By Evan Dawson, Finger Lakes Correspondent
I had the opportunity to visit with the new winemaker of Hunt Country Vineyards near Keuka Lake: Jonathan Hunt, son of owners Art and Joyce Hunt. The Hunts declined to say much about the departure of winemaker Chris Wirth, who left the operation last week. "We appreciate Chris' efforts," Art said. "But we've been looking for a way to bring new energy to the winery. Jon has dreamed about this job, and we think it's time."
In the interview, Jonathan - along with his wife, Caroline, and his father, Art - explain the following, which is sure to generate some discussion:
- Why the Hunts don't believe biodynamic winemaking is realistic in the
Finger Lakes and but what they're doing to become more sustainable - Which variety is most exciting to Jonathan (it's not riesling)
- Why Jon and Art are often confused for twins
Jonathan is the sixth generation of Hunts to work the land, and his background took him through Cornell, to California, to New Zealand.
With the help of my supremely talented photographer wife, I'm still learning the ropes of the new Flip cam. I promise the efforts will continue to improve.
In the meantime, I hope you'll check out the video and tell us: Do you agree with the Hunts' assessment of sustainable and biodynamic winemaking? What do you think of Jonathan's favorite varietyl?
Note: Make sure that you have the volume turned up on your computer so you can hear the audio better.