The New York Wines That Revved Sommelier Engines in 2025…And What To Seek Out in 2026
Written by Kathleen Willcox and Robin Shreeves
January 7, 2026
2025 was a banner year for New York Wines. Wine Spectator named Ravines 2022 Finger Lakes Dry Riesling as one of its Top 100 wines of the year, and Wine Enthusiast named Wölffer 2020 The Grapes of Roth Merlot and Ravines Wine Cellars 2019 Sparkling Riesling as two of its Top 100. Plus … the Finger Lakes was crowned American Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast.
All of this is great news for New York winemakers, their avid supporters, and people who are being introduced to the incredible quality of New York Wines through these accolades. But for many wine professionals, it’s hardly a news flash that New York offers some of the best opportunities for sipping and exploration in the world.
Here are a few wines that restaurateurs, sommeliers, and noted wine writers enjoyed in 2025, and are looking forward to crushing next year!
Professional Sipper: Carlo DeVito, publisher, wine expert, and author of 15+ books.
Pro Pick: Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery’s North River Pet Nat
Reason: “I am looking forward to drinking more sparkling wines from Whitecliff next year, and Cabernet Francs from across the state.
I love what Fjord Vineyards, Quartz Rock Vineyards, Living Roots Wine, Red Tail Ridge, Weis Vineyards, Trestle 31, and Ria’s Wines are producing.”
This non-intervention Pet Nat is naturally sparkling, and offers a fresh and zesty profile, with orchard fruit, wildflower notes and subtle spice.
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