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

Ballots Out for Grape Research and Development Order

Ballots for a referendum on a research and development order for grape growers have been sent out.

Anyone who has not received a ballot should contact markmcmullen@agriculture.ny.gov

A Research & Development Order, also known as a market order, is a grower supported, grower funded and grower led funding stream administered in cooperation with the state Urban Development Corp. and the state Department of Agriculture & Markets for research that will benefit ALL New York grape growers. 

Every grower will contribute an assessment based on farm gate value. The capital generated from this order will fund research and extension projects that will assist grape growers – 5 percent of the funds will be used for administration of the program. 

Details on how the assessed funds are spent and results of research and extension will be public information. Growers will have a chance to reaffirm the order every seven years.

An Advisory Board (assembled from nominations submitted by growers) consisting of seven growers (3 from Lake Erie, and 1 each from the Finger Lakes, Hudson Valley, Long Island, and the North Country regions), one processor of juice grapes, and one processor of wine grapes will ensure proper administration of the program and will approve all research and extension projects undertaken.

Processors in New York state will reserve the funds from payments to growers and submit them on their behalf to the Urban Development Corp. Growers who sell fruit out of state will be responsible for submitting those assessments directly and wineries who process their own fruit will be responsible for submitting the assessment based on the value of their fruit. 

All money will be directed to the Urban Development Corp.

The assessment can be up to ½ of 1 percent or .005 percent of the farm gate value of all juice and wine grapes grown in New York which is estimated to generate up to $240,000. For example, if you’re getting $250/ton for Concords, and the Advisory Board approves an assessment at ¼ of 1 percent, the amount would be 63¢/ton.

Go to https://www.newyorkwines.org/researchorder for more information.

Law Allows Farm Cideries to Sell to All Licensed Wineries and Cideries

From Assemblyman Bill Magee:

A bill to allow New York farm cideries to sell their products to all licensed wineries and cideries has been signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
 
Assemblyman Bill Magee, D-Nelson, Madison County, said the bill he wrote will help cideries expand.
 
Prior regulations limited farm cideries to selling their products to other farm cideries, distilleries, wineries and breweries. However, while farm distilleries and farm wineries are additionally able to sell to commercial distilleries and wineries, farm cideries were previously barred from this type of distribution.
 
Magee’s legislation allows farm cideries to sell their products to all licensed wineries and cideries, opening up a whole new market and strengthening local agriculture.
 
“Agriculture is the backbone of our state. We should be doing all we can to cut red tape for producers so that they can grow and flourish,” said Magee, chair of the Assembly Agriculture Committee. “By allowing farm cideries to sell their top-notch goods across the state, we can strengthen these local businesses, boost our economy and help create jobs.”
 
“Opening up more outlets, increasing tasting opportunities and adding products will givev cideries more room to grow and expand,” said Juanita Critz of Critz Farms Brewing & Cider Co. “We look forward to the advantages these additional options will bring to increasing exposure for businesses like ours here at Critz Farms.”

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

Genesee Valley Research, Promotion Projects Receive State Money

From Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office:

More than $1 million for seven research, promotion and development projects to strengthen New York state's diverse agricultural industry and spur economic growth across the state was announced June 1 by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The money, approved by the Genesee Valley Regional Market Authority, supports the continuation of malting barley research, enhances the processing capacity at a regional food hub, and assists with renovations to the New York Wine and Culinary Center, among other initiatives.

 

“Agriculture remains a core pillar of New York’s economy, and the greater Genesee Valley region is one of our most vibrant agricultural areas, supporting thousands of farms and agribusinesses,” Cuomo said. 

“These strategic investments in research, facilities, and training are a key part of the Finger Lakes Forward and Southern Tier Soaring blueprints and are essential to the success of the agricultural industry and its future growth,” Cuomo said.
 
The Genesee Valley Regional Market Authority, in cooperation with the state Department of Agriculture and Markets, solicits applications each year to assist in the development of agriculture and agriculture-related businesses in nine counties in the Finger Lakes and Southern Tier regions: Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming and Yates. 

Agriculture supports thousands of jobs in the Genesee Valley, and is one of the key areas of investment in both the Southern Tier Soaring and Finger Lakes Forward regional economic development plans.  
 
