The Finger Lakes region and New York State’s wine and craft beverage industries have experienced significant growth over the past generation, according to Senator Thomas F. O’Mara’s latest weekly column. The senator highlighted the expansion of wineries, breweries, cideries, and distilleries as key contributors to economic development in rural communities.
Citing data from the New York Wine and Grape Foundation, O’Mara noted that the state’s investment in these industries has led to more than $6.65 billion in direct economic impact, supporting nearly 72,000 jobs and generating over $1 billion in state and local taxes. The industry also attracts millions of tourists annually who spend more than a billion dollars at local wineries.
O’Mara pointed to recent achievements at the 39th annual New York Wine Classic, where Weis Vineyards of Hammondsport was named “Winery of the Year” for the third time. Peter and Ashlee Weis, winemaker and owners of Weis Vineyards, said, “We’re incredibly honored, and still a little shocked, to be named Winery of the Year for the third time. It’s a true privilege to be recognized among so many outstanding New York producers. This award is a nod to the passion and hustle of our amazing team and grape growers; none of this would be possible without them. And to our community: thank you for cheering us on every step of the way. Zum Wohl!”
Other Finger Lakes wineries were also recognized at this year’s competition. Billsboro Winery won Best Dessert Wine with its 2023 Après entry while Montezuma Winery took home Best Specialty Wine for its Crimson Queen Cranberry & Rhubarb.
New York State Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball commented on these accomplishments: “Our wine makers are gaining fast recognition across the globe for something we’ve long known: New York is a premier wine making region with some of the highest quality producers in the world. The prestigious New York Wine Classic helps us shine the spotlight on our industry and our producers, who are incredibly important to our agricultural industry, supporting our grape growers and helping to fuel our economy. Congratulations to all of the wineries who entered into this competition and who continue to set themselves apart by producing some of the very best wines in the world.”
A full list of winners from this year’s event can be found at https://newyorkwines.org/new-york-wine-classic-2025/.
Senator O’Mara encouraged readers to learn more about Finger Lakes Wine Country—including its wine trails, approximately 150 wineries, and more than 9,000 acres of vineyards—at https://newyorkwines.org/avas/finger-lakes/.
The senator also referenced growth within New York’s craft beer sector. According to figures from the New York State Brewers Association (NYSBA), available at newyorkcraftbeer.com, there were just 95 licensed breweries in 2012 compared with over 535 by 2023—a period during which production more than doubled from roughly half a million barrels in 2011 to over one million by 2021. The state now ranks fourth nationally for craft beer production with an economic impact estimated at $5.4 billion.
O’Mara stated his ongoing support for bipartisan legislative efforts aimed at strengthening agriculture as well as small businesses connected with tourism throughout both Southern Tier communities and statewide.
He concluded by calling on state government leaders to pursue regulatory reforms that would further support these industries’ continued growth: “Most importantly, New York government must continue to take commonsense steps and regulatory reforms that recognize the ongoing need to support these vibrant industries and help them continue to grow, create more jobs, and spark regional growth through the unlimited economic spin-off opportunities they offer.”
For additional information about local initiatives or legislative actions related to these sectors or other topics covered by Senator O’Mara’s columns visit his official site.
