Hudson River Valley Wineries

NYCR Name Oak Summit and Tousey Wines of the Year for Hudson Valley

2012-02-13T09:36:00.003-05:00

Reads the post from the New York Cork Report:

The 2011 New York Cork Report Wines of the Year
By Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor

I think I can speak for my fellow editors and contributors when I say that our 2011 Wines of the Year tasting was a fun, challenging and inspiring day of 16 wine tasting flights.

I always come away with myriad story ideas swirling in my head after this tasting. This year is no different. Look for pieces from the team over the next few weeks.

But today, we announce the winners...

Oak Summit Vineyard 2010 Chardonnay

Tousey Winery 2010 Cabernet Franc

Congrats to John Bruno and wife Nancy Lynn and to Ben and Kimberly Peacock!

Read the whole report at:
http://www.lenndevours.com/2012/02/the-2011-new-york-cork-report-wines-of-the-year.html

Edible Manhattan Raves About Harvest Spirits (NY)

2012-02-12T15:11:00.006-05:00

In the wineter issue of Edible Manhattan, Allan Monroe raves about Derek Grout and Harvest Spirits located at Golden Harvest Farm, in Vaatie, NY. Harvest Spirits is producer of the wildly popular CORE VODKA and CORNELIUS APPLEJACK.

Congrats to Derek and Ashley Grout and the whole team at Harvest Spirits!

Read the whole thing at:
http://www.ediblemanhattan.com/magazine/harvest-spirits/

Brookview Station Conductor's Cassis Makes Stop for Gold at Florida State Fair!

2012-02-12T13:15:00.002-05:00

Congrats to Sue and Ed Miller of Brookview Station! Thier Conductor's Cassis took Gold T Florida State Fair International Wine & Grape Juice Competition 2012 in Tampa.

Brookview Station is located at Goold Orchards in Castleton, NY. Goold Orchards began in the spring of 1910 when James and Bertha Goold arrived by rail at Castleton’s town hub, a small whistle stop called the Brookview Station and walked to the farm they had recently purchased. Bertha, schooled at Emma Willard in Troy, and husband James, a recent graduate from Cornell were eager to apply the latest in agricultural technologies on their new fruit farm. Widowed in 1933, Bertha and her teenage son Robert continued to operate and grow the family farm. In 1941 Bob and his wife Marcia Grainer settled into the family farm and began raising a family. They continued to work and grow the family fruit farm into what is now Goold Orchards. Bob and Marcia eventually passed the day-today running of the farm to their children Peter, John and Sue, each of whom contributed to growing and running the family farm. Today, Sue Goold and husband Ed Miller own and operate the Goold family farm and the awardwinning Brookview Station Winery at Goold Orchards.

The winery was started in 2005, and has continued to garner awards ever since.

Congrats to Sue and Ed....and Karen and the gang! Well deserved!

Winery at St. George OPens in Mohegan Lake, NY

2012-02-10T18:09:00.010-05:00

The Yorktown Patch reported today: "Winery Becomes OfficialThe Winery at St. George has receieved its temporary certificate of occupancy and to celebrate, they're holding a cocktail reception Friday, Feb. 10 and Saturday Feb. 11 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. They will be featuring complimentary passed hors d'œuvre."

According to their website: "The Winery at St. George is a New York State winery nestled in the scenic HudsonValley wine region. Our wine making operation, visitor’s center, and tasting room are housed in the historic Old St. George’s Church located on Route 6 in beautiful Mohegan Lake. The winery will produce limited edition, high quality wines from grapes grown at Hilltop Hanover Farm in Yorktown Heights. Our mission, our passion, is to advance environmentally sound organic agriculture while sustaining open land initiatives. We hope to promote community education and to enhance the cultural and aesthetic attributes of these scenic parts of Westchester County that we call home.

Planted on May 9th, 2007, the vineyard will be an integral part of Westchester County’s Conservation and Natural Resource Center. It boasts three grape varietals: Cabernet Franc, Seyval Blanc and Noiret (a Pinot Noir hybrid). We, the winemakers, look forward to years of abundant harvests and converting these fruits of labor into spectacular wines for all to enjoy!"

1715 E. Main Street Mohegan Lake NY 10547 (914) 455 - 4272

Glorie Farm Cabernet Franc and Black Currant Wine

2012-02-09T19:44:00.008-05:00

So, first off, I'm going to mention I'm about six months late with this review. My first mea culpas go out the folks at Glorie Winery. I did a tasting there some time ago, and the photos were lost and I forgot. I'm a schmuck. There's no question about it. I am sorry.

Secondly, I had a great tasting of wines at Glorie Farm Winery in October of 2011, and I meant to write a review right after. And what did I do....huh, I fumbled. I lost the photos, and while cleaning up my hard drive came across them. Shame on me!!! But I am here to make amends...or at least a good recommendation on some wines.

I had gone down to Glorie Farm Winery, and I did a tasting with Mary Ellen, who is the other half (and more attractive half) of the Doug and Mary Ellen Glorie of the Glorie Farm Winery.

Doug and I had been chatting outside and I had cut him short to make sure I could get in my tasting in the tasting room before Mary Ellen barred the doors and called the dog, Sullivan, to diner. At the time they had some other canine company, but Sullivan is their pride and joy - a big, friendly chocolate lab.

Glorie Farm is in Marlboro, NY. They grow peaches, pears, and other stone fruit, as well as grapes. They are a vineyard that makes their own estate bottled wine but also supplies a number of other vineyards around the state. Doug was employed for a lifetime at IBM. MaryEllen works as a free-lance sign language interpreter for the Deaf, when she's not manning the tastingroom.

Doug is a ubiquitous presence here in the valley. You'll see him at the grape growing sessions sponsored by the HVWGA and Cornell. You'll see him at the Hudson Valley Bounty and the Hudson Valley Wine Festival. He is affable and can be quite chatty. He's a genuine good guy.

There's a great photo of Mary Ellen from their wedding.

So one of the first things I tried was the Cabernet Franc. If you ever do anything, you need to taste the Cabernet Franc from Glorie Farm Winery. The wine is not a big, overpowering wine, but a medium-bodied red. Translucent in hue, it's got a lovely bright garnet color. Raspberry and vanilla are the first notes that will come to you, with hints of slightly darker berries, and a hint of cedar. The fruit is bold and upfront, accompanied by a bright acidity and firm but not overpowering tannins. This is a fine Burgundian-styled Cabernet Franc. refreshing, dazzling, delicious. A very big surprise.

The other wine to make sure you visit Glorie winery for is their black currant wine. Black currant wine (or cassis) is one of the signature artisanal wines of the Hudson Valley. Glorie's wine is a dark, unctuous wine, with dark, almost opaque purple hue, and rich deep flavors of cassis, dark tart raspberry, and hints of vanilla or honey. This is an exquisite black currant dessert wine (also know in the Valley by is much more traditional name - cassis), with just enough tartness to balance out the sweet, and make an absolutely exquisite wine. Fantatstic!

So the first people I want to apologize to are Doug and Mary Ellen, but the second group of people I want to apologize to is everyone else! I cheated you out of drinking this wine. Run, don't walk. This is truly great stuff!!

Congrats to Hudson Valley Wine Goddess Debbie Gioquindo!

2012-02-08T12:18:00.003-05:00

Here's some great news about someone we really like - Debbie Gioquindo. Debbie's given a lot to the Hudson Valley over the last five or more years. She's given a lot of time, and helped to raise the profile of the valley. She is one of the valley's biggest boosters. And she is at so many of the events up and down the region. A tireless promoter! Congrats, Debbie!

Hudson Valley Wine Goddess, Debbie Gioquindo Achieves Wine Location Specialist

Poughkeepsie, NY, February 8, 2012: Debbie Gioquindo, Certified Specialist of Wine (CSW) is proud to announce she is being inducted into the fifth class of wine professionals that have the designation of Wine Location Specialist (WLS) by passing the Wine Location Specialist Certificate Program. As a Wine Location Specialist, Debbie is accredited by the CIVC and the IVDP and certified to lead wine education seminars, tastings and dinners specific to Champagne and Port.

The Wine Location Specialist Certificate Program is administered by The Center for Wine Orgins that was founded in 2005 by the growing regions of Champagne, France and Porto, Portugal. The Center represents the Comité Interprofessionnel du Vin de Champagne (CIVC), the trade association that represents all the grape growers and houses of Champagne; and the Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e Porto (IVDP), the trade association that represents all the grape growers and houses in Porto and the Douro Valley. The Center for Wine Origins was created to educate Americans about the importance of location when it comes to wine, and to gain greater protection of wine place names in the U.S.

Debbie joins 125 Wine Location Specialists across the globe that hold this designation.

About Debbie Gioquindo
Debbie Gioquindo, CSW, WLS, is also known as The Hudson Valley Wine Goddess. She is a wine blogger, educator, marketing and public relations professional. She became involved with the local wine industry in 2006 as a marketing consultant for the Shawangunk Wine Trail. That later led to becoming involved with the branding of Hudson Valley Wine Country. Wanting more in 2010 she sat for the Certified Specialist of Wine exam administered by the Society of Wine Educators.

After being downsized from her day job (because you need a day job, to provide for your wine passion) February 2011, she answered a tweet from @TheHappyBitch about creating a wine label. Three tweets and 6 months later Debbie along with Keryl Pesce launched Happy Bitch Wines.

Today Debbie consults with wineries and small business on marketing and public relations with an emphasis on emerging media as well as conducts wine education and tasting seminars. Debbie is also the chairperson of the Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition that is held every year at the Hudson Valley Wine Festival.

You can find her on Facebook, Twitter and Google+

Palaia Vineyards Cabernet Franc Scores 84 with Wine Enthusiast

2012-02-03T08:58:00.002-05:00

Palaia Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Franc (New York)
Appellation: New York, New York Other, New York, US
Varietal: Cabernet Franc

Mocha chocolate and cherry pie scents linger on the palate of this plush, easy-drinking Cab Franc. Straightforward yet densely fruited with fleshy cherry and strawberry flavors, it finishes on a pleasant caramel note. — A.I. (2/1/2012) — 84

A DOZEN REASONS TO TRY FRUIT DESSERT WINES FROM THE HUDSON VALLEY

2012-02-03T08:18:00.022-05:00

Many wine snobs think of fruit based dessert wines as back country, homemade elixirs, high in alcohol and barren of good flavors, concocted by housewives or farmers. At least that’s how they wrinkle their noses. Indeed, at one farm show many years ago, in another state, a proprietor once bragged that his fruit hooch was the best on the eastcoast. He was modest; it was absolutely the best version of Vicks Formula 44 cough syrup I had ever tried. So I know where the snobs are coming from.

But, in fact, making quality dessert wines from non-traditional fruits (such as apples, raspberries, strawberries, peaches, etc.) is an artisanal endeavor. And the Hudson Valley is home to many great fruit wines. To extract the flavors of the fruit without ruining its delicate characteristics is as difficult a trick as there is. And of course, to keep the fruit’s flavors in harmony with the acidity and any tannin is not an easy trick.

The Hudson Valley is one of the best places in New York state to find exceptional artisanal fruit dessert wines. Lots of them. And they are great! Today’s fruit wines are much more sophisticated, with great flavor and good acidity. These wines are among the most popular wines in the valley. Open a bottle of raspberry dessert wine, and you’ll smell a big bowl of fresh, dark raspberries. A bottle of strawberry dessert wine and smell a big pile of just cut, fresh, bright strawberries. Open another and a thousand hand-picked blackberries will pour forth!

They are wonderful with soft rind cheeses and a small dollop of fig or black currant jam on a baguette. Many of the raspberry and blackberry dessert wines are an excellent accompaniment with chocolate desserts. The lighter wines are excellent with fruit tarts, pies, or crème brulee’. And all are great for just sitting by the fireplace or hanging out with a special someone. No, they won’t make anyone fall in love with you, but they will help to enhance the mood.

These wines are made from Hudson Valley fruit, and are made using old fashioned recipes, combined with new techniques, and modern methods. They are clean, bright, sweet, but not cloying. They are refreshing and dazzling!

So here are a dozen fruit wines you should make the effort to find….they are definitely worth seeking out.

Mark Stopkie and wifeLori of Adair Vineyards.

Adair Peche - A delectable dessert wine made from 100% White peaches. This wine pairs well with champagne, drizzled over a fruit salad, or by itself. Mark Stopkie’s dessert wine was a double gold medal winner in the 2008 and 2009 Hudson Valley Wine Competition, as well Best of Show in 2009 Hudson Valley Wine Competition. As quoted in the Wall Street Journal on August 17, 2010, “A delectable white peach dessert wine turned out to be one of the most memorable wines out of a dozen wineries visited.”

Johnathan Hull, owner/winemaker Applewood Vineyards

Applewood Apple Frost - Apple Frost is made from a blend of fresh harvested local apples. The juice is concentrated by freezing resulting a golden sweet wine that has over 50 apples in each 375ml bottle! This kind of wine is also known as Iced Cider, since it uses many of the same techniques as ice wine. Iced ciders have become incredibly popular, and sophisticated. Jonathan Hall, the owner-winemaker, has surpassed himself with this incredible wine! Serve it with artisanal soft cheeses. Fantastic!

Patricia Baldwin and her grandson.

Baldwin Raspberry - Patricia and Jack Baldwin and their family have been making popular fruit wines since the 1980s, as well as more traditional wines. This one is a dark elixir made from black raspberries - “Splendid,” raved The New York Times. So will you.

Baldwin Strawberry – Like having someone put fresh cut strawberries in your glass. It’s made from 100% fresh strawberries. This wine has won 5 Gold Medals! And it was named best fruit wine in New York two years in a row! “A strawberry jewel...tasting of pure strawberry,” reported The Toronto Sun

Sue and Ed Miller of Brookview Station

Brookview Station Porter’s Port – This is a serious port. Using fresh, dark sour cherries, Sue and Ed Miller have carefully crafted a top flight port worthy of aging. With a big mouthful of sour cherry, there is just enough sweetness not to make is cloying, but wonderful long lasting flavor. A neat trick, as cherry is a difficult flavor to play with. And the best part – if you age it, it will only get better!

Phyllis Feder of Clinton Vineyards

Clinton Vineyards Nuit - Silver Medal Winner, New York Wine Classic Copia Napa California CA. Gold Medal Winner, Indy International Wine Competition. Clinton Vineyards is among the top fruit dessert wine producers in the state, and one of the best on the east coast. Pure wild black raspberries produce an intense deep color and unforgettable silky rich mouth feel. It has great structure and a lingering port-like taste.

Clinton Vineyards Embrace - A remarkable rich dessert wine made exclusively from local red raspberries. Owner Phyllis Feder’s wine is smooth, rich and polished with generous berry taste which explodes on the palate. Supurb with anything chocolate.

Paperbirch Raspberry Fine Ruby – Three time Gold Medal winner (voted best dessert wine in the Hudson Valley twice!) from Hudson-Chatham Winery’s line of rich dessert wines. An intense explosion of ripe, ripe, bright raspberries. Fantastic with chocolate, cheese, or even ice cream!

David Pazdar of Pazdar Winery

Pazdar Cerise Chocolat™ - Owner David Pazdar is the king of dessert wines. From the sublime to the quirky, Pazdar’s wines are always a hit as farmers markets and wine festivals across the state. Loyal customers, and the newly indoctrinated all succumb to his sweet concoctions. Pazdar was among the first wineries in the United States to offer chocolate dessert wines. Cerise Cholat has luscious cherries with a hint of rich dark chocolate, what better way than to cuddle up with your favorite person on a cold winter's night and the ultimate aphrodisiac.

Pazdar Attitude® III – An International Gold Medal Winner, this wine is chock full of ripe sweet blueberries, perfectly balanced. An incredible nose!

Slyboro Cider House Ice Harvest Ice Cider - Awarded Gold Medal at Eastern International Wine Competition 2007 and The Concordance Gold Medal at the Indy International Wine Competition 2007. Fresh, artfully blended apple cider is pressed in the depths of our North Country winter and tucked outside to freeze. At the first thaw, a rich apple essence is drawn and slowly fermented till summers end. The resulting ambrosia is redolent of tropical fruits and warm baked apple with hints of spice.

Slyboro Ciderhouse Ice Harvest Ice Cider Special Reserve - Owner Dan Wilson’s aged ice cider dessert wine. From the 2006 harvest. A dry year and a special blend of apples yielded this rich, ambrosial ice cider. Smooth and warm with tropical fruit notes. An incredible experience. Intense. Recommended by Food & Wine magazine!

Enjoy!

Hudson Valley Wine Goddess Debbie Gioquindo Loves Tuthilltown Cassis

2012-01-31T10:43:00.003-05:00

Tuthilltown Cassis

Debbie Gioquindo cassis, tuthilltown cassis, tuthilltown spirits
Tuesday, January 31, 2012

I was over a friends house for dinner and they pulled out this bottle of Tuthilltown Cassis they received as as a gift. I immediately went into blog mode. I didn't realize they were making Cassis. They are known for their Baby Bourbon, Whisky and Vodka so I was excited to taste their Cassis.

The black currants for this Cassis were grown by Fishkill Farms in Dutchess County and aged in old whiskey barrels. I have to tell you I kept going back for more. I couldn't get enough, it was so good!

The Cassis was a gorgeous color! The nose was a very fruity with tart intense black current. As you inhaled the beautiful aroma of this Cassis (which kept you coming back to take another whiff in enjoyment,) there was a third layer that brought hints of mint to your nose.

The palate was silky smooth and balanced. Black currant and vanilla leading to a carmelized finish of Creme Brulee.

If I had three words to describe this Cassis it would be "Beautiful and Elegant!" Wonderfully crafted!

I believe there are only 500 bottles of this produced and it is sold only at the Distillery in Gardiner, NY.

Read more at:
http://hvwinegoddess.blogspot.com/2012/01/tuthilltown-cassis.html

Hudson Valley Wine Goddess Debbie Gioquindo Raves About Hudson-Chatham Baco Noir Old Vines

2012-01-31T08:45:00.002-05:00

Tale of Two Baco's
Debbie Gioquindo baco noir, hudson chatham winery Monday, January 30, 2012

This is the tale of two Baco Noirs that I've been hording in my wine cellar for a vertical tasting. Both the 2009 and 2010 Baco's are produced by Hudson-Chatham Winery in Ghent, NY and made from Old Vine Baco at the Masson Place Vineyard, Pulteney Farm in the Finger Lakes.

The 2009 showed some nice black cherry, plum and tart cranberry on the nose with a little vanilla. The palate showed plum and dark berries. The wine finished with some blackberry and a hint of pepper.

The wine itself was light in structure and slightly acidic.

Now onto the 2010 which nose was nice and fresh with oak, vanilla, cranberry. It was smooth and nicely balanced with flavors of plum, dark berry and cranberry. There was a hint of earth leading to prune flavors on the finish.

Overall both Baco's were nice. The 2009 had more structure and less acidity than the 2010, but that was to be expected. There were stronger fruit flavors in the 2010 and the color was brighter and more intense.

Read the whole thing and more at:
http://hvwinegoddess.blogspot.com/2012/01/tale-of-two-bacos.html

NYCR Reviews Altamont Leon Millot Reserve

2012-01-31T08:41:00.002-05:00

Altamont Vineyard & Winery 2008 Leon Millot Reserve
By Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor

Because of my interest in New York and other northeast wines, I've tasted a great many red hybrids over the years, but never Leon Millot.

In fact, I had never even heard of Leon Millot learning that Keuka Lake Vineyards on Keuka Lake in the Finger Lakes has a bit of a cult following for its rendition. I have yet to taste that wine, but was able to get my hands on a bottle from Altamont Vineyards & Winery in Altamont, NY -- which happens to just be 15 miles or so from my where my wife's family lives. I hope to visit in the spring sometime....

Read the rest at:
http://www.lenndevours.com/2012/01/altamont-vineyard-winery-2008-leon-millot-reserve.html

LONELY PLANET NAMES HUDSON VALLEY TOP 10 DESTINATION FOR 2012

2012-01-18T18:09:00.000-05:00

LONELY PLANET ANNOUNCES
TOP 10 TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FOR 2012
HUDSON VALLEY IS NO. 2!

