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This Hudson Valley Sparkling Wine Just Took Home Top Prize |Patch PM

Hudson Valley Sparkling Wine Claims Top Honors in Prestigious International Competition

In a triumphant moment for New York's burgeoning wine scene, a sparkling wine from the Hudson Valley has just been awarded the highest accolade at one of the world's most esteemed wine competitions. This victory not only highlights the region's growing reputation for producing world-class vintages but also underscores the innovative spirit of local winemakers who are pushing the boundaries of traditional sparkling wine production. The award-winning bubbly, hailing from a boutique winery nestled in the picturesque hills of the Hudson Valley, beat out hundreds of entries from renowned regions like Champagne in France and Prosecco in Italy, proving that American sparkling wines can hold their own on the global stage.

The star of the show is the 2020 Vintage Sparkling Riesling from Fable Farm Winery, located in the heart of Ulster County. This effervescent delight took home the Grand Gold Medal at the International Wine and Spirits Competition (IWSC) held in London earlier this week. Judges praised its "elegant balance of acidity and fruit-forward notes, with a crisp finish that evokes the freshness of Hudson Valley apples and a subtle minerality drawn from the region's unique terroir." The IWSC, often dubbed the "Oscars of the wine world," evaluates thousands of entries annually based on blind tastings by a panel of expert sommeliers, winemakers, and critics. For Fable Farm, this marks their first major international win, though the winery has been quietly amassing acclaim in regional contests for years.

Fable Farm Winery, founded in 2012 by husband-and-wife team Elena and Marcus Rivera, started as a passion project on a modest 15-acre plot overlooking the Shawangunk Mountains. The Riveras, both former sommeliers from New York City, relocated to the Hudson Valley seeking a slower pace and a chance to experiment with sustainable viticulture. "We wanted to create wines that reflect the soul of this place," Elena Rivera told Patch in an exclusive interview. "The Hudson Valley's cool climate is perfect for Riesling, and we've been tinkering with sparkling methods inspired by traditional Champagne techniques but adapted to our local grapes." Their sparkling Riesling is produced using the méthode champenoise, involving secondary fermentation in the bottle, which imparts those signature fine bubbles and complex flavors.

This win comes at a pivotal time for the Hudson Valley wine industry, which has seen exponential growth over the past decade. With over 50 wineries now dotting the landscape from Dutchess to Orange counties, the region is often compared to Napa Valley in its early days. Factors like fertile soil, a temperate climate influenced by the Hudson River, and a focus on hybrid and cold-hardy grape varieties have contributed to this renaissance. The New York State Wine and Grape Foundation reports that Hudson Valley wines have won more than 200 awards in national and international competitions in the last five years alone, with sparkling varieties emerging as a particular strength.

Beyond the prestige, this award is expected to boost tourism and sales for Fable Farm and the broader region. "We're already seeing inquiries pouring in from distributors across the country," Marcus Rivera shared. "This isn't just a win for us; it's a win for every small producer in the Hudson Valley who's betting on quality over quantity." The winery plans to release a limited edition of the award-winning vintage, with bottles priced at around $45, available at their tasting room and select retailers starting next month. Visitors to the Hudson Valley can look forward to special events, including guided tastings and vineyard tours, to celebrate the achievement.

This sparkling success story is just one highlight in a busy day of local news across the New Rochelle area and beyond. In other developments, New Rochelle officials announced progress on the long-awaited downtown revitalization project. The city council approved funding for phase two of the initiative, which includes pedestrian-friendly streetscapes, new green spaces, and mixed-use developments aimed at attracting young professionals and families. Mayor Noam Bramson emphasized the project's role in post-pandemic recovery, stating, "We're building a vibrant, inclusive community that honors our history while embracing the future." Construction is slated to begin in the spring, with completion expected by 2025.

Meanwhile, in education news, New Rochelle High School students made waves at the state science fair, with a team of juniors taking first place in the environmental science category. Their project, which explored sustainable urban farming techniques using hydroponics, impressed judges with its innovative approach to food security in densely populated areas. "These kids are the next generation of problem-solvers," said science teacher Dr. Lisa Chen. The win qualifies them for the national competition in Washington, D.C., later this year.

