State Sen. Tom O'Mara highlighted the Finger Lakes wine industry as a major regional economic engine ahead of the 40th annual New York Wine Classic on Aug. 10.
The event is a statewide competition recognizing New York wines, and O'Mara said its results offer another opportunity to showcase producers from the Finger Lakes and across the state.
O'Mara cited New York Wine and Grape Foundation figures estimating that the state's grape and wine industry generates more than $6.65 billion in direct economic impact, supports 71,950 jobs and contributes $1.12 billion in state and local taxes.
The foundation also estimates that more than 4.71 million people visit New York wineries annually and spend $1.33 billion. Finger Lakes Wine Country includes more than 140 wineries and over 10,000 acres of vineyards, according to the column.
Weis Vineyards in Hammondsport was named Winery of the Year in 2022, 2024 and 2025. The winery also received the Governor's Cup in 2024 for its Riesling Ice Wine.
O'Mara also pointed to growth in the state's craft beverage industry. Figures he attributed to the New York State Brewers Association show the number of breweries rose from 95 in 2012 to more than 500 in 2024, with a statewide economic impact of $4.8 billion.
New York craft breweries increased production from 557,436 barrels in 2011 to 1.43 million barrels in 2023, according to the association figures cited by O'Mara.
O'Mara said state government should continue pursuing regulatory reforms and other measures to support wine, craft beverage, agriculture, small business and tourism industries in the Southern Tier, Finger Lakes and across New York.
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