When you think of wine travel in the United States, sunny California immediately comes to mind. New York winemakers are less known than those in California, but their wine is worthy of attention. They have been keeping their wine-making traditions alive for centuries. Their white wines, Chardonnay and Riesling surprise with their incredible flavor. However, red wines such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon are also excellent in New York. All lovers of high-quality and expensive alcohol should visit New York to see the skill of local winemakers. Read more on new-york.name.
Some facts about New York wine history
New York is the third most important wine region in North America. The state mainly produces classic wines. However, some winemakers are successfully experimenting with hybrid grape varieties. Seyval Blanc is the most popular white grape in New York, along with two white hybrids, Vidal Blanc and Vignoles. They are used mainly to create flavorful dessert wines. Another popular grape variety is Lambrusco. The state has 12,550 hectares of vineyards. There are about 10 wineries on the northern shore of Lake Erie alone. The so-called vineyard belt stretches from this lake. Long Island vineyards are only a small part of all the vineyards in the state. There are more than 50 of them.
The history of New York winemaking began with the Dutchman Paul Bitter, one of the first settlers in New York. He stated that it was simply impossible to make quality wine from local grapes. Bitter believed that this was the reason why the Indians made poison from grape juice. Nonetheless, Bitter was determined to make a difference and brought new grape varieties to New York. He said he would start making wine from his grapes when he saw they were the same color, taste and size. Unfortunately, Paul Bitter did not see the first harvest and passed away. However, his son Jacques continued his father’s work and succeeded. He managed to create American wine. It impressed the Europeans, who did not believe in this idea’s success at all.
In the mid-1800s, New York winemakers began to move up north to the Finger Lakes region. The climate there was the most optimal for grape growth. The first commercial harvest was made on the Hudson River in 1829.
Wine production in New York is primarily about the active development of tourism and profits from this industry. Tourists are increasingly choosing New York wineries as their weekend destination. Therefore, many shops, restaurants, hotels and guesthouses have begun to appear in these places.
Where to taste the most delicious wine in New York?
Finger Lakes is the biggest and favorite wine region in New York. This place got its name because it is located near a group of long and narrow finger-like lakes. Riesling, Rosé, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and some other wine types are produced in the region. One of the oldest wineries in the region is Dr. Konstantin Frank. It is a historic place. Its founder was a Ukrainian, Dr. Konstantin Frank. He relocated to the United States with his family in 1951. Frank was a specialist in botany and was convinced that European grape varieties could be grown even in cold climates.
In 1962, the winemaker established Vinifera winery. It quickly became known for its excellent vineyards and vines. The latter served as the basis for many of New York’s wines and champagnes. This place is worth visiting not only for its popularity and delicious wine but also for its unforgettable scenery. Here you can take a break from the frantic rhythm of the metropolis.