Located not far from the very "in" area of the Hamptons, Aaron Munk's Red Fern Cellars is the only kosher winery on New York's Long Island. The winery's 2005 wines were tasted first during my recent visit to the USA and then again today, blind in my own tasting room, my tasting notes holding consistently between tastings. Worth looking for the wines. See the winery's internet site at
http://www.redferncellars.com/Best
Rogov
Red Fern Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, Long Island, N.Y., 2005: Dark garnet towards royal purple, medium- to full bodied, with gently mouth-coating tannins, opening to reveal a blackberry-blackcurrant profile, the fruits matched by notes of black pepper, anise and, on the moderately-long finish a note of demerara sugar. Drink now-2012. Score 88. K
Red Fern Cellars, Merlot, Long Island, N.Y., 2005: Light garnet in color, light- to medium-bodied, with softly caressing tannins and aromas and flavors of cherries, blackberries and blueberries, those highlighted by hints of anise and freshly ground coffee. Not overly complex but a good match to food. Drink now-2011. Score 88. K
Red Fern Cellars, Syrah, Long Island, N.Y., 2005: Dark garnet in color, medium- to full-bodied, with gripping tannins that need some time to settle down. Opens slowly in the glass to reveal blackberries, black cherries and bitter-sweet chocolate, those followed by notes of wild flowers and sage. Drink now-2012. Score 89. K
Red Fern Cellars, Chardonnay, Long Island, N.Y., 2005: Glistening gold in color, medium- to full-bodied, with generous oak but that set off nicely by lively acidity. On the nose and palate generous citrus, citrus peel and citrus flowers, those with an appealing creamy texture that fills the mouth nicely. On the finish a welcome note of stony minerals. Drink now-2011. Score 89. K