With help from the Peconic Land Trust, the Channing Daughters Vineyards is a precious and preserved place.
Debbie describes the elements of one of Channing Daughters' latest wines.
Long Island may not appear on most sommeliers' lists of top wine regions. But if their palates are truly seasoned, they'll agree that there's much merit to the local colloquialism that East End vineyards are the next Napa Valley. The well-preserved soil of the North and South Forks, the smaller and more intimate processing of the product, and the unique influence of the breezy Atlantic climate instigate the development of pungent twangs of all varieties, including Channing Daughters' latest release: The Research Cab.
The dry, red wine is purely local as it consists of 20% Dornfelder grown right in Bridgehampton, with 25.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 53% Merlot and 1.5% Sangiovese from North Fork vineyards. Purple hues of the tannins reflect the darker flavors of black plum, black cherry and black currant, but don't dominate the balance as they blend with subtle smoky and spicy elements. Unrefined and unfiltered, rich body and texture prevail in this delightful libation.
The Research Cab is currently available for sale in the tasting room in Bridgehampton, but won't be around for too long. Channing Daughters gave its wine club members the initial shot at its 96 cases, and they are moving fast.
If you don't make it in time, we suggest the Vino Bianco or Cuvee Tropical, 2004 Mudd, or just about anything there. What we like about Papa Channing's little girls is that they keep trying something new with the fruits of their work. They use stainless steel bins for some wines, and then sometimes mix in French and/or Hungarian oak barrels. That, and they bottle and ferment separately. They have all kinds of little tricks, and they work. Find out for yourself.
Channing Daughters Winery
1927 Scuttle Hole Road, Bridgehampton
631-537-7224
Great article! I would like
Great article! I would like to add, even though I don't live in NY or Long Island, that I am very proud of a local wine. I live in CT. I managed restaurants where we have bought L.I. wine, and it was a huge success.
Just know this, CA (with Napa and Sonoma county) wine is going to keep going up in price. This bubble will burst, and L.I. will be the strong front runner.
Great picture as well! Creatively - it really shows a great lineup and a true love for wine. Well done.
Add your comments...