Long Island Wine Veteran On The Move

Long Island Wine Veteran On The Move
Photo and Story by Christopher J. Davies

Richard Olsen-Harbich has been making wine on Long Island for more than 25 years. Just like other LI wine pioneers in the early days he paid his dues over time learning about the terroir of Long Island's East End. And which grapes were best suited for growing in the region.

While some of the industry's early pioneers made strides as well as painful mistakes, Mr.Olsen-Harbich was able to use all of his knowledge and experience to execute one of Long Island's most ambitious projects, Raphael.

John and Joan Petrocelli launched their family owned wine estate that was named after Mr. Petrocelli's father Raphael. After consulting with Paul Pontallier Chateau Margaux, Bordeaux winemaker, Olsen-Harbich and the Petrocelli's announced that Raphael would devote its efforts into exclusively producing Merlot. During recent times they changed their minds after experimenting with Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Winemaking is about learning from the land and grapes. And this is what Mr.Olsen-Harbich knows best.















Raphael Estate, Photo (C) C J Davies


To his credit, Richard Olsen-Harbich was the man who authored the applications for Long Island's three wine appellations; Hamptons, North Fork Of Long Island and Long Island. All Long Island wine producers have benefited from his work that ensures that the grapes that are used to make wine on Long Island are authentic. He was also one of the founders of the Long Island Merlot Alliance.

After fourteen years he has now made a calculated career decision to move to Bedell Cellars, another well-respect wine producer that is owned by former movie-mogul Michael Lynn. I have no doubt that he will have a major impact on the future of Bedell Cellars wine.

Filing Richards shoes at Raphael will not be easy. But knowing the commitment that the Petrocelli's have made to their winery, I am confident that they will find a distinguished and well-experienced winemaker to continue what Richard set out to do.

For those who are fans of Richard's wines at Raphael, there is winemakers dinner being held on Tuesday June 8th at the Woodland's in Woodbury. Richard will be hosting the dinner that benefits the Foundation for Sight and Sound. Tickets are available.

RSVP: The Foundation For Sight & Sound
Tel. 631-366-3461 or 631-366-3462
Email: info@foundationforsightandsound.org
www.foundationforsightandsound.org