By Blake Jackson
The New York Wine & Grape Foundation (NYWGF) has released its 2025-2026 Annual Report, highlighting a landmark year of achievements that strengthened New York’s position as a leading wine-producing region.
The report outlines major progress in sustainability, exports, domestic marketing, industry collaboration, and statewide research while emphasizing the wine industry’s growing economic contribution of more than $16.81 billion in direct impact across New York State.
“What stands out most from this year is the unmistakable sense that this industry is moving forward with intention, confidence, and momentum, and the world is paying attention,” said Sam Filler, Executive Director of NYWGF. “We are no longer a hidden gem. We are a destination.”
Key highlights from the 2025-2026 Annual Report include:
- The Finger Lakes was named 2025 American Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast, while JamesSuckling.com and Cristaldi & Co. praised New York’s wine industry as experiencing an “awakening.”
- The New York Sustainable Winegrowing Program expanded to 79 certified vineyards, with the Sustainability Trustmark appearing on more bottles statewide. The second annual New York Wines Sustainability Week also connected certified sustainable wines with consumers, media, and trade professionals in New York City.
- The New York Wines Export Program grew to six international markets by adding the Caribbean while strengthening partnerships in Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Canada, and Western Europe.
- NYWGF completed its two-year Comprehensive Statewide Vineyard Survey, confirming 29,586 vineyard acres through satellite technology in collaboration with Agency 29 and Deep Planet. The organization also introduced MemberLeap, its first online member portal.
The report also summarizes insights from the New York Wine Industry Leadership Summit, where more than 100 industry leaders concluded that New York wine’s greatest challenge is improving coordination and accessibility rather than product quality.
Additional Regional Listening Sessions across five wine regions helped shape priorities for the coming year.
“None of this work happens without the partnership of our members,” said Filler. “New York wine’s moment is here, and we intend to make the most of it together.”
NYWGF noted that its Domestic Marketing, Research, and Membership programs continue to advance the industry through collaboration with members and support from state and federal partners.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-willhowecreative
Categories: New York, General