Finger Lakes Named Best Wine Region in U.S.

Check out this great read.

The Finger Lakes have been named the best wine region in the U.S.

https://www.lonelyplanet.com/news/2018/09/21/finger-lakes-best-wine-region/?fbclid=IwAR2HZGZDBt37kTPLYfCVRhp_SgTsuz0uF9HJ9nMKIFULVAtQQxY5ufdRvW4

Cornell Hires New Viticulture and Wine Specialist for Eastern New York

James Meyers in a vineyard in New York

The Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture Program of Cornell Cooperative Extension has announced the hiring of James Meyers as the new viticulture and wine specialist for a 17-county region in the eastern part of New York state. 

Meyers will provide regional grape growers with a combination of on-the-ground grape production assistance and some high flying technology.

Meyers earned his doctoral degree in viticulture at Cornell University and has applied a masters degree in computer science from Brown University to his viticultural research. 

Using satellite imaging and drone technology, Meyers has mapped canopy and vineyard variability to help growers in the Finger Lakes region of New York and in the state of California optimize the efficiency and profitability of their vineyard operations. He will continue the use of that technology in eastern New York.

"Images taken by a drone-mounted camera can be used to identify areas of inconsistency in a vineyard and create variability maps to guide ground level assessments of vine performance for potential remediation such as soil amendments, canopy management activities, or rootstock changes," Meyers explained. "This technology can also be used to add harvesting and processing efficiency."

Meyers is introducing himself to growers and learning about their operations in Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Dutchess, Essex, Fulton, Greene, Montgomery, Orange, Putnam, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Ulster, Warren and Washington counties.

His hiring is timely for the 300-mile eastern New York region that experienced a 34 percent increase in the number of grape-growing operations and a 50 percent increase in grape acres from 2007 to 2012, according to the October 2016 Grape Production in the Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture Region.

Meyers will create and develop an Eastern New York geospatial database of vine performance that will help growers better understand their local climates, track vineyard performance, and adjust decision making for greater productivity and profitability.

"Adding a specialist with Jim’s agricultural and technological skills will maximize Extension learning opportunities in support of the Eastern New York grape industry,’ said Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture Program Small Fruit and Vegetable Team Leader Laura McDermott.

To contact Meyers or any of the other 12 specialists advising commercial fruit and vegetable growers in eastern NY, and to find educational resources, newsletters and pest alerts, visit the website at https://enych.cce.cornell.edu

NY Wines Win Big at Nation's Largest Wine Competition

News from Jim Trezise, president of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

I've been in northern California judging at the annual San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the nation's largest with 6,850 entries this year from around the United States.  

The competition is run by Bob, Cary and Scott Fraser, with the backroom coordinated by the incomparable Anne Vercelli overseeing about 100 volunteers serving some 60 judges evaluating the wines over three and a half days.  What a job!

Best of Class awards went to Atwater Estate 2014 Riesling, and Merritt Estate Bella Ice.

Double Gold medals were awarded to Anthony Road 2015 Dry Riesling; Bellangelo 2015 Riesling, Gibson Vineyard; Merritt Estate Bella Rosa; Penguin Bay Percussion, and 2015 Riesling; Swedish Hill 2015 Riesling; and Wagner 2015 Dry Riesling.

Gold medals went to 1911 McIntosh Classic Apple Wine; Bellangelo 2015 Dry Riesling; Black Willow 2015 Diamond, and 2015 Bare Cat Blush; Brooklyn Winery 2013 Blanc de Blanc, and 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon; Buttonwood Grove 2015 Riesling; Coyote Moon 2015 LaCrescent, 2015 Concord, and 2015 Niagara; Keuka Spring Vineyards 2015 Riesling Humphreys Vineyards, and 2015 Vignoles; Merritt Estate 2015 Vidal Ice Wine, Edelweiss, and Pinot Grigio; Swedish Bill Blanc de Blanc; and Wagner 2015 Riesling.

The Chronicle tasting always kicks off the competition season, with Florida up next in early February. In 2016, New York wines won more than 1,000 Gold medals or scores of 90 or above in major wine magazines, and 2017 will probably be bigger and better.  

But a reminder to the wineries: If you don't enter, you can't win.

Message from In-Coming President of the NY Grape and Wine Foundation

A message from Sam Filler, in-coming president of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

Hello New York Grape and Wine World, and our Supporters.

I officially joined the New York Wine & Grape Foundation Jan. 1, and I spent my first week at the foundation's offices in Canandaigua. 

Filler

I received a warm and gracious greeting from Jim Trezise and our colleagues: Dana Alexander, Kim Hughes, Jenn Cooper, Susan Spence and Teresa Knapp.  I quickly learned that the staff is the heart of the organization. Their professionalism, hard work and positive attitudes drive forward everything we do at the foundation. 

I am excited to join their team and work with them to propel the New York grape and wine industry to new heights.

