NEWSLETTER
Finger Lakes Region, N.Y. – The Finger Lakes region of New York is not alone in suffering the economic effects of the Coronavirus. We sympathize with what is going on in our state and around the globe.
“The Finger Lakes Wine Alliance has postponed events we were excited to launch” states Carmela Barbagallo, Executive Director. Our annual Riesling Camp would have kicked off on April 5th and we had been expecting 20 wine professionals from around the United States, including sommeliers, chefs, restaurant managers, influencers, and journalists.
While it has been disappointing to discontinue services in our tasting rooms just as we were ready to enter into our busier Spring season, we are heartened to know that we can continue to sell wine to-go and thankful that wine production is recognized as an essential service. “Agricultural continues according to its normal seasonal schedule while our vineyards teams focus on activities like pruning, trellis repair & maintenance, and tying vines” says Eric Frarey of Heron Hill Winery.
It has been exciting to witness the ingenuity shown by the Finger Lakes Wine Alliance wineries. Silver Thread Vineyard is hosting virtual happy hours and have seen as many as 500 viewers join them! On Friday, March 27th, Wagner Vineyards’ co-owner and 4th generation grape grower John Wagner will host a live virtual tasting experience at 5 p.m. to talk about and taste through Wagner's acclaimed 2017 Dry Riesling. Watch live or on-demand here: https://www.facebook.com/WagnerVineyards/posts/3009549239095568
Some wineries have seen an uptick in business fostered by support from their loyal customers. There is a movement to support small, local businesses since the pandemic started. Wineries are doing a great job of communicating how every dollar spent locally can truly make a difference to their business. We have seen winery owners make public statements of appreciation, like this one: https://www.facebook.com/buttonwoodgrovewinery/videos/1050594. Buttonwood Grove is also offering virtual tastings on Friday March 27th and Friday April 3rd. Marcia Klue, Marketing Manager, suggests these tastings allow folks to stay socially connected to friends and family. https://www.facebook.com/events/517412285862151/
Contact:
Carmela Barbagallo
Executive Director
Finger Lakes Wine Alliance
carmela@fingerlakeswinealliance.com
585-993-1325