Senate Resolution No. 1078
BY: Senator O'MARA
COMMEMORATING the 40th Anniversary of Knapp Winery
on May 7, 2025
WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commend those businesses and institutions within the State of New York
that have brought pride and prosperity to their communities through
their commitment to excellence and innovation; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Knapp Winery, celebrated on
Wednesday, May 7, 2025; and
WHEREAS, Established in 1984 by Doug and Susan Knapp, Knapp Winery
is located in the Cayuga Appellation of Upstate New York, in the heart
of the Finger Lakes region-North America's premier cool-climate wine
territory and home to over one hundred wineries; and
WHEREAS, Over the past four decades, Knapp Winery has built a
lasting legacy rooted in tradition, community, and viticultural
excellence, establishing itself as a destination winery known for its
premium wines and warm hospitality; and
WHEREAS, In December of 2021, Knapp Winery entered an exciting new
chapter under the ownership of Cole and Karen Wilson, longtime visitors
who had already fallen in love with the winery and who are committed to
building upon the foundation laid by the Knapps; and
WHEREAS, Knapp Winery was the first in the Finger Lakes Appellation
to plant and vinify Cabernet Franc and has consistently demonstrated
leadership in the cultivation of both classic and innovative grape
varieties, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Saperavi, Bla§ frankisch, and
Siegerrebe-the latter of which Knapp is uniquely the only grower east of
the Mississippi; and
WHEREAS, The Winery's 2022 Governor's Cup Award for "Best in Class"
Blaufrankisch affirms its status as a producer of some of the region's
finest wines, crafted by a talented and passionate team committed to
quality and sustainability; and
WHEREAS, In 1992, Knapp Winery opened the Vineyard Restaurant,
becoming the first winery on Cayuga Lake to offer a full-service
restaurant and further emphasizing the integral connection between wine,
food, and local agriculture; and
WHEREAS, Knapp Winery continues to be a significant contributor to
the regional economy and tourism, offering tastings, wine-pairing
dinners, and a warm Finger Lakes welcome to thousands of visitors
annually; and
WHEREAS, The 40th Anniversary of Knapp Winery marks not only a
milestone of longevity but also a celebration of continued vision,
innovation, and dedication to the craft of winemaking in New York State;
now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 40th Anniversary of Knapp Winery, recognizing its
outstanding contributions to the viticulture and agritourism of the
Finger Lakes Region and the State of New York; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Cole and Karen Wilson, Knapp Winery.
