to simplify the process? Several Finger Lakes retailers offer ready-made grape pie filling.
Arbor Hill Grapery & Winery, for example, produces a Healthy Purple Grape Pie Topping & Filling made with simple ingredients: Concord grapes, sugar, tapioca, and lemon juice. It’s perfect not only for pies, but also for kuchens, strudels, coffee cakes—and even as a topping for ice cream or cheesecake.
Where to Find the Best Grape Pie
If baking isn’t your thing, you’re in luck. You can purchase grape pies at the Naples Grape Festival in September or from several beloved local establishments. Many visitors even buy a few to host their own tasting—and since grape pies freeze beautifully, you can enjoy a slice of Naples year-round.
Here are a few favorites:
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Arbor Hill Grapery & Winery: In addition to grape pies, you’ll find grape gummy bears, grape tarts, gourmet products, and wines.
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Cheshire Farms Creamery: Try a house-made grape pie paired with a scoop of home-churned ice cream.
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Cindy’s Pies: Open year-round, Cindy greets customers at her charming Dutch door. Grape pies, grape tarts, grape-filled cookies, and other homemade baked goods are available.
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Monica’s Pies: After more than 40 years of serving the community, Monica has retired—but she traditionally reopens for Grape Festival weekend. Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Pie Barn.).
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Jeni’s Pies: A three-time winner of the festival’s World’s Greatest Grape Pie Contest, Jeni’s pies are available at Joseph’s Wayside Market.
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