Wine Industry Leaders and Hochul Discuss Efforts to Strengthen Niagara County Wine Industry and Tourism

Press Release

Today, Representative Kathy Hochul (NY-26) held a roundtable discussion with wine industry stakeholders to discuss efforts to bolster Niagara County's wine production and economic growth in the industry including upcoming legislation to support regional tourism.

"The growth of the Niagara region's wine and tourism industries has potential to make a much greater impact on Western New York's economy. With help from the National Treasure Promotion and Investment Act, which I am proud to introduce, Niagara County and our region's attractions will see an increase in visitors, bolstering economic growth and showcasing Western New York's natural beauty, battlefield history, and world class wineries," Rep. Hochul said.

Hochul's legislation, the National Treasure Promotion and Investment Act, prioritizes the processing of tourist visa applications for visitors to National Parks and National Heritage Areas. The bill also makes competitive grants available for transportation infrastructure in communities hosting national treasures like Niagara Falls and the Erie Canalway. As Niagara County is home to two National Heritage areas, the bill would benefit the region by facilitating international travel to local landmarks and increasing funding available for local infrastructure upgrades.

"I am excited to learn that Representative Hochul has joined the Congressional Wine Caucus. The Niagara Wine Trail opened with 2 wineries in 1999 and has grown to 16 as of December, 2011. Many local businesses -- restaurants, hotels, bed and breakfasts, limousine companies and tourist destinations -- have been Associate members of our trail so that we can work hand-in-hand promoting each other," said Margo Bitner owner of The Winery at Marjim Manor.

Participants in the discussion included representatives from Niagara County wineries and farms, Niagara University, and the hospitality and tourism industry.

New York is the third largest grape producer in the U.S., and, as of 2011, there were 37,000 acres of scenic vineyards on over 1,400 farms and over 316 wineries in the state, employing nearly 600 workers. Recently, the Niagara region was ranked as one of the top ten wine regions in the world.

Source