Hudson Valley Wine Magazine – Fall 2022

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The Hudson Valley’s

Sparkling Renaissance 2020s Winning Vintage

Cabernet Franc COMPLIMENTARY FA L L 2 0 2 2 HUDSON VALLEY | CAPITAL REGION

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HUDSON VALLEY WINETM Volume 15 Issue 2 Fall 2022 ROBERT BEDFORD EXECUTIVE EDITOR

LINDA PIERRO MANAGING EDITOR / DESIGN DIRECTOR

CHERYL ELKINS ADVERTISING SALES

J. STEPHEN CASSCLES

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VITICULTURAL CONSULTANT

FEATURE

The Hudson Valley’s Sparkling Renaissance

J. STEPHEN CASSCLES CARRIE DYKES LINDA PIERRO KATHLEEN WILLCOX

by Kathleen Willcox

CONTRIBUTORS

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GRAPE S O F TH E H U DS ON VA L L EY

Cultivating Cabernet Franc

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TRACI L. SUPPA

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12

COPY EDITING

by Linda Pierro

46 Holiday Gift

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Editorial Contributions:

46

Producer Profiles 15

Wineries

40 Distilleries 44

Meadery

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CONTRIBUTORS J. Stephen Casscles is a vintner, viticulturist, and author of Grapes of the Hudson Valley and other Cool Climate Regions. He lectures on horticultural and history throughout the Northeast, and is project manager of the Milea Estate Vineyards Hudson Heritage Project.

Linda Pierro is co-founder, managing

Carrie Dykes is a wine and travel writer with bylines in Wine Enthusiast, SevenFifty Daily, Afar, and Lonely Planet. She is pursuing a WSET diploma, and lives in Cornwall-on-Hudson with her husband, son, two cats, and Border Collie.

Kathleen Willcox writes about the

editor, and design director of Flint Mine Press, Hudson Valley Wine Magazine, and the Ultimate Cider Guide. She is a co-founder of the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition, president of Flint Media, and writes on local wine and spirits.

culture and politics of food and spirits for print and online publications.

Her work regularly appears in VinePair and many other regional and national magazines.

HUDSON VALLEY WINETM Magazine (ISSN 2325-8519) is published semi-annually by Flint Mine Press, a division of Flint Mine Group, llc. ©2022 Flint Mine Group, llc. All rights reserved. Hudson Valley Wine is a trademark of Flint Mine Group, llc. Material may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form without written permission. The magazine assumes no responsibility to return unsolicited material. No statement in this publication is to be construed as a recommendation. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions.

Look for more content between issues from these and other contributors at HVWineMag.com

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CORRECTION: In the Summer Issue, the photo credit on page 15 was misspelled. It should have read Diane Dugan.

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We invite ideas for articles, photographs, letters and other contributions from readers. Please write us at the address below or email info@hvwinemag.com. Any manuscript or artwork submitted by mail should be accompanied by a self-addressed stamped envelope if you would like it returned. HVWM is not responsible for the return or loss of submissions.

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

PHOTO: (top) Courtesy Whitecliff Vineyard

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Holiday Sips & Sights on the Shawangunk Wine Trail

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HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

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AS I SIT IN MY OFFICE putting this issue to bed, the calendar still says summer, but we are already excited about the holiday season that is fast approaching. Of course, there’s plenty to fill the weekend calendar until then (harvest activities take center stage), but working on our fall holiday-themed issue got me thinking about all there is left to do these last few months of 2022.

What is it about the anticipation of the holiday season that makes us feel so energized? Is it the electricity in the air that sparks our spontaneity? Are we obsessed with packing in as much activity as we can before the diminishing daylight curtails our fun? Is it the frenzy we feel preparing now for the luxury of spending more time with family and friends later? Or are we simply pushed to hurriedly make good on all those resolutions we vowed last January?

In this issue, we put together a few features that will help you ease into this holiday season without springboarding over autumn. While the region is still abuzz hauling in the last crops of the year, on page 12 we look back at why 2020s harvest turned out to be one of the most surprising vintages for our region’s signature grape, Cabernet Franc. Get in on the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition’s Passport program (more on page 14) and use the remaining months of the year to seek out these acclaimed bottles (think ahead to holiday gift giving and entertaining) and be eligible to claim a prize.

In The Hudson Valley’s Sparkling Renaissance on page 6 we explore a trend that’s been bubbling up around the region. Read how winemakers are taking an untraditional approach to producing traditional sparkling wines meant for everyday, as well as for special occasions. The Hudson Valley’s terroir, combined with local winemakers’ thirst for experimentation, gives these gems their distinct qualities. Try them on their own or add a little sparkle to your spirits with the cocktail recipes we tapped from local distillers (page 11).

And while there’s something about fall that feels festive in its own right, it’s a good time to get a head start on your holiday shopping. Turn to page 46 for gift ideas curated for wine and beverage lovers, from limited bottlings by local producers to foodie-worthy subscriptions, gadgets, and accessories—there’s something for everyone on your list. Check out our online events calendar for upcoming holiday markets where you can shop while enjoying a craft beverage at the same time.

If exploring more of the region’s tasting rooms is on your bucket list, we’ve made getting around easier with the latest edition of the Hudson Valley Wine & Craft Beverage Map. Find it in print or download it online and plot a course to visit some of the new wine, beer, cider, mead, and spirits producers that have burst on the scene.

We hope this issue offers you a little insight and inspiration to get energized this season. After all, the holidays will soon be here!

Cheers, Linda Pierro Publisher, Managing Editor @hudsonvalleywinemagazine

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The Hudson Valley’s

Elegant Méthode Champenoise and Bold Pét-Nats Are Transforming the Sparkling Scene

By Kathleen Willcox

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HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

The

pandemic proved something wine lovers have long suspected: there is no bad time to drink sparkling wine. Even during a worldwide crisis, people found plenty of reasons to pop a bottle, perhaps finding that the effervescent bubbles helped buoy their spirits.

Sales of sparkling wine in the U.S. grew 13% in 2021, according to sales data from beverage market analyst Nielsen IQ and online wine sales platform Drizly. That trend is expected to continue, according to an analysis from Allied Market Research, which projects a compound annual growth rate of 7.3%. In 2019, sparkling wine sales were valued at $33.9 billion, but by 2027, they’re expected to reach $51.7 billion. And while sales of sparkling stalwarts like Champagne and Prosecco increased, producers all over the world making every type of bubble at a variety of price points are seeing sales fizz up.

The sparkling wine industry as a whole is evolving quickly to keep up with the public’s considerable thirst. Right here in the Hudson Valley, the incredible diversity of the sparkling wine market is beautifully represented. Arguably it’s one of the most exciting regions with all types on offer, from elegant Champagne styles to fun, casual Pét-Nats.

Read on for insight into the array of delicious sparkling sips that await.

Photo: Benmarl Winery

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

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== The O.G. ==

Brotherhood Winery has been making sparkling wines in the Hudson Valley for decades. When Jesse M. Emerson and his sons Edward and Jesse Jr. purchased the winery in 1886, in addition to expanding the operation and increasing production of table and fortified wines, they began experimenting with Méthode Champenoise wines.

When Prohibition was repealed in 1933, the winery released its cellar of 500,000 bottles of 1915 vintage sparkling wine. Today, the winery produces classic Champagne-style sparklers and Charmat style wines. (See sidebar for descriptions of sparkling wine styles.)

a book on how to make Champagne. Producers can be very protective of their techniques. So there was a lot of trial and error, and we have made every mistake, from having corks fly out too fast, to needing a corkscrew to pop the bottle.”

The current line includes a Blanc de Blanc and a Rosé from estate grapes. This year, a sparkling Gamay Noir will enter the mix. For the first six years, they made 20 cases a year. Now, they’ve steadily risen to 300 cases, and they hope to plump that up this year with the addition of the Gamay Noir release.

“These bottles used to be a hand-sell, but now they sell out because people who love them, really love them,” StanforthMigliore says.

==

From Rarefied to Rustic ==

“We’ve been making Méthode Champenoise wine since 2012,” says Laura Cypress, Benmarl Winery’s winemaker. “But we don’t make it every year, because the vintage has to be right and it requires a lot of time and effort to bottle, re-ferment, and disgorge.”

Because Cypress finds that sparkling wine allows the terroir of the Hudson Valley to shine, and is something their supporters want to see more of, they’ve expanded the line to include Pétillant Naturel wine production.

“We produce four sparkling wines,” says Bob Barrow, Brotherhood’s head winemaker. “Our premium Méthode Champenoise [Grand Monarque Cuvee] is made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grown in the Finger Lakes and Long Island, and sold from our Hudson Valley tasting room.

Our popular ‘B’ sparkling line is more widely available.”

The B Riesling, B Chardonnay, and B Rosé Cuvee (made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir) is priced for everyday consumption, at $15. The B Rosé Cuvee, Barrow says, is their most popular, with about 1,000 cases hitting the market annually, while the others are around 300 to 500 cases. The Méthode Champenoise is available at $45, and the complexity of the production process keeps the output small—around 100 cases.

“We truly make it by hand,” Barrow says.

== Labor of Love == “We started making sparkling wine because we personally love it,” says Yancey Stanforth-Migliore, co-owner of Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery with her husband, Michael Migliore. “We also knew early on that we wanted to use our own estate-grown fruit, so we could truly show what the Hudson Valley is capable of.”

Since 2006, the pair have been building up their labor of love into a cult phenomenon.

“The equipment to make sparkling wine is expensive, and we have been buying it, piece by piece, second-hand,” StanforthMigliore explains. “We really wanted to focus on Méthode Champenoise, but unlike wine production, there’s not really 8

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

“The Pétillant style takes a bit off pressure off and makes sparkling wine more of an everyday wine that we can offer,” Cypress explains. “We don’t disgorge them, which means you

== Terms of Enjoyment == Méthode Champenoise A sparkling wine production method traditionally used in the Champagne region of France, in which the wine goes through a second fermentation in the bottle.

Charmat Method This method entails making wine sparkle by trapping bubbles through carbonation in large steel tanks.

Pétillant Naturel or Pét-Nat A wine method developed in the 1500s in France, in which the “sparkle” comes from one long continuous fermentation in the bottle; often unfined and unfiltered with a bit of leftover sediment.

can see a layer of yeast in the bottom of the bottle, which is responsible for producing the carbon dioxide bubbles. It’s a reminder that wine is a living agricultural product, with its own quirks and natural variations.”

The line of Pét-Nats retail for around $30 and include a rosé of Cabernet Franc and other Bordeaux varieties, a red, which is Malbec-driven with a bit of Frontenac, a “juicy high-acid hybrid that makes the wines really lush,” Cypress says. When the vintage allows, Benmarl produces a Blanc de Blanc and Blanc de Noir. Currently, sparkling wine makes up about 10% of Benmarl’s 10,000 case production, with plans to continue to grow the line.

Méthode Champenoise wines at Clinton from our partnership with Scott Dwyer, a top sparkling wine consultant in Oregon.”

One line offering a Brut Blanc de Blanc and a Rosé will be called Left Bank, and will be made from grapes grown in Oregon under Milea’s direction and produced under their supervision by Dwyer. Another, a tête de cuvée, will include Oregon and New York grapes. [ more ]

FROM VINE TO BOTTLE: (top) Riesling grapes hang on the vine at Nostrano Vineyards in Milton; (below) Benmarl Winery’s sparkling wine on the bottling line.

Photos: Courtesy Nostrano Vineyards and Benmarl Winery

“We’re glad to make classic sparkling wines and ones that are a little more rustic in style, which we hope encourages people to drink bubbles for more than just parties and occasions,” Cypress says.

== Terroir Evangelists ==

“We already produce several sparkling wines, and we’re about to significantly expand that production,” says Milea Estate Vineyard’s general manager, Russell Moss. “We are investing serious capital, labor, and time because we see sparkling wine as the future for Milea and the Hudson Valley.”

Currently, Milea produces two frizzante style wines made in the Charmat method from a blend of estate-grown hybrid and vitis vinifera. The non-vintage Proceedo Rosé and Proceedo White are successful, but Milea aims to grow its 6,000-case annual production by at least 50%, and with the winery’s recent purchase of Clinton Vineyards, Moss is excited to expand and enhance both lines—combined, Moss says, production of sparkling will increase 75%.

“We are relaunching Clinton as a focused sparkling brand,” he explains. “And we are about to introduce several exciting hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

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“We think Ode will be the name, and it represents our ode to America,” Moss explains.

The third will be dubbed Right Bank, and it will include all New York-grown grapes, from the Hudson Valley and Long Island.

“I can’t wait to introduce these wines, and continue to grow the sparkling program,” he says. “To me, it makes sense, especially here. Grapes for sparkling wine always have to be picked early to maintain their freshness and bright flavors, and in the Hudson Valley, that really allows us to cut back on the risk of disease pressure, and allows us to show off both hybrid and vitis vinifera grapes at their very best.”

== What’s Next? ==

The micro-winery Nostrano Vineyards produces close to 250 cases a year, but the winery’s co-owner Kayleigh Bozzo says they are thrilled to be bottling their very first sparkler this year.

