All Regions

USDA Awards $1 Million Grant to Strengthen Global Reach of New York Wines

Contact: Valerie Venezia-RossPhone: 1 (518) 229-3765Email: [email protected] December 19 – Penn Yan, NY – The New York Wine and Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is honored to be among 67 organizations awarded funding today in the second round of the Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP) grants. This funding is dedicated to building demand for American food and farm exports in high-potential markets around the globe. NYWGF has received an additional $1 million to support New York

New York’s Sustainable Winegrowing Program in Action: New Map Highlights Certified Vineyards & Wineries Using Sustainable Grapes

New York is home to an expanding network of certified sustainable vineyards dedicated to minimizing environmental impact, ensuring economic stability, and safeguarding worker health and safety. This certification is awarded through the New York Wine & Grape Foundation’s (NYWGF) Sustainable Winegrowing program. Vineyards that achieve certification, along with wineries producing wines made from at least 85% certified sustainable grapes, are authorized to display the Sustainability Trustmark at their vineyards and

A Legacy of Grit, Growth, and Giving Back: The Story of Doyle Vineyard Management

Image courtesy of Doyle Vineyard Management. At the heart of the Finger Lakes wine industry stands Doyle Vineyard Management, a testament to resilience, creativity, and commitment to community. Founded in 2009 by Matt and Carre Doyle, the company arose during a moment of great uncertainty, but it has grown into a pillar of sustainability and a champion for viticulture and education. The Doyle story began at a crossroads. In 2009,

This Holiday Season, New York Wine Should Be On Your Table

There’s a world of wine to choose from any day of the year. Even those who make wine in New York don’t drink only local wine all the time. But, there should always be room on your table for wine from New York’s producers—especially during the holidays. Those who know the quality and diversity of the wines coming from the Empire State have an opportunity to share them with the

Bridge Lane Wine: Revolutionizing Winemaking with Style and Sustainability

Image courtesy of Bridge Lane Wine Located in the heart of Long Island’s North Fork, Bridge Lane Wine is a trailblazer in the New York wine scene, combining bold innovation with eco-friendly practices and a modern approach to winemaking. Established in 2004, Bridge Lane has evolved into a brand synonymous with modernity, accessibility, and forward-thinking. In 2014, the label rebranded carving out a niche as the primary label of an

Keuka Lake Wine Trail Donates $1,000 to the Humane Society of Yates County

Image courtesy of Keuka Lake Wine Trail. The Keuka Lake Wine Trail is proud to announce a $1,000 donation to the Humane Society of Yates County, raised through the highly successful Paws & Pours Passport program. This initiative not only celebrates the dog-friendly culture of the Finger Lakes and participating wineries but also showcases the Wine Trail’s continued commitment to supporting local organizations and fostering community connections within the Keuka Lake

From Vine to Wine: The Multi-Generational Story of Anthony Road Wine Company

Image courtesy of Anthony Road Wine Company. Located along the west side of Seneca Lake in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, Anthony Road Wine Company is more than a winery; it’s a testament to the power of family, perseverance, and a deep connection to the land. Founded by Ann and John Martini in 1990, the winery embodies a multi-generational commitment to cultivating not just grapes, but a way

New York Sustainable Winegrowing Vineyard Certification Enrollment Open Now

The New York Sustainable Winegrowing program is excited to announce that applications are now open for the Vineyard Certification process. Following the success of welcoming 19 new Certified Vineyards last year, the program is now open to all wineries and vineyards in New York. The NYWGF Sustainable Winegrowing program provides a pathway to voluntary third-party certification that verifies vineyards are using the best practices to ensure environmental, social, and economic

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Issues RFP for Grape and Wine Research

The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) was created in 1985, in part, to help establish a funding channel for research in the areas of viticulture, enology, and business management. For more than 35 years, NYWGF has annually distributed funds to projects that provide the New York State wine and grape industry with short-term solutions and long-term strategic directions. Click here for a list of previously funded projects. The

A Symphony of Soil and Skill: The Story of Red Newt Cellars

Image courtesy of Red Newt Cellars Nestled on the east side of Seneca Lake in the picturesque Finger Lakes region of New York, Red Newt Cellars has been a cornerstone of the area’s wine culture since its founding in 1998 by David and Debra Whiting. From its humble beginnings of just 1,200 cases, the winery has grown into a celebrated producer with a portfolio that showcases the unique character of

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Releases 2024 Vineyard Report: A New Era of Data Collection for the State’s Grape and Wine Industry

The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is pleased to announce the release of the 2024 New York Vineyard Report. This report marks the beginning of a two-year initiative aimed at re-establishing benchmarks for accurate data on vineyard acreage across the state. In this effort, NYWGF has collaborated with Agency 29, Ag Access, and Deep Planet LLC to evaluate vineyard acreage through direct grower reports and advanced machine learning

Channing Daughters: A Trailblazer in Long Island Winemaking

Image courtesy of Channing Daughters. Channing Daughters Winery is a unique haven for artisanal winemaking on Long Island, rooted in a blend of innovation, respect for tradition, and a deep connection to the land. Located on 28 picturesque acres in Bridgehampton, this small but ambitious vineyard has become a beacon for wine lovers, thanks to its commitment to sustainable practices, experimentation, and authentic expression of the terroir. Channing Daughters is

New York Wine Classic Winners Harbes Vineyard and Wölffer Estate are Bringing Attention to New York Wines

Photo courtesy of Harbes Vineyard. Each year, the New York Wine & Grape Foundation organizes the New York Wine Classic, a competition that celebrates a diverse selection of world-class wines from producers within the State. Wines entered are sent to the Beverage Tasting Institute, and its sensory panel—comprised of beverage directors, sommeliers, top bartenders, retail buyers, and educators—scores each wine. The top scorers in the various categories deservedly earn bragging

