Macari produces some of the finest grapes grown on Long Island, thanks to the family's devotion to truly sustainable viticulture.  Joseph Jr. and Alexandra Macari planted the family vineyard in 1995, and after Joseph Jr. studied with some of the great names in biodynamic viticulture he began holistic management of the property, complete with cattle and a whole field devoted to compost.  Now in the third generation, the next Joseph Jr. has succeeded as Vineyard Manager, his sister Gabriella is Director of Operations, and worldwide vine veteran Byron Elmendorf has taken charge of the cellar. 

Macari's 'Breakwater' is a site-specific bottling from a recently planted but particularly good site on the estate.  A hill on the property that used to help contain the compost area was cleared and planted with newer clones of Chardonnay.  Since Long Island is quite flat, any slope that can help increase drainage and aspect for vines is coveted.  2021 was a better year for Long Island than for most of Europe, and Macari had a particularly good harvest with full ripeness of Chardonnay but also preservation of acidity.

The hand-harvested Chardonnay was lightly pressed, and fermentation with native yeasts took place in a mix of neutral and new French oak. The wine was blended and rested in stainless steel tanks to tighten up and focus.  The result is a balanced and, dare we say, Burgundian, white with a nervy core wrapped in well-integrated richness. 

Pairing: Crab cakes with lemon aioli, Flounder with beurre blanc sauce

Grapes: Chardonnay

Farming Practices: Sustainable with Biodynamic Practices