“We’ll be using our estate-grown Riesling.” Bozzo says. “We are excited to expand into sparkling, and we’re actually planning to use about half of the harvest this year on a Pét-Nat named after our second daughter, Aria Rae. We’re calling it Arae.”

Grapes for sparkling wine always have to be picked early to maintain their freshness and bright flavors, and in the Hudson Valley, that . . . allows us to show off both hybrid and vitis vinifera grapes at their very best.

—Russell Moss, General Manager Milea Estate Vineyard

Quartz Rock Vineyard is also queuing up a new release.

“We made a bottle-conditioned, lightly filtered Valvin Muscat this year that’s slightly sparkling,” co-proprietor Jacqui Ferrari Heavens says. “And we’re planning to bottle our first sparkling wine too. It’s a blend of Concord, Niagara, and Seyval Blanc.

We’re calling it our Marlboro Mountain blend because we grew the grapes in multiple locations at multiple vineyards up and down the mountain.”

For tastemakers and shopkeepers, the future for Hudson Valley sparkling wine seems very auspicious, and despite the region’s long history of creating a wide variety sparkling wines, it seems much terroir remains to be explored.

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HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

TINY BUBBLES, ELEVATED FLAVOR: Whitecliff Vineyard’s North River line of estate Méthode Champenoise sparkling wines. Photo: Whitecliff Vineyard

Retailers like Paul Brady, owner of Paul Brady Wine in Beacon, would love to carry more Hudson Valley-grown sparkling wine in his shop, especially from growers of labrusca grapes.

“Certain grapes, like Delaware, Catawba, Isabella, and Elvira are well-suited for sparkling production,” Brady says. “And while we have carried many sparkling wines from Hudson Valley wineries, often the wines were produced from grapes from the Finger Lakes, or were blends of multiple regions. They’re labeled New York State, instead of Hudson River Region. I am not against blurring the AVAs, but I also enjoy drinking wines from one place, and I see consumers feeling similarly.”

Paige Flori, co-owner of Boutique Wines, Spirits and Ciders in Fishkill, is also seeing an uptick in interest in locally-produced sparklers at her store.

“Buyers love the Benmarl Cabernet Franc Pétillant,” Flori notes.

“They relate to the fact that the winery is family-owned and operated, and they love this approachable, affordable, quality sparkling wine.”

Personally, she’d love to see more sparkling red wines from the Hudson Valley, but she also has a soft spot for Whitecliff’s Blanc de Blanc. “It’s light, crisp flavor and tiny bubbles are the perfect aperitif,” she says.

There’s always been a lot to celebrate about the Hudson Valley’s terroir. But in bubble form—made in any method, from hybrid, labrusca, or vitis vinifera—it seems like the region may be ready to stride onto the world stage. Luckily for us, producers are still pricing their most rarefied, labor-intensive bottles for a song.

Get out and get ’em while you can! •

==

Sparkling Cocktails ==

For a different take on sparkling wines, we asked some local beverage makers to share their favorite recipes.

Pine Island 75

Friggin’ Delicious

.75 parts American Fruits Sour Cherry Cordial .75 parts lemon juice 2 dash bitters Sparkling wine

1 oz peach puree 1 part dry cider or sparkling wine 1 part classic cider Mint leaves

Combine first four ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice.

Strain and pour into glass. Top with sparkling wine.

Combine puree and liquid ingredients in a cocktail shaker with ice. Strain and pour into glass. Twist a mint leaf and rub along rim of glass, garnish with mint.

WARWICK VALLEY WINERY

HELDERBERG MEADWORKS

Bubbly Bourbon Punch TACONIC DISTILLERY

2 cups Taconic Bourbon 1 bottle Milea Proceedo White wine (or other white sparkling) 1 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 cup cinnamon simple syrup (see below) 1 apple, thinly sliced Cinnamon sticks Cinnamon Simple Syrup: Combine 1 cup white sugar, 1 cup water, 1 cinnamon stick in saucepan. Heat over medium heat until sugar is dissolved.

Remove from heat and cool completely.

Stir together first four ingredients in large punch bowl. Garnish with apple slices and cinnamon sticks. Serve over ice.

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022 11

G R A P E S O F T H E H U D S O N VA L L E Y

Cultivating Cabernet Franc

By Linda Pierro

“The 2020 is the best vintage of Cabernet Franc ever.”

It was a bold statement that may have caught event-goers by surprise, but winemaker

Kristop Brown explained—it was not an exaggeration. The proof was in what Brown was about to pour the tasters gathered around Robibero Winery’s table at the Hudson Valley

Cabernet Franc Coalition’s tasting event last May. Brown brought a sample of the still-in-

process 2020 Cab Franc he had taken right out of the barrel that morning. Curious tasters, anxious to be the first to try new and upcoming releases of the region’s signature grape, wanted to learn more.

W

hen it comes to vintages, Brown should know.

He’s been a hands-on figure in the Hudson Valley’s viticultural scene for decades, and has managed Robibero Winery’s Cabernet Franc production through vintages, optimal or not, from grape to bottle since 2011.

A few months earlier, at a blind tasting of Hudson Valleygrown Cabernet Francs produced by the Coalition’s members, growers, winemakers and winery owners from across the region had come to the same conclusion—the 2020 vintage was one for the record books.

Even samples of unfinished wines thieved from their barrels so members could judge them “blind” showed early signs of the defining characteristics that have come to typify the Hudson Valley’s signature wine—aromatic fruit, balanced acids, smooth tannins, and gem-like hues.

At the late-May event, consumers and members of the trade in attendance sampled about a dozen of those banner Cabernet Franc wines from the 2020 vintage, and lapped them up.

The Year in Review Against the odds, what started out as a potentially damaging growing season led to an extraordinary vintage for many of the region’s growers. Compared to previous years, when adverse weather conditions caused moderate, even severe, losses of tender vines at many vineyards around the Valley, heavy frost damage in late May didn’t pose much of a setback for growers in 2020. Despite Cabernet Franc’s vinifera heritage (it is the parent of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot), in the Hudson Valley the grapes generally muster enough backbone to withstand the region’s challenging microclimates and varied terroir. But coupled with a short growing season that inconsistently ripens the fruit and the unpredictable effects of

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HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

climate events, it’s clear that Mother Nature plays an outsize role in each vintage’s haul.

Typically, the region’s cool, natural terroir can produce the high acid needed to make a wine that can withstand aging, but often there aren’t enough degree days to allow fussier grapes like Cabernet Franc to concentrate the sugars needed to balance out the acidity. In 2020, the late summer and fall conditions brought warm days and average moisture, which allowed the grapes to ripen at an even pace. Growers could let the grapes hang on the vines until early or mid October to soak in as much sun as possible. The wines made from those grapes are proving to be some of the finest the region has ever produced.

Critical Care Eking out a decent harvest in any year doesn’t happen without some cajoling and kid-gloved treatment in the vineyard, though. “We employ ‘high-touch’ farming practices,” says Bruce Tripp, winemaker at Milea Estate Vineyards in Staatsburg. “We also get superior drainage from coarse glacial soils that helps keep the vigor in check, so we end up with fruit that has small berries and thick skins.” In 2020, this high skin-to-juice ratio created a super-concentrated wine packed with powerful aromatics and intense flavor. The wine was awarded a double-gold medal at the 2022 Hudson Valley Wine Competition and named Best Cabernet Franc in New York State by the Great American International Wine Competition.

Seems even wildlife can sense a good vintage. At Benmarl Winery in Marlboro, less than a ton of grapes made it to harvest in 2020, according to general manager Angelo Curci.

Intense critter pressure (deer and insect damage) dramatically reduced the yield, leading winemaker Matthew Spaccarelli to employ creative – and necessary – methods to craft a solid wine.

[ more ]

SEVEN CAB FRANCS FOR FALL Fuel your wanderlust this season and seek out these limited bottles of Cabernet Franc produced by Legacy Members of the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition. Pick up a Passport at one of the wineries and claim a fun prize when you make a purchase at three or more wineries by the end of the year (more details on the following page).

2020 Benmarl Winery Estate Cabernet Franc

Dense, earthy aromas with bright raspberry, dark cherry and graphite notes and a smooth, well-balanced finish.

Eking out a decent Cabernet Franc harvest in any year doesn’t happen without some cajoling and kid-gloved treatment in the vineyard.

2020 Milea Estate Vineyard Cabernet Franc

Elegant with full aromas and refined layers of black plum, raspberry and graphite, dusty tannins and a lingering finish. Awarded Best Cabernet Franc in New York State by the Great American International Wine Competition.

2020 Millbrook Vineyards & Winery Proprietor’s Special Reserve Cabernet Franc

Rich aromas of bramble fruits with black currant and soft black pepper notes, with ripe tannins and smooth, velvety finish.

2020 Quartz Rock Estate Cabernet Franc

Medium-bodied with berry and plum flavors that dance on the palate with notes of earth and smoke on the finish—the first Cab Franc produced under the Quartz Rock brand.

2020 Whitecliff Vineyard Cabernet Franc Olana Estate Vineyard

Whole berry fermentation and 14 months of aging gives this wine its muscular tannins and deep, integrated flavors of red plum, dark cherry, and spice. Pair it with steak and lamb dishes or eggplant parm.

2021 Fjord Estate Unoaked Cabernet Franc

Expressive and savory with bright cherry, graphite and white pepper notes and balanced tannins. Try it slightly chilled.

2018 Robibero Estate Cabernet Franc

Intense and balanced with deep, rich flavors of dark cherry, coffee, and ripe fruit with pepper and spice on the finish.

Limited bottling.

HARVEST ON THE HUDSON: A haul of Cabernet Franc from Whitecliff Vineyard’s Olana vineyard overlooking the Hudson River. Photo: Whitecliff Vineyards

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

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“Over a 15-day fermentation, we punched the juice down twice a day to add air and help extract tannins from the skins,” says Spaccarelli. The wine was sturdy enough to handle softening in an oak puncheon for an extended period of time. Seventeen months later, those efforts yielded just 55 cases of Cabernet Franc wine— and a 90-point rating by Wine Enthusiast.

Nearby, at Quartz Rock Vineyard, co-owner and winemaker Dan Heavens was left with grapes from just one of the clonal varieties of Cabernet Franc they grow on their Nightingale Farm, after heavy critter pressure ravaged the rest. Despite the low yield of surviving grapes (clone 01), Heavens coaxed out the best of the clone’s characteristics, and fashioned a vibrant Cabernet Franc wine with a youthful expression of earth, pepper, and spice.

At Whitecliff’s Olana Vineyard in Hudson, the moderating currents of the Hudson River generally offers their Cabernet Franc vines some protection from dramatic temperature swings and helps thwart off frost. To maximize the intensity of the fruit that thrived on relatively young, well-tended vines until harvest time, winemakers Michael Migliore and Brad Martz treated the grapes to 24 hours of cold-soaking and left the whole berries to ferment rather than crushing them. Aging the wine for 14 months in gently used American and Hungarian oak barrels rounded out the flavors and softened the edges to produce a balanced lush wine. The final product captured a double-gold medal and was named Best in

when there will be another vintage like 2020 for Cabernet Franc.

The awards and accolades that these wines have racked up speak for themselves, but try them for yourself and let your palate be the judge. •

Show at the 2022 Hudson Valley Wine Competition.

VETTING VINTAGES: Robibero Winery’s winemaker Kristop Brown and co-owner Tiffany Robibero share four vintages of estate wines at the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition’s tasting event. Photo: Flint Mine Press

With the uncertainty of climate change and its effects on heat, drought, and other factors in the vineyard, it will be hard to predict

N VAL O S D

Raise a Glass with the Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition! when you visit the Coalition’s Legacy

EY L

HU

A one-of-a-kind tasting experience awaits Members. Pick up a free Passport at one

of the wineries and have it stamped when you purchase a bottle of Cabernet Franc.

Collect three or more stamps to claim

HVCabFranc.com

FJORD VINEYARDS | Milton MILEA ESTATE VINEYARD | Staatsburg MILLBROOK VINEYARDS & WINERY | Millbrook QUARTZ ROCK VINEYARD | Marlboro ROBIBERO WINERY | New Paltz

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HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

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WHITECLIFF VINEYARD | Gardiner | Hudson Visit soon! Passports expire 12/31/22.

ET

HVCabFranc.com

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A

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B

202 2 PA SS PO RT

CA

HUDSON VALLEY ION CABERNET FRANC COALIT

BENMARL WINERY | Marlboro

NC

a prize.

RENSSELAER

PRODUCER PROFILES WINERIES [BY COUNTY] Orange Applewood Winery...............................................................16 Brotherhood Winery.............................................................18 Ulster Baldwin Vineyards................................................................22 Benmarl Winery....................................................................24 Nostrano Vineyards..............................................................26 Quartz Rock Vineyard ..........................................................28 Stoutridge Distillery & Winery...............................................30

Albany Clover Pond Vineyard NEW!.................................................38

DISTILLERIES Harvest Spirits......................................................................40 Taconic Distillery...................................................................42

MEADERY Helderberg Meadworks........................................................44

COLUMBIA

Whitecliff Vineyard................................................................32

Clermont Vineyards & Winery...............................................36

ALBANY

Warwick Valley Winery & Black Dirt Distillery ......................20

Columbia

Dutchess Milea Estate Vineyard...........................................................34

KEY TO TRAILS Hudson-Berkshire Beverage Trail

Capital Craft Beverage Trail

Note About Open Hours The hours listed in the Profiles on the following pages are subject to change.