Jim will remain as president through March 31, and he kicked off the transition process with a thorough briefing on the ins and outs of how the foundation operates and an overview of its core programs.  Our foundation colleagues got me up to speed on their roles and functions; and they provided more in-depth detail about the programs that they manage.  

I am impressed at the breadth and scope of support that the Foundation provides to the industry each year.  I intend to continue this long tradition of support, and I plan on seeking out input on how the Foundation can build upon and expand its programming.

The foundation hosted its annual meeting of wine trails Jan. 5. The meeting provided me an opportunity to connect with the key leaders and representatives from our state's wine regions.  During the meeting, the trails' leadership exchanged best practices to boost member participation and marketing tactics to reach and attract more visitors. 

From my experience at Empire State Development and working with the I Love NY and Taste NY teams, I recognize the important role that trails serve to promote our wine regions and tasting rooms.  To that end, I plan on touring every wine trail and attending trail membership meetings during the first half of this year.
 

There will also be opportunities provided by the State this year for the foundation and wine trails to collaborate even more.  

 

Gov. Cuomo has proposed in his State of the State policy book several new initiatives to promote the craft beverage industry and agritourism.  For example, he pledges to make available $2 million through the Market NY REDC grant program for projects focused specifically on promoting destinations, attractions and special events related to the craft beverage and agritourism industry.  Additionally, he proposes to boost Taste NY's budget by $500,000 to support its presence at key food and beverage events.

These new investments will be complimented by the launch of New York State's first-ever New York Craft Beverage Week. This new promotion will be supplemented by a grant program for craft beverage producers to engage in joint marketing campaigns and stipends to enter products in national and international competitions.  

And, Gov. Cuomo proposes to establish the Taste NY Culinary Trail System, which will assist New York's branded trail systems with additional statewide promotion, as well as a one-stop shop within the Taste NY program to provide technical support.
 

This is going to be an exciting year of continued growth for the grape and wine industry.  It helps greatly that our state government remains committed to supporting our industry in many ways.  

I look forward to meeting many of you over the course of the year, and I welcome your ideas and questions, so feel free to email anytime at samfiller@nywgf.org.

2 Finger Lakes Wineries Take Top Honors at NY Wine Competition

Results from the New York Wine & Food Classic as posted by Jim Trezise of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

Congratulations to Billsboro Winery and Keuka Spring Vineyards for top showing at this week's New York Wine & Food Classic.

 

Billsboro Winery 2013 Syrah from the Finger Lakes Region won the coveted "Governor's Cup" trophy as the best wine of the competition, with a very strong vote among all judges during the final "Sweepstakes" round. 

 

When the Classic began some 30 years ago, it was totally inconceivable that a dry red Syrah from the Finger Lakes region would take top honors, but here it is.

 

The "Winery of the Year" award went to Keuka Spring Vineyards, also from the Finger Lakes region, for the best overall showing in terms of the number and types of medals for various wines entered.  

 

 Keuka Spring is a past Governor's Cup winner whose wines have also won top awards at major international and national competitions, including twice for Best White Wine (once for a Riesling, once for a Gewurztraminer) at the San Francisco Chronicle Competition, the largest in the country..

 

This year's competition included 893 New York wines, 20 Hard Ciders and 38 Craft Spirits from several regions across New York state including Long Island, Hudson Valley, Finger Lakes, Niagara Escarpment and Lake Erie. 

 

The Billsboro Winery 2013 Syrah was also voted Best Red Wine and Best Syrah on its way to the ultimate award. Keuka Spring Vineyards won Best White Wine and Best Overall Riesling on its way to the Winery of the Year award, along with several Best of Class awards and other top medals. 

 

Other "Best of Category" grape wines in the final "Sweepstakes" round were: 

 

Sparkling Wine: Sparkling Pointe Vineyards & Winery 2013 Brut, from Long Island

 

White Wine: Keuka Spring Vineyards 2015 Gewurztraminer, from the Finger Lakes

 

Blush or Rose Wine: 21 Brix Winery Ellatawba, from Lake Erie

 

Dessert Wine: Wolffer Estate Vineyard 2015 Descencia Botrytis Riesling/Chardonnay, from Long Island 

 

There are other special categories as well: 

 

A "Specialty Wine Champion" award recognizes consistent quality among the increasing number of wines made from fruits other than grapes, or honey. The 2016 winner was Coyote Moon Vineyards Razzle Dazzle.

 

A "Best Limited Production Wine" award, for wines produced with fewer than 100 cases, went to Finger Lakes Community College Viticulture & Wine Tech Corp 2015 Gather, Dry Riesling.

 

There are also awards for Best Spirit and Best Cider. The Best Spirit honor went to Finger Lakes Distilling McKenzie Bourbon Whisky while the Best Cider was Brooklyn Cider House Half Sour.

 

The awards were based on blind tastings by 22 expert judges-5 from California, 9 from New York, 7 from other states, and 1 from London. Judges included prominent wine writers, restaurateurs, retailers, and wine educators. Judging panels determined the initial awards, with top-scoring wines evaluated by all 22 judges for Best of Category and Governor's Cup awards.

