Raphael
Peconic, New York
Story and photographs by Christopher J. Davies, Publisher & Editorial Director
Renaissance on the
North Fork
One
mans dream has become a reality and an everlasting homage
to his beloved Father.
The
long awaited opening of Raphael in Peconic has FINALLY become
a reality. I have had the good fortune of getting to know
the staff and proprietors of Raphael for the past 1 1/2 years.
All the while, I learned to appreciate their fine quality
standards and PATIENCE. Most people taking their first sip
of Raphael Merlot may not realize that this project began
almost five years ago when the first vines were planted at
Raphael. So if you do happen to get a taste of this new wine,
take your time and appreciate what you are drinking!
 The
Raphael building is a magnificent piece of architecture spanning
some 28,000 square feet. Proprietor Jack Petrocelli is a master
builder who has created many masterpieces during his distinguished
career. The Raphael Winery Estate will undoubtedly be known
as his greatest creation. Mr. Petrocelli has dedicated this
new Estate Winery to the memory of his beloved Father Raphael.
The
front of the winery resembles a Mediteranean Chateau with
Red Tiled Roof and circular driveway with fountain. From the
inside you will experience a massive open-spaced room with
earth toned ceramic tile, high ceilings, tall arched renaissance-style
windows and a circular tasting bar trimmed in oak to resemble
a wine barrel. The building includes a number of spectacular
chandeliers, elevations, stairways and treasures including
it's own chapel.
 Winemaker
and GM, Richard Olsen-Harbich has been extremely busy this
year with his efforts to produce "epic" Estate Merlot, while
also successfully applying for the Long Island Appellation.
Rich has worked closely with renowned consultant Paul Pontallier,
Managing Director of Chateau Margaux in France, to develop
a distinctive Estate Merlot and Table Red. Although Raphael's
focus will be on producing Red wines, they have made a small
supply Sauvignon Blanc in the traditional Chateau tradition.
From a distance it is easy to see that the Raphael vineyard
is extremely well maintained. Vineyard Manager Ben Sisson
and Long Island grape growing expert Steve Mudd, have managed
to yield a quality harvest these past several years.
Supplies
of their first wines are very limited. So the winery plans
to allocate sales. They will also shortly begin to pre-sell
wine from their upcoming 1998 vintage (to be released in November).
Don't
miss their gift shop, which includes a splendid collection
of high-end culinary items, giftware and elegant clothing.
Raphael
is located approximately 1/2 mile east of Pindar and Lenz
on the Main Road.
For
details visit their web site: www.raphaelwine.com
Raphael
39390 Main Road
Peconic, NY 11958
Tel. (631) 765-1100
E-mail: info@raphaelwine.com
|