Call or check the websites for open days and times, or to make a reservation.

Upper Hudson Wine Trail

Hudson Valley Cabernet Franc Coalition

GREENE

Shawangunk Wine Trail

Scan to explore wine and craft beverage makers

DUTCHESS ULSTER

n Mentiofor this adoff 25% of a case wine ) nly (cash o

ORANGE 15

WESTCHESTER

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

APPLEWOOD WINERY Established 1994

A B OUT US

VISIT APPLEWOOD WINERY in the heart of the historic Hudson Valley and discover the oldest working farm in Orange County and one of the oldest farms west of the Hudson River. The Hull family and their friends began planting fruit trees in former pastures in 1949. In 1994, the winery was created and vineyards planted. Remarkably, the vistas from the vineyards today have changed little from the time before George Washington was born.

When Applewood first started making wine they had two goals in mind: To make some really great wines and to have as much fun as possible doing so. Now they want to share their passion for wine and make it an easy, enjoyable experience for you and your friends and family.

When you visit Applewood you get to taste wine right where it comes from. You’ll find plenty of true connoisseurs in Applewood’s tasting room: People who know what they like and don’t need a wine critic’s review to justify it. Novices can learn about the world of wine in a comfortable setting, and even the most jaded imbiber will find a rich and complex tasting experience.

Food is constantly talked about in Applewood’s tasting room, almost as much as their wines. If you love chocolate, Applewood offers a chocolate pairing along with a wine flight that shouldn’t be missed. The Cider Café features applewood-fired pizzas, cheese and charcuterie boards, pretzel bites with Applewood’s own honey mustard dipping sauce, housemade hummus, and more. For cider lovers, Naked Flock features a flight of four, 4-ounce pours. Rotating tap lines feature limited edition and seasonal options, as well as core ciders. The Cider Bar offers pints and growler fills, and cans and bottles are available to purchase to enjoy at home or wherever you are heading this summer!

MEET THE OWNERS AND WINEMAKER Jonathan and Michele Hull are the owners of Applewood Winery. Jonathan grew up on the farm at Applewood and moved to New York City to attend NYU. When he met Michele, his idea of a gourmet meal was takeout. But Michele worked at the famous Windows on The World restaurant, and was wise in the ways of food and wine.

Living in New York City was a great learning experience, but Jonathan yearned to return to his agricultural roots. With his newfound love of wine that Michelle had instilled in him, Jonathan hit on the idea of opening a winery on the family farm. The prodigal son returned home and opened the winery with Michele’s gracious hand guiding the tasting room.

She’s been welcoming guests to the tasting room ever since, and Jonathan has been on the cutting edge of the Craft Beverage movement in Orange County for 20 years.

It gives everyone at Applewood Winery great pleasure to share with you their harvest of wine and cider. Of course, you can just hang out and listen to live music in the courtyard, too.

S AV O R T H I S

16

WHITE

RED

COCKTAILS

SEYVAL CHARDONNAY RESERVE VIDAL RIESLING WAWAYANDA WHITE TRAMINETTE

MERLOT INTERNATIONAL RED BLACKBERRY RUBY’S KISS

SPARKLING RIESLING AND MOSCATO LEMON GINGER SHANDY NAKED ROSÉ MARTINI

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

CIDER

DRY CITRA HOPPED PUMPKIN SMASHED CHERRY MEAD

Traminette is a white hybrid known for its versatility. It’s spicy with floral aromas and notes of lychee, apricot, and honey. Pair it with a Thai Noodle dish with fresh veggies in a spicy peanut sauce made with ginger, honey, soy, rice vinegar and chili garlic oil, and it’s the staff’s favorite pairing of this year (so far)!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT HARVEST TIME AND PUMPKIN CIDER Fall’s signature wine is Harvest Time! Made with a blend of Hudson Valley apples and gently spiced with cinnamon and clove, Harvest Time can be enjoyed chilled, at room temperature, and best of all, served warm on a chilly day. Simply warm a bottle in a stove-top water bath and garnish a glassful with a cinnamon stick. Entertaining friends and family this season? Fill a crockpot with Harvest Time, add Apple Jack, rum, or your favorite whiskey, plus cinnamon, clove, lemon and orange zest. Keep warm for a fabulous cool weather treat. Your home will smell delicious!

Naked Flock’s Pumpkin Cider – another fall favorite – is spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, pasteurized and contains no added sugar. It is semi-sweet with a rich, mellow flavor.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

82 Four Corners Road Warwick, NY 10990

FROM NYS THRUWAY (I-87): Exit 16 Harriman (Woodbury Commons) for NY-17 West to Exit 127 Greycourt Rd. Follow signs to Sugar Loaf then Warwick, Cty. Rt. 13. Three miles past Sugar Loaf, turn right on Four Corners Road, go 1 mile. Travel time: 1 hour from George Washington Bridge.

FROM ALBANY, KINGSTON, NEWBURGH & CONNECTICUT: Take NYS Thruway (I-87) South to Exit 16 Harriman (Woodbury Commons). Then same as above.

OWNERS

845-988-9292

WINEMAKER / CIDER MAKER

WEBSITE

applewoodwinery.com

Jonathan Hull

TASTING FEE

$15 for a flight of 5 wines

TOURS No

HOURS

EVENTS

Mar–Dec Wed–Sun

Sept–Oct

Daily

11am–5pm 11am–5pm

ORANGE

GETTING HERE

Medium (5,000 to 10,000 cases) Jonathan and Michele Hull

PHONE

RESERVE A PRIVATE CABANA Private Cabanas are a great way to enjoy your Applewood experience with an intimate party of two, or a small group of up to eight of your closest friends. You will have a gorgeous view of the lake and hills while sipping a variety of flights, cocktails, wine slushies and more. A dedicated server will make sure you don’t go hungry— pizzas, charcuterie, empanadas and other light bites are available. Reserve in advance to savor this special experience!

PRODUCTION

Free music in the courtyard every Saturday and Sunday, 2–5pm. Cider café open for lunch Saturday and Sunday, 12–4:30pm.

Closed

New Year’s Day,Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

17

BROTHERHOOD, AMERICA’S OLDEST WINERY Established 1839

A B OUT US

BROTHERHOOD REMAINS THE OLDEST WINERY in America, continuously operating from 1839 to today, even throughout Prohibition. The winery began as a small, family-run operation producing wines primarily for sacramental and medicinal purposes. It has survived the Civil War, two World Wars, and Post-Prohibition laws that changed the alcohol industry following the repeal – a true testament to the winery’s deep roots and strength. Despite the dramatic shifts in the American palate that have favored a myriad of wine styles over the decades, the winery has remained responsive to the fluctuations in American preferences.

Brotherhood Winery is one of the largest producers of wine in New York State for both its own production and private label contracting. By purchasing grapes from independent growers, including the Finger Lakes, Long Island, and throughout the State, the winemakers select fruit that best exemplifies the territory from which it was grown to produce a variety of premium and sparkling wines which are readily available in the tri-state region.

The latest improvements at Brotherhood include top-of-the line upgrades to grape presses, aging vessels, bottling machinery, and updates to laboratory facilities. Consistent remodeling efforts made to preserve the historical integrity of the restaurant, tasting hall, gift shop, museum, and catering hall are a priority to accommodate the daily tours and weekly weddings.

In the tasting room, you will find limited edition wines as well as a variety of hard apple ciders and a fresh line of New York wines. The gift shop is a menagerie of accessories, décor, and apparel, great for last-minute presents or hostess gifts. The onsite restaurant, 1839 Restaurant & Bar, serves lunch and dinner that will be sure to satisfy your appetite.

The beautifully renovated Grand Monarque Hall has proven to be the premier place to host a wedding or special event in the Hudson Valley.

MEET THE WINEMAKERS BOB BARROW Bob Barrow, winemaker and head cider maker at Brotherhood, graduated from Virginia Tech in 1998 with a B.S. in Biology and a Chemistry Minor. He worked at Williamsburg Winery in Virginia before starting at Brotherhood in 1999.

A native of Dutchess County, Bob spends his time in the lab and cellars creating Brotherhood’s blends, sparkling wines, and ciders.

KELLY ONG Laboratory Manager Kelly Ong joined the Brotherhood team after graduating with a B.S. in Chemistry from Marist College in 2010. Kelly works on formulating and analyzing wines and ciders, formula approvals, monitoring the fermentation, inventory and production lines, and creating quality control plans.

HALEY SILVERMAN Haley Silverman started at Brotherhood in 2016, after graduating from Stony Brook University with a B.S. in Chemistry and Environmental Studies. Haley divides her time between the laboratory and the production line as a Quality Control Technician, ensuring each product meets the company’s formulation and taste standards.

S AV O R T H I S WHITE

RED

SPARKLING

GEWÜRZTRAMINER #BAE RIESLING RIESLING CHARDONNAY WINE MAKER’S PRIVATE SELECTION RIESLING

NEW YORK RED PINOT NOIR ICON MERLOT ICON CABERNET SAUVIGNON BROTHERHOOD CABERNET SAUVIGNON

B SPARKLING RIESLING B SPARKLING ROSÉ

ROSÉ

DRY ROSÉ #BAE SPARKLING ROSÉ

18

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

SPECIALTY

HOMESTYLE SANGRIA HOLIDAY #BAE WINE SELTZER (BLACK CHERRY, PEACH, PINEAPPLE, WATERMELON)

Brotherhood Winery is the producer behind the #Bae Wines brand – a social wine brand with a line of sweet, tasty, and uncomplicated wines meant to share and enjoy. Launching this summer is their line of #Bae Wine Seltzers in four delicious fruit flavors! Before Anything Else, #Bae Wines is here for you!

Check them out on Instagram @Bae_Wines

IN THE SPOTLIGHT BROTHERHOOD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2021 New York Wine Classic Best Cabernet Sauvignon winner! 2017 vintage. Made from 100% New York Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and barrel aged for a minimum of 12 months. Old-world in style, it has all the typicity of a Cabernet Sauvignon; flavors of ripe berries with a nice tannin structure and a long, soft, smoky finish.

I LOVE NY

As America’s Oldest Winery, Brotherhood is proud of our home state of New York. This great wine captures the true craft of New York using a delicious blend of 100% New York grown and loved grapes with a delicious fruit-forward character.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

100 Brotherhood Plaza Drive Washingtonville, NY 10992

BROTHERHOOD PINOT NOIR

New 2017 vintage release!

Crafted in the style of a true Burgundian Pinot Noir. The 2017 vintage exemplifies bright fruit flavors of cranberry, cherry, and black tea, creating a complex light to medium bodied wine.

845-496-3661

OWNERS

MANAGER

WEBSITE

brotherhood-winery.com

Hernan Donoso, President

WINEMAKERS

Bob Barrow, Kelly Ong, Haley Silverman

TASTING FEE

$15, includes glass

TOURS

Public Tours – check website for updates

Thurs–Sun

Apr–Nov

Tues–Thurs, Sun Fri Sat

Dec

Tues–Thurs, Sun Fri–Sat

11am–5pm 11am–5pm 11am–6pm 11am–7pm 11am–5pm 11am–6pm

ORANGE

EVENTS

Jan–Mar

FROM NYS THRUWAY (I-87): Exit 16 (Harriman) for NY-17 W to Exit 130. Take 208 North to Rt. 94 in Washingtonville. Make a right at the light on Rt. 94 and at the next light make a left on Brotherhood Plaza Drive. Brotherhood is at the end of road on the left.

Large (10,000+ cases) Chadwick and Castro families

PHONE

HOURS

GETTING HERE

PRODUCTION

Visit brotherhood-winery.com for upcoming events.

PICKUP/DELIVERY* – Order online for curbside pickup by appointment.

– Shipping by UPS delivery. *until further notice

Closed

New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, Mondays (except holidays) hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

19

WARWICK VALLEY WINERY & BLACK DIRT DISTILLERY Established 1994

A B OUT US

THE STORY BEGINS IN THE ORCHARD. In 1989, Warwick Valley Winery purchased an orchard and began to learn how to cultivate fruit. Local apple growers and extension agents taught them the basics and contributed to their early success. Their first product, in fact their entire business, started as a result of an abundant apple crop that lead them to experiment with hard cider. They were soon hooked, and their doors opened to the public in the fall of 1994. Years of experimentation and hard work led to the development of their acclaimed Doc’s Draft Hard Apple Cider, made using the finest fruit available.

The passion for creating wines and ciders soon evolved into an idea to begin distilling and to open the first distillery in the Hudson Valley since Prohibition. It was their belief that the fruits grown in the fertile Hudson Valley could be made into the highest quality fruit brandies and liqueurs. In 2001 they developed New York’s first fruit microdistillery. Using the same principle that had brought them success with wine and cider, they created a line of fruit brandies and liqueurs – American Fruits – made to capture and preserve the essence of fruit at its peak ripeness.

Black Dirt Distilling, LLC, was formed in 2012. While Black Dirt Bourbon and Black Dirt Apple Jack were born at the Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery, since 2013 they have been produced in a 4,000-square-foot distillery on a 60-foot column still. The distillery now produces up to 50 barrels a week.

