2006 Raphael Estate Merlot

North Fork of Long Island, New York

Raphael Estate Merlot is a local wine gem from just across the Long Island Sound on the North Fork of Long Island. Raphael is Long Island's premier vineyard and winery estate, established in 1996 by John Petrocelli Sr. to honor his father and the family's winemaking tradition. Raphael is located on a gently sloping 60-acre parcel of glacial outwash plain nestled just 2000 feet from the Peconic Bay and its maritime influence. The site was carefully selected as an ideal setting for Merlot, long recognized as the varietal best suited to this region. The winemaker is Richard Olsen-Harbrich. Paul Pontallier, Managing Director of Chateau Margaux, is consulting enologist.

Raphael Estate Merlot is ruby red in color, made of 100% estate Merlot. Soft and round with medium body, bright acidity and fresh aromatics, this red shows flavors of plum, cherry and red berries. It was aged 50% in stainless steel and 50% in older French oak to impart subtle influences of toasty oak. No First Label Merlot was bottled in 2004, so this Estate Merlot received fruit from older vines and the finest vineyard areas, making this release a superb value. The finish is smooth and long.

Enjoy Raphael Estate Merlot over the next 5-6 years with Long Island duckling, roast pork, grilled vegetables and cheeses.