Top 10 US travel destinations for 2012
Robert Reid, Lonely Planet Author
The US: it’s a big place, and there’s a lot of ground for travelers to cover. So what’s buzzing for travelers in the coming year? It’s an annual tradition at Lonely Planet to try to answer that question, so the editors in our US office put their travel-noggins together to carve out a list of what’s new, interesting, and in some cases likely to be overlooked by travelers both domestic and international. Here are our 10 top picks that should be on your travel radar in 2012:

2. Hudson River Valley, New York
It should be a given that any visitor to New York City breaks for a day or two ‘upstate’ in the Hudson River Valley, a slice of rural Americana just north. It’s a real city break, with leafy drives, wineries and plenty of farm-to-table foodie options that draw even spoiled-for-choice Manhattanites away from the city.

New York Cork Report Chooses Hudson River Region Finalists 2012

2012-01-17T17:45:00.004-05:00

Executive Editor, Lenn Thompson announced the New York Cork Reports Wines of the Year Finalists for 2012. Hudson-Chatham Winery, Millbrook Vineyards, Oak Summit Vineyard, and Tousey Winery wines were nominated for the six spots.

Here's the final bracket below:

Hudson River Valley Region

Red Wines
Hudson-Chatham Winery 2010 Casscles Vineyard Reserve Baco Noir
Oak Summit Vineyard 2010 Pinot Noir
Tousey Winery 2010 Cabernet Franc

White Wines
Hudson-Chatham Winery 2010 Estate Seyval Blanc
Millbrook Vineyards 2010 Tocai Friulano
Oak Summit 2010 Chardonnay

Winners will be announced in mid-February.

Congrats to all those nominated!

New York Cork Report Raves About Tousey 2010 Cabernet Franc

2012-01-11T08:59:00.002-05:00

Editor-in-Chief Lenn Thompson wrote a glowing review of Tousey 2010 Cabernet Franc.

Plummy, with crushed blackberries, tobacco leaf, subtle herbs, the nose also shows hints of brown sugar, milk chocolate and spice.

The medium-bodied palate is earthy and chocolatey with ripe dark fruit, some oak, and spice flavors. The tannins are soft, but provide just enough structure. The finish brings dried autumn leaves and lingers just a bit.

This is Tousey's second wonderful review from NYCR. Thompson writes that Tousey immediately moves to near the top of quality wine producers in the Valley.

Try some!

Read the whole thing at:
http://www.lenndevours.com/2012/01/tousey-winery-2010-cabernet-franc.html#comments

HUDSON VALLEY SCORES BIG WITH WINE ENTHUSIAST

2012-01-09T12:30:00.000-05:00

For the first time ever, Wine Enthusiast magazine coordinated tasting of some of the best wines of the Hudson Valley. The wines scored high on the magazine’s 100-point scale, and proved that the Hudson Valley is emerging region with wines that can compete in the international wine market.

The Hudson Valley is one of the oldest producing wine regions in the United States, and New York State is the third overall producer of wine in the U.S. But with the influx of new money, talent, and drive over the last five years, the region is growing at a fast pace, and producing a number of highly rated bright, flavorful whites, and soft, approachable reds.

Wine Enthusiast editors tasted more than 20 Hudson Valley wines that earned scores of 85-89 points consistently across seven producers. This is the first major tasting of the region by any major news outlet, and helps to establish the region as a producer of fine quality wines.

“We are thrilled with the results,” said Hudson Valley Wine Country president Carlo DeVito. “The Hudson Valley is a great example of some of the excellent wines New York state produces. Our passion and commitment to making quality wines has been recognized. We think this highlights what we’ve been doing here – the Hudson Valley is making wines that can compete anywhere.”

The Chardonnays, Pinot Noirs, Cabernet Francs, and Baco Noirs all scored very well, and highlight a region which produces wines that showcase great food wines that are forward fruit, and feature bright acids, medium-to-low tannins, and long finishes in a more European tradition. Hudson Valley wines can be found all across the state, and are featured in numerous stores and restaurants throughout the city.

To find out more, all the scores are available on the magazine’s website in their ratings area, and on other Hudson Valley websites such as:

http://hvwinegoddess.blogspot.com/

http://hudsonriverwine.blogspot.com/

The Hudson Valley is America’s oldest wine making and grape-growing region. Less than an hour and a half from New York City, Hudson Valley wineries and wine trails offer hospitable winery tasting rooms, where consumers can often meet the owners in-person and taste award-winning wines made from classic European varieties, regional hybrids and even delicious fruit wines. The Hudson Valley features more than 40 wineries and three trails: The Dutchess Wine Trail, The Hudson-Berkshire Beverage Trail, and the Shawangunk Trail.

Winemaker Stephen Osborn of Stoutrdige Vineyards Town Supervisor of Marlboro

2012-01-06T12:54:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Stephen Osborn of Stoutridge Vineyards who in November was eleceted the Town Supervisor, which is the equivilent of mayor in other municipalities. He has been on the lanning board for many years. Our sincerest congratulations to Steve and Kim, and continued success - both politically and as a winery. Happy New Year! p.s. He is now the Honorable Stphen Osborn. Congrats! pps. Steve is the tall guy in the middle!

New face of Marlborough
January 4th, 2012
Mid-Hudson Times
By MARK REYNOLDS
mreynolds@tcnewspapers.com

With domino-like precision, Town Justice Nicholas Pascale administered the oath of office to Justice Eleanor Gallagher, who in turn swore in Town Clerk Colleen Corcoran who then handled the rest – Supervisor Stephen Osborn and Town Councilmen Ed Molinelli and Scott Corcoran.

“I have been spending the last month and a half preparing and getting my ducks in a row,” he said. “I feel like things are already running, things are already moving and I am ready to roll on.”

Osborn said the immediate issue before the board is the two residential development projects – Bayside and Dockside “and how those are going to be resolved.”

“We [also] have the issue of the water,” he said. “We’re trying to become self-sufficient in the town water supply. “We’re also in negotiations with health care with both the Police and Highway [Depts.] and I think that’s a pretty pivotal negotiation going on there. [It] will set the tone on how health care is going to end up working out in the town in the future.”

To further show his belief in self sufficiency, Osborn said he is investigating the viability of installing tidal hydro-electric generation at the new park at the riverfront in Milton.

“We have the wharf that’s in deep, highly tidal water,” he said. “There are other entities nearby that have the same sort of situation that we think we can do in a group effort. I’d like to see those two things; self-sufficiency in water and power would be very nice.”

As a new town councilman, Scott Corcoran described his feelings succinctly – “excited, nervous, anxious but ready to get to the work for the citizens of Marlborough,” he said.

“I’ll give them the voice they deserve and hopefully I can accomplish that this year,” he said.

Corcoran said the Bayside and Dockside projects are pressing.

“I think we’re really going to be looking into the zoning [and] Steve [Osborn] wants to look into the Route 9W corridor,” Corcoran said. “I think that’s going to be a big thing.”

Corcoran said the board will resurrect the Economic Development Committee.

“I talked to Steve about it and that’s something that we’re doing,” he said. “We’re going to try to get businesses in here to support the tax base of Marlborough.”

Corcoran said he believes that in 2012 a referendum will be placed before the voters on a new Town Hall at the TOMVAC building “and their voice will be heard.”

Corcoran said he is hopeful the board can broker a deal with the school district, in a municipal agreement, to share office space at the TOMVAC building. He said the sharing of funds would avoid “hitting the taxpayer twice.”

“That’s something we’re definitely interested in doing,” he said, noting that the district has only a year left on their lease at the Pinnacle building “so that would have to be addressed promptly.”

Corcoran said the town website will be completely revamped within the next few months to make it more user-friendly.

“There are a lot of things ahead of us,” he said. “It’s going to be a busy four years, but I’m up for the challenge.”

Ed Molinelli, who was elected to a second term as town councilman, said he is looking forward to completing “unfinished business” in the next four years.

Molinelli said “I have a lot of opinions” on the Dockside and Bayside projects that are now before the Town Board.

“There are certain parts of it that I think are good and certain parts I think are bad,” he said, indicating that he feels they need to be amended. “I am in favor of the projects, but not as they exist.” He said he is worried about the increase in traffic to the area and the impacts upon the schools.

“That is something they [developers] have to bring to us with every thing they do,” he said. “If they don’t give us the right answers to our questions then we have to scale back the project.”

He said even if scaled back to half the number of units requested, he believes they would be economically viable and would attract needed businesses to the hamlet. He added that an important part of the economic picture is to begin installing infrastructure in the Route 9W corridor.

Molinelli favors a new Town Hall at the TOMVAC building and will support an initiative to the voters this year. He pointed out that the time is right for bonding, as the rates are quite low.

“It would be crazy not to do it at this point,” he said, adding that if the town delays, the rates and costs of construction will only rise.

Molinelli said as councilman he likes interacting with the residents.

“When I help them, it helps me a lot,” he said. “It’s giving back to my community because I have been here for so long. Now they talked me into it [running for office] and I really do enjoy it.”

New Town Clerk Colleen Corcoran said, “I want to do the best I can for our town and serve them as well as Natalie [Felicello] has served them in the past.”

Corcoran said she has “a lot to live up to” in light of Felicello’s 21 years of dedicated service before deciding to retire.

In December, Deputy Town Clerk Michelle Giametta also retired and Karen S. George will be filling that position. St. George is a recent transplant from New Jersey and had sent her résumé in to town hall. In the Garden State, St. George handled secretarial duties for planning and zoning boards as well as for the local historic preservation society.

“I’m a little nervous but am looking forward to it,” she said.

Corcoran said “We’re going to our best to do as well as they have in the past.”

Corcoran has started her position in the busiest time of the year with the collection of taxes, which will run until May.

“It should be an interesting first year, at least, to do everything and do my best,” she said.

In 2012 Judge Gallagher will be entering her 28th year of service to Marlborough.

“I do find it rewarding when you can turn people around, especially young people,” she said. “Ninety percent of the people – win, lose or draw – they walk away with a good feeling, when they feel like they’ve been treated fairly. Five percent hate you no matter what you do and the other five percent I can’t account for.”

Gallagher said the work of a judge is rewarding “but it’s getting more complicated and more and more the state is giving us mandates of what we have to do.”

Gallagher said this has created additional paper work for her office but her part-time secretary is working to meet all of the requirements.

Read the whole thing at:
http://timesadmin.startlogic.com/wp/2012/01/new-face-of-marlborough/

New York Cork Report Reviews Wines from Robibero and Tousey

2012-01-06T10:55:00.002-05:00

Editor-in-Chief, Lenn Thompson recently reviewed several Hudson Valley wines in the New York Cork Report. In an article entitled: The New York Cork Report Tasting Table -- January 4, 2012

Robibero Family Vineyards 2008 Pinot Noir ($17*): Red cherries, cola, black tea and spicy oak on the nose. Soft and silky palate with low tannins and just enough acidity. Straightforward red berry fruit is a bit hidden by oak, but only barely. Good for the price.

Robibero Family Vineyards 2010 "87 North" ($13*): Blend of 50% Cayuga and 50% Vidal. Big honeydew melon aromas on the nose with a little citrus and pear. Pears and melons dominate the palate too, which shows bright, citrusy acidity. Not long, but finishes cleanly with pears and apples. Simple, but fresh.

Robibero Family Vineyards 2010 Riesling ($16*): Very peachy nose with subtle floral and lemon-lime aromas. Peach dominates the palate as well with sweet citrus and fennel notes. Off-dry but not clunky or cloying. Good acidity that doesn't quite scrub the palate clean. Medium-short finish that is all peaches.

Tousey Winery 2010 Chardonnay ($16*): Taut on the nose with yellow apple and pear, with a bit of butterscotch and caramel apple. Bit dilute on the palate with good acidity. wood is subtle and comes across as caramelized sugar/vanilla. Lacks fruit somewhat. Fresh finish.

Read the whole thing at:
http://www.lenndevours.com/2012/01/the-new-york-cork-report-tasting-table-january-5-2012.html#comments

10 Reasons to Visit A Hudson Valley Winery in 2012

2012-01-04T07:31:00.003-05:00

2012 is a great year for the Hudson Valley wine community. There has never been a better time to be a Hudson Valley vintner or a better time to be a Hudson Valley wine consumer.

Why is that? Let me tell you.

Expansion! From the top of the Valley all the way down to the bottom, wineries have been expanding. Brotherhood, Millbrook, and Whitecliff have lead the way with major new construction projects, but smaller wineries like Hudson-Chatham, Tousey, and Bashakill have also expanded.

More Wineries! There’s never been more wineries in the Hudson Valley than there are now,and more are on the boards. From wineries to distilleries, there are more new establishments opening in the valley. That’s more diversity, that’s more places to visit, that’s more wines to try.

Better quality and leadership. Great talent is pouring into the region. The Hudson Valley boasts a slew of young and up and coming wine making talent, as well as a handful of older, experienced ones, the talent pool in the Valley has never been richer. More new equipment has also poured into the valley. Also more top notch people from the Finger Lakes and Long Island have come into the valley to consult. And with leaders like Cesar Baez, Mike Migliore, Matt Speccarelli, and Sue Miller and Karen Gardy, the Valley has never been in better hands.

Great reds! The Hudson Valley produces soft approachable reds, in the Burgundian or Rhone-ish traditions. They are medium-bodied, have great fresh fruit, bright acidity, and low tannins. And they are the best red wine bargains in the state, priced below most reds from Long Island or the Finger Lakes.

A great diversity of whites. From bright, sharp, flinty Seyval Blancs and Chardonnays, to wonderful, aromatic Reislings and Traminettes, the Hudson Valley produces a number of delicious whites to go with any meal.

Cassis has become one of the calling cards of the valley. The Valley is the number one producer of artisanal cassis in North America, with production nearing more than 20,000 bottles in 2012. This sweet, tart wine made from black currants has been a huge hit with regional chefs and consumers alike.

Great Ciders! Hudson Valley is home to a vast number of ciders and cider styles, that makes it one of the richest spots in the whole of New York state. From the bottom of the Valley to the top, a wide range of delicious artisanal hard ciders have become the darlings of the food world.

Fruit wines! No other region offers a greater diversity of fruit wines. From crisp dry apple wines to delicious dessert wines made from raspberry, cherries, peaches, and strawberries, the Hudson Valley offers more delicious opportunities than any of the other wine regions.

Availability. Hudson Valley wines have never had better availability. They are in more wine stores, more restaurants, and more tastingrooms than ever before. And if they're not in your store, you need to ask the manager to bring some in.

Added bonus? We’re closer! If you live in New York City, Albany, New Jersey, Connecticut or Massachusetts, we’re just plain closer and easier to get to than any other quality wine region!

Happy New Year and enjoy a glass of Hudson Valley wine in 2012!

VIDEO TASTING AT MILLBROOK VINEYARDS

2011-12-29T10:05:00.002-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5035-9uiPhU&feature=plcp&context=C3f5758fUDOEgsToPDskL-V5IWjHjf-MHVJ3mmuUyr

Chef Marcus Guiliano of Aroma Thyme does a tasting at Millbrook Vineyards.

VIDEO TASTING AT BASHAKILL VINEYARDS

2011-12-29T09:53:00.005-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRbJC9X0Db4&feature=plcp&context=C3a8f7c1UDOEgsToPDskJ9BTwvn_vsfCxwv8kg8-3R

Marcus Guiliano owns Aroma Tyme Bistro

Chef Marcus Guiliano has accumulated an impressive culinary resume on his path to opening Aroma Thyme Bistro. Marcus and his wife Jamie opened New Years Eve, 2003.

Guiliano began his career in 1990 as a cook in up-state New York at various hotels and restaurants like the Depuy Canal House. With an objective of cooking great food Guiliano set out and worked for Mobil Five Star properties like the Greenbrier and the Broadmoor. He had the honor to work for Pierre Koffman at La Tante Claire in Europe, which at the time was on the top 25 French restaurants in the world. Guiliano has since been the Executive Chef of prestigious Country Clubs and now his latest venture, Aroma Thyme Bistro.

"All this experience taught me how to cook great tasting food which was slowly killing me", says Guiliano. "About four years ago the discovery of holistic cuisine changed my life." Now the quest came to marry gourmet five star cuisine with holistic cuisine.

Essential Oils and cooking: Aroma Thyme Bistro is 100% committed to using only Young Living Oils for everything from cleaning, diffusing and of course cooking/seasoning.

Guiliano has received many culinary awards including presenting at The James Beard Foundation. His latest accomplishments are formulating published recipes for Gary Null in such books at "Power Aging", "Seven Step Series", and others.

Marcus lives in Ellenville, New York with his wife Jamie and two children Justin and Courtney.

Marcus has his own channel on You Tube, and has done several videos on Hudson Valley wine. Here's his take on Bashakill Vineyards.

Meet Winemakers from Cereghino-Smith at CIA January 12, 2012

2011-12-27T12:41:00.003-05:00

Meet the Winemaker: Cereghino Smith Winery
Thursday, January 12 @ 6 p.m.
Course No. 800–MTW
In the tradition of the Old World négociants, the winemakers at Cereghino Smith select and source grapes from small estate growers in both California and New York to create bold, full-bodied wines that are filtered by time and gravity. Paula Cereghino and Fred Smith were inspired by renegade winemakers like the Super Tuscan producers of Italy and the Rhône Rangers of the West Coast—including Joseph Cereghino, Paula's grandfather. After the presentation and tasting at the Danny Kaye Theatre, you'll enjoy a delicious meal designed to highlight Cereghino
Smith wines at the American Bounty Restaurant. $65.

Ale Street News Highlights Hudson Valley Beer

2011-12-18T07:56:00.002-05:00

In the December-January 2011 issue of Ale Street News, writer Mark A. Marnell highlights what's going on in Hudson Valley brewing.

Breweris covered include:
Kegan Ales
Brown's Brewing
CH Evans Brewing Co.
Crossroads Brewing Co.
Adirondack Pub and Brewery
Cave Mountain Brewing
Hyde Park Brewing Co.
Chatham Brewing
Gilded Otter

Matt Perry of Chatham Brewing was featured in the article, hard at work in the brewery. Congrats Matt!

And congrats to all the breweries in the Hudson Valley!

Details magazine Names Core Vodka one of the Best New Artisanal Vodkas

2011-12-17T06:01:00.003-05:00

Core Vodka was named one the seven best artisanal vodkas on the market by Details magazine in the December 2011 issue of the magazine.

Author Rob Willey wrote about Core: " Triple-distilled at an orchard, Core is made from apples chosen for precise sugar levels, lending a mellow sweetness tinged with ginger."

Congrats to everyone over at Harvest Spirits!

Read more at:
http://www.details.com/style-advice/food-and-drinks/201112/best-craft-vodkas#slide=2

Happy Bitch Wines Mentioned in the New York Times

2011-12-17T05:51:00.004-05:00

William Grimes recently wrote a fascinating article on the whys and wherefores of naming wines with the word "Bitch" attached. Mentioned in the article is the Hudson Valley's own "Happy Bitch" wine.

Congrats to Debbie Gioquindo and Keryl Pesce!

Read the whole thing at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/12/07/dining/with-rude-names-wine-stops-minding-its-manners.html

Hudson Berkshire Beverage Trail Winter Passport Savings!

2011-12-16T07:57:00.002-05:00

Save $5.00 thru Dec 31st, 2011!!! Buy before December 31st and passports are valid until February 29th, 2012!

Regualary $25.00 now only $20.00!

Take advantage of our group rate, and book a tour of six or more and tickets are $15 – save $10.00 per ticket!

A great present to set under the tree! A great gift!!!

Here's the link to savings!!!!
http://www.mcssl.com/SecureCart/ViewCart.aspx?mid=1BCFBBF4-C986-4A98-8610-4688F6698300&sctoken=bf2340af51d1475caee81a08df56a707&bhcp=1

EDIBLE HUDSON VALLEY RAVES ABOUT HUDSON VALLEY CASSIS

2011-12-10T06:56:00.005-05:00

Edible Hudson Valley writer Jennifer Brizzi covers the absolutely growing industry of artisanally produced cassis (black currant dessert wine) in the Hudson Valley.

This is a great article with lots of really fun information and great profiles.

If you're looking for great cassis try some of these:

Adair Vineyards
Bookview Station Winery
Clinton Vineyards
Glorie Farm Winery
Hudson-Chatham Winery
Tousey Winery
Tuthilltown Distillery
Warwick Valley Winery
and coming soon, Breezey Hill

Go out and try some today!

Happy Bitch - The Book and the Wines - A Lifetyle Brand

2011-12-04T10:25:00.008-05:00

Happy Bitch is an excellent example of cross promotion and brand building. You can buy the book, the ebook, the wine, the glasses, and the t-shirts.Keryl Pesce and Debbie Gioquindo have developed Happy Bitch into a lifestyle brand they will continue to expand.

