New York

Question 1

What historic events influenced the growth of the wine industry in the US and the NY State?

Answer 1

• 1889-1915: Phylloxera. 1920-1933: Prohibition. 1960s-70s: The Wine Boom.

Question 2

Which individuals had significant impact on the growth of NY State’s wine industry?

Answer 2

• Dr. Konstantin Frank grew Riesling in Finger Lakes in 1953
• Alex and Louisa Hargrave founded Long Island’s first winery in 1973
• Charles Fournier planted French Hybrids

Question 3

What are the major grape varieties grown in New York State? Give examples of vinifera, labrusca and hybrid varieties.

Answer 3

• Hybirds: Cayuga, Ravat/Vignoles, Seyval Blanc, Vidal, Traminette
• Labrusca: Concord, Delaware, Niagara
• Vinifera- Any European varietal (i.e., Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon etc.)

Question 4

What are the labeling requirements and regulations for New York wine and how might they differ from Federal standards? E.g. % of grape variety, meaningful controlled terms etc. Suggestion—make up a one page spread sheet comparing the requirements side by side.

Answer 4

• At least 75% of varietal named on the label, except for labrusca, which is 51% minimum of that grape
• Wines labeled New York State must have at least 75% of grapes from NYS, 85% for AVA

Question 5

What regions in New York are known for specific wine styles and grape varieties, and why?

Answer 5

• Finger Lakes- Riesling, Sparkling, Chardonnay
• Hudson River- White hybrids
• Niagara Escarpment- Native grapes and hybrids
• Long Island- Merlots and reds
• White grapes: Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Muscat
• Red Grapes: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinor Meunier

Question 6

What are the signature grapes varieties which have made each region’s reputation?

Answer 6

• Signature: Riesling

Question 7

What are the geographic factors (e.g. bodies of water, mountain ranges etc.) that influence grape growing and wine production in New York wine regions.

Answer 7

• Cool with Adirondacks Mountains, good rainfall

Question 8

How does climate influence wine styles produced in various regions?

Answer 8

• Cooler Finger Lakes climate good for Riesling

- Long Island suited for Merlot

Question 9

What winemaking practices are unique and legal in New York, e.g. Acidification, Chaptalization, Amelioration etc.?

Answer 9

Amelioration and Chaptalization are legal

Question 10

What are the most important AVAs (American Viticultural Areas)?

Answer 10

• Finger Lakes, North Fork, the Hamptons, South Fork