It is with deep sadness that I write this post today. Another member of the Long Island wine community has left us long before his time. I certainly hope its the last such post I need to write for some time.

Ben Sisson, a friend and frequent commenter here on LENNDEVOURS passed away yesterday. Most recently, Ben was vineyard manager for McCall Vineyards in Cutchogue after many years at Raphael.

Over the several years that I knew Ben, he taught me a lot both about growing grapes on Long Island and about the industry itself. He was quick to chime in on even the most controversial posts and set me straight more than a couple times. He always told it like it was, and I respected him for it.

The last time I saw Ben, we spent several minutes talking about fishing, the growing season and also fatherhood.
He was a loving, devoted father and husband and will be missed by all. I know that I'll miss him.

The local wine community has had far too much heartache this winter.