Osmote Wine

About

Osmote Wine

Osmote is one of the most distinctive small wineries in the Finger Lakes — family-run, lake-shaped, and committed to producing balanced, low-impact wines that express the unique character of Seneca Lake without being forced into it. Winemaker Ben Riccardi holds a degree in oenology from Cornell University and spent multiple vintages in New Zealand and the south of France before bringing that experience back to Burdett.

The name Osmote is an homage to the moderating influence the lake exerts on the surrounding vineyards — the same force that keeps vines alive through brutal upstate winters and extends the growing season into autumn. Under 24,000 bottles are produced each year, sourced from carefully selected Seneca Lake vineyards alongside Osmote's own estate blocks planted in 2024 at 950 feet above sea level on the eastern shore.

The tasting experience is centered around a stunning timber-framed pavilion and slate stone patio overlooking panoramic Seneca Lake views and the farm below. Tastings begin on the hour, with guest numbers capped each session to ensure a genuine, intimate experience. Appointments are preferred. The wines — ranging from their beloved Pet Nat to Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, and hybrid varieties — have earned spots on Michelin-starred restaurant lists worldwide.

Why Visit

What to Expect

The Wines

What's Pouring

Under 24,000 bottles produced annually — each wine a small-batch expression of Seneca Lake terroir, naturally fermented and built around balance you can feel.

• This Is Pet Nat ★The Osmote signature — crisp, natural sparkling with orchard fruit and that salty yellow plum finish. A Finger Lakes icon.
• This Is Red Pet NatCarbonic maceration Pet Nat — pomegranate, strawberry, violet, and earthy warmth. Disgorged under crown cap.
• ChardonnayCool-climate Chardonnay with orchard fruit, crème brûlée, and a clean, bright finish — elegant and food-friendly.
• RieslingBalanced dry and semi-dry Riesling with a vein of minerality, lime zest, and taut acidity that defines the lake.
• Cabernet FrancLight-bodied with cranberry, raspberry, black pepper, and florals — whole cluster fermented, built for versatility.
• TTYL White BlendA wildly aromatic white blend — Tocai Friuliano and Traminette with skin contact, tropical fruit, and a dry rounded body.
• DeChaunacA precious heirloom hybrid — bright red berry, black currant leaf, and a unique oak-fermented expression exclusive to Osmote.
• Pocket WineOsmote's approachable everyday pour — ask at the tasting for what's current in the lineup.

Current availability at osmotewine.com — follow @osmotewine on Instagram for seasonal updates.

Plan Your Visit

Tips for Visitors

• Appointments are preferred — tastings begin on the hour and guest numbers are capped. Book ahead at osmotewine.com for the best experience.
• Start with the Pet Nat — it's the Osmote greeting wine and one of the most distinctive sparkling wines produced in the Finger Lakes.
• The pavilion faces west toward Seneca Lake — late afternoon visits offer incredible light over the southern drumlins and the lake below.
• Ask about the estate vineyard blocks — planted in 2024 at 950 feet elevation, these represent the next chapter in Osmote's story.
• The wines punch well above their price point — Michelin-starred placement for bottles you can take home at cellar-door prices.
• Located in Burdett on the east shore — easy to pair with a visit to Hillick & Hobbs, Forge Cellars, or Watkins Glen State Park.