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Miguel Martin, who has worked for several wineries the world over has joined Palmer Vineyards as winemaker. The native of Madrid, Spain native has nearly 20 years of winemaking experience, including winemaking positions at Gonzalez Byass, Robert Mondavi, Yalumba and Catera.

"Miguel Martin is an important addition to the Long Island winemaking scene," said Robert J. Palmer, owner of Palmer Vineyards. "He brings not only 10 years of experience working with the highly regarded Robert Mondavi Co., but also has winemaking experience from all over the world. This really qualifies him to understand the uniqueness of Long Island."

Martin joins a small, but growing group of international winemakers, who after working in some of the world’s best-known wine regions have chosen to ply their trade in Long Island’s relatively small region. I guess you can say that the Long Island region is gaining momentum in the world wine community — not just locally.

Palmer’s previous winemaker, Tom Drozd, has left the winery but is planning to remain in the local industry. At this point, I’ve not been able to find out where he’s going, but I know he has been making wine for Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard as well.