The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is pleased to announce a series of regional Listening Sessions taking place this spring throughout New York’s major grape growing regions. These events are designed to provide an open forum for grape growers, winery professionals, and industry stakeholders to share feedback, ask questions, and help shape the future of New York’s wine and grape industry.
Each session will include a complimentary lunch, opportunities for meaningful conversation, and a special presentation by Stefan Fleming, Director of Industry Development for New York State’s craft beverage and industrial hemp sectors. Stefan will share updates on state initiatives, economic development incentives, tourism and export opportunities, and recent regulatory changes impacting the beverage industry.
“We look forward to hearing directly from our members and the broader industry to better understand regional challenges, needs, and opportunities,” said Sam Filler, Executive Director of NYWGF. “Your input is critical to ensuring our research programs, sustainability initiatives, and marketing efforts align with the realities and ambitions of New York’s diverse grape and wine community.”
Each session will also include brief updates on key NYWGF initiatives:
2025-26 NYWGF-Funded Research: Learn about the nearly $650,000 invested this year into viticulture, enology, and other innovative projects supporting New York’s growers and wineries.
NYWGF Sustainability Program: Find out how your vineyard can achieve sustainability certification and meet evolving market demands.
New York State Vineyard Survey: Understand the importance of this critical survey and how it will guide future funding, advocacy, and strategic growth.
NYWGF Membership Benefits: Explore cost-saving discounts, subsidies, educational programs, and marketing opportunities available exclusively to NYWGF members.
NYWGF is grateful to our partner, American National Insurance, whose support makes these regional Listening Sessions possible.
Listening Session Dates & Locations:
- Hudson Valley: Monday, April 28, 2025 | Stoutridge Distillery and Winery
- Long Island: Tuesday, April 29, 2025 | Long Island Horticultural Research and Extension Center (LIHREC)
- Niagara: Friday, May 2, 2025 | Schulze Vineyards & Winery
- Lake Erie: Tuesday, May 6, 2025 | Cornell Lake Erie Research and Extension Lab
- Finger Lakes: Thursday, May 8, 2025 | Jordan Hall, Cornell Geneva Campus
Registration is required. Seating is limited to ensure productive conversations.
For more information and to register, please visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/the-new-york-wine-amp-grape-foundation-15180628721
