A grape effect
OBSERVER Photo by Frank Besse
A number of wineries are located throughout Chautauqua County.
At the turn of the 20th Century, before the effects of Prohibition, winemaking was fast becoming a major industry in Chautauqua County with more than 2 million gallons of wine produced annually. A narrow escarpment along Lake Erie uniquely suited to growing grapes sustained the industry with its gravel loam soil and moderating effects from the lake. For nearly 200 years, this region has grown to become the world's largest and oldest Concord grape growing region producing consistently fine crops for the food industry and local winemakers. Today, nearly 20,000 vineyard acres (30,000 including vineyards in Erie County, Pa.) yield almost 65 percent of New York's annual grape tonnage and have a $50 million annual economic impact. While most of the current grape harvest goes into the production of juice, jellies and syrups, winemakers continue the tradition started in 1830 when Deacon Elijah Fay produced his first six gallons in a Westfield cellar. Chautauqua's modern vintners produce
» Full StoryRipley Man Hurt In Dunkirk
DUNKIRK — A Ripley man was hospitalized after an accident on Route 5 on Monday.
Chautauqua County Sheriff’s deputies say David R. Bartlebaugh, 49, of Ripley was driving east on Route 5 when he fell asleep at the wheel, crossed into the o
Minor Injuries In Semi-Van Collision
CHERRY CREEK — Sheriff’s deputies report only minor injuries after an accident between a tractor trailer and a van on Saturday.
Deputies say the accident occurred as Howard C. Roselle III, 40, of South Dayton was trying to pass Apryl S. S
Ellington United Methodist Women Plans Quilt Show
ELLINGTON — The Ellington United Methodist Women will be presenting its fourth annual quilt show ‘‘Pieces of Love’’ this year beginning Saturday, June 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday, June 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
More than 107 qu
County To Discuss Mortgage Tax Increase
MAYVILLE — It looks as though the .25 percent raise on the county’s mortgage tax passed three years ago will continue for another three years.
Next week, the county’s Administrative Services Committee will d
School Votes To Be Held Tuesday
Schools in the region will be a busy place Tuesday, as residents throughout Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties will go to the polls to vote on their school district’s proposed 2008-09 budget and any open Board of Education seats. The following is a
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