Rock Stream Vineyards, one of the Finger Lakes region’s innovative wineries, has announced the release of its new sparkling wine, “Secs Appeal,” a vibrant and aromatic sparkling blend crafted from Niagara and Cayuga grapes. The new release reflects its continued commitment to producing distinctive Finger Lakes wines that embrace both native and hybrid grape varieties while delivering approachable, flavorful wines consumers can enjoy year-round.
Owner and winemaker Dr. Mark Karasz said the inspiration for the wine came from his long appreciation for Niagara grapes and the popularity of the winery’s Dry Niagara wine among visitors to the tasting room. “Many people think of Native grape varieties as lesser grapes but I’ve always been a fan of Niagara and I’ve made a Dry Niagara for many years that is a best seller at my winery. So we decided to make a Sparkling wine from Niagara and Cayuga and it is so aromatic, balanced, well-structured, and flavorful, and I think it really shows off the elegant wines that these grapes can produce,” Karasz said.
Over the years, he has become well known throughout the Finger Lakes region for his enthusiasm for unique wines, hospitality, and hands-on involvement in both vineyard and cellar operations. The winery’s approachable atmosphere and diverse Wine & Spirits lineup have helped establish Rock Stream Vineyards as a destination for visitors seeking innovative offerings. Rock Stream Vineyards produces a broad portfolio of wines ranging from traditional vinifera varieties to native and hybrid grape wines and creative blends, as well as innovative Spirits. Located on the western side of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes wine region, the winery has become known for combining old-world winemaking traditions with an adventurous approach to lesser-utilized grape varieties and wine styles.
With growing consumer interest in sparkling wines and unique regional wine styles, Rock Stream Vineyards believes “Secs Appeal” will appeal to both longtime Finger Lakes wine enthusiasts and newer wine consumers looking for refreshing, fruit-forward sparkling wines with character and balance. The winery says the release also highlights the continued potential of native and hybrid grape varieties within the evolving Finger Lakes wine industry. The name “Secs Appeal” is a take on the wine term “Sec” which refers to medium-dry sparkling wines.
About Rock Stream Vineyards
Rock Stream Vineyards is an estate winery owned and operated by Dr. Mark Karasz. Mark is a West Point graduate and a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel with a PhD in chemistry. A three-year tour in Italy inspired him to make Wine and Grappa. After retiring from the military, he founded Rock Stream Vineyards on Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes and began growing his own grapes and making wine, brandy, Grappa and ports. The tasting room in Rock Stream NY on Route 14 and Fir Tree Point Road has been open since July 2005 and is now Seneca Lake’s only winery that is also a licensed Grappa and Grape Brandy distillery.For more information about Rock Stream Vineyards, visit www.rockstreamvineyards.com.
