Wine, Beer and Spirits Summit Shows Need to Advance State’s Craft Beverage Industry

October 24, 2012

Albany – Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D – Ulster, Dutchess) and Senator Catharine M. Young (R, C, I – 57th District) say that today’s New York Wine, Beer and Spirits Summit highlights the need to advance the state’s craft beverage industry. The legislators have been working on amendments to legislation designed to promote products made by the state’s growing number of wineries, distilleries and breweries. The bill would establish a Council specifically tasked with branding and marketing New York’s craft beverages. Initially, legislation had been introduced over two years ago that focused on the state’s wine industry, but discussions quickly evolved to incorporate other emerging beverage producers.

“Our state has a diverse group of vintners, distillers and brewers that produce quality products,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “These businesses bring tourism dollars and tax revenue to the state. Showing a commitment to this industry is an investment in New York’s future, which is why we have been working for the past two years with craft beverage producers to develop sound public policy that would elevate the status of New York wines, spirits and craft brews and enhance brand recognition.”

“I am excited about this summit, as we need to strategically join forces to promote these growing industries,” said Senator Young. “There are few industries that impact the entire state in such a positive way, from the tip of Long Island in the east, to the Canadian border in the north, to Lake Erie in the west. Assemblymember Cahill and I appreciate Governor Cuomo’s initiative in boosting the state’s business, agriculture and tourism and I look forward to a healthy discussion at the summit that may help drive legislation in the upcoming year.”

“I am grateful to Assemblymember Cahill and Senator Young for making this issue a priority and working to bring the state on board with their efforts,” said Tom Edwards, Vice President of the New York State Liquor Stores Association and owner of Fox and Hound Wine and Spirits.

“New York Farm Distillers welcome the opportunity to participate in the Governor's Summit. The proliferation of Farm Distilleries since the introduction of the Farm Distillery Act has brought New York growers a valuable marketplace for their Agricultural products. The support of the State for the craft beverage industry in New York will help ensure that the Farm Distilleries of New York become important contributors to the State by increasing sales and excise tax revenue, creating new jobs, expanding tourism opportunities and preserving New York farms. Governor Cuomo has made development of the craft beverage industry a priority and the Summit is an important step in that direction. I thank Assemblymember Cahill for being a leader on this issue, helping to grow small businesses like mine,” said Ralph Erenzo, a partner in the Hudson Valley Farm Distillery Tuthilltown Spirits, New York's first whiskey distillery since Prohibition.

“This summit is an important step toward elevating the status of New York's craft brewing industry. I have been dedicated to producing quality products for New Yorkers to enjoy, and I am thankful for Assemblymember Cahill and all he has done to support my business and help us on our path to success,” said Tommy Keegan, owner of Keegan Ales.

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