Christina Pickard compares New York’s wine industry to The Little Engine That Could—small but resilient, powered by grit, creativity, and strong community ties. Despite tough growing conditions, especially in the Finger Lakes, producers like Dr. Konstantin Frank, Ravines, Hermann J. Wiemer, Apollo’s Praise, Hillick & Hobbs, Living Roots, and Ria’s Wines are crafting standout wines, particularly expressive Rieslings, vibrant sparklers, and character-driven reds like Cabernet Franc and Blaufränkisch. These wineries are embracing sustainable farming and experimental winemaking, helping the region evolve and gain national attention. With the 2024 vintage showing great promise, the future of FLX and New York wine looks bright.