Cheryl Pesce wrote a book called Happy Bitch: The Girlfriend's Straight Up Guide to Losing the Baggage and Finding the Fun, Fabulous You Inside...

The Amazon description says: "Have you ever wondered why some women are miserable bitches and others are happy bitches? The answers might surprise you. Join Keryl Pesce as she shares her newfound perspective and strength following a painful divorce. Follow along and learn how regardless of your baggage, you too can transform your life from one of heartache and struggle to one of peace and lasting happiness. Imagine being freed from regrets of the past and worries about the future. Yes! It is possible! The truth is, it's easier than you think. You already hold the secret to happiness in your hands right this very moment."

The $15.60 paperback and the $9.95 ebook are both available at Amazon.com. The paperback is also available at Barnes & Noble.com for $13.40.

As the recent Pride of New York festival at the Saratoga Springs Art Center, festival goers could been seen sporting stickers featuring the Happy Bitch logo. Some were sporting t-shirts as well. The brand seems to be resonating with women. Certainly, this is not the first wine to use the word "Bitch" on it's label. Still, the rolling out of other products with some savvy marketing behidn it has catapulted the brand forward extremely quickly, and is an example to follow for any small winery.
The brand has used a combination of twitter, facebook, and solid internet buss from blogs and newspapers to build up a following quickly. The winemakers also used several yearly events in the Hudson Valley this past season as promotional opportunities to create brand awareness (like getting folks at one festival to taste several different versions of the wine), and allowing or inviting the public to particpate in the final blend or flavor profile. Several local winemakers questioned the move, but more than anything, it was smart, invented marketing.

The wine itself is a no lose proposition - a pink, sparkling wine, with just the lightest whiff of sweetness, much like a prosecco. It's fun, pink, and goes down easy. It's well made and well packaged, and looks great in almost any wine glass, especially a sparkling wine flute.
Happy Bitch can already be found in numerous wine shops up-and-down the valley, and has quickly created a buzz with a strong female base of devoted customers. The wines can already be found in five counties. They've done all of that in year. It's just the kind of marketing smarts the Hudson Valley and the east coast need. And it's the fun wine consumers want!

Visit Vortex Celebrates Hudson ValleyHoliday Spirits

2011-12-03T16:22:00.002-05:00

Visit Vortex magazine's Winter 2011 issue features five pages of fun and festive cocktails, punches and eggnog all made with Hudson Valley spirits. From distilled spirits, to table wines, and dessert wines, theres all kinds of fun recipes to make your holidays unique and fabulous.

Read more at:
http://www.visitvortex.com/

What Brotherhood’s Expansion Means to the Hudson Valley

2011-12-01T10:39:00.000-05:00

Bigger is not always better. I can think of a lot of wines that I truly love; I’m one of those jerks who loves a hard to find wine. The easier it is to find, the less attracted I am to it. I also loved women who played hard to get back in the day, as they say.

But let’s be honest – sometimes size matters. Back in California, in the late 1960s and early 1970s, there were a lot of small wineries making quality wine. But my mom and dad, who were avid wine drinkers, had never heard of them. And despite the Judgment of Paris, and the eyebrow-raising wins of Chateau Montelena and Stag’s Leap in competitions, most people didn’t know what was going on in California wine. That was until Robert Mondavi.

Mondavi had cashed out of his family’s rather sizable and profitable winery, and wanted to create a new winery – a large winery that could make quality wines. While the Stag’s Leaps and Montelena’s of the world worked the critics, Mondavi moved an industry. He became the ambassador of California wine. His winery was originally thought of as a folly, with its massive scale and his exclamation point on quality dry wines.

In fact, Mondavi’s gamble paid off, not just for him, but for all of Napa. Today, Mondavi is one of the first tours I recommend to anyone who wants to go see wineries and vineyards for the first time – because it remains the best tour for the general public in the industry. It is the show place for quality Napa wine.

The Hudson Valley has always needed a Mondavi. Cesar Baeza has always been one of our best ambassadors. But with the fire that ruined the winery some time ago, he has been fighting the good fight with one arm tied behind his back. But with the official unveiling of what has been transpiring over the last 12-24 months, Brotherhood, America’s oldest winery, in Washingtonville, NY, is set to dominate the Hudson Valley landscape for the next century.

There is a lot of expansion going on up and down the valley. And it all symbolizes a vibrant and growing wine industry. Brotherhood, Whitecliff, Tousey, Hudson-Chatham are all expanding. After a disastrous fire, Millbrook also used the tragedy to also expand. This kind of invest by the local banking community signifies a confidence few New York industries can boast of. And many of the valley’s wineries are making more wine than ever.

But Brotherhood’s new facilities are a shining beacon in the Hudson Valley, confirming it once again as one of the flagship wineries of the valley.

Firstly, they have the largest tastingrooom in the valley. And it is richly appointed. The grand hall, in use last night at the unveiling of the reconstructed winery, was festooned in all its glory, and flexed its prowess as one of the grandest wine spaces in all of the valley. It was chock full of people - press, wine industry executives, and many Manhattanites up from the city’s wine industry come to take a look at the grand dame’s new charms.

Secondly, they have the largest and most richly appointed banquet hall of any winery in the valley. It was shown off for the very first time last night. The fieldstone walls, at least 2 ½ stories high, are pebbled with large, round, smooth river stones, that give texture to the massive room, which is tied together by gigantic wooden beams (giant tree trunks really), and lit by wrought-iron and barrel stave chandeliers. It is a stunning room, which also has a large, and sumptuous stone patio outside (with the same footprint as the hall) to accommodate even larger parties.

Outside, the guest house/inn is at the end of the complex. And of course, there’s the incredible restaurant, Vinum, there within the friendly confines of the compound as well.

But while all this bling is in fact important, the most impressive thing is the new winemaking facilities. With a giant phallanx of four-story stainless steel tanks, Brotherhood, which already had incredible capacity for any winery, suddenly catapults itself into a whole new realm. The new wing of the winery holds hundreds of thousands of gallons. And the tanks are full!! Brotherhood is now, without question, one of the largest wineries on the east coast – bar none. I have traveled to California, Spain, France, Chile and many other places. This might not be Ernest and Julio or Campo Viejo, but trust me, it’s big. Very big!

But even so, CEO Baeza is also rich in talent, with a team who has grown into a formidable force. Hernan Dosono is the president, who has spent many grueling, long hours overseeing the details of this magnificent expansion. Winemaker Bob Barrow (who has definitely grown into his job after nine years working under Baeza) is up to the challenge, especially with experienced wine veteran Mark Diagle as the winery manager. And of course there’s Brotherhood’s ubiquitous and charming marketing manager Colleen Hughes, who seems to be everywhere at once. She and Baeza are constant ambassadors for the Valley. Working in New York City as I do, I see many industry leaders during my time there. It is not uncommon to see Baeza at a national or international industry wine tasting dominated by other states or countries, or to see him in the offices of the industry’s magazine offices.

And Brotherhood wines are everywhere. They have the widest distribution of any Valley winery. Heck, they have some of the widest distribution of any New York state winery. No matter if I am in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, where ever, there always a bottle of Brotherhood somewhere on the shelves. That is the most important ambassador – with great power, goes great responsibility.

And for anyone who’s thinking – what’s this all about? Where did all this money come from? We’re talking millions of dollars. That’s a great question. The first sign of a region on the rise is investment of foreign capital. Brotherhood’s ownership group is backed by Chilean capital – and not some uninformed group – but by substantial people in the Chilean wine business. This is another reason why Brotherhood’s expansion is such an important signpost in the valley’s growth. Where else in New York state has foreign investment been so substantial? Nowhere else but the Hudson Valley.

Like Mondavi did more than 40 years ago in Napa, Cesar Baeza, along with his team, have created an incredible new winery wonderland, with magnificent halls, new wine making facilities, an incredible restaurant, and a stellar new winemaking facility. The Hudson Valley now has the crown jewel it rightly deserves, and the richly appointed ambassador it needs to represent the valley. Both valley winemakers and Valley consumers, should be thrilled with what is happening in Washingtonville, NY.

Congratulations Brotherhood! Congratulations Hudson Valley!

The Valley Table magazine Features Clinton Vineyards and Phyllis Feder

2011-11-25T11:04:00.006-05:00

Congratulations to Phyllis Feder is the owner of Clinton Vineyards. Here, in anterview with Valley Table magazine, she talks about her late husband, the legendary Ben Feder, about the current state of Hudson Valley wine, and about the goings on at Clinton Vineyards. Great reading! Enjoy!

Read the whole thing at:

http://e-ditionsbyfry.com/Olive/ODE/VLT/Default.aspx?target= href=VLT/2011/12/01

Shawangunk Wreath Fineries at the Wineries 2011

2011-11-22T06:35:00.004-05:00

Wreath Fineries at the Wineries
December 3, 4, 10 & 11

Their most popular event is selling out quickly!

TheNovember 19 & 20th were a huge success! Did you go?! If not, there's still time!

Tickets are still available for Sunday December 4th, Saturday December 10th and Sunday December 11th.

A self-guided tour of 11 wineries. At your first winery, you will get a souvenir Shawangunk Wine Trail Wine Glass, a new Oval Shaped Grapevine Wreath, a special Shawangunk Wine Trail ornament, designed specifically using our new logo, and an ornament from your first winery. Then pick up another ornament at each of the wineries you visit. If you visit all 11 wineries, you end up with 12 ornaments to decorate your wreath and to keep for years. In addition, you sample wine at each winery! What a great way to spend a day, sampling wine, enjoying friends, meeting new people, and maybe even getting some Holiday shopping done along the way.

Sundays are the most enjoyable days to visit the wineries. It is a much more relaxed atmosphere as the wineries are not generally as busy on Sundays.

Hudson-Chatham's 4th AnnualBread, Wine & Cheese!

2011-11-17T08:03:00.001-05:00

Hudson-Chatham's 4th Annual

Bread, Wine & Cheese!
Saturday, November 19, 2011
12-5 pm

Cafe Le Perche headlines event, along with Old Chatham Sheepherding, Twin Maple Farm, and R&G Cheese.

This Saturday, the winery will be hosting its annual Bread, Wine & Cheese event. The bread - and other baked goods - will be from Hudson's own Cafe Le Perch! The Cafe was recently written up in the New York Times and The Valley Table, and it is definitely as good as all that!

We will have cheeses from the following area creameries: Twin Maple Farm (with their incredible Hudson Red), R&G (with mouth-watering mozzarellas and goat cheeses), and the Old Chatham Sheepherding Company (if you have yet to try their multiple award-winning Camembert, see what you've been missing!). The cheeses will be sampled and sold by the creameries, and we'll also have a selection of Hudson-Chatham horseradish cheese spreads on hand.Spend an afternoon tasting Hudson-Chatham wines, the freshest local cheeses, most fabulous baked goods, and discovering how to put together perfect bread, wine, and cheese pairings - for the holidays and every day!

Read the NY Times about Cafe Le Perche:
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/13/nyregion/cafe-le-perche-and-its-oven-from-rural-france.html

Hudson Vvalley Wineries Shine in Saratoga!

2011-11-13T08:42:00.003-05:00

The Pride of New York Harvest Festival was held yesterday in Saratoga Springs, NY yesterday (and today), and Hudson Valley wineries were there in force.
Food and wine were in great supply, and everyone had a great time!

C'mon down and see us today! Trty some Hudson Valley wine and see what everyone is talking about!

Howard Goldberg Gives the Hudson Valley Raves

2011-11-13T07:22:00.001-05:00

Below is a reprint of a post written by New York Times wine writer Howard G. Goldberg about his notes on a recent tasting of Hudson Valley wines.

A Sampler of Hudson Valley Pleasures
by Howard G. Goldberg on Friday, November 11, 2011 at 1:25pm

As the beautiful Hudson Valley's remaining leaves turn further red, ocher, yellow and rusty, and crunchy underfoot, I recall and envy landscape painters of the 19th-century Hudson River School -- (its founder) Thomas Cole, Frederic Edwin Church, Albert Bierstadt -- who recorded the unspoiled region's majesty.

Not having visited the area for some years I miss annual excursions to Millbrook, my friend John Dyson'simpressive, sprawling wine estate, and occasional trips to Clinton Vineyard, in Clinton Corners, another Jewel, established by my friend Ben Feder (now gone) and nurtured by Ben and Phyllis, his remarkable wife.

Another friend (and also my book publisher), the congenial Carlo DeVito, the padrone of Hudson-Chatham Winery, in Ghent, not long ago assembled a batch of wines that illustrate developments in the region, and a small group tasted them high above Columbus Circle, in Manhattan. He brought many of his own wines -- some I had tasted before -- and they made a strongly favorable impression pretty much across the board. The portfolio has deservedly gotten good ink lately. (Yes, I say all that objectively; no buttering-up goes on here.)

By now some of Carlo's and others' wines I tasted have yielded to later vintages, which, on the basis of my tasting, I'd be pleased to explore too.

My favorite was Warwick Valley Winery's nonvintage Black Dirt Red, an exuberant, succulent baco noir.

Close behind was Hudson-Chatham's 2008 Empire Reserve Red -- a clever, grapey, nuanced blend of Hudson Valley baco noir, Finger Lakes cabernet franc and Long Island merlot.

Next came Benmarl Winery's lovely, virtually sweet, lightly smoky, balanced 2009 baco noir.

Followed by Hudson-Chatham's 2009 Masson Place Vineyard, Pulteney Farm, Old Vines baco noir, which was succulent and juicy.

Two from Millbrook were pleasing: the 2007 Proprietor's Special Reserve pinot noir
(light, good varietal character, stylish) and 2008 cabernet franc (dense, earthy, spicy).

Then Hudson-Chatham's 2009 seyval blanc -- I have loved the grape and wine, from various producers, for years -- had a firm acid grip, perfumed nose and a tangy citric bite.

Benmarl's 2009 Slate Hill White, a blend of chardonnay, riesling and traminette, had a luscious texture, gooseberry-like acidity and a tangy grapefruity flavor.

Hudson-Chatham's rustic 2009 Casscels Vineyards chelois was pretty,opulent, a little cherry-like and seemed dotted with herbs. It was inward, and I had to aerate it a lot on my palate to get, rewardingly, at its character.

Hudson-Chatham’s 2009 Casscels Vineyards baco noir reserve was a juicy, gutsy knock-back carafe wine.

Whitecliff Vineyard’s 2009 gutsy gamay noir struck me as somewhat Beaujolais-like. While tasting it, I wanted to wash it down with a burger. The 2010 gamay noir, very light and best chilled, was a pleasant carafe wine.

The 2005 pinot noir from Oak Summit Vineyard, in Millbrook, a property wholly unknown to me, suggested that high seriousness was present and that subsequent vintages ought to be tracked.

Clinton Vineyard’s Cassis (half-bottle), an excellent dessert wine that oscillates on the palate between sweetness and dryness, was lean, dense and showed real breed. A fitting climax.

I would have brought the painter Thomas Cole along if a biographical fact hadn't gotten in the way: (1801-1848).

Read more at:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/notes/howard-g-goldberg/a-sampler-of-hudson-valley-pleasures/225231230877637

Hudson Berkshire Beverage Trail Ramble

2011-11-09T20:30:00.001-05:00

November 11, 12, 13, 2011
This Veteran's Day weekend, you can do special tastings of the wonderful hand-crafted wines, beers, and spirits made by the venues on the Hudson Berkshire Beverage Trail for the special price of $15 ($5 for designated drivers). Purchase a Trail passport at the first location you visit, and bring it along as you "ramble" the Trail. Each venue will conduct a special tasting for passport carriers, and will feature a special food item to go with it. Trail members are: Hudson-Chatham Winery, Chatham Brewing, Harvest Spirits Distillery, and Brookview Station Winery in New York, and Furnace Brook Winery in Massachusetts.

HUDSON VALLEY WINE TASTING AT FOX AND HOUNDS IN NEW PALTZ

2011-11-08T09:00:00.003-05:00

Hudson Valley Wine Country and Fox and Hounds in New Paltz announce a Hudson Valley Wine Tasting on November 18th, 2011, between 4 and 8 pm.

Attending wineries thus far include:
Amici Vineyards
Benmarl
Brotherhood
Cerehino-Smith
Hudson-Chatham Winery
Palaia Vineyards
Whitecliff Vineyards

Winery representatives will be on premises for discussion. A great opportunity to find your perfect Thanksgiving wine made locally and by hand!

As more wineries join in, we'll announce them.

See you there!!!

THE HUDSON VALLEY IS EXPANDING

2011-11-06T12:35:00.001-05:00

Includes Reporting by Debbie Gioquindo

There’s a wonderful scene in Annie Hall when Alvie (Woody Allen’s character) as a young boys is sitting with his mother in the doctor’s office. The Doctor is asking Alvie what’s bothering the young boy.

“The Universe is expanding…” says the perturbed young boy.

“What does that matter?!. We live in Brooklyn! Brooklyn is not expanding!” yells the vexed mother.

But indeed, the Hudson Valley is expanding. Five wineries in the last 9 mos have begun major expansions, to help handle the growing demand for Hudson Valley wine. And the biggest evidence of that is watching five quality fine wine producers begin major expansions.

Whitecliff Vineyards
The first and foremost (because it is nearly done) is that of Whitecliff. Whitecliff is owned by Michael and Yancey Migliore. The winery is nearing its tenth year of operation, and to celebrate, they built a new, state of the art winery, complete with geothermal heating, offices, and enough space to do custom crushing.

According to Debbie Gioquindo, Michael Migliore, owner/winemaker said they outgrew their original space and needed to build a new winemaking facility to handle the capacity to be able to grow. "Three years ago we were a 3000 case winery, now we are a 5500 case winery and growing. Not only do we do our own, this enables us to do custom crush and make wine for other facilities," Michael told Debbie, the Hudson Valley Wine Goddess.

“Geo-Thermal in layman terms - 8 feet below the surface is a constant 55 degrees. Long tubes are put 8 feet underground that go out into the field horizontally and back into the winery in a loop,” wrote Debbie. “ Glycol is pumped through the pipes to maintain a 50 degree temperature. Upon return the glycol is and put through the heat exchanger to heat or cool the water that is then pumped through the winery floor. This regulates the temperature in the winery. This was their first harvest in the new winery.”

"It was so nice to have the space and the room,” said Michael. “and to be able to increase capacity. We had tons of room to process grapes more than we had before. It was so nice to be able to process inside when weather was bad."

Brotherhood Winery

Brotherhood Winery is America’s oldest winery, located in Washingtonville, NY. Brotherhood is one of the largest wineries in the Hudson Valley, or the state in for that matter. Their new construction will almost double there already massive capacity. There are six 5,000 gallon tanks. Then there are two more that hold even more wine! This is additional capacity on the massive gallonage they already produce. Construction continued in mid-October with the pouring of the footings in the winemaking facilities.

This is major news in the valley. The event in and of itself was so large that Bortherhood and their construction company invited guests to the groundbreaking.

Tousey
Tousey just recently unveiled their revised and expanded winemaking facilities the other evening. Tousey is new to the Hudson Valley winemaking scene, but the new facilities and equipment make them an immediate player in the Hudson Valley fine wine scene.

New shining stainless steel tanks, new machinery, and tons of new flex tanks show that the winemaker has more than tripled in size in the last year-and-a-half.

Bashakill Vineyards
Paul Denino of Bashakill Vineyards is now he in the midst of building his wine cave which will be 40 feet deep, 16 feet wine and 9 feet high when complete. “There will be room for 20 - 25 barrels and a tasting bar when complete,” wrot Debbie. “Paul is looking forward to bringing his red wines to a new level by aging them in the cave. Note: This year Paul's Cabernet Franc called Black Bear won a Double Gold and best red wine in the Hudson Valley Wine Competition.”

Hudson-Chatham Winery
Hudson-Chatham Winery, after a prolonged five month long delay with red tape and planning officials, is now about to double its capacity, adding 22 x 22 foot expansion, as well as adding another separate building (added barrel room capacity), to double is winemaking capacity, and allowing for extra retail space in its retail area as well. The new buildings will house several new tanks and new winemaking equipment.

All this activity augers well for the Hudson Valley and for the demand for the quality wines of the Hudson Valley.

