Living Roots Wine & Co. is a modern Finger Lakes winery with a distinctive transatlantic identity. Founded by Colleen and Sebastian Hardy, the estate operates between New York State and Australia, bringing international experience to one of North America’s most exciting cool-climate wine regions.
Based in Hammondsport at the southern end of Keuka Lake, Living Roots benefits from the unique climate of the Finger Lakes. Deep glacial lakes moderate temperatures, reduce frost risk, and extend the growing season well into autumn. Combined with high sunlight intensity at northern latitude, this allows wines to reach full ripeness while preserving vibrant acidity. Riesling is the natural flagship, joined by other cool-climate varieties such as Chardonnay.
Living Roots works closely with sustainably minded growers, focusing on healthy soils, low yields, and vineyard expression rather than volume. In the cellar, intervention is minimal. Fermentations are often spontaneous, sulfur is used carefully, and extraction is restrained. The goal is clarity, tension, and site character rather than power. Their Pet Nat Riesling, bottled during primary fermentation and left unfiltered, captures this philosophy in a vivid, energetic style.
What sets Living Roots apart is balance and confidence. These are not European imitations, nor experimental curiosities, but precise, contemporary New York wines shaped by climate, lakes, and thoughtful winemaking. For lovers of structured, fresh wines with depth and energy, Living Roots is a benchmark producer of the Finger Lakes.
Cabernet Franc
Chardonnay
Sparkling
