Hudson Valley Wines Getting Some Recognition

HUDSON VALLEY WINES may finally start getting some of the recognition and sales they deserve as a result of several new initiatives. The Dutchess Wine Trail worked with nearby Marist College under an NYWGF grant to develop a web site (www.dutchesswinetrial.com) that not only describes the trail, wineries and wines, but also lets consumers buy them online on the spot. With leadership by Phyllis Feder (co-owner of Clinton Vineyards and President of the Dutchess Wine Trail) and Susan Wine (Rivendell Winery, Vintage New York, and Shawangunk Wine Trail), a “Hudson Valley Wines” regional branding program funded by NYWGF is now also underway. Another grant has funded a planning study for a Hudson River Valley Wine & Culinary Center , which appears to be another promising way to promote the historic region’s wines and foods, as well as other New York wines. Research capabilities in the region have also been expanded and upgraded, promising quality improvements in the future. Given its location just up the river from Manhattan , which is bordered on the west by the Hudson River , this region should be a natural magnet for City dwellers—who really need to get out more.