Riesling from Seneca and Cayuga Lakes, 35 to 90 minutes south of Rochester. Long cool growing seasons produce dry, semi-dry, and late-harvest styles. Carnegie Cellars and Living Roots bring Finger Lakes grapes into the city.
Where to eat it: 2 restaurants across 1 city.
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
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.
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 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.
More cities are in research. Want finger lakes riesling covered somewhere specific? Tell us where you want to eat.