Senate Resolution No. 11

BY: Senator PALUMBO

HONORING McCall Wines upon the occasion of its
designation as a Gold Medalist by the New York Wine
and Grape Foundation on July 12, 2022

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the
achievements of those individuals and businesses that contribute
substantially to the economic vitality of their communities, thereby
enhancing the economic well-being of the entire Empire State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
McCall Wines upon the occasion of its designation as a Gold Medalist by
the New York Wine and Grape Foundation at its 36th Annual New York Wine
Classic on Tuesday, July 12, 2022; and

WHEREAS, The 36th Annual New York Wine Classic is a nationally
recognized competition highlighting the best of New York's wine; and

WHEREAS, Seeing an unprecedented growth over the past few years and
allowing wine enthusiasts to enjoy this unique part of the New York
experience across the state, this extraordinary vineyard has truly
showcased why New York State is a premier wine destination; and

WHEREAS, McCall Wines was awarded for its 2014 Corchaug Estate
Reserve, Pinot Noir, Best Pinot Noir; and its 2014 North Ridge Vineyards
Reserve, Cabernet Franc; and

WHEREAS, Until roughly 300 years ago, Downs Woods and the adjacent
McCall vineyards were the cultural center of an Algonquin Indian tribe;
known as Fort Corchaug, the natives selected this unique maritime
property along the estuary as their home; and

WHEREAS, In 1902, Russell Simeon Walker, President of the Dime
Savings Bank in Brooklyn, rode his horse and buggy to the North Fork to
find a summer home; from the Walkers to the Munkenbecks down to the
McCalls, the property remained in the family; and

WHEREAS, In 1996, Russell McCall joined forces with the Peconic Land
Trust to save Down's Woods, Fort Corchaug, and the farmland adjacent to
his family's property from the threat of development, after which he
replanted the corn and potato fields with 21 acres of vineyards; a few
years later, he purchased and gifted the North Fork Stewardship Center
to the Peconic Land Trust in allegiance to their shared commitment; and

WHEREAS, Founded in 2007, McCall Wines made its first vintage the
same year before opening its tasting room, erecting its wind turbine,
and raising cattle in 2010; and

WHEREAS, In 2011, McCall Wines acquired North Ridge Vineyard,
expanding its production of estate-grown wines with this old-vine
planting; and

WHEREAS, Over its distinguished history, this esteemed vineyard has
demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which
it serves; and

WHEREAS, The success of McCall Wines is in direct correlation to the
efforts of its dedicated owners and staff, whose involvement is, and
always has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled
enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in all
endeavors on behalf of the businesses and the communities they serve;
and

WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body
acknowledges this exceptional business, its contributions to the local
and state economies, and its vibrant role in improving the quality of
life in its community, fully confident it will continue to enjoy the
same sparkling successes it has experienced thus far; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor McCall Wines upon the occasion of its designation as a Gold
Medalist by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation on July 12, 2022; and
be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to McCall Wines.