Call for Submissions: Annual Cabernet Franc Celebration

The 6th Annual Cabernet Franc Celebration event is opened for both domestic and international producers of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Franc Blends (a minimum of 50% Cabernet Franc grapes). We have had fourteen states and five countries participating previously in the event representing over 90 wines. The Best of Class awards will be for the following categories: Specialty Division – PetNat, Sparkling, Blanc, etc. Blend Division – A minimum of 50% Cabernet

Hosmer Winery: A Legacy Rooted in the Finger Lakes

Image courtesy of Rima Brindamour. Nestled along the tranquil shores of Cayuga Lake, Hosmer Winery is a living testament to the artistry and dedication of grape growing and winemaking in New York’s Finger Lakes region. Founded in 1985 by Cameron and Maren Hosmer, Hosmer Winery grew from a passion for the land and a vision of producing wines that would become some of the best in New York. At the

Toast to Our Nation’s Veterans with These New York Wines

Toasting to the veterans who fight to protect our freedom is one thing, but toasting with wines made by veterans themselves adds a whole new layer of meaning to this important national holiday. The groundwork for Veterans Day was laid on November 11, 1921, when an unknown soldier who died fighting for the United States and its allies during World War I was buried in Arlington National Cemetery in Washington,

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Appoints HOPSCOTCH Season and Sohn’s Market Makers Ltd. as Market Representatives in Vietnam and South Korea

The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is excited to announce the appointment of HOPSCOTCH Season (formerly SOPEXA) as the market representative for New York Wines in Vietnam, and Sohn’s Market Makers Ltd. as the market representative for New York Wines in South Korea. These new strategic partnerships aim to elevate the profile of New York wines in two dynamic markets, leveraging the expertise of HOPSCOTCH Season and Sohn’s

Three Brothers Wineries & Estates: Promoting the Finger Lakes as a Community

Image courtesy of Three Brothers Wineries & Estates. Three Brothers Wineries & Estates in Geneva, NY, is more than a winery; it’s a bridge connecting visitors and locals to the unique spirit of the Finger Lakes. Founded in 2007 by Dave and Luanne Mansfield, the winery is a place that combines innovation and fun, built on the vision of showcasing the best of the region. Managing Partner Erica Paolicelli has

Suhru & Lieb Vineyards: A Journey of Family, Collaboration, and Craftsmanship

Image courtesy of Suhru & Lieb Vineyards In January 2024, two beloved Long Island wine labels, Suhru Wines and Lieb Cellars, officially came together under the leadership of veteran winemaker Russell Hearn. The merger, a culmination of years of friendship and shared values, united the Hearn and Fondacaro families in a joint venture that not only brought together two brands but also two families. With a shared commitment to producing

Behind CK Cellars’ Best Fruit Wine & Inspire Moore’s Best Pétillant-Naturel Wins in the 2024 New York Wine Classic

Winners of the New York Wine Classic embody the incredible diversity, ambition, and quality of the 400+ wineries producing wine from the Empire State’s 1,600+ vineyards. Just consider CK Cellars and its win for Best Fruit Wine for the NV Earle Estates Apple Enchantment Semi-Sweet Apple Wine, which earned 93 points from the judges, and Inspire Moore and its victory for Best Pétillant Naturel (Pét-Nat) for the NV Unsupervised Pétillant

New Multilingual Food Pairing Guides Launched Just in Time for Holiday Celebrations with New York Wines

Get ready to elevate your dining experience with the recent New York Wines Food Pairing Guides – an exciting update to the New York Wine & Grape Foundation’s online Resource Library. We are thrilled to introduce our newly released Food Pairing Guides, available in English, French, Korean, and Japanese, and designed to help you discover the ideal New York wine for every meal. New York is rapidly gaining recognition as

Living Roots Wine & Co.: Blending Tradition, Experimentation, and Sustainability Across Continents

Photo courtesy of Rima Brindamour. Living Roots Wine & Co. is a compelling story of family heritage, global craftsmanship, and a dedication to sustainable winemaking. Founded in 2016 by Sebastian and Colleen Hardy, the winery bridges generations of winemaking in South Australia with the vibrant possibilities of the Finger Lakes region in New York. By dividing their time between two hemispheres, the Hardys craft wines year-round, embracing both tradition and

Thirsty Owl Wine Company: A Legacy Rooted in Family and Vision

Image courtesy of Thirsty Owl Wine Company Thirsty Owl Wine Company is a testament to the transformative power of vision, passion, and commitment. Situated on the scenic west side of Cayuga Lake in New York’s Finger Lakes region, this family-owned winery has become a beloved destination for wine enthusiasts, boasting not only award-winning wines but also a rich history rooted in family and tradition. The Origins: From Land Purchase to

From Vineyard to Glass: Inside New York’s ‘Epic’ 2024 Harvest

Wagner Vineyards. Image courtesy of Rima Brindamour There’s no life like the wine life during the harvest season—especially one as auspicious as 2024’s appears to be. From the Hudson Valley to the tip of Long Island, up to the Finger Lakes and through the Niagara Escarpment to Lake Ontario, growers and winemakers found no rest, but plenty to look forward to in this harvest, a relief after a few challenging

Cheers to Growth: Finger Lakes Wine Alliance and New York Wine & Grape Foundation Partner with La Piana Consulting on Organizational Development Project

