Ria's Wines — Attraction in Town of Lodi

Ria’s offers some truly intriguing wines. Pat and I have visited the Finger Lakes many times, usually returning to our long-time favorites. This trip, however, was mainly for picking up fresh juice for winemaking, so we decided to step outside our usual routine and explore a couple of new wineries. Our visit to Ria’s fully lived up to the excellent reviews we had read. The pouring team of Liz and Kara were very welcoming and informed. We also got to meet the Winemaker and 1/2 of the ownership team Mike Penn. The Riesling flight was outstanding—easily on par with our favorite stops in the region. What really surprised me, though, were the Traminette and the Late Harvest Vignoles. The Traminette had clearly seen some skin contact, giving it an “orange wine” character. The result was a bold, expressive version of the grape—Traminette on steroids—with every flavor and aroma shining through. The Late Harvest Vignoles was another highlight. While rich and flavorful as you’d expect, it wasn’t a heavy dessert wine. Instead, the residual sugar was perfectly balanced by bright, crisp acidity. It may be the best example of Vignoles I’ve tasted in the Finger Lakes. I really appreciate how this winemaker embraces the challenges of hybrids while also showcasing a distinctive touch with classic vinifera. What first drew us to Ria’s was not only the strong reviews but also the story of the young couple who recently took over the former Bagley’s winery. Their location in the “Banana Belt,” combined with their impressive backgrounds and experience, gives them the potential to become a real force in the region. On our next trip, I’m eager to return and explore their reds—especially...

Ria's Wines is one of the greatest additions to the Finger Lakes! Husband and wife, Ria and Mike came to the Finger Lakes from California with an impressive resumé. Both graduated from UC Davis- US' most prestigious wine school- and worked in wine for years before they made their way to their Finger Lakes.

The purchased the old Bagley's property and transformed it to a beautiful and welcoming space. They have a good size indoor space (although we only sat outside), large deck overlooking the lake and a spacious area with pic-nic tables.

Additionally, Ria's wines is Kid-Friendly! Large deck, plenty of outdoor space which is far away from the road and parking lot with some outdoor activities. My wife has visited them for different events and they were offering face paint and other activities for kiddos.

As for the wine, I have had the good fortune to taste their wines in many occasions and they are absolutely delicious. The Sunny side is a delicious, "easy" and cheerful part of their portfolio, offering great value. To me the stand-outs are the single vineyard Rieslings. Prices are fair and the quality is top notch! Grace, which is Estate-Grown, is aromatic, complex with great length and impeccable balance. Viva Riesling, sourced from a small site on the eastern side of Seneca Lake, is fresher, greener and more assertive. Cabernet Franc is herbal, red fruited and balanced. Definitely a promising wine that I am looking forward to tasting with a little more maturity. Rosé is, dry, fresh and fruit-forward. Great little summer wine.

I would definitely return and/or buy their wines in the...

We had a brief visit with Ria wines when we were in the Finger Lakes. It's a new establishment that just opened (July 5th 2024). The former name was Bagley's Vineyard.

My review is based on the establishment Aesthetics versus the wine tastings as our group but didn't stay for the tastings (we were told upon entry that they mostly serve dry wines, and our group prefers a mixture).

This Winery has wonderful views, clean "beachy" decor, and interior and exterior seating. The parking lot is on the smaller side and some of the spots are on a bit of a slope.

I have attached photos of the wine menu.

We are excited to watch this winery take shape over the upcoming years, and wish them well!

Please note: My gal pals are back back in the Finger Lakes for our annual tour and I am reviewing the wineries that we visit. These reviews are based on our experience this year (2024) as policies, owners and crop can fluctuate,...