 

Celebrating its 31st year, the Classic is organized by Teresa Knapp of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, with support from NYWGF colleagues Susan Spence, Dana Alexander, Jenn Cooper, and Kim Hughes, and a great crew of volunteers.

 

The Classic is open to all 406 New York wineries from all regions. In 2016, a total of 71 Double Gold, 106 Gold, 386 Silver, and 250 Bronze medals were awarded. In addition, "Best of Category" and "Best of Class" designations were awarded to wines rated as the finest in various areas. Double Gold medals require unanimity among a panel's judges that a wine deserves a Gold medal, whereas Gold medals require a majority vote.

 

 

Best of Class awards go to Double Gold or Gold medal wines in classes of at least 7 wines. The "Best of Class" awards went to:

 

Best Oaked Chardonnay

Whitecliff Vineyard 2014 Reserve Chardonnay (Hudson River Region)

 

Best Unoaked Chardonnay

Lieb Cellars 2015 Bridge Lane Chardonnay (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Gewürztraminer

Keuka Spring Vineyards 2015 Gewürztraminer (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Dry Riesling

Keuka Spring Vineyards 2015 Humphreys Vineyard Riesling, Single Vineyard Series (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Medium Dry Riesling

Dr. Konstantin Frank 2015 Riesling, Semi-Dry (Finger Lakes)

  

Best Medium Sweet Riesling

Keuka Spring Vineyards 2015 Semi Sweet Riesling (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Sweet Riesling

Wagner Vineyards 2013 Riesling Select, Estate Grown & Bottled (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Overall Riesling

Keuka Spring Vineyards 2015 Semi Sweet Riesling (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Pinot Grigio

Duck Walk Vineyards 2015 Pinot Grigio (Long Island)

 

Best Other Vinifera White Varietal

Palmer Vineyards 2015 Albarino (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Vinifera White Blend

Bedell Cellars 2015 Taste White (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Vinifera/Hybrid White Blend

Keuka Spring Vineyards Celebrate (Finger Lakes)

Best Cayuga

Swedish Hill Winery 2015 Cayuga White (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Seyval

Benmarl Winery 2015 Seyval Blanc (Hudson River Region)

 

Best Traminette

Seneca Shore Wine Cellars Traminette, Estate Bottled, DeMarco Vineyards (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Vidal

J.R. Dill Winery 2015 Vidal Blanc (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Cold Climate White Varietal

Coyote Moon Vineyards Brianna (Thousand Islands)

 

Best Hybrid White

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyard White Stag (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Niagara

Americana Vineyards Crystal Lake (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Catawba

21 Brix Winery Ellatawba (Lake Erie)

 

Best Native Varietal

Coyote Moon Vineyards Fire Boat Red (Thousand Islands)

 

Best Vinifera Rosé

Wagner Vineyards 2015 Rosé of Cabernet Franc (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Cabernet Sauvignon

Osprey's Dominion Vineyards 2013 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve (North Fork of Long Island)

Best Merlot

Clovis Point Vineyard & Winery 2013 Vintner's Select Merlot (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Pinot Noir

Osprey's Dominion Vineyards 2014 Pinot Noir (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Cabernet Franc

Kontokosta Winery 2013 Cabernet Franc (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Other Red Vinifera Varietal

Influence Wines 2015 Malbec (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Syrah

Billsboro Winery 2013 Syrah (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Vinifera Red Blend

Harbes Vineyard 2014 Red Blend, Proprietor's Reserve (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Cold Climate Red Varietal

Tug Hill Vineyards White Out, Estate (Thousand Islands)

 

Best Fruit Wine

Coyote Moon Vineyards Razzle Dazzle (Thousand Islands)

 

Best Cider

Brooklyn Cider House Half Sour

 

Best Spirit

Finger Lakes Distilling McKenzie Bourbon Whisky

 

Best Port

Goose Watch Winery 2015 Finale White Port (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Late Harvest

Wolffer Estate Vineyard 2015 Descencia Botrytis Riesling/Chardonnay (Long Island)

 

Best Ice Wine

Sheldrake Point Winery 2014 Riesling Ice Wine, Wild Ferment, Estate Bottled (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Vinifera Sparkling White

Sparkling Pointe Vineyards & Winery 2013 Brut, Methode Champenoise (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Vinifera Sparkling Pink

Sparkling Pointe Vineyards & Winery 2013 Topaz Imperial, Methode Champenoise (North Fork of Long Island)

 

Best Hybrid Sparkling White

Swedish Hill Winery Blanc de Blancs (Finger Lakes)

 

Best Native Sparkling Wine

Lakewood Sparkling Catawba (Finger Lakes)

 

 

New York Wineries Included in "Best Wineries" List

Information from Jim Trezise of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

"The Daily Meal blog recently ran a piece on the "101 Best Wineries in America," which included seven from New York:

Red Newt Cellars (#42), Boundary Breaks (43), Dr. Konstantin Frank (54), Hermann J. Wiemer (68), Shinn Estate (74), Channing Daughters (86), and Bellwether Hard Cider & Wine Cellars (90).

