The 2008 event hosted a record number of 89 New York State Wineries, which was eleven more than 2007. Wineries from Long Island to Lake Erie were in attendance, including America's Oldest Winery, Brotherhood and Four Chimneys, the first organic winery (in North America). Festival goers were given a souvenir wine glass and an official Tasters Guide to help navigate them through the 500+ wines poured at the weekend wine tasting event. The Guide also offered recipes to pair with festival wines as well as information on all of the attending wineries.

Many enhancements to this year's festival had been added including the addition of a new food court, larger seating areas and more designated driver stations located throughout the Festival's grounds. Not all of the improvements were limited to the immediate festival area. Campers were also treated to additional showers, a concessions stand and the new Town Hall; with ice, information, paramedic and security services available the entire event weekend.

Culinary Classes captivated 'sold out' audiences, as master Chefs from Cargill created culinary delights such as Triple Chocolate in Salt Bark, Salt Sweet Cocoa Rub and EZ Chocolate Caramel Truffles. Festival goers also had the opportunity to learn the Seven S's of wine tasting during a wine seminar hosted by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, while many were entertained by seminars focusing on specific varietals such as the Riesling Heaven or Blush & Rose. Festival organizers look to improve upon the weekend experience even more in 2009, promising to continue to strive for excellence in customer service.

Once a year, Watkins Glen International, considered The Soul of American Road Racing, is transformed into the Finger Lake's largest tasting room, where over 500 New York wines will be sampled. The celebration kicks-off Friday evening, July 17th, with fireworks, wine, and togas at "Yancey's Fancy Cheese Launch of the Lakes". Saturday and Sunday the Festival will open at 10:00 am until 5:00 pm, featuring a variety of wine and food from across the state, culinary classes, cooking demos, wine seminars, live entertainment and much more. Camping on Festival grounds, shuttle service to area hotels, and plenty of free parking are also available.