By Blake Jackson
In 2024, Hudson Valley’s Milea Estate Vineyard launched Hudson Valley Vineyards, introducing sparkling wines inspired by Bordeaux’s “Left Bank” and “Right Bank.”
“In the traditional sense, ‘Right Bank’ refers to the area of Bordeaux that lies east of the Dordogne and Gironde rivers, whereas ‘Left Bank’ refers to the area west of the Garonne and Gironde rivers,” says Darren Chertkoff, Milea’s winemaker, explaining the French influence.
While Bordeaux’s wines are typically red blends, Milea’s approach focuses exclusively on sparkling wines grown in either the “Right Bank” or “Left Bank” of the U.S.
“Hudson Valley Vineyards is Milea’s ultra‑premium sparkling wine program, with the goal of making world-class sparkling wines using the Méthode Traditionnelle,” Chertkoff adds. Right Bank wines use grapes from New York’s Hudson Valley and Long Island, while Left Bank wines feature Oregon-grown grapes. “This is meant to highlight the unique characteristics and high quality of New York and Oregon sparkling wines,” Chertkoff says.
Two wines have been released so far: the Right Bank NV Brut Cuvee and Right Bank NV Blanc de Blanc, the latter winning Best Sparkling Wine at the 2025 New York Wine Classic. Made from 100% Chardonnay, it follows the traditional Champagne method, achieving bubbles through secondary fermentation in bottles.
“First,” Chertkoff explains, “still base wines are blended into a cuvée. A mixture of sugar and yeast, called the liqueur de tirage, is added to the bottle, which is then sealed with a crown cap for secondary fermentation. After aging on expired yeast cells, or lees, for increased complexity, the wine is riddled, disgorged, topped with a dosage, and then corked during final bottling.”
Sustainability guides Milea’s winemaking. “Milea is certified sustainable under the New York State Sustainable Winegrowing Program,” says Chertkoff. The estate spans nearly 100 acres, featuring vineyards, gardens, meadows, and heritage orchards.
“Overall reception of the Right Bank Blanc de Blanc and the sparkling program has been incredibly positive,” Chertkoff says. A guest from Champagne even commented the wine “tasted like home,” highlighting Milea’s success in producing world-class sparkling wines.
Photo Credit: istock-jimfeng
Categories: New York, General