Raphael Merlot 2005

The 2005 vintage was the driest growing season on Eastern Long Island in almost 60 years. Rainfall from May through October 1 totaled approximately 7 inches – the average for the region during this same period is approx. 15-19 inches. The dry conditions combined with steady, warm temperatures provided us with extremely ripe and concentrated fruit and a harvest season that began 2 weeks earlier than normal. Late season rains did little to affect fruit composition. We believe the 2005 vintage will be recognized as one of Long Island's finest – clearly the best wines we have made since 2001.

The 2005 Estate Merlot is our biggest and best yet. Dark black fruit and jammy with nuances of blackberries, cassis, tobacco and eucalyptus, this wine outclasses most wines in its price category. The Merlot is on its own in this wine, providing full ripe tannins and dense mouth feel reflecting the extreme ripeness levels of the 2005 vintage.