Not surprisingly given its huge number of wineries, California had the most, with good representation also from Oregon and Washington, but it wasn't so long ago that New York would have been largely ignored.  No longer...and it's great to see."

Hudson Valley Wineries Create 'Signature Wine'

From Jim Trezise at the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon...Oregon Pinot Noir...Long Island Merlot... Finger Lakes Riesling--just a few of the regions that have become famous by adopting a "signature wine" that they can do consistently well across vintages and wineries.

And now a group of Hudson Valley wineries has decided to hitch their wagon to Cabernet Franc, a medium-bodied red wine that grows well in the cool-climate region and is rapidly increasing in popularity.

Spearheading the effort, Doug and Mary Ellen Glorie of Glorie Farm Winery, along with the publishers of Hudson Valley Wine Magazine, spread the idea and received an eager audience of industry colleagues.  As a result, the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition was formed to encourage more vineyard plantings of the grape and boost recognition of the region's distinctive Cabernet Franc wines.  (In other parts of the State, there are the Long Island Merlot Alliance, and the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance focused on Riesling.)

Used primarily in a cameo role as a blending grape in Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc has become increasingly popular among New York producers due to its cold-hardy nature, medium body, food friendliness, and other characteristics. Coincidentally, it is one of the "parents" of both the Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grape varieties.

Some people fear that choosing a "signature wine" will type-cast a region as a one-trick pony, but long experience has proven otherwise.  What it does ideally is draw attention to the region for consistent quality of that wine as an enticement to try others.  Works like a charm.

Best wishes for success to our Hudson Valley colleagues.

National Wine Day is Today!!

Grapes at Thousand Islands Winery

Today is National Wine Day.

This is not to be confused with National Drink Wine Day, which is celebrated in February.

Today, May 25, we will celebrate wine and those who make it, especially all those vintners in New York state. New York is the second largest producer of wine in the country after California and New York producers make top notch wine that constantly win national and international wine contests. 

Wine is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grapes or other fruits -- in fact there are wines made from fruits such as apples, pears and cherries made right in New York state.

So on National Wine Day, enjoy a glass of their favorite wine with dinner, for dessert, with friends, at a restaurant, at home or at a wine-tasting event.

New Executive Director Chosen for New York Wine and Grape Foundation

News from the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

               

Filler

Samuel Filler will become the executive director of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation as of Jan. 1, said foundation board chair Trent Preszler.

He will replace outgoing President Jim Trezise, who has served in that position since the foundation was created over 30 years ago.

"When Jim announced his intention to step aside at the end of this year, the board began conducting an extensive search," Preszler said. "During that process, Mr. Filler clearly rose to the top and his appointment was approved unanimously by the board. 

"I am confident that his experience in economic development and his passion for the New York grape and wine industry make him a perfect fit for NYWGF at this particular moment in our history. I anticipate in the coming months and years we will see our vital organization rise to even greater heights," Preszler said.

Since 2012, Filler has been director of industry development for Empire State Development Corp. and directed the "One Stop Shop" and served as a vital liaison between state government and New York's wine, beer, spirits and cider industries. In that role, he administered $9 million in funding for craft beverage advertising, marketing, and tourism projects.

"Sam's direct experience with our industry in the regulatory, financial, and promotional arenas make him the ideal choice to propel the Foundation and industry forward into an even brighter future," said Trezise. "He is well-known and highly respected throughout the industry, and brings the energy and talent required to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead."

Filler also has worked in economic development and public service positions in New York City, Washington D.C., and California. He completed leadership training as part of the Empire State Fellows Program, and is  enrolled in Cornell University's LEAD NY program for leaders in the food, agriculture and natural resources industries.  

Filler has a bachelor's degree from Vassar College, and a master's of urban planning from New York University.

"I am honored to be selected as executive director, and excited about this opportunity," said Filler. "The New York Wine and Grape Foundation has an extraordinary history of catalyzing the transformation of an industry from an economic crisis into a major economic development engine. 

"I am excited to build on the solid foundation created by Jim Trezise and the staff of NYWGF, and I look forward to using my experience in economic development and the knowledge I have acquired about this industry to advance that success," Filler said.

Filler will remain at ESD for the rest of 2016. Trezise will remain president of NYWGF until March 31,  working closely with Filler to ensure a smooth transition into the future. 

New York Wineries Exhibit at Boston Wine Expo

Nearly two dozen New York state wineries showcased their products under the Taste NY Pavilion at the 25^th annual Boston Wine Expo this past weekend. 

