The Rosé Joins the Riesling: Fermentation Begins

Last weekend marked another big step in our 2024 vintage, when our Cabernet Franc Rosé officially joined the Riesling at Ria’s Vineyard.

Scott picked up the Cabernet Franc from Airy Acres Vineyard, where the rows were heavy with perfect late-season fruit. Then, Scott set up the basket press and went to work.

The juice ran off the skins a gorgeous pale pink, exactly what you hope for in a Rosé: bright, fresh, and full of red fruit character even before fermentation. Over time, as it ferments, some of the color will drop off and the wine should settle into a lighter pink color.

Now, the two tanks sit side by side at Ria’s, one filled with fermenting Riesling, the other with the Cab Franc Rosé juice. You can see them in the photo, and in the glasses , the golden Riesling next to the pink rosé, both at the very start of their journey.

When he stopped by earlier this week, the Riesling was in full fermentation mode, with the yeast hard at work turning sugar into wine.

For now, the wines will rest together, quietly evolving in their stainless-steel homes, each one capturing something different about this Finger Lakes harvest. Two wines, side by side, telling the story of one season.

For more on grapes and vineyards, check out this post, where Scott shares lessons he’s learned from the vineyard.

If you’re following along, thanks for being part of the ride—more stories (and wines) to come. If you want to stay updated on the latest posts, make sure to subscribe to our blog. And don’t forget to check out our Facebook group, Finger Lakes Food and Wine Adventure.

Cheers from the Lake,
Niki and Scott