The authority has awarded more than $7.5 million to 67 projects in the Genesee Valley through the Agriculture Development Grant Program since 2011.
The Genesee Valley Regional Market Authority Board of Directors has voted to fund the following projects in 2017:

• Cornell University’s New York State Agricultural Experiment Station - $260,000:  to support the continuation of a multi-year research plan focused on malting barley in New York State, which is critical to advancing the state’s craft beverage industry.

• New York Wine & Culinary Center - $250,000:  for the promotion of local food and beverages and facility renovations.

• New York Wine & Grape Foundation - $200,000: to support the NY Drinks NY program, a promotional effort showcasing New York’s wine and grape industries.

• Foodlink - $200,000: to purchase machinery and equipment and make renovations that will enhance value-added processing operations at the regional food hub.

• Cornell Agriculture and Food Technology Park Corporation (The Technology Farm) - $84,527:  to expand and renovate space at the facility to increase capacity and efficiency of the Technology Farm’s operations.

• Northeastern Juice Cooperative - $50,000:  to develop a business plan, including marketing analysis and food safety certifications, for an apple juice processing facility.

• Western NY Maple Producers - $37,323:  for training and to purchase equipment to test processes for new products.  

 

New York Now Well Known for its Red Wines, Too

By JIM TREZISE
New York Wine & Grape Foundation
 
“If I proclaimed that the most exciting red wines in the United States come from New York State, would you believe me?”
 
That’s how Anna Lee Iijima of Wine Enthusiast began her breakthrough analysis and review of the evolution of red wines on Long Island, in the Finger Lakes and the Hudson Valley. Her piece is the equivalent for New York reds that Wine Enthusiast’s selection of New York State as Wine Region of the Year in 2015 was, recognizing the “30-year overnight success.”
 
The article is artfully constructed, blending terroir-focused background with winemaker interviews and reviews of the major varietials, featuring lots of scores of 90 and above. 
 
By category:
 
Merlot
** Paumanok Vineyards 2010 Tuthills Lane (94)
** Harbes 2014 Proprietors Reserve Hallock Lane (93)
** Wolffer 2012 The Grapes of Roth (93)
 
Pinot Noir
** Forge Cellars 2014 Les Allies (92)
** Millbrook 2013 Block Five East (91)
** N. Kendall 2013 Pinot Noir (91)
 
Cabernet Franc
** Hermann J. Wiemer 2014 Magdalena Vineyard (93)
** McCall 2012 Reserve (93)
** Shaw 2010 Reserve (93)
 
Cabernet Sauvignon
** Raphael 2013 Reserve (92)
** McGregor 2012 Reserve (91)
** Damiani 2012 (90)
 
It is truly striking that this selection of fabulous reds includes 12 different wines from 12 different wineries in three different regions, demonstrating quality across the board. While Long Island has traditionally been New York’s “red region,” and still makes wonderful wines, other regions are following suit.
 
Case in point: The past two years at our New York Wine & Food Classic competition, the Governor’s Cup for “Best of Show” was awarded to Finger Lakes red wines.
 
New York’s red revolution is also significant because truly great wine regions have to show superb quality in reds as well as whites. And now we do!

New York Wines Clean Up on Medals at California Show

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

Hazlitt 1852 Vineyards 2014 Vidal Ice Wine won "Best of Show" at the recent International Eastern Wine Competition/East Meets West in Sonoma, Calif. 

I wrote that sentence a month ago, but now that same wine took Best of Class at the Great American International Wine Competition held last weekend in Rochester, NY.  That double win is a tribute to both the quality of the wine and the quality of the judges. 

Another Best of Class winner was Wagner Vineyards 2015 Semi-Dry Riesling, with Wagner's 2015 Dry Riesling winning a Double Gold as well.  Other Double Gold winners were Hazlitt Light Port, Merritt Estate Bella Ice, and Silver Springs Merlot.

Gold medals were awarded to 240 Days 2015 Rose; Atwater 2014 Dry Riesling; Chateau Lafayette Reneau 2015 Late Harvest Riesling; Coyote Moon Fire Boat Red; Glenora 2015 Vidal Blanc Iced Wine; Hazlitt Red Cat, 2013 Gewurztraminer, and Cider Tree; Idol Ridge 2014 Vidal Blanc Ice Wine; Knapp 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2014 Dry Riesling; Long Point 2014 Syrah; Montezuma Ice Apple Cider; Schulze Catawba; Silver Springs Pinot Grigio; Swedish Hill 2015 Vidal Blanc; and The Winery at Marjim Manor Heart of Gold.

