There is a place within a winery where the story continues from the vines. Where the wine awaits its time for bottling. This place is the barrel cellar. Each winery has a different feel and is unique in characteristics. Today, my parents and I will experience Raphael's old-world styled cellar for their barrel tasting with winemaker, Richard Olsen-Harbich.
Raphael's cellar is dimly lit with candelabra on the arched stone walls. The air is thick with aromas of oak and fermenting juice. It is extraordinary! Richard will take guests (and in this case, club members) on a winemaker's tour and then use his Wine Thief gadget to have us sample the future wines of Raphael such as the 2008 First Label Merlot, Cabernet Franc Reserve and Malbec.
It's a remarkable spring day outside for a walk through the vines but I look forward to the castle-like cellar at this special winery.
April is Barrel Tasting Month throughout Long Island Wine Country. An event opportunity like this should not be missed. I recommend taking the time to visit one of your favorites on the list and spend some time with the winemaker.
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