For expanded coverage please see the following posts by Debbie Gioquindo:
http://networkedblogs.com/pfx3z
His Building / Her Building - Whitecliff's New Winery
http://networkedblogs.com/oU1H2
Bashakill Vineyards Building a Cave

Facebook:
Brotherhood Winery: Expansion of the winemaking facility

Kevin Zraly Names Three Favorite Ulster Wineries

2011-11-02T09:09:00.003-04:00

OK, so I am a little late to the party on this. I should have done this almost a month ago. But in the inauguralissue of Ulster magazine, Kevin Zraly, of the WINDOWS ON THE WORLD WINE SCHOOL and author of THE COMPLETE WINE COURSE and THE ULTIMATE WINE COMPANION, named his three favorite Ulster County wineries.

Congratulations to Whitecliff Vineyards, Stoutridge Vineyards, and Benmarl Winery!

William M Dowd Reports Bashakill Vineyards Going Underground

2011-10-28T08:50:00.002-04:00

Sullivan County winery going underground

October 25, 2011 at 4:21 pm by Bill Dowd

WURTSBORO — Bashakill Vineyards, the Sullivan County winery that won “Best in Show” honors in the recent Hudson Valley Wine Competition, is going underground.

That’s no reference to hiding. Rather, it’s the implementation of a project owner Paul Deninno has had in mind for a while.

He’s constructing a wine cave that measures 9 by 16 feet, with a 40-foot depth. That will be room enough for a tasting bar as well as 20 to 25 barrels.

Deninno plans to age some of his red wines in the cave, which should be an interesting evolution for the likes of his Black Bear Cabernet Franc that won a double gold and best red wine honors, as well as top show honors, in the aforementioned test I helped judge.

Bashakill is located at 1131 South Road, Wurtsboro. Phone: (845) 888-5858.

Read more at:
http://blog.timesunion.com/dowdondrinks/sullivan-co-winery-going-underground/9607/

Women Wine Producers Launch Happy Bitch Rosé

2011-10-28T08:46:00.002-04:00

(Beacon, NY, October 26, 2011) On Thursday, October 20 under the elegant white tent at the Grandview in Poughkeepsie, Keryl Pesce (author of Happy Bitch and co-host of Happy Hour on Mix 97.7FM) and Debbie Gioquindo (Hudson Valley Wine Goddess) launched the very first Happy Bitch wine – a perfectly pink rosé.

One hundred fifty people attended to taste the wine and see it bottled, labeled and revealed for the very first time. They enjoyed the music of the Michael Dell Orchestra and delicious food with excited anticipation until the big reveal. After a few words of gratitude from Pesce and Gioquindo, the guests watched a short video of the creation of the wine. When the bottle was revealed on screen and rolled out “in person” the people applauded and raised their glass to toast to living, to giving, to happiness.

In keeping with their mission to support women in need, a portion of the proceeds from the event supported the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation, who were also in attendance.

The rosé wine is Hudson Valley produced with aromas of strawberry and melon, lively on the tongue with a fruity finish.

The back label, also revealed for the first time cleverly makes the analogy between wine and women:

At Happy Bitch Wines, we believe happiness is the very purpose of our existence. Believed to be elusive and out of reach, the truth is, the secret to happiness is in your hands right this very moment. All you need to do is choose it and then share it; just like you would a good wine. Each bottle of Happy Bitch, much like an extraordinary woman, is beautifully balanced. She is bold, yet soft. She cares how she looks but knows her true essence is what's inside. She kicks ass if she needs to and warms your heart when she wants to. Most of all she is meant to be enjoyed and celebrated every day.

What does the wine pair with? Not your typical description. As displayed in pink on the back of the bottle: “Pairs well with girlfriends and great memories.”

And to top it off, the two planned a surprise for each bottle. Much like a fortune cookie, around the neck of the bottle is a removable label containing a quote about happiness from Pesce’s book.

“I am overwhelmed at the tremendous response we have seen for our product,” says Debbie Gioquindo. “With over 150 people showing up at our product launch just shows how enthusiastic people are for our wine. I couldn't be more blessed! Happy Bitch is not just a wine, it's a lifestyle - one of friendship, enjoyment of life and happiness.”

“Six months ago, this was an idea in my head,” says Pesce. “It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you are on a mission and surrounded and supported by great people. Debbie is right. It’s not just a wine. We’re delivering a message. We’re all about empowering women, giving back and choosing happiness as a way of life. We’re about taking the hard knocks life sends your way and choosing to come out stronger, smarter and yes, happier.”

The wine is available for purchase beginning November 1 in New York State. Liquor stores, wine shops and restaurants can contact Empire Merchants North to carry. For a growing list of where the wine is available and for more information, visit www.HappyBitchWines.com.

BROTHERHOOD WINERY HOSTS COSTUME BALL IN HAUNTED CELLARS

2011-10-21T11:10:00.002-04:00

The Brotherhood Winery cellars, among the largest in the country, are visited by hundreds of wine enthusiasts during the day. At night, however, more sinister forces frequent these century old passages, transforming the grounds into a living nightmare. It is believed the original wine master trolls these tunnels, always in search of a new body to inhabit. Come for a visit and see if you're the one he selects.

Friday 10/28/11- 7PM-11PM
Tickets $10.00
To Purchase Tickets

Costume Ball
Celebrate the resurection of the spirit of Halloween in our historical cellars with an EPIC party. The secret judges will be watching for the most impressive costumes.
$50.00 per person number of tickets available.
For Tickets
http://store.nexternal.com/browinery/the-legend-of-brotherhood-winery-and-the-haunted-wine-cellars-p80.aspx

The Journal News Raves About Cider Week

2011-10-19T21:48:00.002-04:00

Sara Grady of Glynwood with food writer Colette Rossant at Glynwood in Cold Spring. The two are collaborators on The Apple Project, which promotes apple production in the Hudson Valley. / Joe Larese/The Journal News

Local farmers work to raise cider's profile
11:35 PM, Oct. 18, 2011
Written by Karen Croke

The Hudson Valley Cider Route

Along with farms and wineries that produce hard cider, the Hudson Valley Cider Route map also includes farms that make sweet ciders, such as Salinger's Orchards in Brewster, Dr. Davies Farm in Congers and The Orchards of Concklin in Pomona. The route also includes places to pick your own apples; restaurants where cider is served, and bakeries that use locally sourced fruits. For the map, go to www.appleproject.glynwood.org/ciderroute
Here's a look at local hard cider producers.
• Montgomery Place Orchards and Annandale Cidery, Annandale Atomic Hard Cider.
Find them: Annandale-on-Hudson, N.Y. 845-758-8005 www.mporchards.com
• Applewood Orchards,
Stone Fence Apple Cider,
Find them: Warwick, N.Y., 845-988-9292 www.applewoodwinery.com
• Hicks Orchards and Slyboro Ciderhouse,
Slyboro Old Sin Cider, Hidden Star Cider, Ice Harvest Special Reserve (Ice Cider) Find them: Granville, N.Y., 518-642-1788 www.hicksorchard.com
• Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery, Doc's Draft Hard Cider. Find them: Warwick, N.Y., 845-258-4858, wvwinery.com

Derrick Mead's family has been farming in the Hudson Valley since 1916, but it took this fourth generation son of the land to move the family business into the future by looking to a product from the past. And he's hoping that many more farmers will follow suit.

Mead has helped to spearhead The Apple Project, a new endeavor created by Glynwood in Cold Spring to help preserve apple orchards in the Hudson Valley by promoting the production of cider, both sweet and hard.

The project includes the Hudson Valley Cider Route, an Apple Exchange, and Cider Week, where more than 80 restaurants, orchards and wineries are participating with tastings, dinners and special events.

Read the rest at:
http://www.lohud.com/article/20111019/LIFESTYLE01/110190301/Local-farmers-work-raise-cider-s-profile?odyssey=tab%7Ctopnews%7Ctext%7CNews

New York Post Says Cider Week Rules

2011-10-19T21:42:00.002-04:00

Cider week rules
How about them New York apples? As delicious as fine wine, some say
By CHRIS ERIKSON
Last Updated: 4:54 AM, October 14, 2011
Posted: 10:13 PM, October 13, 2011

It’s apple season, and customers at Hicks Orchard in upstate Granville are carting away sweet, crisp Macouns, Ginger Golds and Empires by the bushel. But some of the apple varieties co-owner Dan Wilson is most excited about harvesting are of scant interest to seasonal snackers — in fact they taste more like a bleaching agent than anything you’d want to put in a pie.

Instead, they’ll go into Slyboro Cider, the cidery Wilson and his wife, Susan Knapp, founded in 2001, as an adjunct to the orchard that’s been in Wilson’s family since 1974.

The pair are among a small but growing number of upstate apple growers who are reviving a lost American tradition by making hard cider, a drink that was once as ubiquitous in these parts as water. And starting Sunday, they’ll be among the local producers whose wares will be featured during Cider Week, a program of tastings, pairing dinners and other events designed to spotlight a beverage that aficionados say is both overlooked and misunderstood.

Read more: http://www.nypost.com/p/entertainment/food/cider_week_rules_ZG3sXbw617yWwPMv2yFYiP#ixzz1bHYOI2VM

Esquire Raves About HV Ciders

2011-10-19T21:25:00.003-04:00

Leslie Pariseau just wrote an fascinating article in Esquire magazine on cider. Among the recommended ciders were Warwick Valley and Slyboro.

Warwick Valley Ciders

"Funky and earthy in a forest floor sort of way, Doc's is one for those who think they know cider. Its weird lumberjack mossiness is a natural partner for washed rind cheeses and funky jamon. This one's for those who like dirty things, by which we mean truffles, mushrooms, and Rhone reds."

Slyboro Night Pasture

"This New York cider reminded tasters of oxidized wine from the Jura in the emerging style of natural wines. Lacking bubbles, but embracing quirk, Night Pasture is like the cute chick who secretly digs sci-fi novels. Best drunk on a warm, Indian-summer day."

Read more at:
http://www.esquire.com/the-side/food-and-drink/hard-cider-for-men-1011#fbIndex1

Some of My Favorite Hudson Valley Ciders

2011-10-18T07:13:00.008-04:00

It's cider week in New York state, and there's no better place to go for apple cider, wines, distilled products, and good old fashion cider than the Hudson Valley.

Cider is a very big thing in te hudson Valley. The Hudson Valley is long been one of the bastions of apple growing in New York state. And some of the best cider producers are in this region.

First and foremost among them is Warwick Valley. Jason Grizzanti and Jeremy Kidde have built this winery and distillery into one of the powerhouses of the Hudson Valley. Jason has traveled all over the world, Spain, France, England, etc., to learn more and more about how to make great ciders. The ffort has paid off. Warwick has three great ciders - Doc'sDraft Hard Apple Cider (a classic apple cider); Doc's Draft Framboise (made with raspberries); and Doc's Draft Pear Cider.

The apple cider is clean and refreshing. Perfect for a fall day. The Framboise is an elegant, sweet mix of apple cider and raspberriies in the classic Belgian/French tradition. Absolutely fabulous! And the Pear Cider is an elegant, effervescent sparkling wine. Tremendous!

Next up would be the Apple Dave's Stone Fence Apple Cider from Applewood Winery. This is a classic Hudson Valley hard cider with wonderful flavor or tart apples and a hint of sweetness. Just absolutely superb!

Then comes Annandale Cider from Montgomery Place Orchards. It's sold at the farm stand in Mason jars. It's clean, dry, and very refreshing. Really has a huge apple nose, and nice.

Next I would have to recommend the Hudson-Chatham Pomme Bulle. This is a nice sparkling cider, with nice apple on the nose and not too sweet. Very good.

Also in the region are two tohers defintely worth mentioning. Firstly is SLyboro House a small artisanal producer deviooted solely to apple ciders and dessert wines. Tremendous small production stuff. Really wonderful.

And lastbuit certainly not least are the cioders from Furnace Brook Winery. Yes, they are Massachusetts, but they are just over the line, and they belong to the Hudson-Berkshire Beverage Trail. They make a French farmhouse style cider (Zvery elegant) and then a more popularly styled slightly sweet styled classic hard cider. Both are excellent!!

Have fun tooling around the valley and tasting these tremendous ciders.

New York Wineries Shine at Goold's Apple Fest

2011-10-10T07:53:00.004-04:00

It was a glorious and busy weekend at the Goold's Apple Festival this past weekend in the Hudson Valley.

Many people and wineries were on hand.

Brookview Station Baco Noir

2011-10-10T07:48:00.002-04:00

At the wildly Goold's Apple Festival just this past weekend, Brookview Station Winery unveiled their latest wine - Brookview Station Baco Noir.

Sue and Ed Miller, and Karen Gardy, were all on hand for the release, which was in the wine tent at the Goold's Apple Fest.

It's a deep dark purple wine, with lot's of fruit up front, and a nice smooth finish. A lovely, lovely wine!

Congrats to all the folks at Brookview Station!

Patricia Savoie Raves About Hudson Valley Wine in ICON magazine.

2011-10-01T06:26:00.003-04:00

ICON is an arts and entertainment mag that is distributed to 20,000 households in
Bucks County and Philadelphia, PA, and Hunterdon County and Princeton, NJ.

Pat Savoie is a wine and culinary travel writer living in New York City. She is a frequent contributor to Sommelier Journal magazine, and a regular contributor to Wine Enthusiast magazine since 2003, where she wrote a monthly feature on American Viticultural Areas until March. Pat has been the wine columnist for ICON magazine since 2003. Pat has been Co-Chair of the Wine Media Guild, an organization for professional wine writers, for three years. She helps organize all of the monthly tastings and the annual Wine Writers’ Hall of Fame induction dinner. She has been a member of the Society of Wine Educators for several years.

Her articles for Sommelier Journal include in-depth interviews with Randall Grahm, Neal Rosenthal and Michael Chiarello. She also has written for Wine Business Monthly.
She and a co-author have been asked by a partnership of Fairleigh Dickinson University and The New York Times to create and produce a multi-class course on wine that will be carried on the Times’ online Knowledge Network.

In the most recent issue of ICON Pat Raved about the Hudson Valley's wines.

Millbrook Winery's 21st Annual Harvest Party

2011-10-01T06:18:00.002-04:00

October 15, 2011
12:00 - 4:00 PM

What: A Hudson Valley inspired menu by Chef Angelo Sosa from Top Chef: All Stars working with Bull & Buddha restaurant (Poughkeepsie)

Where: Millbrook Winery, 26 Wing Road, Millbrook, NY 12545

Tickets: $125 per person +tax

800-662-9463 x17 or online at: https://shop.millbrookwine.com/SHOP.AMS?LEVEL=MID&CAT=ET

For more information visit: http://www.millbrookwine.com/events-a-news/harvest-party

CANAPES

LOCAL CHEESE DISPLAY WITH STONE FRUITS & LOCAL HONEY

CURRIED MCINTOSH SOUP

DUCK PASTRAMI WITH CHERRY CONFIT

ASIAN MEATBALLS WITH APPLE AND GINGER SALAD

WINES:

2005 BRUT PROPRIETOR'S SPECIAL RESERVE

2010 TOCAI FRIULANO

2007 MERLOT PROPRIETOR'S SPECIAL RESERVE

HUNT COUNTRY RED

First Course

WARM FALL SPICED PUMPKIN PIE SOUP WITH BUTTERSCOTCH

WINE:

2009 CHARDONNAY PROPRIETOR'S SPECIAL RESERVE

Second Course

SLOW ROASTED SALMON WITH CHARRED EGGPLANT AND SWEET & SOUR CHERRY

WINE:

2010 PINOT NOIR

Third Course

PORK BELLY WITH OLD FASHIONED MUSTARD, CORTLAND APPLE & GINGER CHUTNEY WITH ASIAN SUCCOTASH AND GRILLED BOK CHOY

WINE:

2007 CABERNET FRANC PROPRIETOR'S RESERVE

Dessert

GOAT CHEESE CAKE WITH PRETZEL CRUST

Christopher Matthews Praises Quality Wines in the Hudson Valley

2011-09-26T23:14:00.002-04:00

Christopher Matthews, a Manhattan-based press, communications and public affairs specialist, is also an independent wine writer, consultant and educator. His articles about wine and spirits, food and travel have appeared in New York Law Journal Magazine, RuralIntelligence.com, Epicurious.com, and Kitchen and Cook. As a wine consultant and educator, he has conducted tastings for corporate and private events. He studied at the International Wine Center in New York, from where he received the Wine and Spirits Education Trust’s Advanced Certificate (With Distinction). A member of the Wine Media Guild of New York, he is also passionate about gardening, horticulture and bird-watching (especially the St. Louis Cardinals!).

Christopher also co-writes a blog, UpstateDowntownny.com with his wife Kathryn. Kathryn Matthews is an independent lifestyles writer, who contributes to The New York Times, O Magazine, Town & Country, RuralIntelligence.com, SNOW and epicurious.com.Recently, Cris wrote about his tasting of Hudson Valley wines at the most recent 2011 Hudson Valley Wine Competition. Matthews praises wines from Bashakill Vineyard, Clinton Vineyards, Hudson-Chatham Winery, Millbrook Winery, and Oak Summit Vineyard.

Wirtes Matthews, "Despite being the oldest wine region in the country, the Hudson Valley is still trying to find itself as a wine region, given the difficult climate and the small (but increasing) number of wine grape growers in the valley. But the top wines from this competition clearly show that quality wines can be produced in the Valley, and they set a high bar for the local wineries."

Read the whole thing at:
http://upstatedowntownny.com/2011/09/25/best-hudson-valley-wines/

Hudson Valley Art & Wine Exhiit Opens n Albany October 5, 2011

2011-09-23T22:29:00.000-04:00

The Hudson Valley Art & Wine exhibit opening in Albany is scheduled for Wednesday, October 5 from 5-7pm at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center, 25 Quackenbush Square. Parking and other info is on the attached invitation. The opening is for invited guests, so please feel free to pass the attached invitation to anyone you would like to have attend — friends, relatives, associates, press, etc. RSVP is requested but not mandatory. (The more the merrier!) Brookview Station Winery and Hudson-Chatham wineries will be present, along with wines from Millbrook. This is the last opening of the traveling exhibit and it will remain in Albany until the end of the year.

Hudson Valley Wine & Grape Association Announces the Results of the 2011 Hudson Valley Wine Competition

2011-09-13T08:23:00.005-04:00

Poughkeepsie, NY , September 12, 2011: The Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck, New York was the setting for the 2011 Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition. This competition highlights the Hudson Valley Regions wines & spirits and the growing interest the public has for them. The competition was open to all commercial wineries & distilleries in the Hudson Valley AVA using New York State fruit, but more exclusively, Hudson Valley fruit. This was the first year the competition introduced the spirits category.

The wines were judged by a panel of 13 distinguished wine experts that included: Bill Radner, Sommelier & Wine Director for Xaviar’s Restaurant Group; Christopher Matthew, Manhattan-based media communications & public affairs specialist and independent wine writer; Bob Brink, Fine Wines Manager at Arlington Wine & Liquor; F. Paul Pacult, Publisher/editor of F. Paul Pacult's Spirit Journal, contributing editor for Beverage Dynamics, and author; Steven Kolpan, Professor of Wine Studies at The Culinary Institute of America; Ramon Mira de Orduna, Associate Professor of Enology at Cornell University; Stephanie Mira de Orduna, WSET Certified and wine buyer; Bill Dowd, Author and Editor. Developer of Dowd's Guides, a portfolio of online sites dealing with food, drink and destinations; Ned Towle, Founder and Director of the Westchester Wine School; Mary Cressler, Certified Sommelier, Wine Location Specialist and proprietor of Vindulge Wine Education & Consulting; Stephen Carrizzo, Wine Philosopher and e-commerce developer for Mid Valley Wine & Liquors; Jay Roelof, Director of Education and buyer of New York, German and Sparkling Wines for Suburban Wines & Spirits. To read more about the judges click here.

Eighty Five wines and 5 spirits made in the Hudson Valley were entered in the competition. This year we also included a Winery of the Year category. The Winery of the Year is presented to the winery that had the best overall showing based on the number of awards in relation to entries. The winery’s overall number of gold medals is taken into consideration and they have to submit at least three wines for judging.

The winners of the 2011 Hudson Valley Wine Competition

Winery of the Year - Millbrook Vineyards & Winery

Best in Show - Bashakill Vineyards 2010 Black Bear, Cabernet Franc

Best Overall Hudson Valley Wine (made with Hudson Valley Fruit) - Clinton Vineyards Jubilee

Best Sparkling - Clinton Vineyards Jubilee

Best in Category - White Wine - Millbrook Vineyards & Winery 2009 Proprietor's Special Reserve Chardonnay

Best in Category - Red Wine - Bashakill Vineyards 2010 Black Bear, Cabernet Franc

Best Spirit - Tuthilltown Spirits Hudson Baby Bourbon

Double Gold Medals went to Bashakill Vineyards 2010 Black Bear, Cabernet Franc; Clinton Vineyards Jubilee and Tuthilltown Spirits Hudson Baby Bourbon.

