End of an Era in Finger Lakes Wine Country

I was saddened to hear the news that Morgan McLaughlin, President of the Finger Lakes Wine Country was leaving her position.  Morgan was my inspiration when I worked with the Shawangunk Wine Trail and Hudson Valley Wine Country.  She was a supporter, not only for my region, but personally.

When I first met Morgan it was actually as a wine blogger with with a wine and travel background and was invited to the Finger Lakes Palate in February 2009.  It was a great event and even though in the middle of winter in the middle of New York State, it had a great feel to it.  Walking around Corning NY through the event, it was such a small town feeling that you see on TV. ( You can view my post on the event here)

That was just the beginning.  Morgan has brought the Finger Lakes Wine Region from a tiny sleepy wine region to a world renowned wine region.  I am sure she had many long days, sleepless nights and put many miles on her car.  She has truely done a remarkable job! Not to mention raising three boys in the process.

When the regional branding of Hudson Valley Wine Country got left in my lap, Morgan was not only a supporter, but was there for me in guidance and encouraged me to continue on.

Morgan, you are going to be missed!  Not only did you put the Finger Lakes Wine Country on the world map, you put New York on the map as a quality wine producing state.

I want to thank you for being there for me, encouraging me to move forward no matter what I was up against. I wish you and your family the best of luck in Santa Barbara!

I'll see you in Wine Country!!