Although New York is the third largest wine producing region in the United States, spanning across 14,000 hectares, it took awhile before viticulture was successful in the Empire State. Both Dutch and French settlers attempted to grow vines from Europe, but were unsuccessful as the vines died from diseases and the harsh winters. Now, 10% of the vines in New York are a hybrid of European vines, which provide the concentration and intensity of European wines, and a native varietal that is disease and cold resistant. 

New York typically has a cool continental climate with freezing winters, warm summers, and the potential for spring frost. The main varietals found in New York are Riesling, Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc, while Vidal, Baco Noir, Blaufränkisch, and Seyval Blanc play a secondary role. New York is split into six different regions, each with their own unique microclimates and terroir.

Champlain Valley

The coldest climate in New York, this region lies in the wind and rain shadow of the Adirondack Mountains, and produces cider as well as wine. 

Niagara Escarpment

An uprising between two plains, this tiny region produces elegant Pinot Noir.

Lake Erie

Although Lake Erie is the largest grape growing region within New York, the majority of the native and hybrid grapes grown there are not for wine. Instead, they are used in fruit juices. 

Finger Lakes

Located in Upstate New York, the Finger Lakes is made of 11 lakes that were carved out by glaciers, providing spectacular conditions to produce delicious wines. This region also benefits from the lake effect, which means during the winter all the heat that the lake retains seeps out to the surrounding vineyards, and the lake provides cooler temperatures during summer. 

Empire Estate Brut Rose NV
Empire Estate Dry Riesling Reserve 2019
Fox Run Vineyards Doyle Family Chardonnay 2021
Fox Run Vineyards Lemberger 2023
Weis Vineyards Finger Lakes Gruner Veltliner 2023

Hudson River Valley

The original American wine pioneer, Hudson River Valley is home to the oldest still operating US winery, Brotherhood Winery, which was originally known as Blooming Grove Winery. With a cooler climate, Upper Hudson is home to more native and hybrid varietals than other regions in New York.

Long Island

Known for their long hot summers and mild fall, Long Island typically produces Bordeaux-style wines.

Duckwalk Blueberry Port
RGNY Scielo NY Tinto 2022

 

New York Wine Region Map Courtesy of New York Wine & Grape Foundation