New York wines won a total of 122 medals.

Learn About Cold-Hardy Grapes at Winter Grape School March 9

From the Northern New York Agricultural Development Program:

Research is being done cold-climate grape varieties that can be grown in Northern New York.

Delicate grape varieties do not do well under harsh winter weather in Northern New York, so the farmer-driven Northern New York Agricultural Development Program has funded research on cold-climate grape varieties to support increasing interest in NNY-grown table grapes and wines. 

An update on the most recent work will be offered at the second annual Northeast NY and Vermont Winter Grape School March 9 at the Holiday Inn in Lake George.

Registration information is online at https://enych.cce.cornell.edu or call (518) 410-6823.

The Northern New York Agricultural Development Program has posted the latest Evaluation of Cold-Hardy Grape Varieties for Production in Northern New York report at www.nnyagdev.org

The report summarizes work in 2016 to revitalize the cold-climate grape nursery at the Willsboro Research Farm in Willsboro, Essex County.

Input from regional growers, private grape breeders and representatives of the Cornell-USDA and University of Minnesota grape breeding programs was collected and winnowed to a list of 20 potential new varieties for planting at the research nursery. 

The list includes varieties from the Cornell and Minnesota programs, one each from the USDA ARS grape breeding trials in California and at the University of Arkansas, and from Ontario, Canada, and private breeders.

Removal of old vines, soil testing and replenishing the soil health at the nursery are among the preparatory work in anticipation of the new planting. The Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture Program plans to hire a grape specialist to oversee the research planting.

Outreach educational programs on cold-hardy grape production research in NNY in 2016 reached groups of more than 60 grape growers and winemakers.

The farmer-driven Northern New York Agricultural Development Program is a research and technical assistance program serving all agricultural sectors in Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties. 

Funding for the Northern New York Agricultural Development Program is supported by the New York State Senate and administered through the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets.

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.

No Such Thing as a Normal Harvest for Grapes in New York

From Jim Trezise at the New York Wine and Grape Foundation

This year's harvest once again proved that there is no such thing as a "normal harvest" in New York state, in contrast to some other regions where things are more predictable.

After a comparatively warm winter relative to the previous few years, what became the key issue was an unusual drought -- at one point classified as "extreme," beyond "severe"-- in the Finger Lakes and some other regions.  

But at the end of the day (or year), the 2016 harvest was generally one of superb quality, and the reduction in drought-induced quantity that was less than anticipated.  In the Lake Erie region (95 percent Concord and Niagara grapes for juice), the sugar levels were off the charts compared with "normal" years.

As always, Cornell Cooperative Extension's excellent "Veraison to Harvest" weekly e-newsletter during the fall was a valuable resource for growers and wineries to adapt to the conditions in order to maximize quality and quantity.  And the final edition included a great wrap-up of the year

At this point, the wines from the 2016 harvest are quietly developing in tanks or barrels, with great promise for great wines.

New York state now has 418 wineries and farm wineries, plus 82 branch offices/satellite stores, in 59 of the state's 62 counties. We're everywhere!

Changes Coming for Wine Industry in 2017

From Jim Trezise at the New York Wine and Grape Foundation

The 2015 holiday season seems like a month ago, and the grape harvest just yesterday.  

But here we are at the end of another year--and the beginning of the next.

Overall, 2016 has been a very good year.  In most regions, the harvest was excellent in terms of quality, and sufficient in quantity.  The number of wineries continued to grow in many parts of the State.  And New York wines kept getting ever more recognition for consistent quality.

2017 will be a year of change. Sam Filler will become executive director of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation on January 1, and I will continue as president until March 31 in order to fully orient him on the challenges and opportunities he will face.

I will move on as president of WineAmerica, the national organization of American wineries, and continue as president of the International Riesling Foundation, as well as judging in major wine competitions.  A new administration will occupy Washington, presenting many uncertainties related to programs and policies affecting the New York and American grape and wine industry.

Coyote Moon Winery Wins Gold Medal at International Competition

Go to http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/news03/coyote-moon-wins-gold-medal-champion-at-international-competition-20161028 to see the story.

Colloca Estate Winery Hosts Harvest Festival

Lots of events going on this weekend.

Here's one:

https://www.facebook.com/events/1208312402555023/

2 Bills Signed to Help Craft Beverage, Wine Sales

From Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office:

Two measures to further modernize New York's archaic 80-year-old Alcoholic Beverage Control Law were signed into law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo today.
 
