Sun, Sea, Soil, Wine: Winemaking on the North Fork

Wine enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and those curious about the art of winemaking are in for a treat with the upcoming release of “Sun, Sea, Soil, Wine: Winemaking on the North Fork of Long Island.” Authored by veteran Long Island winemaker Richard Olsen-Harbich, this eagerly awaited book is set to debut on January 1st, 2024, and is currently available for pre-order.

Drawing on his extensive expertise and passion for winemaking, Olsen-Harbich takes readers on an immersive journey through the intricate world of crafting world-class wines on the North Fork of Long Island. This region has steadily gained recognition as a premier winemaking destination, thanks to its unique maritime climate, fertile soils, and the innovative techniques employed by its vintners.

“Sun, Sea, Soil, Wine” is more than a book about wine; it’s an exploration of the synergy between nature, science, and artistry. Through meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Olsen-Harbich delves into the history, geography, and cultural influences that have shaped winemaking practices on the North Fork. Readers will gain insights into the delicate balance between the sun-drenched landscapes, the coastal influences, and the soil compositions that contribute to the exceptional quality of wines produced in this region.

Meet and Great with the Author at Book Launch Party

The book launch will be celebrated with a launch party at Bedell Cellars on Thursday, November 9^th from 7 – 9 p.m. Olsen-Harbich will host the event offering personalized book signings and a Q&A regarding the book. Guests may network with fellow book enthusiasts and wine aficionados while enjoying small bites by Lombardi’s Love Lane Market and Bedell Cellars wine, select by the author himself. Early copies of “Sun, Sea, Soil, Wine” will be available for sale at the event.

Richard Olsen-Harbich, a celebrated figure in the world of East Coast winemaking, brings a wealth of knowledge to this book. As the winemaker at Bedell Cellars – one of the North Fork’s most renowned vineyards – his firsthand experiences infuse authenticity into every page. Olsen-Harbich has produced more than forty 90+ point wines during his tenure at Bedell Cellars and fifty 90+ point wines in his career. From the early struggles faced by pioneering vintners to the modern-day innovations that have propelled the North Fork onto the global wine stage, Olsen-Harbich paints a vivid picture of the evolution of winemaking in this remarkable locale.

“While some excellent books about Long Island wines have been penned in the past, they primarily focused on memoirs or provided overviews of the individuals and companies shaping the region. These works delved into the ‘who, what, and where’ of the personalities, wineries and vineyards dedicated to developing Long Island’s wine industry. However, I believed it was time to delve deeper into the intricacies of the region that have never been discussed before. This included a thorough exploration of the terroir, geography, climate, and soil, with a specific focus on the North Fork, the primary American Viticultural Area (AVA) within Long Island where the majority of vineyards are situated. Rather than write a personal memoir; instead, I aspired to convey the precious and unique qualities of this area and provide insights into why the North Fork has achieved such success in crafting world-class wines. Additionally, I sought to contextualize our small region within the broader narrative of American winemaking. In addition to the exploration of the region’s specifics, my book also incorporates personal anecdotes and my own opinions on the current state of the wine industry,” shares Olsen-Harbich.

Available for Pre-Order

Readers are invited to pre-order “Sun, Sea, Soil, Wine” now to secure their copies ahead of the official release date. With its beautifully crafted narrative, stunning visuals, and expert insights, this book promises to be a must-have addition to the libraries of wine enthusiasts, students of viticulture, and anyone captivated by the magic that unfolds when nature’s elements intertwine with human craftsmanship.

“Sun, Sea, Soil, Wine: Winemaking on the North Fork of Long Island” is published by SUNY Press and will be available in both print and digital formats. Pre-order a copy today and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey into the world of winemaking. To pre-order the book, visit https://sunypress.edu/Books/S/Sun-Sea-Soil-Wine