By Lenn Thompson, Editor-in-Chief You don't see much viognier on Long Island and what is grown here usually ends up as a small percentage (20% or less) of local white blends, especially at Bedell Cellars, where it plays a supporting role in three different wines. But at Martha Clara Vineyards, it's bottled by itself every year, making for a unique opportunity to taste this grape. Martha Clara Vineyards 2008 Viognier ($18) bursts with white flowers on the nose with layers of honey, peach, cantaloupe and lemon balm. Medium-to-full bodied, the palate is peachy and floral with a little tropical fruit…
Posts Written OnMarch 31, 2010
Winter Pruning in the Niagara Wine Region Part 1
By Bryan Calandrelli, Niagara Regional Editor There are certain things you can learn from drinking wine and reading about winemaking or wine science. In my experience though other aspects like viticulture and canopy management can really only be grasped working hands-on the vineyard. I’ve gained some basic knowledge in the last few seasons here but there is so much more for me to learn before I go planting a small vineyard. My idea behind this video and future videos is to demonstrate basic methods of vine management during the season with at least three wineries using different trellis systems. Each…
Southampton Imperial Porter
By Kevin Burns, Beer Columnist Located in Southampton, Long Island, the Southampton Publick House has been producing award-winning beers for over a decade. The brewery has signed on with Pabst brewing in hopes of improving their marketing and distribution as well. Brewmaster Phil Markowski specializes in farmhouse ales, but also makes delicious beers in a variety of styles, including this, the first porter they've bottled. Southampton Ales & Lagers' Imperial Porter poured a dark brown/blackish color with a thumb width of tan head. The aroma is rich, with lots of malty chocolate notes. The body is deep, with a smooth, full mouthfeel, lots…