The Boston Wine Expo is the Northeast’s largest wine and food event and draws about 8,000 distributors and consumers. New York wineries from Western New York to Long Island connected with new business opportunities and reached new consumers during the two-day event.
“New York state is home to some of the best wines in the world," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said.  “Through the Taste NY initiative, New York wineries have earned well-deserved national and international acclaim, and we are thrilled to build on that success this weekend.”
This marks the second year New York state has had a presence at the Boston Wine Expo. Eight wineries from Western New York, the Finger Lakes and the Capital Region will be participating for the first time. 

The Boston Wine Expo is regarded as one of the premier wine trade and consumer shows in the country. Now in its 25^th year, the event features seminars, tastings and networking events, and continues to be open to both distributors and consumers.
To help consumers purchase and remember their favorite wines, the Expo has partnered with the Drync app. Consumers get wine details in seconds by taking a photo of the front label and can order New York state wines through the app for in-store pick up or delivery from their favorite retailer. 

Expo attendees also used the app to vote on their favorite wines at the show by scanning the labels, which Drync and the Expo will broadcast as the "Top Trending” wines.
Jim Trezise, president of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, also conducted a seminr at the expo titled, “Class by the Glass: The Taste of New York Gold.” He showcased a range of New York state wines, all of which have won gold medals at major wine competitions.

New York Wines Win at California Competition

From Jim Trezise of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

The recent Grand Harvest Awards held in Sonoma, Calif. once again yielded some more New York Gold, including four Best of Class, three Double Gold, and eight Gold medals.
 

Best of Class awards went to Dr. Frank 2014 Dry Riesling (also a Double Gold and Best of Finger Lakes AVA); Heron Hill 2013 Semi-Dry Riesling (also Gold and Best of New York State AVA); Liberty Vineyards 2014 Traminette (also Gold and Best of Lake Erie AVA); and Thirsty Owl 2014 Diamond (also Gold).

Additional Double Gold medals went to Swedish Hill 2014 Late Harvest Vignoles and Thirsty Owl 2014 Gewurztraminer.  And other Golds went to Dr. Frank 2014 Gruner Veltliner; Heron Hill 2012 Cabernet Franc, and 2013 Semi-Sweet Riesling; Liberty Vineyards 2014 Reds, Whites & Blues Rose; and Swedish Hill 2013 Blue Waters Pinot Noir.

Cornell Grape Research Gets Federal Money

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is providing $6 million to Cornell University for grape research. 

Go to http://news.cornell.edu/stories/2015/10/cornell-grape-research-boosted-6-million-grant this link to read more about the grant.

Geneva Winery Wins Governor's Cup

Winners of the 2015 Governor’s Cup wine competition have been announced.

At an award ceremony today in Canandaigua, Ontario County, Lt. Gov..Kathy Hochul presented the 2015 Governor’s Cup to Ventosa Vineyards from Geneva for its 2011 Lemberger, Estate Grown. 

This ceremony followed the state’s first-ever Taste NY Culinary Tour, which provided more than a dozen of the region’s leading chefs and restaurateurs with a first-hand look at the quality and diversity of New York agriculture in the region.
The Governor’s Cup award is a large silver chalice, recognizing the Best of Show or top prize from 910 entries in the annual New York Wine & Food Classic competition, organized by the New York Wine & Grape Foundation. 

In addition, Paumanok Vineyards from Long Island’s North Fork won the Winery of the Year award.
This year's competition included 858 wines, 20 hard ciders and 32 spirits from across the state. The awards were based on blind tastings by 22 expert judges, four from California, 10 from New York, seven from other states and one from France. 

Judges included prominent wine writers, restaurateurs, retailers and wine educators. Judging panels determined the initial awards, with top-scoring wines evaluated by all 22 judges for the Best of Category and Governor's Cup awards.
The Governor also announced the following winners from the 2015 New York Wine & Food Classic competition:
The "Best of Category" awards, all eligible for the Governor's Cup, were:

· Best Sparkling Wine – Goose Watch Winery Pinot Noir Brut Rosé · Best White Wine – Paumanok Vineyards 2014 Semi-Dry Riesling · Best Rosé/Blush Wine – Lime Berry Winery Bunny Bunny Blush · Best Red Wine – Ventosa Vineyards 2011 Lemberger, Estate Grown · Best Dessert Wine – Sheldrake Point Winery 2014 Riesling Ice Wine

The "Best of Class" awards, which are given to Double Gold or Gold medal wines in classes of at least 10 wines, were:

· Best Oaked Chardonnay – McCall Wines 2013 Chardonnay Reserve
· Best Unoaked Chardonnay – Glenora Wine Cellars 2014 Chardonnay
· Best Gewürztraminer – Mazza Chautauqua Cellars 2014 Gewürztraminer · Best Dry Riesling – Dr. Konstantin Frank 2013 Dry Riesling
· Best Medium Dry Riesling – Dr. Konstantin Frank 2013 Riesling, Semi-Dry  
· Best Medium Sweet Riesling – Paumanok Vineyards 2014 Semi-Dry Riesling
· Best Sweet Riesling – Glenora Wine Cellars 2014 Riesling  
· Best Overall Riesling – Paumanok Vineyards 2014 Semi-Dry Riesling
· Best Sauvignon Blanc – Martha Clara Vineyards 2014 Sauvignon Blanc, Estate Reserve
· Best Pinot Gris – Dr. Konstantin Frank 2013 Pinot Gris · Best Other Vinifera White Varietal – Inspire Moore Winery 2014 Rhythm  
· Best Vinifera White Blend – Casa Larga Vineyard 2014 Chard-Riesling  
· Best Traminette – Goose Watch Winery 2014 Traminette  
· Best Hybrid White Blend – Tug Hill Vineyards 43° Lat White
· Best Niagara – Americana Vineyards Crystal Lake
· Best Vinifera Rosé – Kontokosta Winery 2014 Rosé
· Best Cabernet Sauvignon – Osprey’s Dominion Vineyards 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve  
· Best Merlot – Harbes Vineyard 2013 Hallock Lane Merlot
 · Best Pinot Noir – Martha Clara Vineyards 2013 Pinot Noir, Estate Reserve  
· Best Cabernet Franc – Idol Ridge Winery 2012 Cabernet Franc
· Best Lemberger – Ventosa Vineyards 2011 Lemberger, Estate Grown  
· Best Other Red Vinifera Varietal – Standing Stone Vineyards 2013 Saperavi
· Best Vinifera Red Blend – Fox Run Vineyards 2013 Cabernet Franc/Lemberger
· Best Hybrid Red Blend – Raymor Estate Cellars Sunset Red
· Best Fruit – Baldwin Vineyards Strawberry Wine
· Best Cider – Kaneb Orchards St. Lawrence Cider  
· Best Spirit – Black Button Distilling Citrus Forward Gin
· Best Late Harvest – Swedish Hill Winery 2014 Late Harvest Vignoles
· Best Ice Wine – Sheldrake Point Winery 2014 Riesling Ice Wine  
· Best Vinifera Sparkling White – Sparkling Pointe Vineyards & Winery 2005 Brut Seduction, Methode Champenoise

First-Ever Taste NY Culinary Tour
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets led the tour, visiting four farms and processors across Yates and Ontario counties.-- Wegman’s Organic Farm (vegetable farm), Hemdale Farms (dairy farm), Climbing Bines (hops farm) and Birkett Mills (buckwheat).
The tour, which was the first of three to be held across the state, kicked off at the New York Wine and Culinary Center in Canandaigua and participants visited four farms and processors. 

At Wegman’s Organic Farm, restaurateurs toured the 5-acre organic vegetable farm that grows about 25 different vegetables and herbs, including cherry tomatoes, leeks, beets, squash, dandelion greens, eggplant, cilantro, basil and parsley, for its restaurant and several Wegmans stores. 

The farm strives to grow the best-tasting varieties and extend growing seasons, making local farms more economically sustainable. 

The group also toured Hemdale Farm, which opened its milking parlor more than half a century ago and today has grown to an 11,000 cow, 21^st century dairy operation. The farm uses 19 automatic, robot milking systems and produces 80,000 pounds, or more than 9,000 gallons, of milk daily.
The tour moved to Penn Yan and visited Climbing Bines Hop Farm, a 1.5-acre site that consists of seven cultivars and nearly 1,500 hills.The farm is dedicated to growing premium New York state grown hops for the local brewing industry and beyond. 

At the final stop, participants visited The Birkett Mills, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of buckwheat products. The mill has over 200 years of buckwheat, soft white wheat, and custom grain milling experience. Throughout the year, finished products are shipped across the United States, Canada and Western Europe.

Two additional Culinary Tours are planned for the coming weeks. A tour will be held on Long Island later this month and in the Hudson Valley in October.

Naples High School Senior Wins Potato Growers Scholarship

Jacob Rathbun on his family farm

Jacob Rathbun of Naples, has been named the 2015 Empire State Potato Growers Association Scholarship winner.

The Empire State Potato Growers Association annually selects an undergraduate student residing in and attending college in New York to receive a $500 scholarship per academic year for up to four consecutive years of agricultural education.

Rathbun will graduate from Naples High School in June and then study for a degree in viticulture at Finger Lakes Community College. He plans to transfer to Cornell University to complete his bachelor's degree in viticulture and enology. 

His career goal is to start his own grape farm and winery and grain production enterprise.

Rathbun was raised on the family farm in Naples, where he has helped fit ground, plant, hill and harvest 350 acres of potatoes. This spring Jacob and his father Charles Rathbun planted 50 acres of their first crop of barley to sell to the craft brewing industry. 

He has a hobby planting of grapes on the farm. This summer he will visit vineyards and wineries in Italy. 