These bills allow farm wineries, breweries and cideries to sell any New York-made farm alcoholic beverage by the glass at their production facility or off-site branch store. Under current law, farm manufacturers are limited to selling only products by the glass that they produce on their site.
 
These new laws will provide for increased sales of New York state homegrown manufactured products and further support New York’s thriving manufacturing business, providing more consumers the opportunity to sample the best New York has to offer. 

By removing this archaic provision to the law, this legislation expands a major revenue source for both established manufacturers and new businesses entering the market.
 
New York state farm-based alcohol beverage manufacturers, who have more than doubled in number since 2011 and have seen a 13 percent increase in the last year alone, provide local communities where they operate with increased tax revenue, job opportunities, increased demand for farm products, and a bolstered tourism impact for the state.

Gillibrand Hosts New York Farm Day

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

New York wines and other farm-based craft beverages, farm-fresh food products, sensational seafood, and fine restaurants will soon travel to the nation's Capitol to tastefully remind Congress, the Administration and others that New York is a major agricultural state, and agriculture is a major part of the state's economy.

From 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand will host "New York Farm Day" in the Senate Kennedy Caucus Room at the crest of Capitol Hill.  

Attendees will include other senators, the New York Congressional delegation from the House of Representatives, members of the Committees on Agriculture and the Congressional Wine Caucus, legislative chiefs of staff, agricultural specialists in Congress and the administration, members of the Washington media, top area restaurants and fine wine shops.

"Senator Gillibrand has been a great advocate for New York agriculture, including the grape and wine industry as well as other farm-based craft beverages," said Jim Trezise, president of the statewide New York Wine & Grape Foundation, which organizes the event.  

"New York produces some of the world's best wines, beers, spirits and ciders, as well as other farm products and seafood, and is home to some of the best restaurants in the world. We are honored to partner with Senator Gillibrand in tastefully proving that to official Washington."

Since its inaugural launch in 2002 (then hosted by former Senator Hillary Clinton), New York Farm Day has become the most popular event on Capitol Hill, with attendance normally exceeding 500 guests.  

A major part of the attraction is that the people presenting the beverages and foods are the same people who produce them--it's not just another catered event.

Foods to be enjoyed at New York Farm Day:

Wines of Long Island--A selection of award-winning wines from Bedell Cellars, Coffee Pot Cellars, Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard, Kontokosta Winery, Lieb Cellars, Macari Vineyards, Martha Clara Vineyards, McCall Wines, Osprey's Dominion Vineyards, One Woman Wines & Vineyards, Palmer Vineyards, Paumanok Vineyards, Raphael Vineyards, Sannino Bella Vita Vineyard, Suhru Wines, and Wolffer Estate Vineyard

K & B Seafood--Fresh Oysters and Clams 

Jewel--Seared Crescent Farm Duck Breast; Toasted Barley Salad with Raspberry-Coffee Vinaigrette and Petit Licorice Greens--by Chef Thomas Schaudel

Distilled Spirits of New York--Black Squirrel Distillery, Dark Island Spirits, Lockhouse Distillery, Tuthilltown Spirits, and Van Brunt Stillhouse

Orwashers Bakery--Morning Spelt, Levain Locale, Ultimate Whole Wheat, and Chardonnay Rustica & Sesamo Breads made with flour from Farmer Ground and North Country Farms, and starters made with grapes from Channing Daughters Winery                                        

New York State Maple Producers--Maple Cheesecake Delight made with maple granulated sugar and cream cheese sourced from New York dairies

Seaway Trail Honey--Seaway Trail Honey Raw Honeycomb Tidbits, Honey Cookies, Roasted Nuts and Honey, Bee Berry Melomel, Honey & Hops Mead

Cornell University--Cornell Big Red Cheddar

Wines of the Hudson Valley--A selection of award-winning wines from Benmarl Winery, Brotherhood Winery, Clinton Vineyards, Millbrook Winery, Robibero Family Vineyards, Stoutridge Vineyard, and Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery

Red Jacket Orchards--Black & Blue Stomp (black currant and blueberry juice); Apricot Stomp; Tart Cherry Stomp.

