Roundtable discusses positive impact of Erie County wineries

More than 20 wineries exist along a 50-mile stretch near Lake Erie

Pennsylvania House Democratic Caucus    September 9, 2024 | 5:18 PM

NORTH EAST, Sept. 9 – State lawmakers learned more about the largest wine growing outside California, touring and discussing the agricultural and economic impacts of a family-owned winery in Lake Erie Wine Country – where an estimated 20,000 acres of vineyards exist.

“While it might shock many of my colleagues in Harrisburg, the largest and arguably best wine-making region outside California is located right here in Erie County,” said House Majority Policy chairman Ryan Bizzarro, who hosted the House Majority Policy Committee roundtable and tour with his fellow members of the House Majority Erie Delegation. “I love promoting what Erie does best, and wine making happens to be one of our hallmarks – an agricultural and economic treasure.”

Monday’s House Majority Policy hearing featured a tour from Nick Mobilia, who along with his wife Kathy became third generation owners of Mobilia Fruit Farm in 1980. The couple founded Arrowhead Wine Cellars in 1998.

“Family farms power Pennsylvania agriculture, and we were able to take an afternoon to learn more about the economic benefits of a multi-generation farm and just a few of its benefits – including sustainability, community connections and family traditions,” state Rep. Pat Harkins said.

Lake Erie Wine Country features 21 wineries across just 53 miles, stretched across two states – from Harborcreek, Pa., to Silver Creek, N.Y. The region is ideal for grape growing and vineyards. Soil along Lake Erie often includes limestone, while the breeze coming off Lake Erie keeps cool air moving and vineyards dry, which helps reduce the chance of disease.

“We know agriculture supports an estimated one of every 10 jobs in the state, but today we learned more how locally- and family-owned farms are making an impact in our economy,” state Rep. Bob Merski said. “Our region is one of the most unique in the state, allowing for not only winemaking but it has also encouraged the start of other related industries, including craft brewing – as well as influx of craft beverages.”

Arrowhead Wine Cellars produces 32 varieties of wine, primarily growing native, hybrid and European grapes on their 250-acre farm in Erie County. The winery’s name is derived from the numerous native arrowheads found while farming the fertile soil. 

Information about this hearing and other House Majority Policy Committee hearings can be found at pahouse.com/policy. Photos to be used for publication can be found at pahouse.com/PolicyCommittee/Galleries.