By Angela Hatton
Frankfort, KY – The number of Kentucky wineries has increased dramatically in recent years. The state department of agriculture records 64 wineries, up from 42 three years ago. Grape and Wine Marketing Specialist Stacia Alford says the majority of those are in central and northern Kentucky. Alford says only seven wineries operate in western Kentucky. She credits the rise to farmers who have transitioned from tobacco to other crops. Alford says the wineries are good for the state because they foster agri-tourism. The agriculture department reports before prohibition, Kentucky was the third largest grape producer in the nation.