PENN YAN NY, October 2nd, 2024– The Board of Directors of the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance (FLWA) and the New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) are pleased to announce that La Piana Consulting, one of the most experienced nonprofit consulting firms in the country, will be guiding our leadership teams through an Organizational Analysis and Partnership Development process to be completed in Spring 2025. NYWGF and FLWA have long

Sparkling Pointe: 20 Years of Crafting Exceptional Bubbles

Image courtesy of Sparkling Pointe Nestled in the heart of Long Island’s North Fork, Sparkling Pointe has firmly established itself as a premier producer of méthode champenoise sparkling wines. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2024, the winery has grown from a modest 12-acre vineyard to an iconic destination for wine enthusiasts seeking the very best in American sparkling wine. Founded in 2004 by Tom and Cynthia Rosicki, Sparkling Pointe was

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Joins Come Over October Campaign

Download the Co-branded New York Wine & COO Assets The NYWGF is excited to support the international campaign, Come Over October (COO)! As a Friend of COO, we are encouraging New York wineries to join the promotional campaign this fall through the many opportunities to engage with COO and celebrate New York wines. What is Come Over October? COO is an international campaign created by wine journalist Karen MacNeil and industry PR

Glenora Wine Cellars: A Finger Lakes Legacy of Innovation and Community

Image courtesy of Glenora Wine Cellars Nestled on the serene shores of Seneca Lake, Glenora Wine Cellars holds a distinguished place in the heart of the Finger Lakes wine region. As the first winery to establish roots on Seneca Lake in 1977, Glenora has not only witnessed the transformation of the area into a world-class wine destination but has also been a catalyst in its growth. From pioneering new grape

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Releases 2023-2024 Research Reports

In the ever-evolving world of wine and grape production, research plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge, improving practices, and ensuring the sustainability of the industry. The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF), since its inception in 1985, has been sponsoring an ambitious and comprehensive viticulture, enology, and business research program in close coordination with industry and academia. We are happy to announce the release of the research reports

Why Come Over October Is Inspiring New York Wine Enthusiasts To Share Their Passion With Others

The consumption of wine in communal settings probably predates our species, according to findings from anthropologists and archeologists. (Cue the Drunken Monkey hypothesis). The oldest-known winery was excavated in modern-day Armenia circa 4000 B.C. Remnants of wine on pots found in China date back 9,000 years. Winemaking and consumption shaped ancient cultures and religions, from the ancient Greeks to the Christians. (Who can forget that Noah’s first to-do after parking

Whitecliff Vineyard: A Story of Passion, Community, and Sustainability

Image provided by Whitecliff Vineyard 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

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Announces 2025 Research Themes

Every year, research priorities are discussed and finalized by the Research Committee of the Board of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) in collaboration with additional stakeholder input, to help the researchers focus their research proposals to meet the current needs of the wine and grape industry. The priority themes for NYWGF FY25-26 starting in April 2025 are as follows: VITICULTURE: Disease & Pest Management, Including Invasive Species:

There’s Something for Everyone in the Niagara Escarpment AVA

There’s no reason why the wines coming out of New York’s Niagara Escarpment AVA shouldn’t enjoy the same fine reputation that its Canadian contemporaries along the Niagara Escarpment do. New York has the same growing conditions, they just happen to be on the U.S. side of the border between the two countries. But, with just nine wineries currently operating in the American Viticultural Area, the wine region has remained a

Fulkerson Winery Wins ‘Best Pink Wine’ in New York Wine Classic

With more and more wine lovers eager to think and drink pink, Fulkerson Winery has had a lot to celebrate since first launching its line of Syrah Rosé. That the wine was even released, never mind won ‘Best Pink Wine’ is a coup in and of itself, its sixth-generation owner and operator admits. “I was very reluctant to use Syrah for rosé because it’s such a rare grape in the

A Look at the State of Hybrid Grapes—and Selling Wines Made from Them—in New York

In the ever-evolving world of wine and grape production, research plays a crucial role in advancing knowledge, improving practices, and ensuring the sustainability of the industry. NYWGF’s commitment to research is evident in its annual research budget, which typically ranges between $350,000 to $600,000. The NYWGF Board of Directors is proud to share the results of 2023-24 funded research projects through individual reports, articles, and a series of webinars in

In a Region That’s ‘Built for Sparkling,’ Damiani’s 2017 Brut Comes Out on Top in the 2024 New York Wine Classic

“Only the unimaginative can fail to find a reason for drinking Champagne,” playwright and poet Oscar Wilde is quoted as saying, and he’s not wrong—but we’d go even further. There is never a wrong time to sip a well-made sparkling wine. It goes with every meal, every celebration, every moment alone sitting on your front porch. New York wine producers technically can’t make Champagne. That honorific can be given only

The Pioneering Dr. Konstantin Frank Wins Best White for Reserve Riesling

It seems fitting that the winery that launched a vinifera revolution in the Finger Lakes and reinvigorated wine lovers’ passion for Riesling snagged Best White for its 2022 Reserve Riesling in this year’s New York Wine Classic. “My great-grandfather was a researcher and scientist, and his approach is foundational to what we do here today,” says Meaghan Frank, who joined her family’s winery, Dr. Konstantin Frank, 11 years ago and

From a Perfect Vintage, Raphael Wine’s 2019 Reserve Cabernet Franc Wins Best Red in the 2024 New York Wine Classic

In the U.S. no regulation stipulates what can be labeled as a reserve wine. But a winery that’s focused on quality and authenticity will bottle a reserve wine only when it’s truly warranted. “It’s not every year we can do the reserve wines, but when the vintage is spectacular we will,” says Julia Petrocelli-Vergari, owner-operator of Raphael Wine in Peconic. “The 2019 vintage was perfect. The stars were aligned. I

