Senate Resolution No. 1445

BY: Senator PALUMBO

COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of Long Island
Wine Country on August 19, 2023

WHEREAS, It is the practice of this Legislative Body to recognize
and support organizations and events of significance which contribute to
the entertainment and vitality of the communities they serve and which
exemplify the history and development of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Long Island Wine Country, celebrated
on Saturday, August 19, 2023; and

WHEREAS, The 50th Anniversary Grand Celebration celebrates the
founding of the Long Island wine region when Louisa and Alex Hargrave
planted the first wine grapes in 1973; in attendance was Louisa herself
along with other pioneers of the industry, including many of the
winemakers who have dedicated their entire careers creating the wines
residents and visitors have come to love; and

WHEREAS, Established in 1989, the Long Island Wine Country
Organization was initially formed to help prospective growers navigate
the challenges of starting businesses on Long Island; it has since
evolved into an organization designed to help Long Island achieve
recognition as a premium winegrowing region; and

WHEREAS, Long Island's oldest vineyard took root in 1973, in
Cutchogue, New York, with the radical vision of Alex and Louisa Hargrave
who became pioneers of the viticulture industry of the East End; and

WHEREAS, Soon after, pioneering investors, grape-growers, and
winemakers followed suit; their shared vision, unique experience, and
expertise created a rich, diverse culture dedicated to the pursuit of
making exceptional wine; and

WHEREAS, Five decades after its inception, the Long Island wine
region is one of the most exciting rising stars of the winemaking world,
boasting 57 distinct wine producers, who are divided between the North
Fork, South Fork, and western Suffolk County; and

WHEREAS, This auspicious occasion presents an opportunity for this
Legislative Body to recognize and pay tribute to Long Island Wine
Country; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are brought to our
attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by all the citizens
of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Long Island Wine Country on August
19, 2023; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Long Island Wine Country Organization, Riverhead, New
York.