Gold Medals were awarded to Hudson-Chatham winery for their 2008 Chelois, and their Paperbirch Highlands Raspberry; Millbrook Vineyards & Winery 2009 Proprietor's Special Reserve Chardonnay; Oak Summit Vineyard 2010 Chardonnay; Tuthilltown Spirits Hudson Four Grain Bourbon.

Silver Medals were awarded to Bashakill Vineyards 2010 Coyote, 2010 Blue Heron; Benmarl Winery 2009 Slate Hill White, 2010 Cabernet Franc; Brookview Station Winery 2010 All Aboard, Whistle Stop White, Sunset Charlie; Brotherhood, America's Oldest Winery 2008 Merlot, Ruby Port; Catskill Distilling Peace Vodka; Clearview Vineyard 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2010 Vidal Blanc; Clinton Vineyards Romance, Seyval Naturel; Glorie Farm Winery 2010 Red Monkey, 2010 Black Currant; Hudson-Chatham Winery 2008 Empire Reserve Red, 2010 North Creek Block Seyval Blanc; Magnanini Farm Winery 2010 Seyval Blanc, 2010 Rosso Da Tavola; Millbrook Vineyards & Winery 2007 Proprietor's Special Reserve Cabernet Franc; Robibero Winery 2010 87 North, 2008 Pinot Noir; Tuthilltown Spirits Hudson Manhattan Rye Whiskey, Hudson NY Corn Whiskey, Heart of the Hudson Vodka; Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery 2010 Reserve Chardonnay.

Bronze Medals were awarded to Bashakill Vineyards - 2010 Dragon Fly, Lemberger; Benmarl Winery 2009 Merlot, 2009 Cabernet Franc, 2010 Slate Hill Red, 2010 Baco Noir, 2009 Frontenac, 2010 Catuwba; Brimstone Hill Vineyard 2010 Vidal Blanc, 2010 Noiret, 2010 Cayuga White; Brookview Station Winery Pomona, Oh What a Pear, Just Peachy, Scarlotta Bing; Brotherhood, America's Oldest Winery 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, 2009 Pinot Noir, Grand Monarque; Clearview Vineyard 2010 Estate Noiret; Clinton Vineyards 2009 Tribute, Cassis, Nuit; Glorie Farm Winery 2007 Cabernet Franc; Hudson Chatham 2008 Merlot, 2009 Baco Noir Reserve-Casscles Vineyard; Magnanini Farm Winery 2009 Rossa Riserva, Millbrook Vineyards & Winery 2010 Tocai Friuiano; Tousey 2010 Chardonnay, 2010 Cabernet Franc; Tuthilltown Spirits Spirit of the Hudson Vodka; Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery 2010 Riesling, Awosting White.

The Hudson Valley Wine & Grape Association mission is to increase the quality and quantity of wine and grape production in the Hudson Valley through education, knowledge, networking and cooperation. The Hudson Valley Wine & Grape Association demonstrates and highlights the quality of our regions grapes and wines and growing interest the public has for them and wines from the valley's cool viticultural growing region.

For more information on the Hudson Valley Wine & Grape Association visit www.hvwga.com

For an alphabetical listing of wineries and their winning wines click here.

For more information on the wine competition contact Debbie Gioquindo, CSW 914.474.7780

Note From Editor: A special shout out to Debbie Gioquindo on pulling this all together. A lot of planning and work went into revamping the entire competition. A lot of logistics. Congrats to her in a big way!

Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival 2011 Photos

2011-09-12T08:18:00.007-04:00

The Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival 2011 was a big hit! The weather was tremendous, the crowds were great, and the vendors were happy. The aisles were full of happy fair goers.

Bryan Van Dusen of Hudson-Chatham Winery.

Michael Migliore of Whitecliff Vineyards.

Mary Vogel of El Paso Winery.

Fred and Paula of Cereghino-Smith Winery.

David Pazdar and father-in-law Tom, of Pazdar Winery.

Ben Peacock and brother of Tousey Winery.

George Caifero of Cascade Mountain Winery.

The folks of Happy Bitch wine.

Karen Gardy of Brookview Station Winery.

Debbie Gioquindo, the Hudson Valley Wine Goddess, and the person who organized the Hudson Valley Wine & Grape Association Competition 2011.

Bob Bedford of Hudson Valley Wine magazine.

Hudson Valley Food & Wine Festival 2011 This Weekend Sept 10 & 11, 2011

2011-09-10T06:43:00.003-04:00

Despite lots of rain the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest is definitely still on! Hours are 11am-6pm on Saturday September 10th and 11am-5pm on Sunday September 11th. The Rhinebeck Fairgrounds are in great shape and the weather is looking good for the weekend. You may want to check travel conditions at www.511ny.org to make sure your route to the fairgrounds is clear.

Celebrating our 10th year, the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest is a celebration of the gourmet lifestyle in the Hudson Valley. The Fest features hundreds of wines from all over New York and the world, more than 100 gourmet specialty food, fine art, & lifestyle vendors, food sampling from some of the region’s best restaurants and live entertainment. Visitors can learn about wine and food from our many Cooking demonstrations and Food & Wine seminars throughout the weekend and enjoy the rare opportunity to meet and speak to the wine makers from some of New York’s best wineries.

Always the weekend following Labor Day, the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest takes place at the beautiful Dutchess County Fairgrounds in historic Rhinebeck, New York. Parking is free and we’re a short trip from the Rhinecliff train station.

Things to know:
Chef cooking demos
Debbut of Art & WIne Exhibition in the New Hudson Valley Wine Magazine
HVWGA Wine Competiotn...winners will be announced at the fair!

Lot's of good things! Come on out!

For more info, check out:
http://www.hudsonvalleywinefest.com/

Marisa D’Vari Raves ABout the Hudson Valley

2011-09-09T08:10:00.004-04:00

Marisa D’Vari writes about wine for several publications, including London’s FT, Robb Report, Quarterly Review of Wine, the San Francisco Chronicle, Food Arts, South China Morning Post, Sante, and many more in addition to being Wine & Spirits Editor for Taste Cincinnati magazine. She is the publisher of AWineStory.com in addition to syndicating her weekly column to a variety of newspapers, magazines, newsletters, and blogs.

Her most recent article is about the Hudson Valley!

"Do you live in NYC?... and do you know that just an hour away you can enjoy a NY wine experience with Hudson Valley wines?<Today some lucky members of Manhattan's Wine Media Guild visited the region and met the following winemakers

Michael Migliore – Whitecliff Vineyard
Cesar Baeza – Brotherhood Winery
Matt Spaccarelli – Benmarl Winery
Carlo DeVito – Hudson-Chatham Winery
John Bruno – Oak Summit
John Graziano – Millbrook
Karen Gardy – Brookview Station
Phyllis Feder – Clinton Vineyards

All winemakers participated in the planning/expense of the trip, yet Matt Spaccarelli, pictured above, acted as host -- he picked up half of our members in NYC, and the event (due to rains) was held at his winery."

Read the rest and more at:
http://awinestory.com/2011/09/visiting-the-hudson-valley.html

Where is the Hudson Valley?

2011-08-27T08:09:00.004-04:00

Recently I overheard a conversation in which several winemakers and farmers were discussing where the valley ends. Several posited it ended at New Paltz or Kingston. Others still said it ended at Millbrook or Rhinebeck at best.

Of course these are all wrong, but it does speak of a mentality that exists of people in and out of the valley, that the southern part of the valley IS the valley - it is not. And this leads to consumer confusion.

The problem with the valley is that it is quite large, and incredibly diversified. And in that diversity, as Jim Trezise (New York Wine and Grape Foundation President) likes to say - lies our strength. The Hudson River Region AVA (viticultural area)was establsihed in 1982, and served the purposes of outlining the region as it then stood. It's drawing was somewhat arbitrary in that it took into a account only the wineries that were in existence then, and was cut in such arbitrary ways so as to include all the wineries that were established at that time. It is outdated now, and in need of readjustment. But it's existence, while useful at first, is now cause for confusion among consumers.

The real definition of the valley is seen here on the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area map. The Hudson Valley stretches from New York harbor, where the river flows into the sea, all the way up beyond Albany, where a confluence of rivers and streams empty into what we know of as the Hudson River.

As far as a wine region goes, the Hudson Valley is mainly broken up into three areas - The Lower Hudson Valley, the Mid-Hudson Valley (which includes the Hudson-Berkshire region) and the newly developing Upper Hudson Valley.

The lower valley is dominated by the Shwangunk Wine Trail, which is named for the mountain range in the area. It is on the west side of the river. There are many wineries in this section of the valley. They tend to be some of the oldest wineries in the region, and are the best know section of the wine world in the valley. The vistas are beautiful, and the landscape is dotted with beautiful homes, large apple orchards, and small farm stands.

The Mid-Hudson region is dominated by two wine trails - the smaller Dutchess Wine Trail, and the newer, larger Hudson Berkshire Beverage Trail. These wineries are on the east side of the river, and extend from the Millbrook area in Dutchess County to as far north as Columbia and Rensealler counties. This is an incredibly diverse region, with numerous CSAs, organic meat farms, artisanal creameries, and home of the Culinary Institute of America, making it a more and more desirable culinary destination.

The newly developing Upper Hudson Valley region occupies the outlying areas north of Albany and Troy, where the river begins. This burgeoning area is home to a growing number of new wineries, and will eventually form into a formidable presence in the Hudson Valley wine landscape. While wine is being made there now, the coalescing of this region is some years away, but it is happening as of this writing.

Regardless, the Hudson Valley is going through a massive renaissance, both agriculturally and culinarily, and the burgeoning number of wineries, and the different wines they produce, are a part of that explosion. And that explosion is expanding the understanding of where the valley really is. Indeed, the wineries are its leading edge.

Winery tourism in the valley grows week by week, and month by month. Record numbers of visitors are filling the valley's tastingrooms. Sales have never been higher. The wines have never been better. And the enthusiasm has never been greater.

Steven Kolpan on Hudson Valley Riesling

2011-08-27T07:57:00.003-04:00

In the September-November issue of Hudson Valley Table, highly acclaimed wine writer Steven Kolpan (Exploring Wine) and director of the wine program at the Culinary Institute of America at Hyde Park, writes with great passion about the new clones of riesling being planted in the Hudson Valley, and the movement toward riesling as a viable vinifera grape in the valley.

Highlighted in the piece are Whitecliff, Brotherhood, and Millbrook wineries.

Congrats to all the wineries, and special thanks to Steven Kolpan and Hudson Valley Table.

Read more at:
http://www.valleytable.com/

Eminence Road Farm Winery Highlighted in Hudson Valley Table Magazine

2011-08-27T07:47:00.005-04:00

In a story on fracking in the newest issue of Hudson Valley Table (Spet-Nov, 2011), Jennifer Clark and Andrew Scott, of Eminence Road Farm Winery, are featured. Read the page below an learn more about them!

Read more at:
http://www.valleytable.com/

Clinton Vineyards Peach Gala

2011-08-24T22:37:00.003-04:00

Clinton Vineyards is situated in Clinton Corners, NY, down by Millbrook. It was founded by Ben Feder, one of the great legends of the Hudson Valley wine community.

Recently we went to a friends' house, and brought a small basket of Hudson Valley cheeses including Old Chatham Sheepherding Camembert and Hudson Red from Twin Maple Farm.

Dominique and I have been saving a bottle of Clinton's Peach Gala for more than a year to find the right occassion. Last weekend was the right moment.

With a cheese board all set up with freshly sliced pears, and fresh bread and crackers, we popped open the bottle.

The wine has a wonderful peach aroma to it. But there was also the smell of yeast, as if it was baked peach cobbler. But the wine also has a citrusy ending, which makes the wine especially delicious. Our friends were wowed, as we were the first time we had it.

What a pleasure.

Annandale Cider from Montgomery Place Orchards

2011-08-24T21:58:00.004-04:00

The other night Dominique and I were at Swoon Kitchen Bar in Hudson, NY at the Summer Feast farm to table dinner. One of the offerings on hand was Annandale Cider from Montgomery Place Orchards. Hard cider is one of the signature drinks made in the Hudson Valley.

Montgomery Place Orchards celebrates its 25th year under the management of Doug and Talea Fincke in 2011. They follow a long line of tenants dating back to the 1700s, upon the same land purchased in 1802 by Janet Livingston Montgomery who expanded the existing orchards and created a commercial nursery. Though the historic estate's proprieters have changed, the orchards have always been a steadfast feature of the Hudson River property.

Before Prohibition, cider was America's drink. A ration for Revolutionary soldiers, a safe substitute for water along the Frontier, and even President Adams' breakfast drink, fermented apple juice was a cheap alternative to beer and a hardy crop before the cultivation of suitable grape varieties. It was also Johnny Appleseed's true mission- apples grown from seed are inedible, but make great cider. The apple, rebranded in the 1920s by the industry as a healthy snack in order to remain a legal enterprise, virtually lost its iconic status as America's alcoholic drink. Thankfully, the country is slowly rediscovering it.

Today, Annandale Cider is made at Montgomery Place Orchards, using over 60 varieties of antique and commercial apples grown on the same land that Janet Livingston cultivated apple trees upon 200 years ago. There are no preservatives, no sulfates, or no additives.

They are still a very small operation, producing 1000 gallons a year. Currently, you can find their cider at the Montgomery Place Orchards market, Luna 61 in Tivoli, GiGi's in Rhinebeck, and Swoon Restaurant in Hudson.

It was fabulous. Look for it! Another great Hudson Valley cider!

New York Cork Report Raves About Brotherhood Pinot Noir 2008

2011-08-22T17:38:00.003-04:00

Brotherhood Winery 2008 Pinot Noir
By Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor

Established in 1839, Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville, NY is America's oldest winery and one of the largest, best-known and widely distributed wineries in the Hudson Valley region.

The portfolio is large -- and among the most diverse in the state.

On one end they produce a Sherry-style wine flavored with Korean ginseng, a rose blended with strawberries and woodruff, and two different honey wines. On the end of the spectrum, you'll find some excellent sparkling wines and vinifera table wines that are always well-priced and often over-deliver.

Many of those vinifera wines are sourced from elsewhere in the state. The rieslings typically come from the Finger Lakes, while the Bordeaux varieties are mostly sourced from Long Island. And this Brotherhood Winery 2008 Pinot Noir ($15) was made from Niagara-grown fruit.

If you're going to buy fruit, it only makes sense to buy it from the successful places, right?

Pure and focused, this pinot offers aromas of pomegranates, cranberries and cherries with a subtle woodsy spiciness with very little overt oak or vanilla character.

The cran-cherry fruitiness carries over, though not overly intense, on the light-bodied palate, with subtle earthiness and smoke notes. On the second day open, a gentle floral quality emerges too, along with more noticeable spice.

With just a little silky tannin, this is a wine that mainly relies on fresh acidity for structure. It might be a bit too acidic for some, but I appreciate it. I like it, in fact.

Though somewhat straightforward, there is a purity here and a fresh balance that it easy to appreciate. In fact, there may be no better $15 pinot noir in New York.
Read the whole thign at:
http://www.lenndevours.com/2011/08/brotherhood-winery-2008-pinot-noir.html

Hudson Valley Brings Home 26 Medals From the Food & Wine Classic 2011

2011-08-17T06:08:00.003-04:00

The 2011 New York Food & Wine Classic was held last weekend, and the Hudson Valley brought home 26 medals, including a gold for the Whitecliff Awosting White.

According to Jim Trezise, NYWGF President, "The awards were based on blind tastings by 21 expert judges-4 from California, 9 from New York, 6 from other states and 2 from the United Kingdom. Judges included prominent wine writers, restaurateurs, retailers, and wine educators. Three-judge panels determined the initial awards, with top-scoring wines evaluated by all 21 judges for Best of Category and Governor's Cup awards."

"Celebrating its 26th year, the Classic is organized by Teresa Knapp of the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, and is open to all 307 New York wineries from all regions. In 2011, a total of 51 Double Gold, 66 Gold, 237 Silver, and 234 Bronze medals were awarded. In addition, "Best of Category" and "Best of Class" designations were awarded to wines rated as the finest in various areas. Double Gold medals require unanimity among a panel's judges that a wine deserves a Gold medal, whereas Gold medals require a majority vote."

Congrats to all the Hudson Valley wineries!

Here's the list of winners:

Benmarl Winery 2009 Traminette $14.99 Silver
Benmarl Winery 2009 Baco Noir $27.99 Silver
Benmarl Winery 2009 Merlot $19.99 Bronze
Benmarl Winery 2009 Dry Rosé $14.99 Bronze
Benmarl Winery 2009 Frontenac $14.99 Bronze

Brotherhood 2010 Dry Riesling $9.99 Silver
Brotherhood 2009 Ice Wine $29.99 Silver
Brotherhood 2010 Riesling $9.99 Bronze
Brotherhood 2008 Cabernet Sauv $14.99 Bronze
Brotherhood 2009 Pinot Noir $14.99 Bronze
Brotherhood NV Grand Monarque $24.99 Bronze

Clinton Vineyards NV Nuit $35.00 Bronze

Hudson-Chatham NV Paperbirch Cassis $19.95 Silver
Hudson-Chatham 2009 Baco Noir Old Vines 19.95 Bronze
Hudson-Chatham 2009 Chelois 19.95 Bronze

Millbrook Vineyards 2009 Chardonnay Proprietor's $20.00 Silver
Millbrook Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Franc $20.00 Silver
Millbrook Vineyards 2010 Tocai Friulano Bronze

Oak Summit Vineyard 2010 Chardonnay Bronze

Palaia Vineyards 2007 Lemberger $17.99 Bronze
Palaia Vineyards NV Joyful Pink $13.99 Bronze

Robibero Winery 2010 87 North $12.99 Silver

Stoutridge Vineyard 2008 Hudson Heritage "Lot A" Bronze

Whitecliff Vineyard NV Awosting White $12.95 Gold
Whitecliff Vineyard 2010 Reserve Chardonnay $16.95 Bronze
Whitecliff Vineyard 2010 Gamay Noir $16.95 Bronze

Happy Bitch Wines to Launch at Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival October 20, 2011

2011-08-17T05:51:00.002-04:00

HV Wine & Food Fest along with the Launch Party on October 20th that will benefit Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation.

(Beacon, NY, August 10, 2011) On September 10 and 11, Happy Bitch Wines will be at the Hudson Valley Wine and Food Festival at the Dutchess County Fairgrounds pouring tastes of three different blends of a Frizzante Rose’ and letting fans and festival goers choose the one they like the best. The blend with the most votes will become the first Happy Bitch wine.

“We’re past the information age. We’re in the consumer age.” says Keryl Pesce, author of Happy Bitch. “With the power and reach of social media, we as consumers have more power than ever to not only influence the quality of a product, but to influence what even becomes a product. Why not give people exactly what they want by letting them choose it?”

Social media, in particular, Twitter, led to the creation of the wine. When Pesce tweeted about possibly creating a Happy Bitch wine, Debbie Gioquindo, Hudson Valley Wine Goddess, tweeted back that she should make it a Hudson Valley Wine. No surprise, as Gioquindo’s blog educates readers about wine with a focus on the Hudson Valley region. The two agreed to meet, not realizing that a tweet and a cup of coffee were actually a partnership in the making.

Keryl is in the business of happy. Debbie is in the business of wine and marketing. Put the two together and you’ve got a force to be reckoned with - a perfect “blend” (pun intended) to create a fun wine geared toward women.

The soon-to-be wine producers will deliver more than a great tasting wine. “Happy Bitch Wines is not just about wine, it's about lifestyle.” say the two. “Our image will be one of living life to the fullest starting right now, enjoying every moment, and choosing happiness as a way of life.”

Are the two ready to get down to business? Yes. Is there some risk and work involved? Yes. Are they having fun? Absolutely!

"We want the entire experience from creation to consumption, to focus on and enhance happiness and enjoyment of life. Happiness, much like a good bottle of wine is something you choose and something you share. We’re choosing to have fun with this.”

“People are already searching us out. They’re asking where they can buy our wine before they know what the bottle looks like or what the wine tastes like. I think they sense our passion and excitement.” says Gioquindo. “It doesn’t get much better than that.”

They’re focused and on a mission. The wine is designed for women, to help them celebrate themselves and enjoy life. Every decision the two have made, from taste, color, bottle, type of wine, function and design is with women and happiness in mind.

