Vine Speak

Last Updated on Tuesday, 30 November 1999 00:00 By Heather Muhleman Monday, 12 October 2009 21:12

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New York State of Wine

This year, traveling has been slightly out of reach for some; but as everyone knows, vacations are necessary to ease the mind and please the soul. With work and money stresses, we all need vacations more than ever. Why not make this year’s vacation a little different and combine it with your love of wine?
By 2010, the U.S. will be the largest wine market in the world. Every state in the nation has wineries and vineyards open to visitors. Luckily, New Yorkers live in a state with very distinct winemaking regions and with a mix of almost every grape planted, everyone can find something they like.
Long Island’s North Fork is gaining ground as one of the top regions in the state and country. While it’s the newest, Long Island has progressed by leaps and bounds with 60 vineyards and over 30 wineries. Producing a variety of wines from Merlot to Viogner, this region has something for everyone. Wineries of note are Lenz, Wolffer and Bedell (www.liwines.com).
As mentioned in a previous Vine Speak, the Hudson Valley is the oldest winegrowing region in the country with classic European grapes, hybrids and fruit wines. Autumn is exceptionally beautiful here with the changing of the leaves and many harvest-focused events on the Hudson. Wineries of note are Brotherhood, Millbrook and Benmarl (www.hudsonvalleywinecountry.org).
The most well-known region is the Finger Lakes, which is about five hours north of New York City. Specializing in European whites and ice wines, these lakes are sure to please. There are loads of activities at more than 100 wineries this fall, with a lower tasting fee than other regions. Wineries of note are Wagner, Swedish Hill and Dr. Frank’s (www.fingerlakeswinecountry.org).
The Lake Erie region spans three states including western New York. Known as the Chautauqua region, the wines from this area include all tastes, from fruity American wines to classic European styles. About two hours north of Lake Erie lies another Great Lake region in New York – Niagara on Lake Ontario. Ice wines and late harvest sweet wines rule in this area and there is a pretty nice waterfall there that you might have heard of. Wineries of note are Merritt Estate and Woodbury in Lake Erie and Fielding Estate Winery in Ontario (www.chautauquawinetrail.org and www.niagarawinetrail.org).
With numerous choices for winery vacations, now is the time to explore your state’s intriguing wine offerings. Cheers to safe travels and great wines.