Cutchogue’s McCall Wines was named “Winery of the Year” at the 2013 New York Wine & Food Classic in Watkins Glen August 13.
“I’m thrilled,” owner Russ McCall said of earning the coveted distinction, which was presented by Gov. Andrew Cuomo. “Before this, we had never sent any wine to be judged before.” Mr. McCall attributed the win in part to his “large, mature vineyards” and to having an “incredibly gifted vineyard crew and vineyard manager.” The winery also won “Best Pinot Noir” for its 2010 Pinot Noir Reserve.
The New York Wine & Food Classic, which is sponsored by the New York Grape Foundation, presents its “Winery of the Year” award to the winery with the best overall showing based on the level and number of awards in relation to entries.
This year’s competition included 842 New York wines, 11 Hard Ciders and 22 Spirits from numerous regions across New York State including Long Island, Hudson Valley, Finger Lakes, Niagara Escarpment and Lake Erie. Awards were based on blind tastings by 22 expert judges from the U.S., France and the United Kingdom. Judges included prominent wine writers, restaurateurs, retailers, and wine educators.
Several other North Fork vineyards picked up top awards, including:
Best Sparkling Wine:
Sparkling Pointe 2008 Blanc de Noirs
Best Unoaked Chardonnay:
Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard 2012 Steel Fermented Chardonnay
Best Overall Chardonnay:
Harbes Family Farm & Vineyard 2012 Steel Fermented Chardonnay
Best Dry Riesling:
Paumanok Vineyards 2012 Dry Riesling
Best Vinifera White Blend:
Bedell Cellars 2010 Taste White
Best Merlot:
Martha Clara Vineyards 2010 Merlot
Best Late Harvest Wine:
Paumanok Vineyards 2012 Late Harvest Riesling
For a complete list of winners, go to www.newyorkwines.org.