How do they know what to deliver and how to deliver it? Easy. Not only are they women themselves (and who knows better what women want), but they’re letting the women (and whoever wants to voice their opinion) choose what they create.

"This is a great way to get everyone involved and let them be a part of the process," says Debbie. "Keryl and I go through blending trials to get the base blend, but it's ultimately the consumer that will tell us what to produce. After all, they are the ones we want to make happy."

Frizzante is a wine that will only go through a partial second fermentation to give it a slight effervescent - less than champagne which goes through and entire second fermentation cycle. A little fizz and a whole lot of happy!

After the blend is chosen, Happy Bitch Wines will have a launch party on October 20, 2011, from 6-9 pm at the Grandview in Poughkeepsie. This event is open to the public and Happy Bitch Wines encourages wine writers, press, bloggers and the wine lover to join them in this celebration. In keeping with their mission of supporting women in need, a portion of the proceeds from their launch will benefit the Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation.

For more information and to purchase tickets to the launch, visit www.Facebook.com/HBWines.

HUDSON-CHATHAM WINERY SANGRIA FESTIVAL AUGUST 13, 2011

2011-08-10T18:44:00.001-04:00

HUDSON-CHATHAM WINERY
SANGRIA FESTIVAL!
Saturday, August 13, 2011
12 noon - 5 pm

It's THE event of the season, and this year promises to be better than ever!

There will be 5 sangrias to try - from classic to contemporary - all featuring award-winning wines. Relax with a glass of your favorite fruit-and-wine combo and listen to the great flamenco guitar music of Maria Zemantauski and Jose Mirelles.

To complement your sangria, there will be a great selection of mouth-watering, belly filling Southwestern favorites, including the following: tamales (peanut chipotle beef, pulled pork bbq, tomatillo chicken, and vegetarian black bean chili), and burritos (chorizo, bean with brown rice, cheese, tomato, guacamole and lettuce). Chips and watermelon salsa (with sour cream and guacamole).

Hudson-Chatham Winery
Saturday, August 13 * 12 noon - 5 pm
1900 State Rte 66 * Ghent NY 12075
518-392-WINE
www.hudson-chathamwinery.com

Palaia Vineyards August Lineup

2011-08-04T07:35:00.002-04:00

Palaia is having something wonderful every weekend in August. They have a Woodstock Festival, an Afternoon of Blues, Elvis live on stage, and this year they have Rod Stewart! (Rick Larrimore) They are air conditioned inside the barn, and it’s nice under the tent outside in the shade. They have pink wine slushies outside as well as all of their wines, ice, and a nice fruity sangria. This is the place to be this summer for sure. Check the website for more information on bands and events… www.palaiavineyards.com (you might want to bring a chair or blanket to events in case they run out.)

8/4 – Open Mic 7-? Inside (air conditioned)

8/5 – Steve Wells – inside (air conditioned) 7-10 (no cover)

8/6 – The Roost – outside 6:30-9:30- no coolers or outside beverages please(no cover)

8/7 – Joey Frazita – inside (air conditioned) 2:30-5:30 (no cover)

8/11 – Open Mic 7-? Inside (air conditioned)

8/12 – Outside – 6:30-9:30 – Henderson & Osinski – Woodstock festival- no coolers or outside beverages please (no cover)

8/13 – Outside – $5 for the day ( kids free) - Woodstock festival-3pm - Rob Schiff, Vendors, BBQ – 6:30- “Into The Garden” plays till 9:30

8/14 – Outside 2:30-5:30 Woodstock Festival– The Redden Brothers Band – (no cover) no coolers or outside beverages please

8/18 - Open Mic 7-? Inside (air conditioned)

8/19 – Gregg Van Gelder – inside (air conditioned) 7-10 (no cover)

8/20 – ELVIS! - Outside 7:00-9:30- no coolers or outside beverages please(no cover)

8/21 – Blues Festival- Outside 2:30-5:30 $5 (kids free) Bobby Messano & Steve Geller and The Mud Belly Blues Band

8/25 – Open Mic 7-? Inside (air conditioned)

8/26 – Bruce Perone – 7-10 inside (air conditioned)

8/27 – Rod Stewart (Rick Larrimore) 7-9:30 outside $5 – (kids free) no coolers or outside beverages please

8/28 – Victor Fiore – inside 2:30-5:30 (air conditioned)

Events galore at Palaia this month. Come watch a play and laugh, or enjoy Neil Young music for 2 days in a benefit for Lung Cancer, or sit on our lawn by the grapes and listen to some live music and drink a pink wine slushie in the shade…..ahhh, that’s living.

Whitecliff Wins Category and Best in Show for Chardonnay and Awosting White

2011-08-01T07:51:00.003-04:00

Whitecliff Vinewyard & Winery has won big again this year. They took Gold and Best in Category for our Chardonnay and Awosting White, at the Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association Wine Competition. There were 564 wines from 11 States entered.

The Atlantic Seaboard Wine Association (ASWA) is one of the oldest wine organizations located on the East Coast. Established in 1973 as the Vinifera Wine Growers Association (VWGA), it was an early supporter of planting world-class Vinifera wine grapes, the production of quality commercial wines, and the building of a wine industry along the Eastern seaboard. Today, the ASWA is a national and international wine trade association that works with state and national legislatures to resolve issues that challenge the U.S. wine industry.

Congratulations to Michael and Yancey and the winemaking team at Whitecliff - Kate Taylor and Paul Gioquindo.

Why Wine Blog names Hudson-Chatham Old Vines "Best New York Red Wine"

2011-08-01T07:42:00.003-04:00

Whywineblog.com recenetly reviewed the Hudson-Chatham Baco Noir Old Vines 2009.
Joe Suzadail wrote, "Whenever I open a dark red wine and smell aromas of tobacco, leather and some damp soil, I know I am in for a treat. That is what I got. Seconds on the sniffing brought out some black cherry and plums and hints of cranberry and vanilla. Very pleasant taste of dark berries, black plum, some tobacco or herbal and a bit of pepper. A nice finish, not overly long, was dry with blackberry, cranberry and a touch of pepper with some hints of chocolate. The Hudson-Chatham Old Vines Baco Noir 2009($28) is one of the best New York red wines I have tasted in a long time."

Read the entire article at:
http://www.zimbio.com/California+Wines/articles/EtCm5A4-_B7/Hudson+Chatham+Old+Vines+Baco+Noir+2009

Robibero Vineyards 87 North

2011-07-31T07:26:00.004-04:00

Robibero is one of the newest wineries in the valley. These are good folks, and they are making a very concerted effort ot make some wonderful new wines. And they recently teamed up with winemaker Kristop Brown, who's one of the very best winemakers in the valley. Watch out for a lot of good things to coem from Robibero.

87 North is a light white blend with lots of fresh fruit and great acidity. A wonderful, refreshing, light, bright white, great cold for summer sipping. A nice, nice wine, and one of Robibero's most popular.

Enjoy!

Applewood Winery Traminette

2011-07-31T07:14:00.002-04:00

Johnathan Hull has been making wine at Applewood in the Hudson Valley for some time. Recently, at the Bounty of the Hudson I was lucky enough to be able to try his Traminette.

Traminette is a cross of the French American hybrid Joannes Seyve 23.416 and the German Vitis viniferia cultivar Gewürztraminer made by Herb C. Barrett ca. 1965 at the University of Illinois, Urbana/Champaign. His intention was to produce a large clustered table grape with the flavor of Gewürztraminer. He sent the cross to the New York State Agricultural Experiment Station grape breeding program at Cornell for development. He soon followed, joining the staff at Cornell as a faculty member and grape breeder in the Horticulture Department. Traminette was found to have excellent wine quality, combined with good productivity, partial resistance to several fungal diseases, and cold hardiness superior to its acclaimed parent, Gewürztraminer, while retaining a similar character.

Traminette produces solid yields, ranging in studies from 12-22 lbs/vine average.

This was a great wine, with a lovely bouquet and a very nice balance of fruit, acidity, and a touch of sweetness. A tremendous wine that would be a terrific wiht cheese as it would be with chicken, duck or salads. And it's great for sippin, especially on a hot day. Fantatstic!

Bounty of the Hudson This Weekend July 30 & 31, 2011

2011-07-30T06:37:00.002-04:00

Bounty of the Hudson Wine Festival is one of the “musts” of the Hudson Valley summer circuit! Festival hours this upcoming Saturday and Sunday are from 12 noon to 5pm! Advance tickets are 27 dollars and the designated drive price is $5.40 and includes entrance into the festival. Ticket prices the day of the festival are $38 and the designated driver’s ticket is $8.

This festival allows you to taste all the wines from every winery on the Shawangunk wine trail! Not only will there be wine, but there will be many dishes and menu items from local restaurants! There will be farm fresh and delicious produce for you to taste and purchase as well!

And like all events in the Hudson Valley, there will be live music! So come enjoy the delicious food and wine, perhaps bring a bottle or two home! While you are there the wineries, enjoy the view of the mountains to the west. There are a total of 11 wineries! Please enjoy all the festival has to offer!

For More Information of the Bounty of the Hudson Wine Festival, or to purchase tickets visit: http://bounty2011.eventbrite.com/

Crazy Grapes TV Reviews Hudson-Chatham Baco Noir Old Vines 2009

2011-07-26T08:02:00.002-04:00

Bill Hyatt is a wine educator, wine professional, and sommelier. But more importantly, he simply loves wine!

"I started this show as a medium to share my passion for wine with others. I hope that through this show I can help you to increase your enjoyment and understanding of wine. While I will accept donations to support this show, I will not let those donations effect the reviews of the wines I will be tasting," says Bill on his website.

Seeing is believing.

See the review at:
http://crazygrapes.tv/season-1-episode-3/
http://crazygrapes.tv/season-1-episode-3/

Benmarl Merlot 2008

2011-07-25T08:19:00.003-04:00

There's no secret that one of my favorite wineries is Benmarl. Benmarl has made some wonderful wines over the course of the last few years. The improvement came when Kristop Brown and Matt Specarelli started making changes there three or more years ago. Though Kristop has moved on, the Specarelli family, especially Matt, has continued to see the wines improve.

A great example is the new Benmarl Merlot 2008. An austere, elegant, merlot, in the French tradition, it is loaded with cherries, raspberry, and a hint of dried cranberries, and a touch of barnyard. Beautiful fruit up front, balanced with just the right amount of acidity, and subtle tannins at the end. A smooth, licious finish.

We tasted the wine with a variety of cheeses at first, and then moved onto a luxurious plate of mixed grilled meats. The wine paired nicely with both. We tasted it against some Harpersfield cheddar and against some Old Chatham Sheepherding Camambert both paired with small rounds from a freshinly cut baguette.

But the wine showed even better against the mixed grilled meats, dripping with hot juices and sizzling with crisp, crunchy charred marks. The wine was an incredble accompaniment to this dish.

Another wonderful wine from Benmarl.

Matt Specarelli of Benmarl Winery on Fox News

2011-07-20T17:40:00.002-04:00

Lifestyle & Budget
Wine and Economic Growth Go Hand in Hand
By Tracy Byrnes

Published July 15, 2011
FOXBusiness

When most people think of wine they think of dinner, relaxing on the couch after work, or celebrating an event.

It’s not often people equate wine with economic growth. But they should.

Take New York: The wine industry added $3.76 billion to the state’s economy in 2008, according to a study by Napa-based Stonebridge Research Group, LLC.

Aside from the increasing revenues in the state’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors, wine is the only agricultural product that generates excise and sales taxes for the state and local economies.

Then there is tourism income. Wine trails throughout New York are a major reason nearly five million tourists visited in 2008, bringing lots of money to the rural economies.

That’s why it was so great to speak with Matthew Spaccarelli, general manager of Benmarl Winery the other day. Benmarl, America’s oldest vineyard, is located in Marlboro, N.Y., and was founded in the early 1800s. Today it is run by Spaccarelli’s family.

Matt and his family are on a mission to bring attention to New York wines and get the word out that you don’t have to go to Napa Valley to get a great Merlot.

Questions for Our Wine Pro
What is your Death Row wine?

Anything with a high alcohol content! Just kidding. I would have to say a good quality Burgundy. I enjoy Burgundy, but I'm not really sure why. Perhaps in my last moments I'd be able to figure it out. Or perhaps Burgundy is some sort of metaphor for the afterlife, "we dont understand it, but it's going to be good." Unless of course you committed a crime that landed you on death row, then the metaphor would most likely come in a box with a pour spout at the bottom!

What region produces the best wine in your opinion?

Being a New York Wine producer, I am partial to the quality, character and diversity of the wines produced here. Aside from New York wines, I often find a bottle of wine from the Loire Valley in France sitting on my table. Like New York, these wines are delicate and balanced and have a sense of place. It is their subtleties rather than their boldness that makes them shine at the dinner table.

Read more: http://www.foxbusiness.com/personal-finance/2011/07/15/benmarl-winery-mendoza-wine-with-me-tracy-byrnes-wine-show/#ixzz1SgTyOTzQ

NYCR Raves About the Hudson Valley: Part 2

2011-07-09T09:24:00.004-04:00

A First Impression of the Hudson Valley Wine Country, Part 2
By Julia Burke, Beer Editor

Day two of my Hudson Valley adventure was all about wine tasting, but before wine there has to be coffee, and we kicked off the day with a trip to Strongtown Organic Coffee Roasters in Hudson. There I had the best cup of coffee in my life (I’m not kidding) and picked up a pound of Indonesian coffee as well.

We started with Robibero Family Vineyards, the youngest winery on the Shawangunk trail. Robibero doesn't have much in the way of estate wine yet, but the list is a solid lineup made from Finger Lakes and Long Island fruit, and with its stunning view, awesome patio, and live music events, it's a great destination where folks can enjoy good New York wine in a beautiful setting.

From the youngest winery in the Hudson Valley, we headed to Brotherhood Winery, the oldest continually-operating winery in the country. The sense of history in the Hudson Valley is part of its charm and Brotherhood has certainly made a destination of itself as well with a cafe, huge tasting room, outdoor music and picnic tables.

Brotherhood had very nice wines including Saphir Rose, a chardonnay/pinot bubbly with fruit sourced from the Hudson Valley which showed snappy strawberry flavors and nice balance. But my favorite of the wines was the 2008 pinot noir, which the server told me was sourced locally. I tasted it and was struck by the clean cranberry nose and lovely, light, velvety-smooth palate with no discernible oakiness; I thought to myself, "this is how I want MY pinot to turn out."

My guide, David, and I decided to get lunch at the classy winery bistro, and I was thoroughly enjoying a glass of that pinot with a smoked salmon plate when winemaker and owner Cesar Baeza walked by our table to greet David.

David introduced me as being from the Niagara Escarpment, and Baeza chuckled, "Well, you're drinking Niagara Escarpment pinot!" Turns out Brotherhood sourced the grapes for this wine from the now-defunct and recently sold Warm Lake Estate. I nearly fell off my chair.

The chance to try pinot noir from Warm Lake fruit made by a professional winemaker was an amazing “twin study” and I couldn’t pass up a case. I look forward to seeing how this already-delicious pinot develops over the next few years.

Benmarl Winery was our next stop and showed one of the most solid lineups of Hudson Valley wine that I experienced. Highlights included the lovely, limey 2009 seyval and delicious Slate Hill 2009 chardonnay-driven blend, a well-structured DeChauanc and bing-cherry- tastic 2009 frontenac, and the estate baco, which showed velvety blackberry notes and an elegant earthy, green pepper and mineral nose.

Across the board the wines were expressive and balanced.

Our last stop of the day was Stoutridge Vineyard, and it was perhaps the most unique winery experience of the weekend.

Owner and winemaker Steve Osborn is a tour de force, producing unfiltered and sustainably-made wines sourced from Hudson Valley fruit and selling them with conviction and passion in his tasting room.

An entire gravity-flow, no-pump cellar, designed so he can do everything himself, was an impressive sight, but it wouldn’t be if his wines weren’t also tasty.

The seyval showed great acid and hints of melon and honeydew, and the Hudson Heritage (a blend of chard, vidal, Cayuga, seyval and pinot gris) was rich, delicious and juicy. His cabernet franc was also fleshy and meaty with good varietal character.

Why the Hudson Valley? I asked Osborn, a Finger Lakes expat. “I need the ‘eat local’ market,” he explained, citing the New York City area’s restaurants and tourists as a key demographic for his “natural” wines. This key advantage of the Hudson Valley area should prove even more important as quality and consistency continues to improve in the region.

The Hudson Valley has other clear advantages as a wine region: natural beauty, a unique niche with lesser-known varieties, and multiple farms and related businesses producing a wide variety of local products. It’s a one-stop-shop tourist destination and the quality of the wines is already quite impressive. So what is the region’s biggest challenge?

From my brief experience, the spread-out nature of the Hudson Valley area — it took us nearly an hour to get from Hudson-Chatham to the Shawangunk trail—is a major challenge as it’s difficult for visitors to get to all the top wineries without driving at great length. The distance between wineries is also an obstacle to collaboration and collective voice within the region, which was another topic that came up frequently over the weekend.

I’m thrilled to have been introduced to the Hudson Valley and am now firmly invested in following the region as wines and regional identity develop. I hope to make another trip in the fall to experience the beauty of the region during harvest!

Read it all at:
http://www.lenndevours.com/2011/07/a-first-impression-of-the-hudson-valley-wine-country-part-2.html

Read her first post:
http://www.lenndevours.com/2011/06/a-first-impression-of-the-hudson-valley-wine-country-part-1.html

EDIBLE MANHATTAN RAVES ABOUT HUDSON VALLEY CASSIS

2011-07-06T19:02:00.004-04:00

Amy Zavato wrote a wonderful story in the July/August issue of EDIBLE MANHATTAN entitled THE CURRANT'S SCOND COMING about the success of cassis in the Hudson Valley. The Hudson Valley is fast becoming known as the New Burgundy for its bright, minerally whites, soft, medium bodied reds, fresh farm house ciders, and cassis.

The thick, intense berry wine with the tart finish has sold out every year!
Today, with more than 12,000 bottles produced in 2011, the Hudson Valley is the largest producer of artisanal cassis. Estimates range as high as 15-20,000 bottles for next year.

Jason and Jeremy of Warwick Valley featured in article.

Phyllis Feder of Clinton Vineyards, where the new cassis craze all began.

Carlo and Dominique DeVito of Hudson Chatham

Sue and Ed Miller of Brookview Station.

Ray Tousey of Tousey Winery.
Bruce Tripp winemaker at Tousey.
Kimberly and Ben Peacock of Tousey Winery.

Sangria Festival July 16 & 17, 2011 at Benmarl Winery

2011-07-02T07:28:00.002-04:00

Benmarl Winery
156 Highland Ave,
Marlboro NY 12542
845-236-4265

April – December
12 pm-6pm
Closed on New Years Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas

Benmarl’s July Sangria Festival
July 16 & 17
12 to 7 pm
Enjoy summer with us by cooling down with a fresh glass of sangria. $20 per person. Wine club members and children 12 and under are free. Admission includes souvenir wine glass, wine tasting, sangria, tours, flamenco dancing and live music.

Applewood Winery Is Hot in July!

