Former Wine Spectator Editor Gives Bedell Wines Historic High Scores

James Suckling, a former editor of Wine Spectator Magazine, has awarded two vintages from historic top scores, the Cutchogue winery announced this week.

Bedell’s 2010 Musée received 92 points, which matches the highest score in history for any red wine made in Eastern North America. Bedell’s 2011 Taste Rosé received 90 points, which is the single highest score in history for any rosé wine made in Eastern North America, according to the winery, according to the winery.

Bedell produced 850 cases of 2010 Musée ($85), which is a blend of 65 percent  merlot, 30 percent cabernet sauvignon, three percent petit verdot, and two percent syrah, and will be released in early 2013. The wine was sustainably farmed, fermented with indigenous yeasts, and aged 16 months in French oak barrels.

Suckling wrote in his tasting notes for 2010 Musée: “Loads of finesse and freshness, with blueberries and violets and berries. Fine tannins and beautiful length.”

Bedell produced 3,000 cases of 2011 Taste Rosé ($18), which is a blend of 60 percent merlot, 20 percent cabernet franc, 18 percent cabernet Ssauvignon and 2 percent syrah. The wine was sustainably farmed and fermented with indigenous yeast.

Of the 2011 Taste Rosé, Suckling wrote: “Beautiful aromas of roses and lemon rind. Medium body, with bright acidity and a clean finish. Mineral, almost pomace character. Delicious.”

Suckling also gave Bedell’s 2010 Taste Red and their 2010 cabernet franc 90 points.

“I am thrilled our wines have been awarded these coveted distinctions by one of the world’s great authorities on wine,” said Bedell owner Michael Lynne. “It is a fantastic achievement and it encourages all of us at Bedell Cellars to continue our efforts in our vineyards and in our winery to make wines that express our region’s unique terroir."

For more information click on Bedell Cellar’s website here or call 631-734-7537.