VOICED : First rooftop vineyard opens in New York City

Rooftop Reds is New York's first commercial rooftop vineyard, located in Brooklyn. Co-founder Devin Shomaker aims to integrate viticulture into urban agriculture, using innovative techniques like planters with recycled glass soil for optimal drainage. Despite not being in traditional wine regions, the controlled environment offers advantages in nutrient and water management. Experts believe urban vineyards are feasible. Rooftop Reds plans to rely on events and support from a Finger Lakes vineyard for income, with the first harvest expected in 2017, yielding 30 cases of wine.

What is the primary motivation behind the creation of Rooftop Reds?

• To create a traditional vineyard in Brooklyn

• To apply viticulture skills in an urban setting

• To compete with Bordeaux and Napa Valley

• To produce the most expensive wine in New York

What unique material is used in the soil at Rooftop Reds to aid drainage?

• Peat moss

• Sand

• Clay

• Recycled glass

What advantage does Rooftop Reds have over traditional vineyards?

• Proximity to wine schools

• Lower production costs

• Ability to control growing conditions

• Access to more grape varieties

How does Rooftop Reds plan to generate income while the vines are growing?

• By offering wine tasting tours

• By exporting wine internationally

• Through events and partnerships with other vineyards

• By selling grapes to other vineyards

When is the first harvest of Rooftop Reds planned, and what is the expected yield?

• 2016, 50 cases

• 2018, 40 cases

• 2019, 20 cases

• 2017, 30 cases