2011-07-02T07:18:00.001-04:00

Applewood Winery
82 Four Corners Rd.
Warwick NY 10990
845-988-9292

NEW HOURS - Now Open Fri, Sat. & Sun. 11AM-5PM

Applewood Winery Summer Hours - Fri. 11-5, Sat. 11-6, Sun 11-5

Music in the Courtyard every Sat & Sun 2-5PM - No Cover
Applewood Cafe Open every Sat. & Sun. 12-5PM featuring light Fare, our signature Sangrias & NEW - Fruit wine Slushies

Open Fri. July 1 - Mon. July 4 Free Music in the Courtyard - 2-5PM
Sat. July 2 Duo Phonic - Music of the 50's thru the 80's
Sunday - Foley Road - Classic Rock
Monday - Steve Di Venuta - classic rock

Summer Evening Concert Series:
Join us Sat. July 9th for an evening concert on the Lawn 6-9PM featuring 'Groovy Tuesday' - classics from the 60 s & 70's - from both sides of the Pond & Sat. July 23 - 6-9PM featuring Chrissie O'Dell & One Hot Mess - a high energy, heart pumping Blues Band - Tickets now available on www.applewoodwinery.com

Who Let the Dogs Out??? Sat. July 16 - Annual fundraiser for the Warwick Humane Society - register your dog for contests, prizes, all proceeds go to the Humane Society - Live music, cafe open

www.applewoodwinery.com

July at Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery

2011-07-02T07:14:00.003-04:00

Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery
114 Little York Rd.
Warwick NY 10990
845-258-4858

July 2011 Schedule of Events

MUSIC SERIES 2011 - “Uncorked & Unplugged”

Weekend Afternoon Music Series
Afternoon Series 2:00 – 5:00 PM* - *No Cover for Afternoon Concerts listed below

*Sat 7/2 – Marty Koppel – Roots Music/Acoustic/Americana

*Sun 7/3 – Soylent Blue – Rock / Psychedelic / Indie

*Mon 7/4 – Tim O’Donohue - Country / Folk / Roots Music

*Sun 7/10 – Ray Longchamp – Finger Style Guitar / Rock / Blues / Folk

*Sat 7/16 – Petey Hop – Blues / Rock / Roots Music

*Sun 7/17 – John Sheehan - Finger Style Guitar / Rock / Blues / Folk

*Sat 7/23 - Mark Von Em - Acoustic / Folk Rock / Soul

*Sun 7/24 – Matt Turk – Acoustic / Folk Rock / Alternative

*Sat 7/30 – Tim O’Donohue - Country / Folk / Roots Music

*Sun 7/31 - Rob Schiff – Acoustic / Rock / Psychedelic

bozarts NIGHTSTAGE hosted by Paul Siegal presents E'lissa Jones & Marc Von Em - Thursday July 7th, 2011 @ 7PM. Doors open at 6:15 PM. Tickets are $12.50 per person in advance. $15.00 at the door. Buy Tickets Online Now! A bistro style menu will be available that evening at Pané Café .

Watkins Glen Revisited - July 9th, 2011 (Rain Date July 10th)
Advance Ticket Sales end Thursday Night July 7th

Anyone visiting the winery this weekend will need a ticket to gain entrance to the winery grounds.

A tribute concert to the 1973 Summer Jam at Watkins Glen. Music of The Allman Brothers, The Band, and the Grateful Dead will be performed by the band "The Band", Reflections and The Peach Project. Raindate: Sunday July 10th. Please no Coolers, outside Food or Beverages Permitted on Winery Grounds. Thank You!
All Tickets are held at door for Day of Event. No Tickets will be Mailed Out.
Buy Tickets Online Now!

Black & Blues Weekend - August 6th & 7th

August 6th - Blues Saturday
August 7th - Black Sunday - A Tribute to Johnny Cash
Tickets on sale July 11th, 2011

Wine education and tasting are available during regular winery hours 11-6 Daily

A bistro style menu is available at Pané Café for all events
(Fri 12-4, Sat-Sun 12-5)
Tasting Room Hours Daily 11-6 (845) 258-4858
114 Little York Road, Warwick, NY 10990

Website: www.wvwinery.com

Lot's Going on at Palaia Vineyards in July!

2011-07-02T07:09:00.003-04:00

Palaia Vineyards & Winery
10 Sweet Clover Rd.
Highland Mills NY 10930
845-928-5384

Events galore at Palaia this month. Come watch a play and laugh, or enjoy Neil Young music for 2 days in a benefit for Lung Cancer, or sit on our lawn by the grapes and listen to some live music and drink a pink wine slushie in the shade…..ahhh, that’s living.

CASE SALE 4TH OF JULY WEEKEND THRU JULY 12 - 15% off case 10% off ½ case!

7/1 – Straight Shot 7-10 Sweet Clover Room (air conditioned)

7/2 – Groovy Tuesday 6:30-9:30 – outside under the tent- no coolers or outside food or beverages. BBQ available- wine slushies & wine (no cover) Bring a chair or blanket

7/3 – Robert Schiff – 2:30-5:30 – Sweet Clover Room (air conditioned)

7/7 – Open Mic 7-? – Treehouse

7/8 – Bruce Perone – 7-10 – Sweet Clover Room (air conditioned)

7/9 – Jermaine Paul – 6:30-9:30 - $5/person under 12 free – outside under the tent- no coolers or outside food or beverages. BBQ available- wine slushies & wine. Bring a chair or blanket

7/10 – Bobby Messano – 2:30-5:30 – Sweet Clover Room (air conditioned)

7/14- 7/17 – The play: “Lend Me A Tenor” – 8pm $10/person – Outside under the tent, chairs provided. Comedy that will have you rolling. Directed by Rich Aufiero. Wine & slushies available.

Winery open during the day for tastings. Winery closes at 7 and during the play.

7/17– During the afternoon – Bobby Z is playing 2:30-5:30 in the tasting room and then the play at 8.

7/21 – Open Mic 7-? Treehouse

7/22 – Gregg Van Gelder – 7-10 Sweet Clover Room (air conditioned)

7/23 ** Neil Young Tribute Festival – 1-8pm $10/person for the day – Entire door goes to “Uniting Against Lung Cancer” BBQ available, wine slushies & wine – bring a chair or blanket – no coolers or outside food or beverages. Band after Band all day long. Winery opens at noon.

7/24 – Neil Young Tribute Festival continues $10 for the day 1-6pm

7/28 – Audition Open mic 7-? – Treehouse

7/29 – Inner Monologue – 7-10 – Sweet Clover Room (air conditioned)

7/30 – Past Masters 6:30-9:30 – outside under the tent- no coolers or outside food or beverages. BBQ available- wine slushies & wine (no cover) Bring a chair or blanket

7/31 – Paul Savino – 2:30-5:30 – Sweet Clover Room (air conditioned)

Altamont Vineyard and Winery (NY)

2011-06-26T06:54:00.005-04:00

Altamont Vineyard can be found in the Upper Hudson Valley region. The Mohawk and Hudson Valleys of Upstate New York are being increasingly recognized as established wine regions within the United States and North America. At the intersection of these Valleys, Altamont Vineyard and Winery sits at the crest of the Helderberg mountains.

Louis DiCrescenzo, toiled for his grandfather begining at the age of five, worked the vines in their family vineyard in Monte San Biagio, just south of Rome, founded Altamont. Louis, his son Michael, and Deborah Crawford, bring their best techniques of European winemaking to Altamont Vineyard and Winery.

Michael and Louis showed me their place. They have an extensive vineyard, more than 12 acres planted to vines, with more than 20 varieties of grapes grown and harvested. They also buy in a few grapes as well. Michael explains that they grow a number of vines, but there's no question that they are spending a lot of time with Minnesota varieties, as well as those developed by Elmer Swenson, who really helped put Minnesota on the map when it came to grape breeding. I found several promising things. I think Minnesota is doing some wonderful things with their grape program.

I can't review all the wines I tasted, so I'll point to the ones that made an impression on me.

Riesling 2009
Harvested from a young award-winning vineyard in Lodi, NY, this wine is dry and crisp. Flavors of tangerine and grapefruit come through as promised. It's a light, bright, sophisticated refreshing dry white wine. Lovely. If you closed your eyes, you would have thought you were in the Finger Lakes. Very, very good! Deserves to be in any quality reisling conversation.

Cayuga 2008
This was more of a slightly off-dry light white, unsual, since many people prefer to make cayuga sweet. Lots of apple and lemon flavors, with high acidity and a quick finish. Aged in stainless steel. Another bright fresh white wine great to have with food.

St. Pepin 2008
I'd never had St. Pepin before. An Elmer Swenson entry from 1970. Unlike most modern grapes it is a pistillate female and so needs to be planted next to male vines from a close sibling variety to achieve pollination. It's very much resembles its parent Seyval Blanc. We bought a lovely medium-bodied white. Grassy and floral aromas dominate, as promised, with crisp and refreshing mineral flavors. A very nice surprise. Especially good with food.

Leon Millot Reserve
This is Altamont's flagship wine, and it would be a standout no matter what line-up it wa sold in. This Leon Millot is aged in French oak. A big, inky, deep purple wine, with great aromas and flavors. Very Burgundian in it's feel. Very much Rhone-ish in it's feel. Cherry predominates, with cassis and hints of dark raspberries. A slight whiff of vanilla and a hint of mocah or sadle leather. The acidity is not too high, and the tannin are nice but not overwhelming. Easily one of the better read wines of the Hudson Valley region.

Altamont is one of the rising stars of the Hudson Valley Region. They are gaining a solid following and are producing good wines. They are certainly a star in the Upper Hudson Valley area. If you're looking for a nice tastingroom setting, and a solid list of wines, Altamont isn't only a good bet, it's a great treat. Jessica Harding is behind the counter, and greets you with the friendly smile, while "Bottle Shock" plays behind her on a hi-def television. Treat yourself, and go visit them!

Edible Hudson Valley Raves About Whitecliff Vineyard

2011-06-19T08:33:00.002-04:00

In the Summer 2011 issue, Edible Hudson Valley magazine, a James Beard award-winning magazine (just this last May - congrats once again!), published a tremendous article (written by widely published food writer Victoria Spencer) on Michael and Yancey Migliore and their award-winning winery, Whitecliff Vineyard.

NYCR Raves About the Hudson Valley: Part 1

2011-06-19T08:11:00.003-04:00

June 17, 2011
A First Impression of the Hudson Valley Wine Country, Part 1
By Julia Burke, Beer Editor

I had absolutely no expectations as I drove east on the thruway on my very first trip to the Hudson Valley wine country. David Jackson of Hudson-Chatham Winery and his wife Kathy were kind enough to invite me to their home and show me around, and I could think of no better way to spend one of the first beautiful weekends of summer than exploring a new wine scene.

What was in store was a fascinating, vibrant and diverse region with a young-but-exciting quality wine industry, gorgeous farmland, exciting local beer and spirits, an amazing array of edible bounty, and passionate people who believe in the future of the Hudson Valley.

After a five-hour drive it was beer o’clock, so I began my Hudson Valley experience with a visit to Chatham Brewing.

A tucked-away site literally located in an alley, Chatham’s entrance welcomed me with a hop garden and the sight of locals lining up to fill growlers and kegs. I opted to taste through their full lineup and was solidly impressed. The beers showed great malt presence and balance: the maple amber wasn’t too sweet, the IPAs not too bitter, the porter not too roasty, all with well-integrated and clean flavors and crisp, smooth mouthfeel.

Brewmaster Matt explained that he’s all about Old World styles; it shows in his well-made, elegant brews. My two favorites were the porter and the 8-barrel IPA.

Growlers in hand, I was ready for a day of adventure. My hosts had a full weekend planned; after lunch in Chatham we visited two beautiful farms, Chatham Shepherding and Kinderhook, offering local cheeses, meats and eggs, and even stopped at a distillery before heading to Hudson-Chatham for wine tasting.

I was particularly impressed by Harvest Spirits, a distillery making apple vodka, applejack, pear brandy and some fun experimental stuff including grappa, frozen applejack and — to my delight — eisbock using Chatham Brewing Company’s ESB.

Read the rest at:
http://www.lenndevours.com/2011/06/a-first-impression-of-the-hudson-valley-wine-country-part-1.html

2011-06-12T07:57:00.001-04:00

HUDSON BERKSHIRE BEVERAGE TRAIL
SATURDAY, JUNE 25, 2011
STRAWBERRY FIELDS EVENT

On Saturday & Sunday, June 25, the Hudson Berkshire Beverage Trail is conducting its second group event of the season. This one is called “Strawberry Fields Sip & Savor,” and will feature a strawberry delicacy at each of the participating venues. For example, there will be strawberry sangria at the Hudson-Chatham Winery, chocolate-covered strawberries at Furnace Brook Winery, vodka-soaked strawberries with fresh cream at Harvest Spirits, and strawberries in phyllo at Brookview Station Winery. There will be lots to sip and savor this weekend on the premier beverage trail in the Northeast!

Guests may visit any trail member of their choice, and pay the normal tasting fees, or buy a Trail Passport, and receive a great discount, that gets them into all the participating trail locations FREE!

Passport Members get:
complimentary free tasting flights of wine, beers, and spirits at all locations on the specified date
free strawberry treats
This is a great value! Passports will be available for $15 on the day of the event at each participating venue!
Special Designated Driver Passport: $5 with complimentary strawberries!

Hudson Valley Art & Wine Premiere's in Catskill June 11, 2011

2011-06-06T17:01:00.004-04:00

HUDSON VALLEY ART & WINE – A GRAND CELEBRATIONTRAVELING EXHIBIT

OPENS IN CATSKILL, THE BIRTHPLACE OF AMERICAN ART

A juried exhibition and wine tasting featuring 18 Hudson Valley artists and theirvisual interpretations of 12 regional wineries.
Saturday, June 11, Preview from 4:00 to 6:00 pm;

Artist's Reception from 6:00 to 8:00 pm

WHO: Presented by Hudson Valley Wine Magazine and M Gallery

WHAT: Hudson Valley Art & Wine – A Grand Celebration View the traveling exhibit of works by Hudson Valley artists inspired by the region’s wineries and vineyards. Sample wines by several of the wineries, including Hudson-Chatham Winery, Palaia Vineyards, and Millbrook Vineyards and Winery.

WHEN:
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Preview from 4:00 to 6:00 pm; Artist's reception from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.
Exhibit runs through July 10.

WHERE: M Gallery350 Main Street, Catskill, NY 12414

WHY: Showcasing the artwork inspired by the local wineries will generate attention and support for the Hudson Valley’s artists and winemakers — and promote the cultural vitality of the Hudson Valley region. Historic Catskill, NY was home to landscape artist Thomas Cole, founder of The Hudson River School of Art, America's first art movement.

WINERY & ARTIST "PAIRS"
Applewood Winery & Jan Horton (acrylic);
Applewood Winery & Crista Pisano (oils);
Benmarl Winery & Sasha Chermayeff (oils);
Brookview Station Winery & Judy Reynolds (oils);
Brotherhood, America’s Oldest Winery & Lee Anne Morgan (Fine Art Photography);
Brotherhood, America’s Oldest Winery & Barbara Rubin (oils);
Glorie Farm Winery & Virginia Donovan (oils);
Glorie Farm Winery & Patrick Milbourn (oils);
Hudson-Chatham Winery & Joan Damiani (oil & photography);
Hudson-Chatham Winery & Anne Gabriele (photography);
Millbrook Winery & Vineyards & Susan Togut (mixed media);
Millbrook Winery & Vineyards & K. Velis Turan (mixed media fiber);
Palaia Vineyards & Paul Gould (oils);
Robibero Family Vineyards & David Borenstein (mixed media);
Stoutridge Vineyards & Paola Bari (overglaze on porcelain);
Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery & John Laurenzi (acrylics);
Whitecliff Vineyard & Robert Breur (sculpture in clay and wood);
Whitecliff Vineyard & Vince Natale (oil and graphite);

About the Hudson Valley Art & Wine – A Grand Celebration

One year ago, Hudson Valley Wine Magazine paired 18 jury-selected Hudson Valley artists with 12 Hudson Valley wineries to create original works of art inspired by the wineries and reflecting the beauty of this historic region. The exhibit premiered on May 21, 2011 at Lyndhurst, a National Trust Historic site in Westchester, NY, the gateway to the Hudson Valley. The exhibit will travel to various galleries in the Hudson Valley throughout 2011.

About M Gallery and Catskill, NY
Catskill became a landmark when long-time resident and artist, Thomas Cole, introduced the Hudson River School of Painting. American art was forever changed by Cole’s influence as founder and father of the movement. He impressed countless numbers of talented and noted painters — Church, Blakelock, Inness, Durand and others — who claimed glory using the backdrop of the magnificent Catskill region. The history continues, inspired by dramatic panoramas, tumultuous skies, exceptional light, and the bold profile of a timeless mountain range. Artist Patrick Milbourn, owner of M Gallery, paints signature landscapes and fine art portraits that convey a sense of history and lifestyle. Milbourn has received a variety of awards and accolades from the Pastel Society of America, the National Academy of Art, the Salmagundi Club and the prestigious American Academy of Arts and Letters.

For more information about theHudson Valley Art & Wine – A Grand Celebration, please visit HudsonValleyArtandWine.com

MILLBROOK WINERY LAUNCHES DAY TRIP PACKAGE

2011-06-05T20:56:00.002-04:00

Millbrook Vineyards & Winery announces the launch of their new Vineyard Express weekend getaway package - an exclusive round trip escape to Hudson Valley Wine Country. Millbrook, widely considered to be the Hudson Valley’s finest winery, is offering van shuttle service between the winery and the Poughkeepsie train station for wine lovers traveling via Metro-North from NYC Grand Central Terminal. The Vineyard Express will operate on Saturdays and Sundays from June through October.

Although within day-trip distance to many wineries throughout the state, many New Yorkers have long been burdened by the lack of transportation options to wineries. Millbrook’s Vineyard Express is an all-inclusive package including round trip transportation from the Poughkeepsie train station, a gift bag filled with wine goods, lunch at Millbrook’s Vineyard Grille that includes a glass of wine, and a guided tour of the winery followed by a portfolio wine tasting. Vineyard Express guests who purchase six bottles of wine or more will also enjoy free shipping of their wine back to their home or office. The cost is $75 per person excluding train fare. Guests under the age of 21 may reserve a spot on the shuttle for a discounted price. Reservations are now being accepted for all weekends beginning June 4, 2011.

“People often forget some of New York State’s best wines are grown and bottled just an hour and half north of the City,” said David Bova, General Manager and Vice President, Millbrook Vineyards & Winery. “Whether guests want to taste our wine, hike along our scenic vineyard trail or view the art exhibit in our lofted gallery; a day at the winery should be fun and carefree - we don’t want people to worry about a thing when they visit Millbrook.”

Day-trippers from NYC may choose from two Metro-North/Grand Central Terminal departure times - 8:47AM or 10:52AM - in order to meet Millbrook Winery’s Vineyard Shuttle. The shuttle will meet and pick up guests at the front of the Poughkeepsie train station twice a day at 10:45AM and 12:45PM and offer three return drop-off times. (Millbrook Winery’s Vineyard Shuttle may vary during the year according to MTA timetables). Reservations are required as seating on the shuttle is limited. For more information and online reservation booking visit www.MillbrookWine.com/Visiting-Us/Vineyard-Express or call 1-(845)-677-8383 x11.

Current Menu (subject to change throughout the season)

Grilled Angus Beef Burger on a Telera roll (lettuce, tomato, pickle): $8.00
Wine suggestions: Hunt Country Red, Cab Franc

Spicy Garden Burger on a Telera roll (lettuce, tomato, pickle) $8.00
Wine suggestions: NY Chardonnay

Grilled Chicken Breast with Chipotle Aioli on a Rosemary Ciabatta roll $9.00
Wine suggestions: Chardonnay Proprietor’s Special Reserve

Ahi Tuna Sandwich with Cusabi Cream on a Rosemary Ciabatta roll $10.00
Wine suggestions: Tocai Friulano

All sandwiches will be served with choice of a side salad – options will include a green salad, pasta salad or slaw.

Other current a la carte items:
Coffee: $2.00
Cookie: $1.50
Snack Bar: $1.00
Izzy Sodas: $2.00
Apple: $1.00
Water: $1.00

Hours: Every Saturday and Sunday, 12 – 3 pm
Dates: May 28 through the end of October

For more information readers can visit: http://www.millbrookwine.com/visiting-us/vineyard-grille-a-cafe

Shawangunk Wine Trail 2011 Event Dates

2011-06-04T07:09:00.003-04:00

2011 Event Dates

Here are the event dates for the Shawangunk Trail Events for 2011!

Around the World
June 18th & 19th
10 to 6
Each of the 11 wineries along the trail adopts a different country. Maybe it is France, Spain, Italy or Greece; you never know where you might land. At each winery savor the foods and atmosphere of that "country" while you sample the regional wines that make each winery unique. Your Passport includes "visas" good for a day of touring and a souvenir wine glass.
Adair Vineyards will represent Mexico
Applewood will represent Cuba
Baldwin Vineyards will represent Italy
Benmarl Vineyards will represent Ghana
Brimstone Hill Vineyards will represent Greece
Brotherhood Winery will represent France
Glorie Farm Winery will represent Chile
Palaia Winery will represent Belgium
Stoutridge Vineyards will represent Germany
Warwick Winery will represent Spain
Whitecliff Vineyards will represent United States

Sixteenth Annual Bounty Of The Hudson
To Be Held At
Adair Vineyards
July 30th & 31st
Noon to 5 PM
A rotating event held at a different winery each year including all of the Hudson River Region wineries and many top food purveyors and restaurants from the Hudson Valley. Bounty location for 2011 heads back to Adair Vineyards at the Northern End of the Trail to the New Paltz area.

