K 581: Commemorating the 40th Anniversary of Knapp Winery on May 7, 2025

 Assembly Resolution No. 581 BY: M. of A. Palmesano 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.