By Lenn Thompson, Executive Editor

I just read on the Suffolk Times website that Ralph Pugliese, founder of Puglisese Vineyards, has died. He was 73.

Here's the full story:

"Ralph Pugliese, who co-founded Pugliese Vineyards with his wife, Patricia, died Monday morning, May 16, at his home in Cutchogue. He was 73.

Mr. Pugliese was one of the pioneers of the East End wine industry, buying land in Cutchogue in 1980 where he planted his first two acres of grapes, according to his son Peter, who continues as winemaker.
Winemaking was always in his father