State University of New York at Cobleskill--Smoked Campus-raised Brown Trout on Micro Greens with Yogurt Cheese and Spicy Pumpkin Vinaigrette; Centennial Celebration Pumpkin Cupcakes with Honey Buttercream

                                                  

Wines of the Finger Lakes--A selection of award-winning wines from Fulkerson Winery, Goose Watch Winery, Hosmer Winery, Knapp Winery, Lakewood Vineyards, Red Newt Cellars, and Wagner Vineyards

New York Wine & Culinary Center--Chilled Buckwheat Noodle Salad tossed with Small World Organics Kimchee, Naked Dove Beer Braised Bostrom Farms Pork, and Marinated Chef Select Vegetables

Craft Ciders of New York--A selection of ciders from Brooklyn Cider House, Descendant Cider Company, Embark Craft Ciderworks, Good Life Cider, Hudson Valley Farmhouse Cider, and Nine Pin Ciderworks

Upstate Niagara Cooperative--Intense Chocolate and Salted Caramel Milk, and Greek Yogurt

Li-Lac Chocolates--Hazelnut Truffles, Marzipan Squares, Non-pareils, French Mint and Butter Crunch Chocolate

                                            

National Grape Cooperative/Welch's--Red and White Sparkling Grape Juice

Cabot Creamery Cooperative--McCadam Adirondack, Cabot New York Extra Sharp, and McCadam Empire Jack Cheeses 

Wines of Lake Erie and Other New York Regions--A selection of award-winning wines from 21 Brix Winery, Johnson Estate Winery, and Liberty Vineyards & Winery (Lake Erie region); Coyote Moon Vneyards and Tug Hill Vineyards (North Country); Leonard Oakes Estate Winery (Niagara region); and Brooklyn Oenology (New York City) 

  

North Country Specialties--Moser's Maple Mini's, Adirondack Beef Company Beef Sticks, Lowville Producer's Squeaky Fresh Cheese Curd, Kraft-Heinz Philadelphia Cream Cheese (from Philadelphia, New York!), and Domaine Champlain Applesauce

Mercer's Dairy--Lemon Sparkling, and Cherry Merlot, Wine Ice Creams 

Dessert & Ice Wines of New York--A selection of award-winning wines from Casa Larga Vineyards, Fox Run Vineyards, Johnson Estate Winey, Lakewood Vineyards, Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars, Osprey's Dominion Vineyards,  Penguin Bay Winery, Sheldrake Point Winery, and Thirsty Owl Wine Company.

New York Apple Association--Fresh New York Apples and Red Jacket Orchards Cider    

                                    

Empire Brewing Company--Slo' Mo IPA, Skinny Atlas Light, Two Dragons, White Aphro

Wines of the Finger Lakes--A selection of award-winning wines from Anthony Road Winery, Billsboro Winery, Chateau Lafayette Reneau, Dr. Konstantin Frank, Fox Run Vineyards, Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars, Treleaven by King Ferry, and Ventosa Vineyards

Chobani--Chili Lime, Roasted Red Pepper, Three Pepper Salsa, and Smoked Onion Parmesan flavored dips; and Apple Veg, Strawberry Banana, Mixed Berry, and Mango flavored drinkable yogurts

 

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."

Taste NY Market Moves to Horticulture Building for New York State Fair

The all-new Taste NY Market at The Great New York State Fair was announced Aug. 4 by Gov. Andrew Cuomo.

The market is part of the governor’s $50 million plan to transform the fairgrounds and improve the experience for visitors. 

Now located inside the landmark Horticulture Building, guests of the Taste NY Market will have the opportunity to enjoy everything New York, from artisan cheeses and gourmet nuts, to local wines, craft beers, spirits and more.
Visitors to the Taste NY Market will have the chance to try free samples of food and beverages from all 76 participating New York vendors and to meet the people behind those products. If you like what you try, you’ll also have the opportunity to buy it on-site directly from the vendor. 

For the first time this year, the operators of the Taste NY store at the Broome Gateway Travel and Tourism Center will also showcase and sell an array of products from their store, including: Bjorn Popcorn, Mini Honey Bears, Emmy’s Macaroons, Field Trip Beef Jerky, Saratoga Crackers and many others.
The vendors featured at the Taste NY Market will rotate daily, during all twelve days of the Fair. A complete list of participating vendors and a schedule of the vendor rotation can be found http://nysfair.ny.gov/food-drink/taste-ny/ at this link.

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.

Coyote Moon Named Winery of the Year

Go to http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/news03/coyote-moon-wins-new-york-state-winery-of-the-year-20160615 to check out the story.