How Scientists Are Helping Grape Growers Combat Pests and Pestilence

Growing grapes isn’t for the faint of heart. A delicate crop utterly dependent on the whims of Mother Nature, the challenges have always been significant, but in recent years amid climate change, the situation has felt, at times, existential. This past year’s harvest was summarized in Cornell’s documentary-style newsletter Veraison to Harvest 2023 thusly: “Spring was early, fall was late and summer was difficult.” It continued: “The abrupt changes in

New York State and Cornell University Experts Provide Update on The Spotted Lanternfly and Tips for Actions They Can Take to Manage the Invasive Pest

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Jola Szubielski | (518) 457-0752 | [email protected] Hanna Birkhead | (518) 457-0752 | [email protected] WHAT: New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets and Department of Environmental Conservation officials and experts from Cornell University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Integrated Pest Management program will join together to provide an update on the Spotted Lanternfly (SLF) in New York State and answer questions from the public and the media. The live

Weis Vineyards Wins Winery of the Year and Governor’s Cup for Best Dessert Wine

Six generations of know-how and passion spread across two continents went into Weis Vineyards’ wins at the 38th Annual New York Wine Classic. “I grew up on vineyards in the Mosel,” says Hans Peter Weis, the German-born winemaker and co-owner of Weis Vineyards with his wife Ashlee Weis. “Winegrowing and winemaking have always been a part of my life, and my family’s life going back six generations in the Mosel.

NYWGF Issues RFP for Market Representatives in South Korea and Vietnam

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Valerie Venezia-RossPhone: 1 (518) 229-3765Email: [email protected] The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is currently seeking proposals for a consulting partner(s) to manage marketing efforts directed at trade, media, and consumers in both the Korea and Vietnam markets with the goal of raising brand awareness and sales of New York Wines. The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) was created by the State of New

The Empire State’s Red-Hot Love Affair With Cabernet Franc

Far be it from us to play favorites with grape varieties, but it’s impossible to ignore the Empire State’s emerging star grape, Cabernet Franc. Riesling hogged the headlines and the critical acclaim in the state for decades, but thanks to a delicious cocktail of developments—including improved clones and viticultural techniques, and the auspicious pairing of grape and terroir—Cabernet Franc is now able to begin to compete with Riesling for star

three wine glasses against black background. Red wine is being poured into the center glass.

Governor Hochul Announces Winners of the 2024 New York Wine Classic

Weis Vineyards Named Winery of the Year Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the winners of the 38th Annual New York Wine Classic, a nationally recognized competition highlighting the best of New York’s wine industry. Weis Vineyards, located in the Finger Lakes region, took home the two top awards in the 2024 Competition. They were honored as Winery of the Year, and their 2018 Riesling Ice Wine was awarded the prestigious

Everybody Get Excited. August Is Finger Lakes Wine Month

Celebrate New York’s largest wine region with special tastings, exclusive experiences, and more. If you’ve ever wondered when the best time to visit a winery in the Finger Lakes is, the best answer is, “any time.” Each season has its charms. But, if you’re thinking about visiting the region in August, it’s certainly an exciting time to do so. The vines are lush and full. Verasion, when the grapes start

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Releases 2023-2024 Annual Report

Dear Friends, This past year, the New York Wine & Grape Foundation Board and Staff remained focused on the needs of growers, winemakers, and other partners as we worked to strengthen the state’s agricultural economy. NYWGF aims to play a vital role in promoting New York State’s top-quality grapes and wines by implementing innovative programs, practicing sustainability, and forming strategic partnerships to secure a prosperous future for New York wines

Why You Should Be Popping Empire State Fizz on Independence Day

Photo Credit: Sparkling Pointe Champagne had a good run. For centuries, fizz from France was the bottle to pop for celebrations large and small. But increasingly, winemakers across the world are producing sparkling wines in a range of styles—from a variety of grapes—and wine lovers can’t get enough of any of it. From the rarefied traditional method Blanc de Blancs to the unexpectedly exuberant and delightful offbeat Pet-Nats, and everything

Preventing Heat Stress and Strain in the Vineyard

Summer weather can place vineyard workers in dangerously hot environments. Combining physically demanding work and long days with hot temperatures puts workers at risk for several types of heat stress. Click below to download a flyer with vital information on heat stress and strain symptoms and education and training tips, courtesy of American National Insurance. THIS POST IS SPONSORED BY:

The First Trustmarks Are Showing Up on 2023 Bottles

It’s been a long time coming, but New York State wineries now have a way to let consumers know on their wine bottles if the wine is produced using sustainably grown grapes. Wines made with at least 85% of the grapes coming from vineyards certified in 2023 through the New York Sustainable Wine Growing program of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation are the first to add the prestigious

2024 New York Wine Classic Awards Ceremony to be Hosted by Wanda Mann, East Coast Editor of ‘The SOMM Journal’, and Founder of ‘Wine With Wanda’

PENN YAN, NY– The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is pleased to announce that the 2024 New York Wine Classic Award winners will be honored on Wednesday, July 17th at 6:00PM EST in a live virtual ceremony hosted by Wanda Mann. The New York Wine Classic Awards Ceremony will reveal and celebrate the prestigious “Governor’s Cup” (Best Wine), “Winery of the Year” (Best Overall Showing by a Winery), and

Elevate Your Brand with the New NYWGF Printing Storefront

The New York wine industry is making waves on the world stage, and it’s all thanks to the hard work and dedication of industry professionals like you. From what you grow in the vineyards, craft in your cellars, and sell in your stores, your efforts are key to the rising prominence of New York wines. However, there’s always more we can do to tell the New York wine story more