The post-and-beam tasting room at Warwick provides visitors a unique environment to explore many offerings of wines, ciders, brandies and liqueurs. Overlooking a goose pond and the orchards, its bucolic setting is perfect for enjoying some great wine, music and food from their Pané Café, which serves fresh bread, pizzas, sandwiches, and salads all weekend long.

MEET THE WINEMAKER Jason A. Grizzanti is a renowned New York State winemaker, pomologist, viniculturalist, businessman, and the innovator behind the Empire State’s first fruit micro-distillery. Jason is a principal and chief operating officer in charge of production at the Warwick Valley Winery in the Hudson Valley’s picturesque apple capital.

Under Jason’s direction, the facility has garnered critical acclaim and awards for its fruit distillates including an 87 rating from the Beverage Tasting Institute for Grizzanti’s Pear Brandy; a Gold Medal at the New York Wine and Food Classic for his Pear Liqueur; coverage in Forbes Life magazine for the bourbon barrel-aged Apple Liqueur; a Gold Medal-winning Ruby Port; and Best of Show recognition at the Hudson Valley Wine Competition for Jason’s American FruitsTM Sour Cherry Cordial.

S AV O R T H I S WHITE

CIDER

SPIRITS

WARWICK VALLEY WINERY RIESLING

DOC’S SOUR CHERRY & DOC’S HOPPED MIXED (HOPPY CHERRY) DOC’S PEAR

BLACK DIRT NEW YORK RYE BLACK DIRT 4-YEAR BOURBON WARWICK GIN

RED

BLACK DIRT RED

COCKTAILS

BLACK DIRT BOURBON & COLA ON TAP SMOKED OLD FASHIONED

20

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

Black Dirt’s flagship Bourbon notched a Double Gold medal at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits competition.

Sample Black Dirt Bourbon in the tasting room alongside local beer, Doc’s Ciders, and the (in)famous Warwick Valley Winery Sangria.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT GIN PIG

Gin Pig puts his best foot forward with juniper prevailing on the nose and palate followed by a balanced pepper spice and slight sweetness. He finishes warm and smooth with hints of strawberry and rose petals. A true sipping gin, perfect on his own or incorporated into your favorite cocktails.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

114 Little York Road Warwick, New York 10990

PRODUCTION

Large (10,000+ cases)

OWNERS

PHONE

845-258-4858

Joseph Grizzanti, Jason Grizzanti, Jeremy Kidde

WEBSITE

DIRECTOR OF SALES

wvwinery.com blackdirtdistillery.com

Jeremy Kidde

WINEMAKER

Jason Grizzanti

TASTING FEE

$6 includes glass

TOURS

$15 distillery tour

EVENTS

Year-round

GETTING HERE FROM NYC & NJ: Take Rt.17 North into New York State toward Albany (I-87). Get off at Exit 15A, Sloatsburg. Make a left off exit onto Rt. 17. Take Rt.17 north for 7 miles, then make a left onto Rt.17A. Stay on Rt. 17A for approximately 17 miles into Warwick. At the intersection of Rt.17A and Rt. 94 make a left, onto Rt. 94. Proceed on Rt. 94 for 1/4-mile, make a right onto Little York Rd. The winery is 1 mile on the right.

Daily

Closed

11am–6pm

ORANGE

HOURS

Visit wvwinery.com for upcoming events.

New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

21

BALDWIN VINEYARDS Established 1982

A B OUT US

IN 1982, THE BALDWINS purchased a farm which had been the Hardenburgh Estate since 1786. The estate included a stone home and 18,000 square feet of outbuildings situated on 37 acres of prime alluvial farmland.

In the 40 years since, Baldwin Vineyards has garnered awards for their Chardonnay, Merlot, Riesling, Landot Noir, Port, and a dozen other wines, as well as pioneered New York’s entry into the premium fruit wine category.

The Baldwins’ philosophy on fruit wines, which began a trend throughout the entire Northeast, was to vinify fruit wines as premium varietal wines. Instead of making the fruit wines dry, as was the tradition, the Baldwins finished many of their fruit wines so they tasted like the fruit they started from.

Starting with their Strawberry Wine in 1985, they have since added Apple, Blueberry Merlot, and Spiced Apple wines which have also won many awards over the years. Baldwin’s Spiced Apple Wine garnered a Gold Medal and 95/100 points in 2020. Their Strawberry Wine took a Gold at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition. Baldwin’s Apple Wine garnered a Double Gold Medal and Best Fruit Wine at the Finger Lakes International Wine Competition and the Best Fruit Wine in New York State at the New York Food and Wine Classic.

Baldwin Vineyards was named New York State Fruit Winery of the Year at the New York International Wine Competition in 2020 and 2021.

MEET THE WINEMAKERS Celebrating 40 Years!

Pat and Jack Baldwin first opened Baldwin’s doors in 1982. In December 2014 the torch was passed, and the second generation of Baldwin winemakers took the helm.

Pat and Jack’s daughter, Wendy BaldwinLandolina and her husband Alex Landolina studied for many years under the tutelage of their parents. Now they create the same fine crafted wines that the Baldwin family has created for the last 40 years.

Baldwin Winery produces small batches of each of their wines. If you have a favorite, definitely stock up while it is available.

Check the website for events and live music every weekend through October.

S AV O R T H I S WHITE

DRY: CHARDONNAY MIST DI GRECO AUTUMN CRUSH TRAMINETTE CHARDONNAY OAK RESERVE

22

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

SEMI-DRY: ILLUSIONS ROSÉ RED

CABERNET SAUVIGNON EMBERS LEMBERGER

DESSERT

LATE HARVEST RIESLING APPLE WINE STRAWBERRY WINE SPICED APPLE WINE

New York International Wine Competition named Baldwin Vineyards “New York State Fruit Winery of the Year” in 2020 and 2021.

Baldwin’s Apple Wine was awarded a Double

SPECIALTY

Gold Medal, and proclaimed “Best of Show”

WINE SLUSHIES WINE COCKTAILS SANGRIAS

in the prestigious Finger Lakes International Wine Competition!

IN THE SPOTLIGHT NOW HOSTING PRIVATE EVENTS AT THE WINERY

Baldwin Winery is the perfect venue to host small weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and bridal showers, as well as corporate events and fundraisers.

The party room accommodates up to 35 guests, or rent the entire winery and picnic area.

Our winery has a new private space “The Loft”, which is designed as a relaxing area to host private events such as bachelorette parties, birthdays, corporate events, and more.

With uncompromising service, the Baldwin Vineyards’ family will help you create a memorable event customized to your needs.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

176 Hardenburgh Road Pine Bush, NY 12566 845-744-2226

PRODUCTION OWNERS

baldwinvineyards.com

Wendy Baldwin Landolina, Alex Landolina

TASTING FEE

WINEMAKER

HOURS

Alex Landolina

EVENTS

June–Aug Fri–Mon Sat

ULSTER

WEBSITE

$15 for 6 wines Includes tasting glass and crackers

FROM NYS THRUWAY (I-87): Exit 16 (Harriman) for NY-17 W, then continue on NY-17 W to exit 119 for NY-302 N to Pine Bush.

At the first traffic light in Pine Bush, continue through the light onto Maple Avenue. Turn left onto Hardenburg Road. The old stone house and winery will be on the right side. Baldwin Vineyards is on the Orange/Ulster county border in southeastern New York.

No

Small (less than 5,000 cases)

PHONE

GETTING HERE

TOURS

12–5pm 12–8pm

Visit the website for upcoming events.

Sept–Dec Fri–Mon

12–5pm

Closed

Tues–Thurs, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

GPS co-ordinates are -74.293735, and 41.618957. hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

23

BENMARL WINERY Established 1957

A B OUT US

WINE HAS BEEN MADE from the grapes of the Hudson Valley since the 17th century when the French Huguenots grew vines and made wine in New Paltz. Among the young farmers attracted to this burgeoning industry in the early 1800s was Andrew Jackson Caywood who bought and planted a handsome piece of land high above the river in a grape growing community that had begun in 1772. When the community incorporated as the Village of Marlborough, in 1788, a cluster of grapes carved in its seal commemorated its major crop. Caywood became an outstanding viticulturist and leading authority in the development of new grape varieties.

When the Miller family bought the Caywood property in 1957 and renamed it Benmarl, it had outlived all of its early contemporaries to become America’s oldest professional vineyard. The Millers rebuilt its steep terraces, replanting them with European wine grapes, both hybrid and vinifera, carrying on Caywood’s private experimentation at a time when New York’s wine industry was at a low ebb.

In 2006, the Spaccarelli family purchased Benmarl Winery from the Miller family, with the intention of reviving the spirit of Hudson Valley viticulture and the process of wine making. By replanting many of the abandoned vineyards and refurbishing the estate, they have managed to bring a new light to Benmarl, without sacrificing the tradition and history that makes it so special. Along with new plantings of Cabernet Franc, they are pushing the envelope with plantings of Blaufrankish, Saperavi, and Muscat Ottonel.

Benmarl and the Spaccarelli family are dedicated to the renaissance of New York’s first vineyard region. They strive to produce high-quality wines that are enhanced by the regional character which sets them apart from any others in the world.

MEET THE WINEMAKER At Benmarl Winery, the winemaking process has been increasingly focused on the idea of expressing the exceptional historic terroir that the winery sits on.

“The decisions that we make in the cellar are very important,” says Matthew Spaccarelli, the winemaker at Benmarl.

“But not as important as the quality and consistency of the fruit that we grow and purchase.”

The Spaccarelli family has also been looking to the future by refurbishing their existing vineyards and planting new ones. Investment in new temperaturecontrolled tanks, French and American barrels, and a state-of-the-art bottling line, has added to their focus on quality and consistency. But the changing climate offers a new set of challenges for winemakers in the Hudson Valley, as well as a responsibility to produce wines in a more sustainable manner. “The decisions that we make today will inevitably shape the environment we will have to work in down the road,” says Spaccarelli.

S AV O R T H I S WHITE

ROSÉ

RED

2021 STAINLESS STEEL CHARDONNAY

2021 DRY ROSÉ

2020 CABERNET FRANC

2021 PÉTILLANT

2019 PROPRIETORS RESERVE

Benmarl Winery was awarded “Hudson Valley Winery of the Year” at the Hudson

2021 SEMI DRY RIESLING

2020 MALBEC

Valley Wine & Spirits Competition­—two

2021 SEYVAL BLANC

2020 ESTATE CABERNET FRANC

years in a row! A distinguished judging panel awards this honor to the winery whose wines received the highest average score.

24

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

IN THE SPOTLIGHT 2021 DRY ROSÉ

This dry, pale pink blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc has become a staple at Benmarl over the past few years. Balanced, approachable, and extremely food-friendly, this wine is a perfect fit for a multitude of culinary endeavors.

2020 CABERNET FRANC

Earthy with notes of raspberry and cherry.

Lightly oaked with a spicy finish of black pepper and vanilla.

2019 PROPRIETORS RESERVE

This dry red blend of 80% Merlot, 13% Malbec and 7% Cabernet Franc is Benmarl’s richest red wine. Notes of red plum and blackberry, tobacco and dark chocolate.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

156 Highland Avenue Marlboro, NY 12542

PRODUCTION

Large (10,000+ cases)

OWNER

Victor Spaccarelli Jr.

PHONE

845-236-4265

GENERAL MANAGER Angelo Curci

WEBSITE

benmarl.com

ULSTER

WINEMAKERS

Matthew Spaccarelli, Laura Cypress

TASTING FEE $15

TOURS No

GETTING HERE FROM NYS THRUWAY (I-87): Take Exit 17 (Newburgh) then take I-84 East and exit at Rt. 9W Newburgh (just before the Newburgh/ Beacon Bridge); Rt. 9W North about 4.5 miles, then turn left on Conway Rd., keep to the right.

The Benmarl entrance is one mile on the right.

FROM ORANGE COUNTY & PA: Rt. 9W Newburgh (just before the Newburgh/ Beacon Bridge); Route 9W north about 4.5 miles, then turn left on Conway Rd., keep to the right. The Benmarl entrance is one mile on the right.

FROM PUTNAM COUNTY & CT: Take I-84 West and cross the Newburgh/ Beacon Bridge; Route 9W North about 4.5 miles, then turn left on Conway Rd; keep to the right. The Benmarl entrance is are one mile on the right.

Buses please call in advance.

EVENTS

HOURS Jan–Mar Daily

Apr–Oct

Sun–Thurs Fri–Sat

Nov–Dec

Daily

11am–6pm

Visit the website for upcoming events.

11am–6pm 11am–8pm 11am–6pm

Closed

New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

25

NOSTRANO VINEYARDS Established 2010

A B OUT US

NOSTRANO VINEYARDS is a family-owned and operated 75-acre farm, vineyard, and winery in Milton, NY. Although Nostrano Vineyards was established in 2010, winemaker Nic Bozzo’s family has been growing grapes, apples, and other fruits on the farm since 1943. Nic himself grew up on the farm and is the fourth generation in his family to carry on the fruit growing tradition on this piece of land.

Even in the early days of the farm, the family made some wine for themselves using their own grapes, but it wasn’t until Nic studied landscape design in New Zealand that he began to envision creating a vineyard back home. Today, Nostrano grows ten acres of wine grapes, three acres of seedless table grapes, and six apple varietals that are original to the property.

