Pennsylvania wine industry surges with new funding

By Blake Jackson

Pennsylvania's wine industry is flourishing, and the Shapiro Administration is taking steps to ensure its continued success. Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding announced $1 million in research and marketing grants to boost sales, production, and quality of Pennsylvania wines.

“William Penn literally planted the seeds of Pennsylvania’s wine industry,” said Secretary Redding. “We’ve grown from transplanted vines in a colonial-era Philadelphia park to the fourth-ranking wine producer in the nation. Investing in research and promotion will keep that success growing. The Shapiro Administration is investing in keeping Pennsylvania agriculture a national leader in the years to come.”

A study revealed the industry's significant impact: 10,756 jobs supported, $518.2 million in wages, and a $1.77 billion annual contribution to the state's economy.

Pennsylvania's wine production also jumped from 5th to 4th place nationally in just two years, with grape production rising by 970 tons annually.

Over 400 licensed wineries across five regions contribute $747 million in tourism revenue each year. To celebrate this thriving industry, October is designated as Wine Month in Pennsylvania. Visit pennsylvaniawine.com to find events, wineries, and more information.

Funding for these grants came through the PA Liquor Control Board. Here's a breakdown of the recipients and their projects:

• Pennsylvania Winery Association ($441,180): Continued support for a comprehensive, five-year promotional strategy for Pennsylvania Wines.

Penn State University received several grants:

• Developing a test to detect volatile sulfur compounds in wines ($71,999).
• Evaluating grapevine nutrient levels ($80,922).
• Measuring oxygen uptake's impact on wine quality ($42,214).
• Studying the addition of acetaldehyde to wine during production ($97,860).
• Characterizing wine oxygen pickup ($84,811).
• Mitigating frost damage in vineyards ($91,021).
• Utilizing grape microbiome to control wine properties ($89,993).

Governor Shapiro's commitment to agriculture is evident in his budget and economic strategy, recognizing its role as a key driver of Pennsylvania's future success.

Photo Credit: istock-jhvephoto