USDA Awards $1.3 Million to Support New York Wine Exports to the Caribbean, Asia, and the United Kingdom

Contact: Valerie Venezia-RossPhone: 1 (518) 229-3765Email: [email protected] May 21, 2024 – Penn Yan, NY – Today, the New York Wine and Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is proud to be one of the 66 organizations awarded a USDA Regional Agricultural Promotion Program (RAPP) grant. This funding is dedicated to building demand for American food and farm exports in high-potential markets around the globe. NYWGF has received $1.3 million to support New York Wine export marketing

New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program Welcomes Nineteen New Certified Vineyards

Contact: Valerie Venezia-RossPhone: 1 (518) 229-3765Email: [email protected] PENN YAN, NY, May 21st, 2024 – The New York Wine & Grape Foundation is proud to welcome nineteen new certified vineyards to the New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program for 2024. These certified vineyards join the 49 previously certified growers dedicated to advancing the environmental, social, and economic sustainability in the New York wine industry. This voluntary, third-party certification program recognizes vineyards that

Updated “New York Wine Reference Guide” Shares Short-Form Video Series Led by Wine Writer and Educator Dan Belmont

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qjBJcp7pBws&list=PLGZMgKQVWfrQ_-99wNwXZMXKzvlZMm-Wp In September 2020, the New York Wine & Grape Foundation collaborated with wine writer and educator, Dan Belmont, to produce the revised New York Wine Reference Guide. The guide provides a comprehensive overview of New York’s wine regions, history, climate, styles, and more. To complement the guide, NYWGF is pleased to introduce a series of short-form videos led by Dan, offering viewers a tasting tour of each of

Yannick Benjamin Wins the 2024 Restaurant Award For His Inclusion of New York Wine on His Restaurant’s Menu

It’s not as rare as it used to be, but it’s still uncommon to dine in a New York City restaurant that offers New York state wines. Maybe you’ll see a Finger Lakes Riesling. If you’re in a wine bar, you may see another bottle or two. Even establishments that tout a local “farm to fork” ethos frequently overlook the fact that local vineyards are farms. There are a few

NYWGF Relaunches Mini-Grant Program to Support Marketing and Educational Needs of Wineries, Growers, and Related Promotional Entities

Penn Yan, NY – Each year NYWGF develops a comprehensive schedule of domestic and international marketing activities designed to promote the New York wine and grape industry. Funded by a mix of state, federal, and local entities, these marketing activities, along with educational and business development resources, are intended to significantly impact NYWGF’s mission goals and further the ability of wineries and growers to accomplish theirs. Though NYWGF creates its

For Her Work With Grape Pathology, Katie Gold Earns the Research Award

Katie Gold works to advance the science of using a technology called imaging spectroscopy, or hyperspectral imaging. Specifically, the assistant professor of grape pathology at Cornell uses this plant disease-detecting technology to identify and manage grape diseases, without ever disturbing the vines. Her work feels more timely than ever. The New York Wine industry—and the global wine industry—needs researchers like Gold for the issues it faces in the vineyards today

Understanding New York Wines’ Sustainability Program with Justin Jackson – Part 2

Once again, our very own Justin Jackson, NYWGF Sustainability Program Manager, sat down for an interview with the Editor of Canada’s Good Food Revolution, Jamie Drummond. In Part One, they discussed the inception of the program and what it encapsulates. This week, they talked about implementing the program, the certification of vineyards, convincing the consumer that it’s not greenwashing, and the third party auditing of certified wineries. You can find Part One right here.

Rich Olsen-Harbich Receives Sustainability Award After Decades of Pioneering Work

Rich Olsen-Harbich began pioneering sustainable winegrowing techniques decades before it was cool. “This Sustainability Award really validates what we’ve been doing at Bedell Cellars since 1980,” Olsen-Harbich, winemaker at Bedell Cellars, notes. “Sustainability is a zero-sum game. It is a pathway that you walk on, without an end in sight. You always want to find a way to be even more sustainable.” The New York Wine & Grape Foundation created

Seneca Falls Museum Unveils “History of Wine in the Finger Lakes” Exhibit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact Information:Seneca Falls Museum of Waterways and IndustryLaura [email protected] Museum of Waterways and Industry Unveils New Exhibit on Finger Lakes Wine History on April 27th, 2024.Website: https://sfheritagetourism.com/the-seneca-museum-of-waterways-and-industry/ Wine connoisseurs and casual wine-drinkers alike are invited to the unveiling of “A History of Wine in the Finger Lakes” at The Seneca Museum of Waterways and Industry in Seneca Falls. The exhibit will showcase the Finger Lakes wine industry from its humble

For Decades of Support, Melissa Heath Earns the New York Grape & Wine Foundation’s Consumer Award

When Melissa Heath heads to B.E.V. NY 2024 in early March to accept the New York Wine & Grape Foundation Unity Awards’ Consumer Award, her son Nicholas will accompany her. While she’s in the Canandaigua region, where the event is held, Melissa will take him to some of the wineries and introduce the recently 21-year-old to a pastime that she and her husband Joe enjoy together—visiting wineries in the Finger

Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition Announces Signature Grape Media Event

Hudson Valley, NY – The Hudson Valley’s wine scene is set to flourish as the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition hosts an exclusive media event at Benmarl Winery on Tuesday, May 14, from noon to 4 o’clock. This extraordinary gathering will showcase Cabernet Franc as the region’s signature grape, uniting wine enthusiasts, industry leaders, and media representatives. Highlighting the event is a rare tasting experience featuring Cabernet Franc crafted by

