History

The Finger Lakes wine industry took shape in the late 19th century but gained international recognition in the 1970s when Dr. Konstantin Frank demonstrated that vinifera grapes could thrive in the region's cool continental climate. Riesling emerged as the signature variety because the long growing season allows gradual sugar accumulation while retaining natural acidity. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail, established in 1995, now includes over 40 producers. Best of Finger Lakes Riesling consistently appears in international competitions.

Common allergens: Sulfites

Make it at home

Yield Serves 1 pairingHands-on 10 minTotal 10 minDifficulty Easy

Ingredients

  • 1 bottle Finger Lakes dry Riesling (Lamoreaux Landing, Standing Stone, or Hermann J. Wiemer recommended)
  • Mild soft cheese such as chevre or young cheddar
  • Apple slices or fresh peach (seasonal)
  • Light crackers

Method

  1. Chill the Riesling to 48 to 52F. Finger Lakes dry Riesling is best served slightly warmer than fridge temperature.
  2. Pour 4 ounces into a white wine glass.
  3. Pair with mild cheese and fresh fruit to complement the wine's stone-fruit aromatics and mineral finish.

Tip from the editors. Finger Lakes Riesling ranges from bone dry to honeyed late-harvest. Ask the producer or wine bar staff for a dry style if you are new to the wine.

Where to eat finger lakes riesling

Finger Lakes Riesling in Rochester

Carnegie Cellars Wine Bar and Kitchen ★ 4.4

Wine Bar$$$downtownWed-Thu 15:00-22:00, Fri 14:00-23:00, Sat 12:00-23:00, Sun 12:00-18:00

Carnegie Cellars Wine Bar and Kitchen on W. Main St won Best Local Wine List in Best of Rochester 2025, with global wines and a seasonal kitchen.

Tip: The wine flights are the easiest way to sample the list. Kitchen closes an hour before the bar.

Living Roots Wine and Co ★ 4.5

Urban Winery$$notaTue-Fri 16:00-22:00, Sat 12:00-22:00, Sun 12:00-18:00

Living Roots Wine and Co on University Ave is Rochester's only urban winery and won Best Wine Bar in Best of Rochester 2025, making Finger Lakes wines.

Tip: Bar stools are first-come only; reserve a high-top for groups via Tock. Kitchen closes 1 hour before bar close; drinks until 30 minutes prior.

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