Although Nic prefers not to put suggestions into tasters’ heads of what flavors they should be picking up on when they enjoy his wines, he can’t help but notice how his farm’s legacy of fruit production reveals itself in the bottles. “Maybe it’s just my memories, but the grapes that come from where we had peaches planted for years, I’m always catching a hint of peaches from the Rieslings we make from those grapes,” he said. “With the Cab Franc, I’m tasting the black cherries and red currants that were there. So I’m taking some of the past and putting it towards the future to tell the story of how a farm changes over time.”

Nic and his wife Kayleigh, who is the tasting room and events manager, run the dayto-day operation at Nostrano Vineyards and reside on the property with their family.

The Tasting Room sits atop a picturesque hill overlooking a serene farm and vineyard vista. Visitors can enjoy estate wines, local cheese and charcuterie boards, and regular live music indoors at a rustic chic tasting bar or al fresco taking in the beautiful Hudson Valley scenery.

Nostrano Vineyards operates a seasonal wedding venue on-site offering a truly unique and personalized experience with complete privacy in Hudson Valley’s wine country.

MEET THE WINEMAKER NICOLAS BOZZO

Nic is Nostrano Vineyard’s proprietor, grape grower, and resident winemaker. He completed his B.L.A. from SUNY ESF at Syracuse University and studied Winery Design & Eco-Agriculture tourism in New Zealand. “When I was studying landscape architecture, I realized that it pertained to pretty much every aspect of your life,” he said. “Everywhere you look, it’s landscape architecture.” Nic’s case study for school involved designing vineyards, which meant studying everything from how wine is made, to how the driveway into the winery needs to have different focal points.

With his interest in sustainability and land management, Nic has been utilizing his knowledge to design and establish the vineyard and boutique winery, joking that the vineyard now doubles as his giant landscape architecture project to work on for the rest of his life. When Nic isn’t in the production warehouse you can find him pruning grape vines, operating heavy equipment, or handcrafting reclaimed wood furniture for the farm and vineyard.

S AV O R T H I S WHITE

2021 ESTATE SEMI-SWEET RIESLING 2021 ESTATE DRY RIESLING

PHOTOS: Alex Healy Photo

26

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

ROSÉ

RED

2021 AVA ROSÉ

2020 ESTATE PINOT NOIR 2021 ESTATE PINOT NOIR (COMING SOON) 2020 ESTATE BACO NOIR 2021 ESTATE BACO NOIR (COMING SOON) 2018 RUSTIC RED BLEND

Nostrano Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir was planted in a unique microclimate located in front of the original family homestead on a south-facing slope. With protection from the mountain and full sunlight throughout the growing season the fruit offers vibrant floral notes and a delicate yet sophisticated finish.

A true expression of the Hudson River region and terroir.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT RUSTIC RED

Rustic Red — a full-bodied Bordeaux blend of the last of Nostrano Vineyards Cabernet Franc (the signature grape of the Hudson Valley!), Merlot and Syrah, with a juicy mouthfeel, spicy, fruity overtones, and a dry finish. It’s the perfect drink-now blend or cellar for later.

THE ESSENTIALS ARAE — COMING IN 2023!

Look for the premier release of Nostrano Vineyards Pétillant Naturel produced from estate-grown Riesling early next year.

PRODUCTION

ADDRESS

Small (less than 5,000 cases)

14 Gala Lane Milton, NY 12547

OWNERS

Nicolas and Kayleigh Bozzo

PHONE

845-795-5473

TASTING ROOM MANAGER

WEBSITE

$10

WINEMAKER

PET FRIENDLY

Nicolas J Bozzo

HOURS

EVENTS

Yes

Feb–Mar

Visit the website for upcoming events.

Apr–Dec

RESERVATIONS RECOMMENDED

Sat–Sun

FROM THE NYS THRUWAY (I-87): Exit 17 (Newburgh). Take I-84 East to Exit 39B. Turn left onto 9W North. Drive 12 miles to the town of Milton. Turn left onto Milton Turnpike (CR-10).

After 2.2 miles turn left onto Lattintown Road (CR-11). Continue 0.1. miles, then turn right onto Gala Lane (private road).

EVENT MANAGER

Kourtney Cassalina

TASTING FEE

GETTING HERE

Kayleigh Bozzo

ULSTER

nostranovineyards.com

Thurs Fri Sat–Sun

Closed

11am–5pm 12–7pm 12–8pm 11am–5pm

Exploretock.com/nostranovineyards

January, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

27

QUARTZ ROCK VINEYARD Established 2004; New Ownership 2020; New Name 2022

A B OUT US

QUARTZ ROCK VINEYARD produces high-quality estate wine and serves it in a beautiful, welcoming environment—high on a mountain with spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson Valley from every table. One hundred percent of the fruit used in Quartz Rock wines is grown on the property, on their newly renamed Nightingale Farm.

Quartz Rock’s mission is to conduct their work with kindness and respect for the land, their team and communities, and each other. They give their customers the opportunity to enjoy the fruits of the land while basking in its beauty.

It has been nearly three years since Dan and Jacqui Heavens purchased the farm and winery, and in that time they have worked to continue the tradition of high quality farming and winemaking while making changes to express their individual dreams. One important step was a name change to Quartz Rock Vineyard to solidify the brand and its core mission and values.

The vibe at Quartz Rock is easy-going and friendly, but the team is hard-working and knowledgeable without being pretentious. To complement their wine, a visit to the winery can include live music, a variety of pop-up food options, classes, and shows—most recently a fire dance performance and world-record sword balancing act. In 2021 Quartz Rock won “Winery of the Year” from the Hudson Valley Wine and Spirits Competition.

Doing good in the world is at the heart of Quartz Rock Vineyard’s identity. In the last two years, they have held fundraisers and events to support LGBTQ+ school-aged kids and teens, mental and physical healthcare and housing for US Military Veterans, the 9/11 families fund, and victims and survivors of domestic violence. They have donated thousands of pounds of fruit to food pantries in Ulster, Orange, and Westchester counties, and made numerous other donations to local organizations.

MEET THE OWNERS DAN HEAVENS AND JACQUI FERRARI HEAVENS

Dan and Jacqui are not your typical vineyard proprietors—both are under forty without a family history in wine.

Dan grew up on a small family farm in Connecticut, and Jacqui in the Bronx and lower Westchester.

Dan and Jacqui’s goal at Quartz Rock is to produce outstanding wines while staying true to their core values of compassion, dedication, and innovation.

They use these values to inform every decision they make.

The couple is grateful to have family who encourage and help them, and they have surrounded themselves with talented, exceptional workers on the farm and at the winery. They are appreciative of everyone on their team.

S AV O R T H I S WHITE

RED

DESSERT

ESTATE CHARDONNAY VIDAL BLANC 2021

ESTATE CABERNET FRANC 2020 ESTATE CHAMBOURCIN 2017 ESTATE NOIRET 2021

ESTATE BLACK CURRANT WINE 2021 ESTATE CABERNET FRANC ICED WINE 2021

BERRIES & GRAPES STRAWBERRY MELODY VIDAL 2021

28

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

ESTATE ICE CIDER 2020

Guided Tasting Experiences! To give you a welcoming, knowledgeable experience with a personal connection, Quartz Rock Vineyard exclusively serves guided tastings instead of flights. Your server will guide you through a tasting by individually pouring and discussing each of the wines with you, and will be there to answer any of your questions.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT ICED WINES

Quartz Rock is excited to be debuting two iced wines this year: Cabernet Franc Iced Wine 2021, and Chambourcin Vidal Iced Wine 2021.

These wines are special because freezing prior to fermentation concentrates the sugars and creates a lush texture and intense flavor. At the time of this writing, both iced wines are still fermenting, but they are progressing beautifully, and will be ready to release in the coming months.

Heavens Ice Cider 2020, which is made using a similar process but with apples, won Best Dessert Wine at the Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

40 Mountain Road Marlboro, NY 12542

PRODUCTION

Small (less than 5,000 cases)

OWNERS

Daniel Heavens, Jacqui Ferrari Heavens

PHONE

845-236-3265

MANAGERS

WEBSITE

quartzrockvineyard.com

WINEMAKERS

ULSTER

TASTING FEE

Daniel Heavens, Jacqui Ferrari Heavens Daniel Heavens, Jacqueline Ferrari Heavens; Megan Lamb (Assistant Winemaker); Kevin Lockhart (Farm Foreman)

$20–$25

PET FRIENDLY Yes

TOURS

Fees vary

HOURS

EVENTS

Sept–Dec

GETTING HERE FROM THE NYS THRUWAY (I-87): Exit 17 (Newburgh). Take I-84 East to Exit 39. Turn left onto 9W North. Drive 7 miles to the village of Marlboro. Turn left onto County Route 14. Drive 1.5 miles to the stop sign, and turn right onto County Route 11. Drive one mile and turn left onto Reservoir Road. Drive one mile and turn right onto Mountain Road. Winery will be on the left.

Fri Sat Sun

1:30–7pm 12–7pm 12–5:30pm

Holiday Mondays 12–5pm

Sept 24 Fire Spinning Performance

by Pyro Department Visit website for tickets and information on other events

Jan–Mar Sat–Sun

12–5pm

Closed

New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

29

STOUTRIDGE DISTILLERY & WINERY Established 2000

A B OUT US

STOUTRIDGE DISTILLERY & WINERY is a bold leader in high-quality, small-batch spirits and natural wines in the Hudson Valley. They believe in the power of science, art, and local agriculture and are driven by a desire to challenge the status quo. It is their belief that good things take time. The decisions they make work with nature rather than against it. For Stoutridge, details are everything. All of the work from grain and fruit to glass is done onsite, and the majority of ingredients come from the Hudson Valley.

Stoutridge offers a wide range of products that inspire guests to be adventurous.

Their process uses a mixture of tradition, innovation, discovery, and sustainability to form uniquely rich and complex flavors. For over twenty years, Stoutridge has been devoted to using the best practices for their products and the planet. They have invested in technology that conserves energy and reduces their environmental impact, and are mindful in everything they do. Guests can explore a wide range of innovative flavors and distinct creations during a trip to the tasting room.

To visit the distillery and winery is to experience the care and time that has been spent to create Stoutridge—from the restoration of the old farmhouse, vineyard, and winery to the inception of the remarkable distillery. A walk outside will highlight the exceptional grounds that include native plants and a restored local ecosystem.

Everything that you see has been meticulously chosen for its long-term contribution to the environment. Stoutridge is proud to have been recognized as an Ulster County Certified Green Business for their efforts.

The park-like grounds are a wonderful place to spend an afternoon and escape the everyday world. Pack a lunch, take a drive, and relax at a picnic table near the pond where you can watch nature while enjoying a bottle of wine. Or enjoy a craft beverage under a tree with a good book. Pets on leashes are welcome to come along. We invite you to visit and experience a flavor adventure.

MEET THE WINEMAKER & DISTILLER Stoutridge subscribes to the Natural Wine philosophy of winemaking using a gravity winemaking approach and no chemical interventions. This philosophy focuses on mastering techniques that help fermentation flavors come to the forefront of the wine, rather than techniques that bring a wine to the marketplace faster.

The distillery is primarily focused on making world-class single malt and blended whiskies using malt from Stoutridge’s malt house; and Genever-style gins from their own grain mashes and botanical recipes. Stoutridge also makes rye whiskey, which is a New York specialty, and various brandies from locallygrown fruit. They produce delightful vodkas, grain-based and grape-based, as a by-product of whiskey and brandy productions, and from these vodkas they make various gins. Recently, Stoutridge launched an innovative portfolio of liqueurs and absinthes.

S AV O R T H I S WHITE

RED

SEYVAL/RIESLING RIDGE WHITE

CABERNET FRANC/NOIRET FRONTENAC

ROSÉ

SPIRITS

RIDGE ROSÉ

ABSINTHE PRELUDE SINGLE MALT INCOGNITO BRANDY

LEMON OF IZMIR ARTEMIS LIQUEUR NY STRAIGHT BOURBON TWELVE TURTLES RYE

Absinthe Prelude was awarded Double Gold, Best of Category, and Best Specialty Spirit at the American Distilling Institute’s (ADI) 2022 Craft Spirit competition.

30

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

IN THE SPOTLIGHT CERTIFIED GREEN

Stoutridge is proud to be recognized as an Ulster County Certified Green Business!

INCOGNITO BRANDY

Compare to your favorite Cognac. Double “direct fired pot” distilled from local grapes.

MASTIC

Stoutridge has created several different mastic-based liqueurs each with a unique botanical composition and flavor complexity.

ORIGEN LIQUEUR

This cinnamon, myrrh, and chamomile liqueur is intense and beautiful.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

SOUTHERN ULSTER SINGLE MALT

Using barley malted on-site, this whiskey was aged two years in Pinot Noir wine barrels and finished an additional year in used Scotch whiskey barrels.

This three-year-old whiskey is bursting with flavors of toffee, butterscotch, apricot, and vanilla bean.