Gene Pierce, of Glenora Wine Cellars, Wins Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association Productivity Tray Award

Dundee, NY – Gene Pierce, President/Owner of Glenora Wine Cellars has been honored with the prestigious “Productivity Tray” award by the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association. This award recognizes individuals or organizations that have significantly contributed to the sustainable growth and economic vitality of the American wine industry through professional consulting, innovation, technical research and knowledge, as well as leadership and active support. Steve DiFrancesco, Winemaker Emeritus of Glenora and board

Lead New York Announces 20th Class Completes “Leadership Fundamentals”

ITHACA, N.Y. — Lead New York is pleased to announce that members of its 20th class have successfully completed the “Leadership Fundamentals” portion of the training program. Class members were recognized at a graduation ceremony on April 6 in Binghamton, NY. The ceremony came at the conclusion of the first year of intensive leadership development training, culminating in a session on local leadership and civic engagement. Congratulations to them all!

The Gilded Grape’s Mary Pino Feels Seen After Winning Retailer of the Year

When Mary Pino learned that she won the Retailer Award from the New York Wine & Grape Foundation this year for the work she does at the Gilded Grape, her Brooklyn wine store, she felt like years of hard work were being recognized. “I opened the Gilded Grape with the goal of sharing my passion for New York wine and spirits with my community in Brooklyn,” Pino explains of her

Understanding New York Wines’ Sustainability Program with Justin Jackson

This week our very own Justin Jackson, NYWGF Sustainability Program Manager, sat down for an interview with the Editor of Canada’s Good Food Revolution, Jamie Drummond. In Part One of this series, Justin shared insights into our New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program and its comprehensive scope. Click the link below to learn more about how sustainability practices are shaping the future of winemaking in New York. Stay tuned for Part

NYWGF Seeking Applications for Board of Directors

Please submit your application by May 3, 2024. Every May the New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) Board of Directors meets to elect members of the industry and interested stakeholders (like wine consumers) to board seats with expiring terms. The term of office for directors is three years and there are currently 22 members of the Board of Directors. Thirteen (13) board seats are statutorily mandated by the law

For His Leadership and Winemaking in New York Wine, Cesar Baeza Wins the Phyllis Feder Unity Award

Cesar Baeza, 2024 Phyllis Feder Unity Award Winner Cesar Baeza has had a long career in the drinks business, and it has taken him all over the world. At the moment, the winemaker is in Chile, his native country, helping his family with the harvest at Baeza Family Cellars. Soon, he expects to return to the States, promoting Baeza Family Cellars’ wines and consulting during the growing and winemaking season.

Executive Director’s Corner: 2024 Recap, NYWGF Statewide Roadshow, Vineyard Survey, Open ‘Office Hours’, & More

Greetings from New York City! For anyone just getting acquainted with the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, it might be news for you to find out that NYC is my home base. And while most of the NYWGF team is in the Finger Lakes, we also have two staff members in the Hudson Valley region. We’re a small but mighty team of seven, connecting with each other every day

Dawn and Bob Betts Honored by John Brahm III Grower Award for Ceaseless Research and Innovation

Dawn and Bob Betts of Betts Farms LLC The usual “surprised but pleased” reaction that most people admit to having when presented with a major accolade doesn’t quite sum it up for Dawn and Bob Betts. “We were shocked,” Dawn says of learning that she and her husband Bob won the John Brahm III Grower award for their pioneering work with grapes at Betts Farms. “It’s the Wine & Grape

Macari Vineyards’ Significant Contributions to the Local Industry Earn It the Unity Awards’ Winery Award

“Our unwavering principle was never to release a wine we wouldn’t personally enjoy or take pride in serving,” says Gabriella Macari, director of operations for Macari Vineyards, speaking of the winery’s history of making quality wine on Long Island. It’s that unwavering principle that contributed to the New York Wine and Grape Foundation honoring Macari Vineyards with the Winery Award in the 2024 Unity Awards. The award recognizes major contributions

Douglas DeCroix and John Thomas Slater Snag Jim Finkle Industry Award

When most people think of New York wine, they think of the Finger Lakes, or maybe Long Island or the Hudson Valley. But thanks to John Thomas Slater and Douglas DeCroix’s book, an unsung region with an outsize impact on the history and future of winemaking in America—the Chautauqua-Erie Grape Belt—is finally getting its due. “Receiving the Jim Finkle Industry Award means so much to me personally, but I feel

New York Wine Classic 2024: The Ultimate Celebration of New York Wines

PENN YAN, NY – March 1, 2024 – The New York Wine & Grape Foundation is thrilled to announce the 2024 New York Wine Classic, the ultimate celebration of New York wines. This annual wine competition, now in its 38th year, recognizes excellence in winemaking and provides an important platform for New York wineries to showcase their products to a global audience. The New York Wine Classic is open to

New York State and Regional Wine Associations Unite to Provide Expanded Access to Educational and Business Development Resources

Penn Yan, NY – February 28, 2024 – In an exciting collaboration between the New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) and the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance (FLWA), 2024 promises new opportunities for educational and business growth for wineries and grape growers across New York State. Beginning in March 2024, NYWGF members will have the opportunity to participate in FLWA Spring Roundtables and Workshops, events which were previously exclusive to

Cameron and Maren Hosmer on Earning the New York Grape & Wine Foundation’s Lifetime Achievement Award

Maren and Cameron Hosmer “I was overwhelmed,” says Cameron Hosmer, about the news of the Jim Trezise Lifetime Achievement Award he and his wife, Maren, received this year from the New York Wine & Grape Foundation. “What a thrill! It was truly an honor to be recognized by our industry.” Maren was equally taken by surprise and delighted. “I couldn’t believe it,” she recalls. “It really was completely unexpected.” That

