Celebrate America's Grape Country Week, August 15-23, 2009 -see Festivals for a schedule of activities
Located along 50 miles of Lake Erie bordering southwestern New York State and Northwestern Pennsylvania, the Lake Erie Grape Region is home to the oldest and largest Concord grape growing region in the world and the largest grape growing region in the United States outside of California. In 2006, the Lake Erie Grape Region became the first agriculturally themed Heritage Area in New York State.
The region is rich with farm markets and fruit stands, vineyard-covered landscapes, and 21 wineries along the Chautauqua-Lake Erie Wine Trail. In addition to agriculture, the region is known as "Steelhead Alley" for the abundance of steelhead trout in Lake Erie's tributary creeks and as a major watch spot for migratory birds and raptors.
Concord grapes share a distinction with blueberries and cranberries as one of only a few fruits native to North America, yielding a high concentration of vitamin C and antioxidants to promote heart health and support a healthy immune system.
Come out and explore the Lake Erie Grape Region, savor the aroma of grapes in season, taste local flavors, celebrate with a local festival or sit back, relax, and choose a favorite wine. There's no where else like America's Grape Country.