PHONE

845-236-7620

WEBSITE

stoutridge.com

TASTING FEE

$20–$50 (see website for details)

PRODUCTION

Small (less than 5,000 cases)

OWNERS

Stephen Osborn and Kim Wagner

WINEMAKER

Stephen Osborn

DISTILLERS

ULSTER

WAGNER’S NY STRAIGHT BOURBON

10 Ann Kaley Lane Marlboro, NY 12542

Stephen Osborn and Kim Wagner

PET FRIENDLY Yes

RyEMPIRE 100 PROOF

This Empire Rye is aged 30 months in Hudson Valley oak and then solera aged in a 5,000-liter Barolo wine cask from Italy.

GETTING HERE FROM NYS THRUWAY (I-87 N): Exit 17 (Newburgh) for I-84/NY-300. Continue on I-84 East to Exit 39 for US 9W/NY-32S (just before the Newburgh/Beacon Bridge). Continue on US 9W North for 7 miles to the village of Marlboro.

Turn left onto Co Rd 14A (Western Avenue). In 0.3 miles turn right onto Prospect Street and make the first left onto Ann Kaley Lane. Proceed to the parking lot at the end of the road.

HOURS

PICKUP/DELIVERY*

July–Aug

– Call 845-236-7620 to place an order for curbside pickup

Mon–Wed Thurs–Sun

12–5pm 11am–6pm Sept–Jun Thurs–Sun 11am–6pm

Closed

Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

EVENTS For a complete listing of events visit stoutridge.com.

TASTINGS* – Reservations strongly recommended – Walk-ins accommodated as space allows *until further notice

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

31

WHITECLIFF VINEYARD Established 1998

A B OUT US

HAILED AS “ONE OF THE VALLEY’S most ambitious wineries,” Whitecliff takes pride in being part of a vanguard of innovators who have added European wine grapes, highquality new hybrids, and complex European-style wines to the Valley’s traditional focus on fruit wines and sweet wines. Their 30+ years of experimenting in both the vineyard and the wine cellar have shaped a winery with deep roots in the region’s traditions, producing wines that offer variety, depth, and serious fun.

After 20 years of running a tasting room that features close to 40 different wines—all fermented, blended, and bottled at Whitecliff, many from their own estate-grown grapes —Whitecliff has learned that taste is thoroughly personal, and that the quality of their hospitality is almost as important to your experience as the quality of their wine. Over the years, Whitecliff has brought many new wines into production to satisfy the broadranging tastes of their visitors, and they love to hear people exclaim, “Wow, I like them all!” They are especially proud of their lively, intelligent staff, well-trained in wine but friendly and welcoming by nature. All of this has led to Whitecliff being hailed by the local press recently as the “Best Winery in the Hudson Valley.”

The truest measure of wine quality at Whitecliff is the fact that they were able to bring a truly prestigious award home to the Hudson Valley from the San Francisco International Wine Competition, where their Riesling won “Best White Wine in Show.”

That means they beat 1,290 wines from 27 countries and 28 states, in a blind judging by 45 respected judges. This was a victory not only for Whitecliff, but for the whole region, as it closes the discussion as to whether the Hudson Valley’s local wines can compete on the world stage!

Regional, authentic, and artisanal, Whitecliff reflects everything that is unique about the beautiful Hudson Valley.

MEET THE OWNERS AND WINEMAKERS Husband and wife team Michael Migliore and Yancey Stanforth-Migliore have created Whitecliff over the past 30 years, doing much of the work with their own hands.

As executive winemaker and vineyard manager, and with a Masters in Chemistry from SUNY New Paltz, Michael Migliore applied his background in science to teaching himself the chemistry and art of winemaking. He works closely with Cornell Cooperative Extension and also serves as president of the Hudson Valley Wine and Grape Growers Association.

Yancey Stanforth-Migliore oversees sales and marketing, taking inspiration from her previous work as fundraiser for Scenic Hudson.

Brad Martz joined Whitecliff as a volunteer on the 2010 harvest, and brought so much focus, energy, and intelligence to the cellar work that they are now proud to have him as their full-time winemaker. His work brings international awards and interesting new wines to Whitecliff with every vintage.

S AV O R T H I S WHITE

ROSÉ

ESTATE ROSÉ OF PINOT NOIR

SYRAH TWO CABS

Stop by Whitecliff for Twilight Fridays! Every

AWOSTING WHITE CHARDONNAY RESERVE CHARDONNAY DRY RIESLING

RED

SPARKLING

is open till 7pm and offers a special wine

ESTATE CABERNET FRANC ESTATE RESERVE GAMAY NOIR ESTATE PINOT NOIR MERLOT MALBEC SKY ISLAND

ESTATE NORTH RIVER BLANC DE BLANC

cocktail. There is no better way to kick off

PHOTOS: Rima Brindamour; Tom Ligamari (top right)

32

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

DESSERT

ESTATE BOURBON BARREL BLONDE 2016

Friday from June into October, Whitecliff

your weekend than with the beauty and peace of a glass of Whitecliff wine and their spectacular view.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT HUDSON TASTING ROOM OPENS!

This June, Whitecliff opened a second tasting room! The site, just outside the city of Hudson, is dramatic: immediately adjoining the Rip Van Winkle Bridge, below 19th-century artist Frederick Church’s historic home, Olana, with a panoramic view of the Hudson River and the Catskills beyond, and directly located on the new Hudson River Skywalk.

The property is an ideal location for grape growing, since the River moderates temperature extremes by serving as a heat sink—and steep slopes allow cold air to drop down off the fields and the warm air to rise up from the water below. There are 10 gorgeous acres of grapes planted, including Cabernet Franc, Gamay Noir, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and the Hudson Valley’s first experimental Syrah.

The location is ideal for wine tasting: beautiful, peaceful, and surrounded by vineyard. Make it a must visit this fall!

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

331 McKinstry Road Gardiner, NY 12525 Hudson Tasting Room: 4150 Route 23, Hudson NY 12534

PHONE

845-255-4613; 838-209-9248 (Hudson) whitecliffwine.com

Medium (5,000 to 10,000 cases)

OWNERS / MANAGERS

Michael Migliore, Yancey Stanforth-Migliore and Tristan Migliore Christine Ascolese, Assistant Tasting Room Manager

ULSTER

WEBSITE

PRODUCTION

WINEMAKERS

Brad Martz and Michael Migliore

TASTING FEE

Various flights: $14–$18, with glass Gold Tasting: $50 for seated tasting of 8 wines, winery visit, cheese plate, souvenir glass

HOURS

EVENTS

Gardiner: Jun–Oct Mon–Thurs, Sun Fri Sat

GETTING HERE FROM THE NYS THRUWAY (RT. 87): Exit 18, New Paltz. Turn left onto Route 299.

Drive through the town, across the Wallkill River and bear left onto County Route 7 at the fork after Wallkill View Farm. Stay on Route 7 for 7.9 miles and turn left onto Route 7A, McKinstry Road. Whitecliff is 0.8 miles along on the right.

11:30am–5:30pm 11:30am–7pm 11am–6pm

Hudson: Jun–Oct Thurs–Sun

Closed

12–5pm

New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

Check the website for upcoming events.

TASTINGS – Plenty of outdoor tables with spectacular views to enjoy tastings, snacks and artisanal Hudson Valley cheese plates, and wine by the glass.

– Indoor seating available for reservations and inclement weather.

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

33

MILEA ESTATE VINEYARD Established 2015

A B OUT US

THE 98-ACRE MILEA ESTATE VINEYARD is a very successful winery in the historic Hudson River Region, dedicated to capturing the unique, natural environmental benefits of soil, climate, and sunlight to produce outstanding, award-winning wines. Located in one of the oldest wine-growing regions in the entire country, Milea Estate Vineyard is in the heart of the fertile Hudson Valley, 80 miles north of New York City, nestled among beautiful rolling hills and surrounded by beautiful streams, horse pastures, dairies, and orchards. It is at the very center of the nation’s most exciting, diverse and up-andcoming farm-to-table movement.

The Milea Estate Vineyard’s winemaking approach is firmly grounded in Old World traditions, using estate-grown or locally-sourced varietals that thrive in the area’s unique soil and climate conditions. The topography of the Hudson Valley is perfectly suited for fruit production, with the first vineyards in the region dating back to 1677. What does all of this mean for Milea Estate Vineyard? From its first crush in 2015 that resulted in award-winning wines, the vineyard has maintained its high wine-making standards, continuing to produce extraordinary varietals that are continuously growing in popularity with wine connoisseurs. They are committed to crafting the finest Bordeaux influenced wines in New York State.

Milea Estate Vineyard consistently produces fresh, clean, crisp and balanced wines that pair elegantly with all types of food and appeal to everyone’s taste. In 2019, Milea Estate Vineyard opened its elegant tasting room with spectacular views of the vineyard and surrounding countryside. The tasting room is open to visitors Wednesday through Sunday. There is also a magnificent event space, which can be used by wine lovers to host tasting parties.

Milea Estate Vineyard is proud of the awards won at the New York State Wine Classic and the Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition, as well as its selection by the Culinary Institute of America as the wine of choice for Hyde Park events.

MEET THE OWNERS In 1984, Barry Milea and his father purchased part of the Rymph Family Farm, a property that Barry fell in love with, and dreamed of returning it to its farming origins.

In the summer of 2015, Barry Milea, Ed Evans, and Bruce Tripp formed Milea Estate Vineyard. Their focus was to produce quality wines from fruit grown in the Hudson River Region. Barry added adjoining land to the property in 2016, culminating in a 98-acre estate with some of the best soil and most beautiful landscapes in the country, perfect for the Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Riesling, and other wines that the vineyard now produces.

The Hudson River Region is not only one of the oldest grape-growing regions in the U.S., but is also the place that Barry, Ed, and Bruce call home. Bruce and Ed are responsible for planting, harvesting, and producing the exquisite wines that Milea Estate Vineyard offers, while Barry focuses on the business side, ensuring Milea Estate Vineyard’s growth and prosperity in the market.

S AV O R T H I S

34

WHITE

ROSÉ

SPARKLING

2021 TRAMINETTE 2021 GRÜNER VELTLINER 2021 RIESLING 2020 RESERVE CHARDONNAY

2021 ROSÉ

PROCEEDO

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

RED

2020 CABERNET FRANC 2020 BLÄUFRANKISCH 2018 MERLOT

Milea Estate Vineyard’s 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon brims with aromas of black cherry, tobacco leaf, and allspice. An elegant tension and long finish leaves you wanting another taste.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT NAMED BEST WINERY IN THE HUDSON VALLEY!

Milea Estate Vineyard was recently named Best Winery in the Hudson Valley, and has won numerous other prestigious awards for its wines: 2022 Best Chardonnay in New York State New York Wine Classic 2022 Best Winery in the Hudson Valley Best of Hudson Valley Magazine 2022 Best Cabernet Franc in New York Great American International Wine Competition 2022 Best Gin in New York State Denver International Spirits Competition 2021 Best Rosé Winery in the Hudson Valley Best of Hudson Valley Magazine 2021 Best Cabernet Sauvignon Winery in New York State New York International Wine Competition

DUTCHESS

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

450 Hollow Road Staatsburg, NY 12580 845-266-0384

OWNERS

GENERAL MANAGER

WEBSITE

MileaEstateVineyard.com

Russell Moss

MANAGER

Ed Evans

TASTING FEE $20-26

WINEMAKER

TOURS

Private Tasting & Tours:

By Request

HOURS

FROM TACONIC STATE PARKWAY: Take Salt Point Turnpike (NY-115) towards Poughkeepsie. Drive .6 miles and turn right onto Hollow Road (CR-14). Continue for 5.4 miles.

Milea Estate Vineyard is on the left.

FROM ROUTE NY-9G: Exit Hollow Road (CR-14) East. Continue 2.3 miles. Milea Estate Vineyard will be on the right.

Small (less than 5,000 cases) Barry Milea, Bruce Tripp, Ed Evans

PHONE

GETTING HERE

PRODUCTION

Bruce Tripp

EVENTS

Year-round

Check the website for upcoming events.

Closed

PICKUP/DELIVERY*

Wed–Thurs Fri–Sat Sun

12–5pm 12–7pm 12–5pm

New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

Open for pickup on days and hours listed at left. *until further notice

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

35

CLERMONT VINEYARDS & WINERY Established 2009

A B OUT US

SINCE ITS GRAND OPENING in 2014, Clermont Vineyards & Winery has established itself as a staple on the Hudson Valley wine trail. Situated in the beautiful and historic town of Clermont, NY, the winery is housed in a 125-year-old former dairy barn, less than a mile from the Hudson River and the historic Clermont State Park. In 2004 owners (and cousins) Tony Trigo and Vasco Meireles planted 4,000 vines on the site, which boasts dramatic views of the Catskill Mountains.

Patrons are often greeted by Clermont’s welcoming staff, and led to either the expansive tasting room or one of the two large outdoor seating areas to sample their awardwinning wines.

Clermont Vineyards produces award-winning wines in the traditional Portuguese fashion using several grape varieties grown on location. In the first year of operation as a winery, Clermont Vineyards received several medals for their wines, and they continue to win awards with each new vintage.

