Wine in the Keystone State

The weather in our great state changes so quickly anymore that it is hard to know whether to grab your winter coat or flip flops in the morning.  While most days, I would love to just run out of the house in my t-shirt and shorts, this state’s climate is not always accommodating.  With temperatures changing so drastically lately, it made me wonder what makes Pennsylvania a good choice for wine production.  Not only the temperature, but I know the ground in my backyard is rocky and uneven.  How could that possibly make for viable land to grow vines on? 

So I started looking for the facts.  Pennsylvania has a moderate climate that shows its residents all four seasons with the cold, snowy winters and sizzling, hot summers.  With such varying temperatures, our state’s vintners must not only have a love of wine but also a love of continued learning.  Constantly, winemakers in PA must look for new technologies and techniques to ensure that they provide the highest quality beverages are produced.  Although, some seasons may appear to be a challenge, the moderate temperatures of the cool seasons allow for some of the best growing conditions. 

When it comes to the terrain across the state, the rocky soil may cause some problems in the planting process.  However, the rolling hills and mountains provide some of the best conditions for growing grapes.  East of the Rockies, Pennsylvania is home to the two highest elevation level vineyards in the United States.  Pretty cool, if you ask me.  This crazy land of ours holds over 14, 000 acres of grapes that produce some of the best award winning wines.  From these acres of grapes comes approximately 123 wineries (as of 2008 data).  Another number that is pretty shocking is the total number of gallons of wine produced each year in our state: 971, 191.  In relative terms, this is almost 5 million bottles (.75 liters/bottle) produces annually. 

All of this wine comes from the vineyards and wineries throughout our state that are mostly run by private families.  Having a business that is operated mostly by family members creates a certain feel for customers when they enter an establishment.  Most vineyards are more than just rows and rows of vines today.  They have opened wineries on location that added a special brand of hospitality that can then be associated with the label.   With the ability to have up to five retail locations now, wineries are able to build their brand and establish themselves in the growing wine industry.  To showcase their drinks, vintners can now take their wines to festivals such as the Bear Creek Wine Festival.  This is a fun event to attend with friends.  For a small fee, you are able to walk around the ski lodge and try wines from all different local establishments. 

Another great event to look out in Lower Bucks County is the Bucks County Wine Trail on May 15, 2011.  This is just another way to see the landscape of Pennsylvania while enjoying our crazy weather patterns and award winning local wines.  This is one event that I will not miss this year.  I already bought my tickets!!

 

Looking into our state’s wine industry has showed me that even with the challenges of ever-changing weather and rocky, solid terrain, our winemakers can create techniques that allow them to still make amazing wines.  They have taken their passion and overcome many obstacles to allow their dreams of lush vineyards and rich wines a reality.  A true example of perseverance, if you ask me.  

So next time you uncork a bottle of wine, savor the taste and don’t forget to appreciate hard work it took many passionate people to create such a 
fruitful and delicious beverage.


Random:
On the latest episode of Glee, I fell in love with their version of Fleetwood Mac's "Go Your Own Way".  Check it out!!