I'm lucky to live smack dab in the middle of New York wine country. No, not Long Island, thank you very much. Nothing against Long Island, per se, but I feel the region tends to overshadow other wine-producing areas of the state. I live on the Dutchess County wine trail, just minutes from Clinton Vineyards and Alison Winery. And this time of the year I am extra-lucky because I'm also just a short drive away from the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Festival. Over 50 wineries from across New York state will be represented, and there will be plenty of vendors selling their wares, as well.

As a bonus for you Food Network fans, Chef Peter Kelly, who beat Bobbly Flay on the program "iron chef" will be at the festival on Saturday, September 9th. He will be the featured Celebrity Chef Demonstrator

Festival Details:

Location: Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck, NY

Hours: Friday, September 7th- Grand Reserve Tasting Event- 6:00pm to 9:00pm (Tickets must be purchased in advance for Grand Reserve); Saturday, September 8th - 12:00pm to 6:00pm; Trade Only - 10:30am-12:00pm
Sunday, September 9th - 12:00pm to 5:00pm Trade Only - 10:30am-12:00pm