HAMMONDSPORT, NY (WENY) -- All the excitement in Victory Lane at Watkins Glen International after the race wouldn't be the same without the champagne celebration. And Hammondsport-based Pleasant Valley Wine Company has a long history of award-winning champagne, and deep roots with local racing. 

 When the winner of the I Love NY 355 at the Glen pulls into Gatorade Victory Lane at WGI on Sunday, they'll be celebrating with Great Western champagne, made by the oldest winery in the Finger Lakes.

"It's really, I think, a great part of the American tradition, just like the track is for racing, so the two brands, the two products go very well together. They're both historic, and well known, and we think it's a great partnership," explains Patrick Doyle, Sales and Marketing for Pleasant Valley Wine Company.

A partnership made in Finger Lakes heaven - the world-renowned Watkins Glen International - and the historic Pleasant Valley Wine Company, owned by the Doyle family.

"You know, my dad, who owns the place, Mike Doyle, he talks about when he got into this business, making something that would be part of celebrations. Making something that makes people happy. And champagne certainly does that," said Doyle.

Patrick Doyle says the role of their award-winning Great Western champagne fits perfectly in the racing world, after the checkered flag waves at the finish line at WGI. While the drivers may end up wearing more of the champagne than drinking it, having a place in the world of NASCAR at Watkins Glen is one the winery looks forward to continuing. 

"We are just so, it's a privilege for us to be in the winner's circle and celebrate with all these wonderful races and drivers... but to be with them in that great moment, in their careers and their lives is really a special thing. We're very happy about that, it's a great partnership," he said.

Pleasant Valley Wine Company: http://www.pleasantvalleywine.com/