In The Vineyard

We are in the thick of harvest, tired but loving every minute of it. Nets are coming off and the yellow and gray picking lugs have been filled and washed many times. We still have a ways to go.

In The Winery

The Chardonnay and the Pinot Noir which were harvested back in September, have finished fermenting. The bubbly is in bottles with a second dose of yeast added and waiting for the second fermentation to make bubbles and complexity. The Chardonnay is either in the steel tank or in oak barrels depending on whether it will make our Mostly Steel or our Barrel Fermented Chardonnay wines.

In October we had bit of a double-whammy. First, from September 1 through October 31, we had 22 inches of rain, and then a frost, though the warm waters around us minimized the impact. It's enough to make your heart stop. Following a few days of blessed sun and warmth, the grapes dried out and we managed to bring in most of the Merlot. Right now it is finishing fermentation and has been punched down three times a day, 8:00 AM. 4:00 PM and midnight. When the grapes start to ferment the CO2 that is released as a byproduct, forces the seeds and skins to the top of the tank forming a "cap". In our case it is about a foot thick and very solid. We have a tool, a rod with a perforated disk on the end, which we use to push the skins down to the bottom of the tank, a "punch down". This does several things, it keeps the cap moist and has the skins mix with the juice adding colour and flavours.

The east field of Cabernet Franc was harvested on October 26th and is going through fermentation as well. We still have the west field to pick and will do so next week along with the rest of the Merlot.

So, this year we will try a little more experimenting with different styles of Merlot and blending by picking at different times allowing variation through ripeness.

On The Farm

The critters are in fine form though Jack is showing his age a bit. However, no doubt that he is still the head Rooster and in control of the flock.

I am sure you have seen the big fence and gates going around the farm -- our deer fence. It worked brilliantly this year thanks to Ryan who put it up. Now we have a new challenge -- the raccoons.

The big news is that Ryan has been working on the original Carriage House part of the L-shaped barn and has turned it into another small tasting room, so now we have a little extra space for everyone. We can't wait for you all to see it!

Wine Clubbers

Your November Wine Club shipment is ready! Just in time for the holidays. If you are being shipped to, the wine will be sent on the 11th so keep an eye out for it. For those of you who pick up, you can stop by any time. In your shipment will be the hearty 2001 Merlot, a spicy Rooster Tail and our delicious, just released, new bubbly, the 2004 Blanc de Noir. Enjoy the wines and happy holidays to all.

We are excited to be hosting some events this winter, and we will notify you of dates after we finish the harvest madness.

Fall case sale

We're featuring a fall case sale of our Rooster Tail red table wine and our 2001 Merlot. Visit our tasting barn or buy online to enjoy the convenience of having your wine shipped directly to you.

Our Wines

2006 Mostly Steel Chardonnay New Release!
100% Chardonnay (10% barrel fermented, 90% steel fermented), has a fruity nose with lemon, granny smith apple, grapefruit, and a zesty dry finish. Clean and fruity this wine pairs with filet of sole almandine.
$17.00/bottle $183.60/case

2005 Cabernet Franc New Release!
Made from 100% Cabernet Franc this light to medium bodied wine exhibits subtle tannins with a palate of dried fig, cinnamon clove, and black fruit, ending in a long soft finish. As you breathe in the aromas you may find a scent of violets and black pepper. Let this wine air before serving with Lamb, grilled vegetables, or steamers in a garlic sauce.
$27.00/bottle $291.60/case

2002 Merlot
This 100% Merlot has spent 24 months in French oak. Mature tannins and a palate of black cherry and cedar are the hallmarks of this vintage. Soft and silky this wine will continue to enrich with age. A great Accompaniment to chicken, poached salmon and turkey.
$24.00/bottle $259.20/case

2005 Barrel Fermented Chardonnay
Having aged in French oak for 4.5 months this Chardonnay is displaying caramelized flavor along side Chardonnay topical fruits (guava and pineapple) and Bosc pear.
$21.00/bottle $226.80/case

Rooster Tail
In keeping with our first Rooster Tail this blend (91% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc) has characters of blackberry, mulberry, and a touch of spice. A Lighter, smoother wine (which can even be chilled) which goes perfectly with a burger, pasta, pizza, or leftovers! Sale ends December 31st, 2008.
$14.00/bottle $151.20/case $107.52/case (Fall case sale — 36% off!)

2001 Merlot
This 88% Merlot and 12% Cabernet Franc blend has an earthy aroma with blackberry, plum, and blueberry ending with spice and black pepper. 30 months in French oak. Incredible with a steak, venison, or mussels in a red sauce! Sale ends December 31st, 2008.
$19.00/bottle $205.20/case $155.04/case (Fall case sale — 32% off!)

2004 Blanc de Noir Sparkling
Made from 100% Pinor Noir fruit, this driest of Méthode Champenoise sparkling wines, will delight your mouth with its tiny bubbles. This bright brut exhibits flavors of orange zest, white cherry, lemon rind and cardamom, ending with a touch of yeastiness. Enjoy it with Long Island oysters, sushi, or a pear crumble.
$40.00/bottle $480.00/case

Prices are exclusive of shipping, handling and New York sales tax. Click here to shop online.

Visit us in our tasting barn, open Thursday through Monday, from 11 AM to 5 PM. We're 1 mile east of the Southold Village traffic light, on the right, on Rt 25. Look for a red fence, white gate and grape vines.