Clovis Point Winery

^{This post has been brought to you by Clovis Point Winery. All opinions expressed are my own. The following message is intended for those 21+. Please enjoy responsibly.}

Today we’re sampling three different bottles from Long Island’s Clovis Point winery.

Up first, I’ll be providing you with a brief overview of Long Island as a wine region, and trying to pin down the keys behind the island’s renowned wines. After that, I’ll be reviewing the wines themselves, and then provide you with some pairing suggestions.

Now, without further delay, let’s start tasting.

The Where – Long Island, NY

In the world of wine, Long Island is an unlikely triumph. From rural roots that gave way to suburban sprawl existing alongside a now burgeoning wine region, Long Island's viticultural journey is a narrative of innovation, dedication, and adaptation.

When thinking of Long Island, it’s almost always either the Hamptons, suburbia, or the urban buzz of New York City that come to mind. While what exists between these three defining features of USA’s coast is often a hazy blur. But it is within that blur that Long Island's wine story exists a paradoxical – almost anachronistic – phenomenon.

A mere few decades ago, Long Island was a patchwork of farms and fisheries, marked by quiet country roads dotted by farmers selling locally grown produce. But as agricultural subsidies waned, land prices soared, leading to rapid suburban development. Yet, amidst this transformation, a new chapter was written, one rooted in viticulture.

In 1973, Long Island's first vineyard took root, a foreshadowing of things to come. Today, Long Island is a critically acclaimed wine region. A paradox, you might say, given its youth and challenging maritime climate. From unpredictable rains to blistering droughts, flooding, harsh winters and searing summers, the harsh whims of Mother Nature almost purposefully defy the cultivation of vines on this lengthy island.

Yet, formidable obstacles, cramped geography, nosebleed land prices, and hostile weather haven’t stopped Long Island’s wines from being praised for their balance. Nor have these stumbling blocks stopped the area from becoming one of the most prestigious North American wine regions in existence.

But enough about the where and the when, it’s time to dive into the wines themselves. Let’s get tasting.

The Bottle – A Showcase

Today we’re reviewing three bottles from Clovis Point:

Up first is their 2019 Petit Verdot.

Next we’ll be looking at their 2019 Merlot.

Finally, we’ll be reviewing their 2017 Petit Verdot.

The Review – Tasting and Aromatics

2019 Petit Verdot: In the glass, the wine presents an inky purple hue, pleasantly regal in appearance. On the nose, the wine introduces itself with a layered bouquet of blackberry and plum, laced with subtle whispers of violet and toasted oak. On the palate, the words ‘robost’ and ‘bold’ instantly come to mind. The wine is full-bodied and well structured. Black cherries, ripe currants, and gentle tannins create a wine that is bold and structured without being overpowering. Hints of vanilla and cedar. The finish is lingering, with the dark fruit notes persisting with a touch of spice, but without overstaying its welcome. A very pleasant wine.

2019 Merlot: The wine pours with a deep, inviting garnet hue that hints of its lush fruit character. The wine opens up with delicate aromas of red berries, particularly ripe cherries. Deeper into the glass, plum takes center stage, layered with vanilla and warm, earthy spices. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied and beautifully balanced. Cherries, red currants, and just a touch of cranberry creates a lively, fruit-forward experience. Hints of cedar and fresh tobacco leaf add to the wine’s depth and complexity. The finish is well finessed and lasting, with silky tannins and refreshing acidity.

2017 Petit Verdot: The wine introduces itself with a deep, inviting garnet coloration that hints nicely at its depth and complexity. The nose offers an intriguing blend of dark berries off the top of the glass. Midway into the glass, black cherries and a hint of spice manifest, adding depth to the bouquet. On the palate, the wine is rich and velvety, carrying flavors of ripe plum and blackberry. The wine coats the mouth, leaving behind notes of cocoa. The tannins are very well integrated, creating a structured yet very approachable wine.

What to Eat – The Pairings

The 2019 Petit Verdot: Rich and hearty dishes are the order of the day. Consider serving this wine alongside grilled meats, especially lamb or beef. Roasted root vegetables and earthy, mushroom infused dishes are also delicious accompaniments. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider dark chocolate desserts.

The 2019 Merlot: A delightful companion to dishes such as grilled pork tenderloin or roasted dusk. For vegetarian options, consider mushroom risotto or lentil stew. Soft cheeses, such as brie or camembert, provide a charming prelude to this wine's fruit-forward nature.

The 2017 Petit Verdot: This robust wine pairs well with equally robust dishes. Think herb-crusted prime rib or a hearty lamb stew. Think roasted eggplant or Portobello mushrooms with a balsamic glaze. Aged cheeses, such as gouda or Roquefort, would also pair deliciously.

And that’s our review of these three lovely wines from Long Island.  If you enjoyed this review or tried any of the pairings, let us know in the comments below.

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Cheers!