By Blake Jackson
Wine professionals across the U.S. increasingly agree that New York State produces some of the country’s finest Riesling, with many even arguing it ranks among the world’s best regions for the varietal. A recent VinePair list, “The 30 Best Rieslings for 2026,” offers strong evidence of this growing reputation, featuring 12 wines from New York out of the global selection.
Ten of those wines come from the Finger Lakes, with additional entries from Lake Erie and Long Island, highlighting the state’s diverse wine-growing regions. VinePair tasting director Keith Beavers, who compiled the list, admits his appreciation for Riesling evolved over time.
Beavers explains, “It was New York Riesling that opened my eyes.” He describes the wines as structured and expressive, saying, “It has a frame. It’s like a house. It has stuff inside that has air and acidity. It has structure and depth and character.”
Winemakers across the state emphasize the role of unique vineyard sites and climate conditions. At Fox Run Vineyards, president Scott Osborn notes that their Lake Dana Riesling reflects ancient soils and careful balance, producing what he calls “a beautiful deliciousness.”
In western New York, Johnson Estate Winery highlights the Lake Erie region’s ability to produce balanced styles, with winemaker Jeff Murphy stating, “This area can grow the best wines; it’s just about getting the word out.”
Finger Lakes producers such as Wagner Vineyards continue to gain recognition for versatile, food-friendly wines. Owner John Wagner says inclusion on the VinePair list gives consumers “the confidence” and “a little nudge” to explore Riesling.
At Three Brothers Wineries, winemaker Aaron Roisen describes their clone-based Riesling as highly expressive, noting, “It ripples across the palate like a smooth stone across the water. It skips and skips and skips and skips.”
Long Island’s Wölffer Estate also demonstrates the state’s range. Winemaker Roman Roth explains his approach: “In Long Island, the acidity goes lower [than the Finger Lakes] so I can get this lovely balance.”
Across regions, experts agree New York Riesling is gaining global recognition, proving the state’s growing influence in premium cool-climate wine production.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-willhowecreative
Categories: New York, General