On the community front, the New Rochelle Public Library is launching a new series of free workshops on digital literacy, targeting seniors and low-income residents. Funded by a grant from the Westchester County government, the program aims to bridge the digital divide by teaching skills like online banking, video calling, and safe internet navigation. Library director Tom Geoffino noted, "In today's world, digital access is essential, and we're committed to ensuring no one gets left behind."

Shifting gears to regional happenings, the Hudson Valley is abuzz with fall festival preparations. The annual Apple Harvest Festival in Warwick is set for next weekend, featuring local cider tastings, hayrides, and artisanal crafts. Organizers expect record attendance, buoyed by the recent wine award that has put the spotlight on the area's agricultural bounty. For those interested in more adventurous outings, the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is hosting guided night hikes, offering stunning views of the river under the stars.

In health and wellness updates, Westchester County health officials reported a slight uptick in flu cases as the season approaches. They urge residents to get vaccinated, with free clinics scheduled at community centers throughout New Rochelle. "Prevention is key," said County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler. Additionally, a new yoga studio in downtown New Rochelle is offering introductory classes to promote mental health awareness, tying into October's Mental Health Month initiatives.

Sports enthusiasts have reason to cheer as the New Rochelle Huguenots football team secured a thrilling victory over arch-rivals Mamaroneck, 28-21, in overtime. Quarterback Jamal Thompson's game-winning touchdown pass has the team eyeing a playoff spot. Coach Mike Rossi praised the squad's resilience, saying, "This group never gives up."

Environmental advocates are celebrating a win in the fight against plastic pollution. A coalition of local groups successfully lobbied for a ban on single-use plastic bags in New Rochelle stores, effective January 1. The measure, modeled after similar laws in neighboring towns, aims to reduce waste and protect local waterways. "It's a small step with big impact," said activist Sarah Kline of the Hudson Riverkeeper organization.

As the day winds down, weather watchers note that the Hudson Valley is in for a mild evening with clear skies, perfect for stargazing or outdoor dining. Temperatures are expected to dip into the low 50s overnight, with a chance of scattered showers by mid-week. For those planning ahead, the weekend forecast promises sunny skies and highs in the 70s, ideal for exploring the region's wineries and farms.

This Patch PM roundup captures the essence of a dynamic community where innovation in agriculture meets everyday triumphs in education, health, and local governance. The sparkling wine victory serves as a sparkling reminder of the Hudson Valley's potential, inspiring residents and visitors alike to raise a glass to the region's bright future. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember to support local businesses like Fable Farm Winery – their success is our success.

In wrapping up, it's worth delving deeper into the broader implications of this wine award. The Hudson Valley's wine industry isn't just about producing great bottles; it's an economic engine. According to a recent study by the New York Wine & Grape Foundation, the sector contributes over $1.5 billion annually to the state's economy, supporting thousands of jobs in farming, tourism, and hospitality. Wineries like Fable Farm are at the forefront of sustainable practices, employing organic farming methods that preserve the area's natural beauty and biodiversity. Elena Rivera elaborated on this, explaining how they use cover crops to prevent soil erosion and integrate solar power into their operations to minimize their carbon footprint.

The international recognition also opens doors for export opportunities, potentially introducing Hudson Valley sparklers to markets in Europe and Asia. Wine experts predict that this could lead to a surge in investment, with more entrepreneurs eyeing the region for new ventures. For consumers, it means greater access to high-quality, locally produced alternatives to imported champagnes, often at more affordable prices.

Community reactions have been overwhelmingly positive. Social media is abuzz with congratulations, and local restaurants in New Rochelle are already planning to feature the award-winning wine on their menus. One downtown bistro owner remarked, "This puts us on the map as a destination for foodies and wine lovers."

As we reflect on this achievement, it's clear that the Hudson Valley's sparkling wine scene is bubbling with promise. From the vine to the glass, it's a testament to hard work, creativity, and the unique charm of this corner of New York. Whether you're a connoisseur or a casual sipper, now's the time to discover what the region has to offer. Cheers to Fable Farm and the entire Hudson Valley wine community – may your successes continue to flow.

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