This is really a wonderful area. We’re surrounded by a beautiful countryside, close to many outdoor sports opportunities, and are a hub of New York’s agricultural industry. People are beginning to take notice of our part of the state, and locals are taking part in viticulture and craft brewing.

New York’s wine industry generates nearly $5 billion in economic activity annually. Our local area boasts nearly 80 acres of vineyards and wineries like Tug Hill Winery. Our region’s climate, weather conditions and soil create a unique “terroir,” a term describing the influence of these factors on the taste of wine. Many believe the North Country is deserving of its own American Viticulture Area designation. Such a designation would help promote the strength of our local wines. Additionally, Cornell University is working to develop cold-climate wine grape varieties that improve the taste and quality of wines produced in areas like ours.

Craft brewing also is opening doors for new opportunities within the agricultural sector. Around here, we’re seeing more hops grown and farmers supporting the demand of craft brewers for their raw, locally-grown ingredients. I recently took a tour of Barkeater Craft Brewery, LLC in Lowville and Adirondack Toboggan Company Microbrewery in Gouvernuer. These folks are passionate about their craft. Independent, small brewers and winemakers are making a difference in agriculture and our local economy through their creativity and passion for their craft. I think they are a welcome addition to our region, and I hope to see more of them.

In this year’s budget, I worked with my legislative colleagues to ensure funding was there to support the growing wine and craft brewing industries. More than $1 million was set aside for the Wine and Grape Foundation. Additionally, programs supported by the state budget, like the New York Farm Viability Institute, Cornell and Northern New York Agriculture Development contribute to researching and developing grape, hops and grain cultivars that we hope will thrive in our region. Additionally, we supported funds for TasteNY, which helps promote New York’s agricultural products. In total, more than $31 million is being invested in New York agricultural programs.

I am encouraged by the growth of our wine and craft brewing industries and what they may mean to our farmers and tourism industry. I welcome your input. If you have thoughts on this or any other legislative topic, please contact me by email at blankenbush@assembly.state.ny.us or by phone at 493-3909.