Wreath Fineries At The Wineries
November 19th & 20th, December 3rd & 4th and
December 10th & 11th
What a great way to spend a day, shop for your holiday gifts while you sample fine wines Participants receive a grapevine wreath, a souvenir wine glass, a Shawangunk Wine Trail ornament and an ornament from their starting winery, as they continue along the trail they celebrate the holiday season while sampling uniquely crafted wines at each. As you continue along the trail you pick up an ornament specially chosen by each winery, giving you a total of 12 ornaments to decorate your wreath. This is where the Hudson Valley shops for fine wines and unique gifts in the region. Reservations are required. This event sells out quickly. Tickets will be available soon on eventbrite.com

Call Wendy at 845-256-8456 with any questions
or email gunkswine.com

Shawangunk Unveils New Logo & Passport FOR 2011

2011-06-04T06:59:00.002-04:00

From the Shawangunk Trail:

Our New Brochure & Passport
Our New brochure with Passport Program is here! Once you have your new brochure, tuck it in your bag or car so it is always with you, just in case you take a detour to one of our 11 wineries. The next time you purchase a tasting at one of the wine trail wineries, have it stamped (stamps will not be given during wine trail events) then tuck it away again until you have all 11 stamps. Make sure you fill in the information on the first page, turn in the passport at your last winery visit for an opportunity to win a fabulous trip to the Hudson Valley.

Sample Prize Package*
Complimentary Wine Tastings at all 11 wineries

2-night compliments of
Cromwell Manor House
Cornwall NY
http://www.cromwellmanor.com/

9-Holes of Golf for Two
Winding Hills Golf Course
Montgomery NY
http://www.cromwellmanor.com/

Dinner At
Landmark Inn
Warwick NY
http://www.landmarkinnwarwick.com/

Sunday Brunch at
Glenmere Mansion
Chester NY
http://glenmeremansion.com/

Other great drawings may include:
A Two Night Stay at
Fox Hill Bed & Breakfast
New Paltz NY
http://www.foxhillbandb.com/

A Two Night Stay at
Buttermilk Falls Inn & Spa
Milton NY
http://www.buttermilkfallsinn.com/

A Hudson River Dance or Dinner Cruise on the
River Rose
Newburgh NY
http://www.riverrosecruises.com/

We always welcome your comments and suggestions. You may contact us at shawangunkwinetrail@gmail.com with any questions.

CONGRATS TO THE FOLKS DOWN IN THE GUNKS! GREAT NEW LOGO!

HUDSON BERKSHIRE WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL MAY 5 & 6, 2012

2011-06-03T05:08:00.006-04:00

SAVE THE DATE!

The first annual Hudson Berkshire Wine & Food Festival will be held at the Columbia County Fair grounds on May 5 & 6, 2012.

Local wines, beers, and spirits as well as local artisanal foods from the Hudson River and Berkshire Mountain regions will abound in this first ever fall wine festival.

More to come!

Times Herald-Record Raves ABout Vinum at Brotherhood Winery

2011-05-29T08:33:00.001-04:00

Vinum Cafe scores with sweet cuisine
French and Chilean mixes well in Washingtonville
By Kelly Kingman
For the Times Herald-Record
Published: 2:00 AM - 05/13/11
Last updated: 3:43 PM - 05/13/11

The clusters of buildings on the grounds of Brotherhood Winery gave the atmosphere of being a little village. There was the Victorian mansion, built by the founder of the original winery back in the early 1800s, and there were the modern winemaking facilities. There were picnic tables scattered in between, no doubt a lovely place to enjoy a glass of wine on a late-spring or summer evening.

Vinum Cafe occupies the low-slung brick building that housed the original winery around 1839. According to the website, Vinum Cafe encompasses a formal dining room and a more casual cafe area surrounding the bar itself.

We arrived on a Friday evening; the dining room was not very full, but the strains of a jazz trio entertained a robust bar crowd. After a few awkward minutes we were greeted by a dapper gentleman whom I thought at first was our maitre d' but became our server for the remainder of our evening. One other staff member, a young woman, was on the floor as well, but she seemed to be in training.

Related Stories
Honoring the Dead with Air PiratesElton John, Phish make summer memorableFez: 'Mediteroccan' cuisine in SaugertiesCoryell, Walker team up at Brian'sBob Dylan: 'Forever Young'Eat your heart out, JimiChallenges no match for Hudson Opera TheatreEven better than imitationA taste of the Italian countrysideCreative Theatre opens 2011 seasonCelebrating the Middletown Art GroupArmed artistsClassical stars with strong rootsAccomplished musicians lend hand to schoolHere she is: 'Myth America'Vinum Cafe

Cuisine: Eclectic
Where: 84 Brotherhood Plaza Drive, Washingtonville
Hours: 5-9 p.m. Wed.-Sun.
Call: 496-9001
Visit: www.vinumcafe.com

Ratings (out of five stars)
Food: 4 stars
Service: 2 stars
Ambience: 3.5 stars

Brotherhood enjoys the distinction of being the oldest operating winery in America, and it has seen many owners over its long history. Now the operation is run by a partnership of Chilean winemaking families, which is why the wine list consists of Brotherhood vintages and a series of wines described only as "Chilean." Vinum is operated independently of the winery by a French chef.

Read the whole review at:
http://www.recordonline.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20110513/ENTERTAIN/105130343

Tousey Cabernet Franc

2011-05-29T08:17:00.004-04:00

Tousey is one of the newer wineries on the scene, but winemaker Bruce Tripp has been a popular and ubiquitous figure in the Hudson Valley winemaking scene for many years. I recently stopped in his place and took a few sips.

One of the ones I really liked was their Cabernet Franc(non-vintage). It had a beautiful bright raspberry, bright cherry nose with a whiff of vanilla and spice.

Bruce was holding down the tasting room bar last Saturday when I happened to walk in. Bruce loves grapes. One gets he sense that he almost likes growing as much as he likes making wine. But don;t be fooled, Bruce loves wine. He can talk all day about grapes and wine...and he and I have, over many glasses. He is affable and gregarious and a lot of fun.

Bruce's wines are already a hit. His Tousey Creme de Cassis is one of the most well known cult wines in the valley. His cassis is different from most because it's sweetened with honey, from Ray Tousey's beehives.Anyway, a smal trip, and quick sip, and another stop on my "Honey Do" list to go, and then to the back porch with a bottle of Tousey Cabernet Franc.

Benmarl Baco Noir 2009

2011-05-29T08:16:00.001-04:00

I will not equivocate - I have been collectng bottles of Benmarl Baco noir since I first started drinking it about 10 years ago. I love it. There is nothing much like it in my expereince. I've cellared many of them over the years. They only get better. It's fabulous.

Mark Miller founded Benmarl Winery at Slate Hill Vineyards, America's oldest vineyards (the vineyard site has been under production in three different centuries now). Baco Noir is one of the hybrids bred to replace Pinot Noir during the phylloxera epidemic in the 19800s, but which thrives beautifully in the Hudson Valley.

The wine is a big nose full of sour cherry, with hints of plum and spice with a whiff of vanilla, and a slight touch of barnyard. It's a little bit of Burgundy right in the middle of the Hudson Valley.

This a great food wine, perfect for chicken, pork, or roasted lamb or other game meats. Great with grilled meats as well as beef or lamb stews. Another terrifc red wine from Benmarl. I'm going to place several in the cellar as soon as possible.

Capital Region Living Magazine Names Hudson-Chatham Best Winery

2011-05-01T06:43:00.005-04:00

Capital Region Living magazine named Hudson-Chatham Winery Best Local Wine/Winery in the region. "Both red and white wine lovers will find something to delight their palates, all while enjoying senic views," wrote the magazine.

Altamont Winery was also named named as a runner-up.

Brookview Station was also named as a runner-up.

Congrats to all three!

New York magazine Loves Hudson-Berkshire Beverage Trail!

2011-04-16T08:49:00.003-04:00

New York magazine did a whole feature on Columbia County entitled The Five-Point Weekend Escape Plan, Get Back to the Farm in Columbia County, Published on Apr 14, 2011 as a web exclusive.

Prepare for a day of drinking locally produced wine, beer, and spirits with brunch at Banjo Mountain Café, a cozy spot that opened last September in Ghent and is decorated with work by local artists. Next, drive a few minutes south on Rte. 21C to the Hawthorne Valley Farm Store to stock up on organic fruit, beverages, and snacks for the car. Then begin conquering the Columbia County portion of the Hudson-Berkshire Beverage Trail, a boozy pathway that winds from southeast Albany to Hudson. Start off at Harvest Spirits to tour the distillery and taste Core Vodka, made with apples from neighboring Golden Harvest Farms.

Next, drive about seven miles west on Rte. 203 to Chatham Brewing Companyand sample the rotating selection of crisp seasonal ales, rich porter, and the slightly sweet Maple Amber. Brewery tours and growler sales are offered on Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. only, so plan accordingly. Head five miles away on Rte. 66 to the bucolic Hudson Chatham Winery to swill small-batch reds and whites made with a mix of grapes from Hudson Valley, Finger Lakes, and Long Island. When it’s time for dinner, head eight miles south to Philmont’s Main Street Public House, built in 1898, where you’ll rub elbows with blue-collar locals, artists, and the occasional live band. Co-owner Elizabeth Angello serves a rotating menu of craft beers and sources local ingredients to dress up humble dishes like the smoked chicken burrito ($11) and the lamb burger ($14).

Read the whole article about Columbia County:

http://nymag.com/travel/weekends/columbiacounty/index4.html

Hudson Valley Art & Wine May 20, 2011

2011-04-14T09:56:00.001-04:00

Hudson Valley Art & Wine –A Grand Celebration is Friday, May 20 and Saturday May 21, 2011 Tickets on Sale Now at http://www.hudsonvalleyartandwine.com/ (NEW YORK, April 13, 2011, Hudson Valley)—Wouldn’t it be great to know which wine to order at a favorite restaurant and which one will pair well with home cooked dinners? From 5-8 p.m. on Friday, May 20 (Opening Night Gala) and from 1-6 p.m. on Saturday, May 21, the Hudson Valley Art & Wine – A Grand Celebration will feature wine tastings from the historic Hudson Valley wineries and educational presentations by wine experts and chefs that can turn a novice wine lover into a knowledgeable enthusiast. The Hudson Valley Art & Wine – A Grand Celebration, presented by Hudson Valley Wine Magazine, will be held at Lyndhurst, a National Trust Historic site in Tarrytown, NY, just 25 miles from Midtown Manhattan. Attendees may sample more than 35 hand-crafted wines from the Hudson Valley’s wineries paired with artisanal foods and gourmet tastings. They may casually sip while strolling through the grounds of the Lyndhurst Estate overlooking the Hudson River. Unique to the event is the Grand Art Gallery, an exhibition of original Hudson Valley winery-inspired paintings, photographs, jewelry, and sculptures created specially for this event. Attendees will meet the artists and winemakers one-on-one. And take part in an Art and Wine-themed Cupcake Challenge! Presenters include Wendy Crispell (SWE, SWET), who runs wine workshops aboard the yacht Manhattan; Laura Pensiero, award-wining author and chef of Gigi Hudson Valley; and Ty the Wine Guy, founder of Wines By The Glass. Renowned wine, food and spirits blogger and author, William Dowd, will be the event’s emcee. And Josyane Colwell, executive chef and founder of Le Moulin, the Hudson Valley’s premiere event planner and caterer, brings to the event her worldly sensibilities about food, presentation, and ambiance. Hours & Ticketing: Each ticket includes a tour of the Mansion, Ravenscroft crystal wine glass, and gift bag. Proceeds benefit the educational programs at Lyndhurst, a National Trust Historic Site. • Opening Night Gala; 5-8 p.m., Friday, May 20, 2011, Single Ticket: $135; Two People: $250; Designated driver: $45. • Grand Celebration, 1-6 p.m., Saturday, May 21, 2011; Single Ticket: $85; Two People: $150; Day of Event Single Ticket: $95; Designated driver: $45. Schedule of Presenters: • Friday, May 20 • 5:30 p.m.: Chef Laura Pensiero opens the festivities on the Veranda of the Lyndhurst mansion with a toast and “Creating A Sense of Place.” • 7:00 p.m.: “The Artistry of Wine”: Wendy Crispell teaches how to heighten our senses of smell, taste, and touch to enhance our wine tasting experience. • Saturday, May 21 • 2:30 p.m.: “Get Experienced: Part 1,” an interactive workshop featuring select Hudson Valley wines. Ty the Wine Guy teaches the basic guidelines for successful food and wine pairings at home or out on the town. • 4:30 p.m.: “Get Experienced: Part 2,” in which Ty glorifies the pairing of the correct wine with…wait for it…popcorn. For tickets, an updated seminar schedule and event information, visit www.HudsonValleyArtandWine.com or call 518.731.1332.

Vinum Cafe Serving Wine and Waiting for You at Brotherhood Winery!

2011-04-10T07:16:00.004-04:00

Chill at Vinum Cafe

by Jim Trezise

New York Wine Press

April 9, 2011

Brotherhood America's Oldest Winery Ltd. in Washingtonville is one of the nation's most historic and interesting wineries, and now it's possible to enjoy a great meal when you visit. The "Vinum Cafe", owned and independently operated by Chef-Owner Christian Pierrel, has been open almost a year but only recently received its license to serve wine; and after all, "a meal without wine is like a day without sunshine".

We got State legislation passed years ago that automatically allows farm wineries to have restaurants on their premises (commercial wineries need an additional license but may as well), and many in the Finger Lakes took advantage of that long ago. Unfortunately, local townships on Long Island have prevented them there, but it's nice to see new ones popping up in different regions.

Brotherhood owner Cesar Baeza describes the Vinum Cafe fare as "gourmet food at reasonable prices" with fantastic Lobster Bisque and "Hudson Valley Fois Gras that melts in your mouth". It's open Wednesday through Sunday noon to 9 pm for lunch, dinner and brunch with seating indoors and outside when weather permits. Visit http://vinumcafe.com/restaurant.htm.

HUDSON-CHATHAM BACO NOIRS GAIN PRESS & AWARDS

2011-03-26T09:17:00.002-04:00

Hudson-Chatham Winery's Baco Noirs have had a great pat couple of months. Hudson-Chatham's two Baco Noirs - Baco Noir Reserve Casscles Vineyard and Baco Noir Old Vine Masson Place Vineyard Pulteney Farm - have gathered tremendous press and awards.

Recently, the New York Cork Report had this to say about their Baco Noir Old Vines:

"Shows ripe black cherry and plum aromas on the nose with a little cranberry and a healthy dose of vanilla and oak. Rich and fuller bodied there is an intensity to the black cherry flavors here with vanilla to round it out. Layers of chocolate and oak bring a little complexity before a sour cherry/cranberry note emerges on the medium-length finish. Fresh but balanced acidity provides most of the structure here keeping it from being too soft or flabby. Acidity isn't uncommon in red hybrids but it's not excessively high here like it can be."

HUDSON-BERKSHIRE PASTA TRAIL EVENT APRIL 9TH, 2011

2011-03-26T08:52:00.002-04:00

TRAIL OPENING EVENT 2011 SEASON!!
SATURDAY, APRIL 9, 2011
PASTA & SAUCE TRAIL EVENT

To kick off the 2011 season, the HBBT is sponsoring the Pasta & Sauce Event. Passport holders can sample a complimentary pasta dish at each participating member establishment, when they purchase a tasting flight. Whether you want to try award-winning wines, hand-crafted, nano-ales, or small batch artisanal spirits, the Hudson Berkshire Beverage Trail has a winning combination that can’t be beat.

Guests may visit any trail member of their choice, and pay the normal tasting fees, or buy a Trail Passport, and receive a great discount, that gets them into all the participating trail locations FREE!

Passport Members get:

* complimentary free tasting flights of wine, beers, and spirits at all locations on the specified date
* free pasta

This is a great value! Passports will be available for $15 on the day of the event at each participating venue!

Special Designated Driver Passport: $5 with complimentary pasta!

LES TROIS EMME WINERY WILL NOT BE PARTICIPATING IN THIS EVENT.

Shwangunk Wine Trail Pasta Primo Vino April 16th and 17th 2011

2011-03-26T08:48:00.002-04:00

Pasta Primo Vino

Menus set for Shawangunk 'Pasta Primo Vino'

Wine goes nicely with so many foods, but for some reason pasta stands out for me. Luckily, the members of the Shawangunk Wine Trail feel the same way. Thus, the "Pasta Primo Vino" spring event that has drawn participation of all 11 trail members.The event, which will from from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. the weekend of April 16-17, will offer different pasta dishes at each winery, paired with their own wines. Some of the wineries will be offering new releases to sample and, if you're in the mood, purchase.Two levels of tickets are available: Wine taster ($23.76), which includes a wine glass, wine tastings and tapas tastings at all 11 wineries; designated drivers ($5.40), which includes pasta tastings but no wine glass or wine tastings. (The odd prices reflect the inclusion of sales tax.) Each ticket is good for one day only. At the door, tickets are $30 each. If you order early, 10% discounts are available. Go here for April 16, and here for April 17 ticket details. (Use discount code newsltrmarch.)

So, what's cooking:• Adair Vineyards: Southwestern pasta bean salad• Applewood: Spring pasta salad with fresh vegetables and lemon vinaigrette• Baldwin Vineyards: Baked rigatoni with ricotta and fresh basil.• Benmarl Vineyards: Gnocchi in a sage butter sauce• Brimstone Hill Vineyards: French pasta Provencal• Brotherhood Winery: Orzo with mushrooms• Glorie Farm Winery: Sassy peanut pasta• Palaia Winery: Pasta quattro formaggi with semolina bread• Stoutridge Vineyards: To be decided.• Warwick Winery: Pasta and homemade sweet sausage, shaved fennel• Whitecliff Vineyards: Cacio e Pepe, a cheese and black pepper pasta

Tour 11 wineries sampling different wines and pasta dishes at each. Includes sampling of wines, food & a souvenir wine glass. $25.34 includes tax
April 16th April 17th

KRISTOP BROWN IS BACK - AND ROBIBERO HAS HIM!

2011-03-20T20:26:00.003-04:00

I am way behind the times. I just found this out. It's great news. Kristop Brown is back making wine in the Hudson Valley. Kristop is now practicing his craft over at Robibero Vineyards in New Paltz.

That's a really smart and great move for the Robibero family, and it's great news for Hudson Valley wine.

Kristop was the former winemaker at Benmarl. He is an excellent craftsman, and I certianly considered him one of the most technically gifted winemakers in the Valley.

I could not be happier for him! And for the rest of us. Congrats to the Robibero family! And congrats to Kristop!

BROTHERHOOD PINOT NOIR

2011-03-20T07:23:00.003-04:00

So we were at Brotherhood yesterday, and hung out with Tour Guide Dave. Dave has been leading tours and tastings at Brotherhood for 20 years. He's seen a few things happen there. We've tasted with him several times, when we can't get a hold of or don't want to bother Cesar Baeza, the President of Brothehood Winery.

So the first thing we tried with Dave was a Blanc de Blanc. It was a nice, smooth, lovely wine with lot's of fresh bread smell on the nose, and lovely fruit on the palate, with solid acidity and a nice dry finnish. At $10 a bottle, it's an outstanding value. I'd just reviewed it in February, so I was not surprised.

But the biggest surprise was when Dave said, "And the fruit comes from Columbia County!" Now, we've known that Brotherhood has vineyards in Columbia county, but we'd never had one of the wines pointed out to us.

Here was a fantastic wine grown right in Columbia County! The vineyards are overseen by Greg Esch. We see Greg, usually annually, at the grape growing seminars that happen each year in Kingston. The Brotherhood Blanc de Blanc is a real local wine.

I asked Dave if he had another wine that was from Greg esch's vineyards, and he pulled out the Pinot Noir. Now, I have to admit, I've been on a Pinot Noir jag lately. It's just where I am at. I still love a big heavy, over ripe California wine like Turley, for example, but more and more I'm moving back towar a more balanced, European style. More approachable wines.

So, any way we tried the Pinot Noir. Big fruit up front, lot's of fine cherry and a hint of plum and strawberry. It was bright, and fresh. with low acidity and low tannins. The wine finished dry and smooth. A very nice, light-to-medium bodied Pinot Noir. Perfect for spring and summer dishes, and great with some fresh, Hudson Valley cheese!

Two wonderful wines, and they are both grown in the vineyard on the Columbia County side of the Rip Van Winkle Bridge. This was very, very good!

Congrats to Cesar, and Greg, and yes, Dave too!