At the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, we celebrate the stories behind our state’s remarkable wineries. Our latest Member Spotlight shines on Whitecliff Vineyard, a pioneering force that exemplifies the passion and innovation that define New York’s wine industry.
Nestled in the heart of New York’s Hudson River Region, Whitecliff Vineyard stands as a testament to the power of passion, community engagement, and a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. Founded by Michael Migliore and Yancey Stanforth-Migliore, this female-owned winery has become a beloved fixture in the local wine scene, known not just for its exceptional wines but also for its dedication to environmental stewardship and animal welfare.
The People Behind the Vines
Whitecliff Vineyard is a family affair. Michael, whose background in chemistry and engineering informed his early experiments with grape growing on the Ulster County property, has spent decades pioneering viticulture in the region. His wife, Yancey, brings a background in fundraising and a deep commitment to environmental causes to her role in marketing and operations. Together, they laid the groundwork for what Whitecliff Vineyard is today.
Brad Martz, the vineyard’s dedicated winemaker, joined the team over 13 years ago. Initially learning the ropes from Michael, Brad has since taken Whitecliff’s wines to new heights. His passion for winemaking is evident in every bottle, especially his favorite varietal, Cabernet Franc. Meanwhile, the next generation is already making its mark, with Tristan Migliore growing up on the vineyard and now serving as General Manager, immersing himself in all aspects of the winery’s operations.
From Experiment to Established Vineyard
Whitecliff’s journey began in 1979 when Michael first planted experimental vines on the property. His relentless pursuit of understanding what grows best in the region and how to cultivate it led to groundbreaking achievements. His contributions to local viticulture were recognized when he became the first Hudson River Region grower to win the prestigious NYWGF’s Grower of the Year Award in 2015. The vineyard itself has expanded from its initial 26 acres in Gardiner to an additional 10 acres on the Hudson River’s banks, constantly pushing the boundaries of what New York wines can be.
Commitment to Sustainability
Environmental stewardship has always been a core value at Whitecliff. The vineyard’s certification under the NYWGF Sustainable Winegrowing Program is a natural extension of its long-standing commitment to eco-friendly practices. While it’s early days for the certification, Whitecliff’s participation speaks volumes about its dedication to sustainable winemaking and grape growing. The vineyard’s use of environmentally conscious practices, such as recycling and minimal intervention in the vineyard, aligns with the growing consumer demand for sustainable wines.
Engaging with the Community
Whitecliff’s influence extends beyond its vines. As a family-run business, the vineyard provides jobs to the local community and actively supports local producers by selling their food and craft beverages in its tasting rooms. Known for being an all-vegan winery and a dog-friendly establishment, Whitecliff hosts regular fundraisers for animal shelters, including the Woodstock Animal Sanctuary and the Walden Humane Society. The annual Pawstume Party—a Halloween costume contest for dogs—is a testament to the vineyard’s creative and heartfelt community involvement.
A Range of Exceptional Wines
Whitecliff Vineyard’s portfolio showcases the diversity and potential of New York wines. Their North River Champagne Method line exemplifies the region’s sparkling wine capabilities. The Cabernet Franc, a signature grape of the Hudson Valley, is a personal favorite of winemaker Brad Martz. The Awosting White, a blend of French-American hybrids Seyval Blanc and Vignoles, has been a crowd-pleaser for over 25 years.
Other notable offerings include the Gamay Noir, which thrives in the Hudson Valley’s unique climate, and the Sky Island Red, a Bordeaux blend that highlights the complex, food-friendly nature of New York’s reds.
Looking Forward
Whitecliff Vineyard continues to innovate and set the standard for winemaking in the Hudson River Region. Their dedication to sustainable practices, community engagement, and producing high-quality wines reflects their core values and the evolving ethos of New York’s wine industry. With a legacy of experimentation and excellence, Whitecliff Vineyard is not just a winery but a story of a family’s passion, a community’s support, and a region’s potential.
To learn more about Whitecliff Vineyards, please visit www.whitecliffwine.com.
