This month I am delighted to feature the wines of Osmote, a tiny garagiste winery led by Ben Riccardi. Recently founded in 2014 and still without a public-facing space or tasting room, the winery is recognized by many in the wine community for its excellent wines. I particularly love their Seneca Lake Chardonnay and consider it one of the best expressions of the varietal in the region.

Garagistes are traditionally known in France as independent, artisan winemakers handcrafting small batches of wine on their own and not yet discovered by the mainstream. In Ben’s case, it’s also fitting that his winery actually resides in a former trucking garage.

But to consider it a casual pursuit that one plays with in their ‘garage’ would be an understatement. Ben approaches his art with tireless energy, a Cornell enology education, precise attention to detail, a love for mother nature, and a sincere respect for the Finger Lakes growers and winemakers on whose shoulders he stands.

Osmote releases one to two thousand cases of wines per year - mainly Chardonnay, Riesling, and Cabernet Franc. In miniscule quantities Ben also uses heirloom New York grapes for both a red and white pétillant naturel as well as a unique DeChaunac - which, depending on the vintage, varies between a structured rosé and a very light Côte Rôtie red wine.

I am so excited to introduce you to this beautiful little gem. Should you wish to purchase additional wines and discover the rest of their wonderful collection, I encourage you to order direct from the Osmote website.

Cheers! -RP