Decanter Magazine Talks Up Finger Lakes Wine Region

Great information from Jim Trezise of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

Decanter magazine's June edition includes a great, four-page spread by Howard G. Goldberg focused on experiencing the region's wine culture, compared with a 2011 piece which was more about general vacationing. 

 "The Decanter travel guide to Finger Lakes, New York State" includes a regional map, lots of great photos, and specific recommendations on winery visits, lodging, dining, and other attractions.
 

"Goldberg's ultimate Seneca Lake wine tour" cites Atwater, Chateau Lafayette Reneau, Red Newt, Hazlitt, Standing Stone, Silver Thread, Wagner, and Lamoreaux Landing on the east side (from south to north); and on the west side (north to south) Ravines, Billsboro, Fox Run, Red Tail Ridge, Kemmeter, Anthony Road, Hermann J. Wiemer, Glenora, and Lakewood.

Other Finger Lakes wineries recommended in another sidebar, "My perfect day in the Finger Lakes", include Dr. Konstantin Frank, Heron Hill, Heart & Hands, Goose Watch, and Sheldrake Point. 

"Your Finger Lakes address book" starts with lodging recommendations: Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, The Inn at Glenora, Inns of Aurora, New Vines Bed & Breakfast, and The Inn at Gothic Eves.  For fine dining: Dano's Heuriger, Suzanne Fine Regional Cuisine, Ports Café, Moosewood, and Ginny Lee Café.  Other attractions include the New York Wine & Culinary Center, Lively Run Goat Dairy, Climbing Bines Craft Ale, Red Jacket Orchards, and the Corning Museum of Glass.

There is a huge amount of practical information efficiently presented, but another great attraction is the quality of Howard Goldberg's writing, and especially this description of the region:

"Some small folksy hometowns dotting the map evoke America at mid-20th century.  Panoramic sites are grandstands for spacious blue skies with lazy clouds and Impressionist sunsets, a serene atmosphere, sweet air, rolling hills, tree-bordered vineyards sloping down to sparkling waters, gorges and waterfalls, quilt-patterned corn, vegetable and berry plantings, fields of flowers, apple and cherry orchards, farmhouses, red barns, silos, dairies and graving livestock.  In autumn, scarlet, orange and gold foliage dazzles the camera."

               

Grapes, Apples Still Strong in NY Agriculture

New York once again ranks second in the country in apple production and third in the country in grape production, according to preliminary estimates from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

New York growers produced about 1.26 billion pounds of apples and 188,000 tons of grapes last year. 

With these estimates, only California and Washington exceed New York in grape production and only Washington produced more apples than the Empire State last year. 

New York was named "Wine Region of the Year" by Wine Enthusiast Magazine in October. The growth of the state's wine industry -- more and more wineries are opened in the state each year -- was cited as a reason why New York garnered the wine region title.

"The 2014 New York grape crop turned out a lot better than many people expected after the extreme cold of three 'polar vortex' events Upstate during the winter, followed by a relatively cool spring and summer," said Jim Trezise, president of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation.

"But September turned out to be pure magic for ripening, so the quality was superb and the quantity was larger than envisioned earlier," Trezise said. "Tonnage was 9 percent below the previous year, but that's because 2013 was the largest harvest on record. All in all, it was a very good year."

"We might be number two in national apple production, but New York has the best growing conditions and best tasting apples in the country," said James Allen, president of the New York Apple Association. "That puts us number one in the hearts of consumers from around the world. Snow may be on the ground, but New York apples, ciders and other apple products are available at food establishments throughout the year."

According to USDA Statistics Service, New York is home to 40,000 acres of apple orchards. Apple growers produced an average of 31,500 pounds per acre of apples. Last year's crop totaled $289 million, a 22 percent increase from 2013. 

New York is also home to 37,000 acres dedicated to the production of grapes. In the wake of a very harsh winter following the best crop in the state's history, grape growers produced 5.08 tons per acre of grapes in 2014 with crop production totaling $69.4 million.
New York apples have year-round availability in more than 20 varieties, including Cortland, Empire, Fuji, Gala, Golden Delicious, McIntosh, RubyFrost and Zestar.
 

According to a recent economic impact study commissioned by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, the grape, grape juice and wine industry has a $4.8 billion economic impact and attracts 5.3 million tourists annually to the New York state. The industry supports 25,000 full-time jobs with wages amounting to more than $1.4 billion. 

New York has ranked second in apple production every year since 1996 and third in grape production every year since 1987, with an exception in 1996 when the state ranked second. New York state also traditionally ranks in the top 10 nationally in the production of blueberries, peaches, pears, strawberries, sweet cherries and tart cherries. 

In 2014, the state ranked fourth in pear production, fifth in tart cherries, eighth in sweet cherries, ninth in strawberries and 11th in peaches and blueberries.

Magazine Names Finger Lakes Top Wine Region for 2015

From the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

Wine Enthusiast has named the Top 10 Wine Destinations of 2015, with New York's Finger Lakes region right at the top of the list.

