Senator James Skoufis (D-Hudson Valley) joined Washingtonville officials on Tuesday to celebrate the induction of Brotherhood Winery to the newly-created NYS Historic Business Preservation Registry.
Drawing its origins to 1839, when local cobbler John Jacques released his first commercial vintage under the moniker “Blooming Grove Winery,” Brotherhood has remained in continuous operation for 183 years and is considered the oldest winery in the United States. Though initially produced for sacramental use, Jacques’ wine quickly developed a reputation for purity, being described as “free of alcoholic adulterations.” Brotherhood is recognized on the New York and National Registers of Historic Places.
The Historic Business Preservation Registry, administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, was created earlier this year to highlight businesses that have been in operation for at least 50 years and have contributed to their communities’ history. Nominations to the registry must be sponsored by an elected state official. An interactive map of the registry can be found here.
“Brotherhood Winery embodies the essence of the Historic Business Preservation Registry and I was proud to wholeheartedly support their nomination this year,” said Senator Skoufis. “Brotherhood has never hesitated to look to the future on the strength of its past. Its value to the community is clear not only in its longevity and its influences from around the state, country, and the world, but also in the fond memories often expressed by winery patrons over nearly two centuries at this historic landmark.”
“Brotherhood Winery is honored to be nominated for the Historic Business Preservation Registry,” said Brotherhood President Hernan Donoso. “As America’s Oldest Winery, we are proud to be part of both New York’s and America’s rich and diverse history and culture and will continue to contribute to and embrace everything this great state and nation is known for.”
“I am honored to take part in acknowledging the historical importance of Brotherhood Winery,” said Washingtonville Mayor Joe Bucco. “Local businesses are the backbone of our community, and it’s been a pleasure to share many conversations and laughs with the Brotherhood team over the years.”
“Many of our state’s homegrown businesses have helped shape the character and identity of the communities that they call home,” OPRHP Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said. “From small bakeries owned by generations of the same family, and farms dating back to the 1700s, to manufacturers who ship products around the world, these homegrown businesses serve New Yorkers well. With the launch of the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry, we are excited to showcase the businesses, large and small, that are the backbone of our state’s economy.”
Watch the event by clicking below: