NYWIA Asks Governor Cuomo for Help

GENEVA, NY (09/27/2012)(readMedia)-- "Should the New York State Fair promote the products of other states?" asked Scott Osborn, president of the New York Wine Industry Association (NYWIA).

NYWIA was joined by other farm and business organizations to ask Governor Andrew Cuomo to intercede on behalf of New York State wineries and food producers to ensure that the Great New York State Fair builds on its legacy and heritage of promoting New York wines and farm products.

The Penn Yan Chronicle Express recently highlighted the fact that the Empire Room catering contract provider only offered one New York wine on its menu during the Fair while offering several from California. Expressing disappointment at the lack of choice of New York wines for diners at the Empire Room, the groups encouraged the Governor to continue his emphasis on promoting New York products by making sure that next year's RFP encourages the use of New York wines.

"Since New York State now has more than 6,000 fine wines, from more than 320 New York wineries to promote, it is troublesome that the Empire Room only served one of our excellent New York wines," said Osborn. "It just makes sense that the New York State Fair, which was originally designed to highlight our state's wonderful agricultural products, should promote and encourage New York wines and local foods in all of its venues during the entire Fair."

The groups co-signing the letter include the Associated New York State Food Processors, The Business Council, New York Farm Bureau and the New York State Wine Grape Growers Association.

The New York Wine Industry Association (NYWIA) works on issues directly affecting the long-term sustainability and growth of the wine industry in New York. NYWIA is made up of small family owned vineyards, wineries, and suppliers from across the state.