Upper Hudson AVA

Established in 2018, this is New York’s most recent AVA, which has a hybrid focus.


About 3 hours north of Manhattan, you’ll find the Upper Hudson. Compared to its neighbor to the south, the Hudson River Region, the Upper Hudson is quite new, only established in 2018.

The warm Atlantic breezes that blow up the steep river valley start to peter out here, so it’s much cooler than its neighbor to the south. This means you’ll find more hybrids and native varieties that are cold hardy compared to the south, where you’ll find more Vitis vinifera grapes.

If you’re an outdoorsy person, you can combine your love for nature and hiking with your love of wine here, wandering through the Catskills and the Adirondacks.

Quick Facts:

  • Established in 2018.
  • 20 wineries as of 2022.
  • Hybrids are the most planted types of grapes.
  • Growing season of 155 days (that’s short!)
  • Drink wines from hybrid grapes such as La Crescent, La Crosse, and Marquette.
  • Chardonnay and Riesling are the most planted Vitis vinifera vines.