The New York Wine & Grape Foundation said a big “Thank You” to several individuals and businesses at its annual “Unity Banquet” on Wednesday, February 6 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Rochester. Among them:
- The Research Award, for major contributions in research and education to benefit the New York grape and wine industry, was presented to Dr. Martin Goffinet. A world expert in the structure, anatomy and growth of the grapevine, Martin’s research for over 30 years has provided important fundamental understanding of how grapes grow as well as the anatomical bases of many of practical problems.
- The Industry Award, presented to an individual or organization which has made a major contribution in advancing the interests of the New York grape and wine industry, was presented to Cornell Cooperative Extension. For decades, “Extension,” as it is commonly known, has played a vital role in communicating the results of research and other important information to grape growers, winemakers, and others throughout New York State.
The Unity Banquet was a highlight of Viticulture 2013, a three-day conference and trade show held at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center for members of the New York grape and wine industry organized by the New York Wine & Grape Foundation and Cornell Cooperative Extension. In addition to New Yorkers, attendees came from 25 other states and four foreign countries.