New York City's First Winery - In Queens

(Floral Park, Queens-WABC, November 2, 2005) (WABC) -- Long Island wineries could be in for some stiff competition from Queens. That's where the city's first vineyard has opened. From all indications 2006 will be a stellar year and everyone wants to be on the list to get a bottle.

No one had ever tried this before, not in the middle of Queens on a one-acre plot where weeds once ruled. But the folks at the Queens County Farm Museum ignored the odds and instead focused on the grapes. What they've discovered is surprising even the finest wine connoisseur.

Eyewitness News reporter Kemberly Richardson is here with the details.

If ever there was an odd couple, it would be a vineyard, just outside of Manhattan and the man who tends to it--a college professor with no experience growing grapes.

There is a kind of delicate balance, kind of dance to get the grapes.

Well, Gary Mitchell is now waltzing.

Two years ago, folks at a 47 acre farm in Queens had a vision; plant seven inch tall sprouts and hopefully, just possibly, they would grow into a hearty crop.

But no one had ever tried this before, not in the middle of Queens, on a one acre plot where weeds once ruled.

Strange but not impossible.

Gary Mitchell, Queens County Farm Museum: "It was surprising they actually did fruit that first year and estimate was perhaps we'd end up with grapes worth harvesting this."

The experiment was so successful, they planted again and a few weeks ago picked their first harvest; Chardonnay, Merlot, Carbernet Sauvignon and Carbernet Franc--400 pounds of grapes which are now fermenting.

Gary Mitchell: "In about eight months to a year we should be able to do tasting and see what first grapes actually tasted like."

A team of volunteers and wine experts monitors the grapes and makes sure the soil has the right mix of minerals...so far, so good.

It was quite remarkable how vigorous and productive the plants are.

And simply put being here is a plus. We're just a few miles from the long island sound, the vineyard is protected from harsh winds and heavy frost, all of that creates an ideal climate for growing grapes.

Gary Mitchell: "I feel great, every time someone comes by and asks questions or says oh my gosh there are grapes growing there and little kids come by, it's terrific."

An unusual find, unlikely connection!

Gary says even if the grapes do produce a fine batch of wine, they do not plan on turning their experiment into a commercial vineyard, rather holding wine tastings at the farm.

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