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Unity Awards Announced, Winners to be Honored at B.E.V. NY Conference in Canandaigua, NY

February 20, 2024 – The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is pleased to announce the winners of the prestigious 2024 Unity Awards. The Unity Awards were created in 1990 for the community to recognize, encourage, and celebrate cooperation among grape growers, wineries, researchers, retailers, and others to advance the entire industry.  Honoring the longstanding and bold spirit of our community members and their numerous achievements, NYWGF is proud

February 2024 Policy Updates from NYWGF Executive Director, Sam Filler

Dear Friends, The grape and wine industry faces several emergent public policy issues from labor law changes, neo-prohibitionist movements, and proposed waste management regulations that would shift more responsibility and accountability onto manufacturers. Public policy affects the quality of New York’s business climate, influencing the success and viability of your vineyard and winery operations. NYWGF recognizes that the industry looks to us to help keep you informed about anything affecting

Finger Lakes Wine Alliance Introduces Travel Scholarship for Riesling Camp

Geneva, NY – February 15, 2024 – The Finger Lakes Wine Alliance, premier trade association for wines in the region, announces new travel scholarships to Riesling Camp in service of the organization’s goals to promote diversity and inclusivity in the wine industry. Riesling Camp, the FLWA’s signature annual event, is an immersive multi-day educational visit for the wine trade and media to learn about the Finger Lakes American Viticultural Area and

Prejean Winery Celebrates Five Award-Winning Wines

February 9, 2024– Prejean Winery, a family-owned and operated winery located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region, is proud to announce that five of its 2022 vintages have won medals of distinction in two prestigious wine competitions. The 2024 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the largest competition of North American wines, awarded gold medals to Prejean Winery’s 2022 Goldfinch Vineyards Dry Riesling, 2022 Semi-Dry Riesling, and 2022 Vignoles,

New York Wineries Find Success Embracing Consumers Desire to Fit Wine Into A Healthy Lifestyle

By the end of January, many people lose their resolve to be healthier in the new year. But recently, particularly in the alcohol space, people are choosing to be more mindful about what they consume throughout the entire year. Inherently, this is a good thing, but it leaves some confusion for those who make wine. How can winemakers navigate the intersection between wine and a healthy lifestyle? What many refer

How New York Wineries Stoke Bottom Lines By Building Relationships

With more than 11,500 wineries to choose from in the U.S. alone, beverage enthusiasts could drink a bottle of wine from a different winery every day, and not run out of new options for several years. Exciting for thirsty, novelty-loving wine lovers, less so for vintners eager to establish a loyal base of supporters. These days, that entails a tightrope walk: wineries have to establish personal relationships with people who

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Launches 2024 Vineyard Survey

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Valerie Venezia-RossPhone: 1 (518) 229-3765Email: [email protected] Penn Yan, NY, February 6, 2024: The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is excited to unveil its highly anticipated 2024 Vineyard Survey. In collaboration with Agency 29, Ag Access, and Deep Planet, NYWGF aims to chart a new course for the state’s wine and grape industry. Sam Filler, Executive Director of NYWGF, highlighted the survey’s significance, stating, “This marks a

How New York Wine Is Popping Up on Menus in Japan, the U.K., and Denmark

There are more than 400 wineries in New York, and they are garnering increasingly enthusiastic raves from national critics at Wine Enthusiast, Wine Spectator, The New York Times and others. And thanks to an innovative program, and the hard work of winemakers willing to travel and share their story, the good word on New York’s incredible wines is spreading across the globe. How it Works The New York Wine &

New York’s Wine Country in the Winter Has Something for Everyone

The winter is without a doubt one of the best times to explore wine country in New York. Not only are the vines often blanketed in winter white, there are fewer visitors, a range of imaginative events and more opportunities to learn from and interact with the people behind the wines. With more than 470 active wineries in the Empire State and 35,000+ acres under vine, there is plenty to

New York Wines: Your Valentine’s Essentials

Love is in the Wine: Romantic Rosés, Sparkling Delights, and Silky Reds: A Virtual Tasting to Find the Perfect Wines for Valentine’s Day and Beyond. Indulge in a journey through the heart of New York’s wine country with Sam Kimball, a WSET-trained sommelier and the co-founder of Crush Wine Experiences. Mark your calendars for Wednesday, February 7th at 6 PM ET for a unique and engaging virtual tasting experience. Embark on

The Sun That Nurtures New York’s Grapes Now Powers Many New York Wineries

The ritual of popping a cork on a bottle of wine after a long day at work or before a weekend meal comes with many things. Your favorite corkscrew. Your favorite glassware. The feeling of stress leaving your body when you hear the cork pop, you pour the wine, and then inhale the captivating aromas. The indescribable satisfaction of the first sip. What that ritual probably doesn’t come with is

Legends of the Chautauqua-Erie Grape Belt

NEWS RELEASE, November 28, 2023Contact: Doug DeCroix, WNY Heritage, [email protected] Baideme, Grape Discovery Center, [email protected] John Thomas Slater, [email protected] Three Achievements in the Chautauqua-Erie Grape Belt: “Celebrate the past and look to the future.”Westfield, NY – November 19th was a busy day at the Grape Discovery Center. Located in the heart of the world’s largest Concord grape-growing region, the Center played host to two celebrations—the release of a new and unique

