Bedell Cellars Merlot 2006

Bedell Cellars is a boutique farm winery and vineyard located in the small hamlet of Cutchogue, on the North Fork of Long Island. The North Fork is a narrow strip of land wedged between the Long Island Sound to the north, and the Peconic Bay to the south. This proximity to water, and our latitude combine to create a maritime "micro-climate" which provides optimum growing conditions for grapes. It is said to be similar to that of Bordeaux, France.

Cutchogue currently is the center of the North Fork's increasingly renowned wine industry. Prior to the 1970's the North Fork mainly produced potatoes, cauliflower and fruit. Now, almost 2000 acres are planted in wine grapes, with more acreage being planted daily. Vineyards help keep our fork the uniquely scenic, serene, rural, agricultural maritime area it is.

The vineyard and winery were established in 1980 by Kip and Susan Bedell with the planting of seven acres. The vineyard has since expanded to thirty-two acres planted with the following varieties: Merlot, Chardonnay, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Viognier and Petite Verdot.

On August 10, 2000 Michael Lynne became the new owner of Bedell Cellars. Mr. Lynne and Kip Bedell, who remains the winemaker, will continue to work closely together focusing entirely on quality. Mr. Lynne is an avid wine enthusiast and president of New Line Cinema.