Clermont Vineyards offers several white varietals including Aurore, Chardonnay, Seyval, and Vidal Blanc. Their reds include Cabernet Franc, Corot Noir, Lemberger, Marquette, Noiret, and a few other French-American hybrid red grape wines, all of which are 100% grown on-site. Clermont Vineyards is also home to the first Arandell wine in New York State. In 2015, Clermont’s Cabernet Franc took home top honors, receiving the Gold Medal at the Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition.

MEET THE WINEMAKERS Tony Trigo and his cousin and partner Vasco Meireles are heavy construction experts. Tony majored in civil engineering and minored in geology. He is a trained land surveyor and structural steel erection inspector with a career that spanned 38 years. In 2008, he retired as Senior Construction Safety Engineer from The Port Authority of NY & NJ. Vasco continues to work for a construction company in New York. While most of the planning at Clermont is handled by Tony, Vasco has proven himself to be a great winemaker, always looking for ways to improve the winemaking process—the old-fashioned way.

Tony’s and Vasco’s cousin Frederico Meireles is a trained enologist in Portugal.

His wines are vinted from grapes from the Douro Valley, best known for their Port wines. Three wines imported from the family’s winery – Grambeira Red, Grambeira White and Val Pedro – are available in the tasting room.

S AV O R T H I S

36

WHITE

RED

SWEET

AURORE CHARDONNAY CHARDONEL GRAMBEIRA WHITE RIESLING SEYVAL BLANC VIDAL BLANC

ARANDELL CABERNET FRANC GRAMBEIRA RED LEMBERGER MARQUETTE NOIRET VAL PEDRO

ROSÉ

DESSERT

VASCO’S ROSÉ

TONY’S JEROPIGA

AURORE CHARDONEL RIESLING ROSÉ SEYVAL BLANC VIDAL BLANC BACO NOIR COROT NOIR MARÉCHAL FOCH NOIRET

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

Take advantage of the beautiful 15-acre site by enjoying a homemade picnic or grabbing a bite from a neighboring business, like “Cue 2 Go” directly across from the winery on County Route 6. Enjoy the views with a glass of Clermont wine, and watch the beautiful sunsets from the winery’s expansive deck.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT NOW AVAILABLE IN BROOKLYN!

A selection of Clermont Vineyards wines can be found at Bond St. Wines in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn.

CABERNET FRANC

COLUMBIA

This wine received a Gold Medal in the Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition, and sells out quickly.

MARQUETTE

One of Clermont’s top-selling red wines, and a Bronze Medal winner at the Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition.

TONY’S JEROPIGA

A Portuguese dessert wine made from late harvest Vidal grapes grown on the estate, and a Bronze Medalist.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

241 County Route 6 Germantown, NY 12526

PHONE

845-663-6611

WEBSITE

ClermontVineyards.com

TASTING FEE $8–$10

TOURS

When possible

GETTING HERE FROM NYS THRUWAY (RT. 87): Take Exit 19 (Kingston), then take Route 209/199 over the Kingston-Rhinecliff Bridge to Route 9G. Turn left onto Route 9G, drive north 8 miles, turn right to County Route 6 (East). Look for the Red Barns at the top of the hill.

FROM THE TACONIC STATE PARKWAY: Take the Red Hook/Route 199 exit, drive west on Route 199 through the village of Red Hook to Route 9G. Turn right onto Route 9G, drive north 5 miles, turn right to County Route 6 (East). Look for the Red Barns at the top of the hill.

PRODUCTION

Small (less than 5,000 cases)

OWNERS

The Trigo and Meireles Families

MANAGER

Tony Trigo

TASTING ROOM MANAGER Albert Trigo

WINEMAKERS

Tony Trigo, Vasco Meireles, Federico Meireles

HOURS

EVENTS

Apr–Dec Fri–Sat 12–6pm Sun 12–5pm

Check the website for upcoming events.

Closed

January–March, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

37

CLOVER POND VINEYARD Established 2014

A B OUT US

CLOVER POND VINEYARD is a family-owned and operated estate vineyard that grows, produces and bottles all of their wines. The farm is comprised of 100 acres of vines, fields, and rolling hills with a view of the Helderberg mountains. Since 2014 Clover Pond Vineyard has cultivated just over nine thousand vines on sixteen acres of vineyard.

How did the vineyard get started? Joyce and Jim grew up in Guilderland, NY, and after moving back a few years ago were looking for something to do. Joyce has a green thumb and can grow anything, and Jim likes to buy tractors, so growing a vineyard on their 100-acre farm seemed like a perfectly sensible idea. The name 100 Acre Wood also seemed to fit perfectly. They met another couple, Gerry and Mary Barnhart of Victory View Vineyard in Easton who became their mentors. One hundred vines turned into 2,000, then 4,000, then 9,000 and there was no looking back. The winery and tasting room were recently awarded Best New Construction 2022 by the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce.

MEET THE WINEMAKERS Clover Pond Vineyard believes in letting the natural terroir, flavors, and character of each year’s grape harvest shine through in every glass.

Careful vineyard management, minimal processing, and a balanced approach to winemaking are essential. It takes time, patience and hard work, but the winemakers believe the results speak for themselves and can be enjoyed in every bottle.

Visitors are welcome to take a tour of the vineyard, production facility, and tasting room by reservation. The master farmer/winemakers take visitors through their entire winemaking process—from grape to glass.

Recently recognized as a NYS Sustainable Vineyard, Clover Pond Vineyard is committed to advancing the environmental, social, and economic sustainability of vineyards in New York. They seek to support other local wineries in the region because they believe cooperation between grape growers and winemakers elevates New York wines.

Clover Pond Vineyard is in the Upper Hudson AVA and part of the Upper Hudson Wine Trail. The vineyard features hundreds of lavender plants and rose bushes set in a tranquil setting. Clover Pond Vineyard is “perfectly pairing wine and nature.”

S AV O R T H I S

38

WHITE

ROSÉ

RED

BLANC PREMIÈRE SWEET LOUISE SWEET PUPPY

ROSÉ PREMIÈRE ROSEBUD

ROUGE PREMIÈRE RED TAIL MARQUETTE RESERVE “47”

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

Clover Pond Vineyard was awarded multiple medals at the 2020 New York Wine Classic for all of the varieties they submitted.

ALBANY

IN THE SPOTLIGHT CLASSIC CAR SHOWS On Labor Day weekend, Clover Pond Vineyard held a classic car show featuring four 1937 Cords. Unusual and rare, these beautiful automobiles are part of the Clover Pond Collection and are being lovingly restored.

Additional car shows are planned throughout the year. Visit the website for more information.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

TOURS

PHONE 518-356-9000

PRODUCTION Small (Less than 5,000 cases)

WEBSITE cloverpondvineyard.com

OWNERS James Besha, Joyce Besha, Patrick Besha

100 Acre Wood Lane Altamont, NY 12009

TASTING FEE

By reservation Saturdays, 11am–12pm

$15

HOURS

EVENTS

Year-round Sat–Sun 12–6pm

Clover Pond Vineyard holds periodic car shows throughout the year. Please visit the website for more information.

Closed Christmas Day

GETTING HERE FROM I-87, I-90, I-88: Take exit to US-20, then take the exit towards Duanesburg from Adirondack Northway/Fuller Road Alt. Continue about 10 minutes to 100 Acre Wood Road. hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

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HARVEST SPIRITS Established 2006

A B OUT US

HARVEST SPIRITS DISTILLERY IS SITUATED in the beautiful Hudson River Valley and located at Golden Harvest Farms, a third-generation apple farm and iconic Columbia County fixture, known for its year-round farm stand, fresh fruit sales, pick-your-own apples, and of course, their delicious cider donuts.

Harvest Spirits Farm Distillery products are crafted in the “tree to bottle” method, with the apples grown steps from the distillery then pressed, fermented, distilled, and bottled all on-site. Working closely with several local farms, Harvest Spirits is a true Farm Distillery, promoting strong ties among the local farmers and sharing information readily, from farm to bottle.

Having helped to forge the way in New York craft distilling, Harvest Spirits received New York State’s first Farm Distillery license in 2007 and shortly after produced New York’s first Applejack since the Prohibition era. Their award-winning spirits truly express the terroir of the Hudson River Valley and pay tribute to the abundant variety of the local fruit.

Step into the distillery and you will get a sense of the homegrown and eclectic mix that has created this iconic place and space, where history, innovation, creativity, and the pioneering spirit have built incredible experiences and truly exceptional products.

Sample their award-winning spirits, enjoy a cocktail or a draft of local hard cider or beer out on their deck under the wisteria blooms. Either way, a visit to this unique place where it all began should be top on your list.

MEET THE DISTILLER Derek Grout is a third-generation apple farmer and the distiller at Harvest Spirits. He is actively in charge of the distillery and all aspects of the distilling process, as well as product development.

Derek’s responsibilities range from designing product packaging and website development, to promoting the products, to scrubbing the tanks.

A graduate of Cornell University, Derek began his career as a graphic designer in Boston, MA. After spending too much time in front of a computer, he decided to return to his (literal) roots. In 2003, Derek moved back to his family’s apple farm in the Hudson Valley to help his father and to learn the family business of growing apples. When he’s not in the distillery, he continues to help out around the farm.

Harvest Spirits never compromises on quality. Their products are homegrown and meticulously handcrafted on the farm. Never any neutral grain spirits. No artificial ingredients, colors, or sugars added. One hundred percent gluten-free, excepting the whiskey, of course. One hundred percent family-owned and operated and independently distributed. The distillery is open daily for tastings, cocktails, and bottle sales.

S AV O R T H I S VODKA

APPLEJACK

WHISKEY

CORE VODKA BLACK RASPBERRY VODKA

CORNELIUS APPLEJACK PEACH APPLEJACK CHERRY APPLEJACK DISTILLER’S RESERVE APPLEJACK

JOHN HENRY WHISKEY

GIN

CORE GIN

BRANDY

PEAR BRANDY

House-made craft cocktails, a wide selection of local beer and hard cider draft and by the can, and the Harvest Smokehouse is now open! Check website for more details.

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HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

DISTILLERY

IN THE SPOTLIGHT NOW OPEN! COCKTAIL GARDEN AND SMOKEHOUSE BBQ

Join Harvest Spirits for a cold cocktail in the cocktail garden, and applewood-smoked BBQ from the farm smokehouse. Serving up creative house-made cocktails from fresh ingredients and Harvest’s own spirits, rotating kegs on draft, plus a well curated selection of local wine, hard cider, and beer.

The smokehouse specialties include St. Louis ribs, jerk chicken, and select sandwiches.

DOUBLE BALSAMIC APPLE VINEGAR

Newly released after years in the making, Harvest’s Hudson Valley Double Balsamic Vinegar is two times richer, thicker, and more flavorful than before. Made in very small batches and aged in 3-gallon oak barrels, the double balsamic sets the new standard for flavor and quality in apple cider vinegar.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

3074 US Route 9 Valatie, NY 12184

PHONE

518-758-1776

WEBSITE

harvestspirits.com

TASTING FEE $5

GETTING HERE FROM ALBANY AREA: Take Interstate I-90 East to Exit 12. Continue on Rt. 9 South for four miles. Harvest Spirits is on the left.

FROM NYS THRUWAY (RT. 87): Exit 21A for the Berkshire Extension. Follow to exit B1. Continue on Rt. 9 South for four miles.

Harvest Spirits is on the left.

PRODUCTION

Small (less than 5,000 cases)

OWNERS

Derek Grout and Ashley Hartka

MANAGER

Peter Upstill

DISTILLER

Derek Grout

HOURS

EVENTS

Year-round Mon–Thurs 11am–5pm Fri–Sun 11am–6pm

Visit harvestspirits.com/events for updates.

Smokehouse Thurs–Mon 11am–6pm

COCKTAIL GARDEN

Closed

– Seasonal cocktail garden has expanded seating

New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

– Reserve your own private fire pit – Check website for live m usic hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

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TACONIC DISTILLERY Established 2013

MEET THE TEAM

The Coughlin family purchased a former cattle farm in Stanfordville, NY, and renamed it Rolling Hills Farm in 2010. The farm’s 115 acres became the inspiration for Taconic Distillery’s entrance to Dutchess County’s local agribusiness market. The spirits business is a second career for both Paul and Carol Ann Coughlin, and they operate it with the help of their three daughters. What started out as a hobby has now grown into a thriving business operating in more than 20 states.

“We wanted to build a brand, support local farmers, create jobs and have fun,” says Coughlin, founder of Taconic Distillery.

Prior to the spirits business, Paul was the founder and Managing Partner of Longroad Asset Management, LLC. He earned a degree from Georgetown University, is a three-time Ironman triathlon finisher and has competed in the Manhattan Island Marathon Swim.

A B OUT US

FOUR HUNDRED YEARS OF HISTORY and hospitality make the Hudson Valley an ideal location for production of our own native spirit – bourbon whiskey.

In the fall of 2016, Taconic opened its 5,000 square foot distillery, which includes a bottling, aging, retail, and tasting facility. The cozy tasting room and adjoining patio overlook scenic Dutchess County farmland and provides visitors with a unique setting to explore its products as well as more than 100 bottles of bourbon from various distillers. Says founder Carol Ann Coughlin, “We firmly believe you should enjoy bourbon in whatever form you choose, whether it be neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.”