NYWGF issues RFP for 2024 Grape & Wine Research

The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) was created in 1985, in part, to help establish a funding channel for research in the areas of viticulture, enology, and “best practices” in wine marketing and business development. For 35 years, NYWGF has annually distributed funds to projects that provide the New York State wine and grape industry with short-term solutions and long-term strategic directions. Click here to explore previously funded

NYWGF Partners with Agency 29 for Comprehensive Statewide Vineyard Survey

Penn Yan, NY, November 28, 2023: The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is pleased to announce a new partnership with Upstate NY-based brand-building firm, Agency 29 to lead a comprehensive statewide Vineyard Survey initiative. Ag Access and Deep Planet AI will also partner with NYWGF and Agency 29 on this collaborative effort. “We are pleased to announce this historic collaborative effort designed to accurately document New York State’s

2024 Unity Award Nominations Process Announced

Awardees Honored at B.E.V. NY Conference, Donations Made on Winners’ Behalf to New York Nonprofits NYWGF is pleased to provide our community with the opportunity to recognize the champions among us once again. You are invited to submit your nominations for the 2024 Unity Awards. The Unity Awards were created in 1990 to recognize, encourage, and celebrate cooperation among grape growers, wineries, researchers, retailers, and others to advance the entire

The Continuing Work of Reducing the Need for Chemicals in New York’s Vineyards

Vineyards today are a far cry from their manicured, perfectly-trimmed-and-green predecessors of yore. In the 1960s, you were likely to glimpse neat rows of vines with pristine rows of soil between them—not a weed or cover crop to be seen. Chemicals seemed to be the answer to better wine growing. Herbicides destroyed the weeds that competed with the vines for water. Insecticides got rid of critters that wanted to use

How Wine Clubs Help Producers Boost Their Bottom Line and Build Community

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales are increasingly becoming important for small and medium-sized wineries; in many cases, wine clubs are foundational to sustained DTC success. The classic distribution model, amid widespread consolidation, is no longer viable for most wineries. Distributors have been merging and consolidating for decades now. Currently, two distributors account for more than half of all wine sales in the U.S. Meanwhile, the number of wineries across the country are

New York May Have a New Vineyard Sustainability Certification But Sustainable Efforts Are Nothing New in the State’s Vineyards

Sustainability is more than a buzzword for the vintners of New York State. Although there is no legally binding definition of “sustainability,” for the purposes of the New York Sustainable Winegrowing program, sustainable farming entails not just the way a vineyard is farmed, but a system of farming that can be maintained and supported over time. In a vineyard where the same soil nourishes plants year after year, environmental sustainability

Why New York Winemakers Are Excited About These Hybrids

Hybrid grapes are seen by many as the store-brand version of real-deal grapes. Sure, they have some notable benefits: they’re generally less expensive, and in many ways just as good as the name brand versions. But they don’t have the cache, street cred and long history of their Vitis vinifera counterparts. But in New York—and other regions of the Northeast and Midwest where real-life growing conditions often fail to be

Adirondack Winery Sets $20,000 Fundraising Goal for 11th Annual Drink Pink Fundraiser

(Queensbury, NY) – Adirondack Winery, the North Country’s largest producer of craft wines, has announced a $20,000 fundraising goal for its 11th Annual “Drink Pink” breast cancer awareness fundraiser. A portion of sales from all direct-to-consumer business units from September 15 through October 31 will be donated to the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of the Adirondacks. Last year, with the support of its customers, employees, and

Long Time Lieb Cellars Winemaker Russell Hearn, Purchases Cutchogue Winery

CUTCHOGUE, NY (October 5, 2023) — As an affirmation to his belief in the quality, longevity, and sustainability of the North Fork of Long Island, Russell Hearn and business partners purchased Lieb Cellars after over thirty years as Lieb’s head winemaker. “I first met Mark and Kathy Lieb three decades ago. They were passionate about wine and looking to showcase the best Long Island had to offer, which continues to

Family Behind Jason’s Vineyard Toasts to a Sparkling Legacy & Future

New York is justly celebrated for the incredible diversity of the wine that it produces, from grape varieties to styles. In sparkling form, everything from rustic Pet-Nat to meticulously crafted and aged traditional methode champenoise can be found. But the one that is really turning heads this year is a 2021 Bubbly Rosé from Jason’s Vineyard. The New York Wine Classic 2023, which celebrates the diversity of wine in New

Wölffer Estate’s Roman Roth Says New York Classic Awards Sweep Confirms Bullish Stance on New York Wine

“We didn’t just win awards in one or two vintages, we won awards across four vintages,” says Wölffer Estate Vineyard’s winemaker and partner Roman Roth. “To me, that says a lot about the quality of the wine being made in New York overall.” Roth was referring, of course, to the New York Wine Classic 2023, which celebrates the diversity of wine in New York State. This year, 749 wines were

Annual Holiday Wine Tasting event returns to the Hudson Valley

Mid-Hudson Valley Region, New York – Tickets are on sale now! Break out your favorite fun holiday attire or that ugly seasonal sweater and get ready for the Shawangunk Wine Trail’s ultimate holiday wine tasting event, Holiday Fineries at the Wineries, formerly known as Wreath Fineries at the Wineries, returns to the wineries on November 18-19, December 2-3, and December 9-10 from 11am-5pm on all dates. This event is a

New York Wine & Grape Foundation Unveils New Logos, Resources to Promote State’s Unique Wine Regions and Commitment to Sustainable Winegrowing

September 20th, 2023 – Penn Yan, NY — The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) is pleased to announce the culmination of its Brand Expansion project in partnership with Born Collective. The goal of this initiative, which began in April 2022, was to create tools and resources designed to increase the recognition of the New York wine and grape industry to global trade, media, and consumer audiences. NYWGF is

Field Notes