While New York today boasts 140 wineries, 35 years ago there were around 10!  According to a prior head of the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, Jim Trezise (who now leads a national association advocating for the entire wine industry in America), the wine industry has significantly expanded its economic presence in Finger Lakes. Given that it is today commonplace to find good restaurants at wineries and the region is often regarded as one of the world’s “top wine country destinations,” things really are changing.

Indeed, it has been estimated by the 2017 Economic Impact Report on the American Wine Industry that wine country regions will generate around 43 million tourist visits and $17.7 b in annual tourism expenditures.

And New York is definitely doing its part.  Indeed, the total number jumped from $9.4b in 2012 to $13.8b this year – an increase of over 45% in just five years – with New York ranking number 2 in the country’s wine industry list (California holding the first spot).

According to New York Wine and Grape Foundation President Sam Filler:

“New York continues to expand its impact and growth as a leading wine producing state. Gov. (Andrew) Cuomo and our state Legislature deserve credit for their work on improving New York’s business climate by modernizing the state’s alcohol beverage laws and reducing regulatory burdens. Their continued partnership and support will ensure that the New York wine and grape industry continues its national leadership role.”