An American foxhound is prominently featured on the label of Taconic Distillery’s products. The origin of foxhounds in the United States can be traced back to an English hunter named Robert Brooke, who settled in the Hudson Valley in the 1650s. In the early 20th century during the Prohibition era, foxhounds were notable for helping to alert moonshiners when government agents were closing in on their operations. For this reason, Taconic Distillery likes to credit the American foxhound with bringing the phrase “Man’s Best Friend” to the New World. The spirit and image of Copper, the Coughlin’s American foxhound, lives on in each of Taconic’s bottles.

PAUL COUGHLIN, Founder

CAROL ANN COUGHLIN, Founder

As Taconic Distillery’s chief mixologist, Carol Ann develops recipes that use fresh, seasonal ingredients to complement the tasting notes in the spirit. She holds a BA degree from Hartwick College and an MBA from New York University. Carol Ann can often be found running or biking in the rolling hills of Dutchess County.

Taconic Distillery was recently awarded Gold and Silver Medals for their spirits at both the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the consumer-judged SIP Awards. They received a Silver Medal from The 50 Best Bourbon competition and the Hudson Valley Wine & Spirits Competition, and were voted “Best Bourbon” by Maxim Magazine and Hudson Valley Magazine, and “Official Bourbon” of the Culinary Institute of America – Annual Beefsteak Dinner.

S AV O R T H I S BOURBON WHISKEY

RYE WHISKEY

GIN

DUTCHESS PRIVATE RESERVE

FOUNDER’S RYE WHISKEY

STUBBORNLY DIFFERENT

STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

BARREL STRENGTH STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY

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BARREL STRENGTH STRAIGHT RYE WHISKEY

AMERICAN DRY GIN

STUBBORNLY DIFFERENT BARREL FINISHED GIN

Three of their whiskeys have been rated 90+

by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible. “Well done, people of Taconic Distillery,” wrote Murray.

“You sure know how to make a rye whiskey!”

DOUBLE BARREL MAPLE BOURBON

The distillery was also voted “Best Bourbon”

BOURBON CREAM

bourbon to “being kissed in a sunny field.”

HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

by Maxim Magazine, who compared their

DISTILLERY

IN THE SPOTLIGHT DUTCHESS PRIVATE RESERVE

Taconic Distillery’s best selling bourbon is described as subtle and sophisticated.

A beautiful bouquet of spice and honey with gentle notes of vanilla coming out to provide for a smooth finish. This is a bourbon for sharing with friends.

FOUNDER’S RYE WHISKEY

Named for our country’s founding fathers, Taconic Distillery’s Founder’s Rye Whiskey is aged in virgin American white oak barrels to a golden caramel color. Rye lovers will appreciate its bold, spicy flavor with a mildly sweet finish. Founder’s Rye is delicious in cocktails and decidedly smooth when sipped neat or on the rocks.

DOUBLE BARREL MAPLE BOURBON

Taconic’s seasonal creation, Double Barrel Maple Bourbon, comes from teaming up with Catskill Mountain Sugarhouse. The distillery fills emptied maple syrup barrels with aged straight bourbon whiskey. After a few months in the barrels, soaking up the maple sweetness, the liquid is bottled.

THE ESSENTIALS ADDRESS

179 Bowen Road Stanfordville, NY 12581

PHONE 845-393-4583 WEBSITE taconicdistillery.com

PRODUCTION

Large (10,000+ cases)

OWNERS Paul and Carol Ann Coughlin HEAD DISTILLER Pierce Brandow

TASTING FEE

$15 for 3 spirits, includes logo Glencairn whisky glass

STUBBORNLY DIFFERENT AMERICAN DRY GIN

Stubbornly Different Gin is a crisp, clean tasting spirit derived from a simple mix of citrus and a few select botanicals. The result is a refreshing gin that has a richer, rounder texture than traditional gin. It may be savored in cocktails or sipped on its own.

HOURS

PICKUP/DELIVERY*

Year-round Sat 12–6pm

– Open for pickup on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, 9am–3pm.

Closed

New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

*until further notice

GETTING HERE FROM TACONIC STATE PARKWAY: Taconic State Parkway to Route 44/Millbrook exit.

Head towards Millbrook on Route 44. Continue on Route 44 and make a left onto Route 82.

Continue on Route 82. Make a left onto Bulls Head Road. Make a right on Bowen Road.

EVENTS Check Facebook and Instagram for upcoming events.

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

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HELDERBERG MEADWORKS A B OUT US

Established 2012

HELDERBERG MEADWORKS is a unique “winery” located at the edge of the Helderberg Mountains where fresh water and local raw honey are used to craft the finest mead.

They are one of the few meaderies in the state who primarily produce mead. Owner and meadmaker Peter Voelker has been making mead for many years. In 2010, he decided to open Helderberg Meadworks with his wife Kirsten to share what he considers the best mead in the country.

In 2015, the Voelkers were able to purchase more land to expand their small orchard and add a vineyard. While working hard to clear the land and plant rows of fruit, they were able to truly appreciate the beauty of the location and the view overlooking the mountains. It was clear this would be the eventual location of their tasting room, a perfect setting to relax and enjoy their mead and cider.

Inspired by their Apple Mead, in 2016 Helderberg Meadworks began producing their own hard cider. The philosophy of using all-natural ingredients extends to their ciders, allowing them to bring out the crisp, fresh apple flavor. Thanks to the positive customer feedback at festivals over the past two years, Helderberg decided to make hard cider a permanent addition to their tasting room offerings.

In addition to mead and cider, Helderberg makes a rare product called a “braggot,” a beer/mead hybrid made with grains and hops. The current braggot on tap is a collaboration with Serious Brewing called 9 Daughters, made using their IPA and Helderberg’s Odin’s Tears. It is named after the “9 Daughters” in Norse folklore who helped their father Aegir, known for making the best beer and mead in all the nine worlds, make a brew that filled a vessel that was said to be one mile wide and one mile deep.

MEET THE MEAD MAKER Peter Voelker is an engineer by degree.

His love for creating something personal and unique combined with a passion for history drove him to experiment with and study mead. He was born in NYC and lived his life in the Hudson Valley and Capital Region. He got his start making homebrew as soon as he graduated college, then branched out into other beverages. He began making mead over 20 years ago and has been perfecting it ever since.

Having discovered through genealogy that he is a descendant of the first King of Norway, Harald Fairhair, Peter developed a mead that he would feel honored to raise in a toast with his ancestor. In honor of that link, the label for Heritage was designed to include the “Swords in Mountain” monument of three bronze swords standing 30 feet tall.

That monument was erected in Norway to commemorate King Harald’s historic final battle of Hafrsfjord.

S AV O R T H I S MEAD

HERITAGE MEAD MAPLE MEAD ODIN’S TEARS DRY MEAD FERAL MEAD SWEET FERAL MEAD STAGHORN MEAD BLACK CURRANT MEAD

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HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

CHERRY VANILLA SWEET MEAD PEPPER MEAD, MEDIUM SPICY SESSION MEAD LOKI’S LURE

CIDER

CLASSIC HARD CIDER MAPLE HARD CIDER CASSIS HARD CIDER CHERRY HARD CIDER

Helderberg Meadworks has collaborated with Troy’s Rare Form Brewery to create a unique mild-sour braggot called

Philosopher’s Stone. Limited quantities are available in cans at both meadhalls!

MEADERY

IN THE SPOTLIGHT TROY MEADHALL IS OPEN!

2022 marks the opening of a second meadhall at 45 3rd Street, in Troy, NY. While Esperance will remain as the primary location with large events, opening the Troy meadhall will provide the Capital Region with a location that is closer to home for many people.

Come and enjoy the same award-winning product line and atmosphere in a new location! Check the website for open hours.

THE ESSENTIALS

CUSTOM MEADS

Helderberg Meadworks has once again broken the mold. This time, by creating a series of custom meads designed for local bands. Pillage! was created for local hardcore band Brick by Brick. Known for their legendary love of Jack Daniels, this mead was designed to be their strongest offering at 17% ABV and heavily oaked.

Blood of the Wasted was created for local hard rock icons The Erotics. Singer/ guitarist Mike Trash’s love of Helderberg’s Pepper Mead is no secret, so together they designed a new pepper mead tailored to his personal taste. There’s more in the pipeline too!

ADDRESS

6144 Route 30 Esperance, NY 12066 Troy Tasting Room: 45 3rd Street, Troy, NY 12180

No

PRODUCTION

Small (less than 5,000 cases)

OWNERS

Peter and Kirsten Voelker

PHONE

518-795-8964

MANAGER

WEBSITE

helderbergmeadworks.com

TASTING FEE

$5 for 7 tastes; $15 for all with souvenir glass

HOURS

Peter Voelker

MEAD MAKER

Peter Voelker

EVENTS

Jan–Feb Sat Sun

TOURS

12–9pm 12-5pm

Visit the website for updates on events.

Mar–Dec

GETTING HERE FROM NYS THRUWAY I-90: Exit 25A, I-88.

Take I-88 to Exit 24, then Route 20 West for nine miles. Turn right onto State Hwy 30 North for two miles. Mead Hall is on the right.

Thurs–Fri Sat Sun

5–9pm 12–9pm 12–5pm

Closed

New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day

hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

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BOTTLED INDULGENCE

Taconic Distillery’s Bourbon Cream is handcrafted using their award-winning Straight Bourbon Whiskey making it a perfect marriage of rich, delicious cream and smooth New York Bourbon with an added hint of maple sweetness.

Enjoy it chilled, on the rocks, poured into a cup of coffee or over vanilla ice cream for an indulgent after dinner treat. $30. taconicdistillery.com

BETTER BREAD

Foodies will swoon with a monthly box of bake-from-frozen sourdough breads, bakery-style pastries, and fresh pastas made with non-GMO ingredients that can go from freezer to tabletop in under 25 minutes. Six meals are donated with every subscription so you can feel doubly good about giving a gift membership. $89 includes free delivery. wildgrain.com

gift H O L I D AY 2 0 2 2

GUIDE A C U R ATED CO L L ECTI ON O F G I FTS , G A D G E TS , A ND E NTE RTA I NI NG I D E AS FOR EV E RY ONE ON Y OUR L I S T VISIT HVWINEMAG.COM FOR MORE GIFT IDEAS

NEED FOR MEAD

Surprise your favorite mead fan with a Helderberg Meadworks’ gift card and satisfy their passion for the oldest alcoholic drink known to man. Gift cards can be used to purchase bottles, drinking horns, swag, and more, and are available for purchase at Helderberg’s meadhalls in Esperance and Troy. helderbergmeadworks.com

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HUDSON VALLEY WINE • Fall 2022

KEEP IT CHILL

Shaken or stirred, this stainless steel martini glass will keep cocktails chilled long after they’re poured. The freezer gel trapped inside the double-walled vessel captures the cold so there’s no need for ice. Designed to stay in the freezer between drinks so there’s always an icy cold cocktail nearby. $26. corkpops.com

ON THE ROCKS

Personalized ice cubes say it all. Elevate cocktail night with a customized ice cube tray that features a monogram, logo, or unique design. The USA-made silicon trays are durable and come in three sizes and a choice of shapes and colors; add a lid to complete the gift. Starting at $29.99. siligrams.com

CHOCOLATE, NATURALLY

A monthly box of healthy goodness will satisfy the sustainableminded Sweet Tooth on your list. Vegan and gluten-free, these 75% dark chocolates contain no refined sugars and are made with natural, clean ingredients from ethical sources, handpoured in Putnam County. Pair them with wine for the ultimate treat. Starting at $40. thirdbean.com

CIDER MONSTER ONESIE

Even tiny ones can be part of the local craft beverage scene! Cider fans will appreciate their little monster romping around in this adorable hooded onesie while waiting for Nine Pin Cider’s next limited edition Cider Monster—made from more than 100 varieties of apples and pressed only once a year at Nine Pin’s Pressing Party.

GEM OF A WINE

Rock a holiday dinner with Quart Rock Vineyard’s 2021 Estate Black Currant Wine. The rich, full-bodied nightcap combines tart and herbaceous black currant wine with brandy made from Seyval Blanc grapes, and will inspire the wine drinker in your life to sip and savor the moment. 375 ml, $34. quartzrockvineyard.com

EUROPEAN WINE, REVISITED

Curious oenophiles can explore the little known wines of Eastern Europe through the travels of Dr. John E. Hudelson, professor, vineyardist, and longtime figure in the Hudson Valley’s wine industry. Dive into the origins, native grapes, and unique wines of the vibrant, 20-nation region brought to life in this fascinating new book. $35 pincepublishing.com

Onesie comes in sizes 12M and 18M. $21. Visit website for next cider release. ninepincider.com

BLOODY GOOD MIXERS

Spice up brunch with the peppery, savory, and slightly smokey notes of handcrafted Toma Bloody Mary Mixers. Made in New York from housemade sriracha and chipotle-tomatilla sauce, these mixers pack just the right amount of heat. Ready to use right out of the bottle, just add garnish. Variety pack includes original and horseradish. $27.98. drinktoma.com hvwinemag.com • Fall 2022

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Visit our Cider House and explore our 60-acre orchard, taste through an exclusive line-up of craft ciders and relax on the Cider House lawn.

2241 ALBANY POST ROAD, WALDEN, NY LEARN MORE AT ANGRYORCHARD.COM