New York state of wine, part iii
It’s official: Governor Pataki signed the bill into law yesterday that allows New York wine consumers to receive shipments of wine directly from the winery, even out-of-state wineries. (see backgrounder)
He signed the bill at Lamoreaux Landing Wine Cellars on Seneca Lake in a ceremony peppered with local winemakers and other state bigwigs. The Gov sounded a bullish tone for NY wine:
“I have no doubt that the Finger Lakes can certainly match, maybe even surpass†California’s famed Napa Valley someday, Pataki added in an interview. “It is an excellent standard to shoot for but I don’t see any reason why we can’t achieve that.†(full story)
Wow, that’s almost as ambitious as his running for president in 2008.
Others were more sanguine about the change. Willy Frank of Chateau Frank and Dr. Frank’s Vinifera Wine Cellars was fearful of competition.
“I don’t think it’s a wise law,” he said, pronouncing himself as “at best, neutral.” He added: “It will not help our industry.” (story)
Time will tell who is right. NY winemakers are certainly on the cusp of a new, more competitive chapter in the industry’s history. And consumers are becoming better served by a greater range of offerings. Belly up to the mailbox!