Anna Lee Iijima, who has written about the region and tasted extensively (including as a judge at our New York Wine & Food Classic competition), has written a great piece about the wineries, wines, other attractions, and recommendations on where to stay and eat.

New York state has also been selected by the magazine as Wine Region of the Year based on the ever-increasing quality of its wines, close partnership with the state and strong growth. The Finger Lakes is by far the largest single region, with 128 wineries, hundreds of top awards in 2014 and about 4 million tourist visits annually.

The region's growth in all respects has commanded widespread attention in the world of wine.  

In 2004, there were 73 wineries, compared to 128 today, with the growth rate strong and increasing, especially in the past five years (38 new wineries). Similarly, in the past few years the number of Gold medals and ratings of 90 or above has steadily increased (from 557 in 2011 to 886 in 2014), reflecting the ever-increasing quality of wines.

The Finger Lakes led the top 10 list of wine country destinations, with the others being Piedmont, Italy; Hawks Bay, New Zealand; Rhone Valley, France; Orlando, Florida (for restaurants); Galicia, Spain; Okanagan, British Columbia; Loire Valley, France; Mendocino, California; and Isrtria, Croatia/Slovenia/Italy.

Magazine Names NY "Wine Region of the Year"

From Jim Trezise of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

     When Wine Enthusiast magazine this week announced that New York state was chosen of "Wine Region of the Year"-- ahead of Champagne, Chianti, Sonoma, and Washington -- it was a long-awaited and fitting tribute to the hundreds of people in our industry who have worked so hard for so long to get better every day.

      It was also a tribute to Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who has created the best business climate in history for our industry; to former Gov. Mario Cuomo, who rescued a dying industry through legislation allowing us to grow; to the many legislators who have been a key part of our success; and to numerous organizations which have been such valuable partners for decades.

    

     On Valentine's Day of 1982, I left a secure and lucrative corporate job in Philadelphia and U-hauled my family and furniture to Penn Yan through a blizzard to become Executive Director of the New York State Wine Grape Growers.  The landscape was bleak: abandoned vineyards, padlocked wineries, ramshackle farms, zero hope.

     

     Today the Finger Lakes has well over 100 wineries, an international reputation for quality wines (especially Riesling), and consistent recommendations as one of the world's top wine country travel destinations.  The landscape has changed.

      Other regions, from Long Island to Lake Erie and even North Country, have had different evolutions but the same basic result: beautiful landscapes with passionate people making wonderful wines.

      Quality and cooperation have been key to New York's success.  We are so fortunate to have Cornell University and Cooperative Extension as our partners, and to also have so many grape growers, winery owners, and wine makers who, while technically competitors, cooperate in so many ways.

      Diversity is our strength; Unity is our power.  Excelsior!

New Vineyard, Winery Coming to the Finger Lakes

A new vineyard and winery making Riesling is coming to Seneca Lake.

Check it out http://www.winespectator.com/webfeature/show/id/49515 here at this link.

Wine Competition Season Kicks Off With Wins for NY

From Jim Trezise of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation:

The 2014 wine competition season was officially kicked off recently at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition, the country's largest with 5,825 wines submitted by more than 1,500 wineries from 25 states. 

I had the pleasure of judging, and of learning about the New York wine winnings after today's Sweepstakes round.

New York wines garnered more than 150 awards, including 7 Best of Class designations, 3 Double Gold, 22 Gold, 77 Silver and 42 Bronze medals.

Best of Class (which also won Double Gold) went to Dr. Frank 2012 Gruner Veltliner; Goose Watch 2012 Diamond; Swedish Hill 2012 Cayuga White, Viking Red, and 2012 Marechal Foch; Keuka Spring 2012 Vignoles and 2012 Apres Dessert.

Other Double Gold medals were awarded to Chateau Frank 2008 Blanc de Blanc; Vinditti Vineyards 2012 Vino Rosso E Dolce, and Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards Solera Sherry (see below).

Gold medals went to Sparkling Pointe 2010 Tokaz Imperial; Goose Watch Naturel; Hazlitt 2012 Gruvee, 2012 Unoaked Chardonnay, and 2012 Oaked Chardonnay; Glenora 2012 Gewurztraminer; Keuka Spring 2012 Riesling (last year the 2011 Riesling won Best White Wine of the entire competition), 2012 Riesling Humphreys Vineyard, and Celebrate; Swedish Hill 2012 Dry Riesling, 2012 Riesling, and Blue Waters Riesling; Wagner 2012 Dry Riesling Caywood East and 2012 Riesling Select; Knapp 2012 Dry Riesling KV Estate; Benmarl 2012 Semi Dry Riesling; Dr. Frank 2012 Dry Riesling and 2012 Riesling Reserve; Fox Run 2012 Semi-Dry Riesling; Ventosa 2012 Semi Sweet Riesling; Merritt Estate Bella Rosa; and Venditti 2012 Marechal Foch.