I was out on the Island last weekend and i had some time on my hands. So what do I normally do? Ha! Anyway, I had tasted several bottles of Terra Vite wines at different events, but had never visited the winery. Now seemed like the right time. Terra Vite is owned by Jacqui and Greg Goodale. This is a charming and very well appointed boutique micro-winery.
Kelly Koch, winemaker
Their 3-acre vineyard is located on the North Fork on Manor Lane. The vineyard is populated by Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay and Merlot vines. I loved the Terra Vite Sole when I tasted it at the Long Island Wine Country 50th Anniversary celebration. That wine made me curious about Terra Vite. And I can say now, I am sorry it took me so long to find this place.
I only tasted four reds during this visit. It was going to be a long day of tasting, so I had to limit myself. I decided to go with reds. I had two immediate favorites.
Terra Vite Merlot 2016 - 100% Estate Merlot. The winemaker's notes read: "The grapes were hand-harvested and sorted. Maceration and skin contact occurred for 18 days. Barrel fermented and then aged in a combination of new and used French Oak." Beautiful notes of red cherry, dark raspberry and plum on the nose. Velvety palate with integrated tannins, yet bursting with ripened red fruit. Delicious!
Terra Vite Cypress Red Meritage 2021 is a Bordeaux-styled blend of 69% Merlot, 30% Petit Verdot, and 10% Cabernet Franc. Intense nose comprised of dark fruit, vanilla, and spices on the nose. Lush on the mid-palate, hints of black currant, cherries (dark and bright), with nicely balanced tannins on the palate and hints of spice. A very well constructed, complex and balanced wine. Super impressive.
