NY wineries: Casa Larga a link to Italy

November 7, 2:00 PMNew York State Wine ExaminerWilliam M. Dowd

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FAIRPORT, NY -- Barrel oak used for wine aging usually refers to American white oak, the same stuff used to age bourbon and other American whiskies. However, Casa Larga winemaker Mark Patterson has something else to offer.

Patterson has used Hungarian and French oak in addition to American oak to age his Chardonnays, giving each a subtle note different from the others.

The special release trio now is available from the wine shop at the vineyard for $75. Go here to check out what's available online.

Casa Larga is an Italian-style vineyard and winery founded in 1974 as a hobby by Italian-born Andrew Colaruotolo. His aim was to produce wines reminiscent of those produced by his family's vineyard in Italy, also called Casa Larga. His first three  wines were produced in 1978, earning silver and gold medals in the first competition in which they were entered. And, that ended the hobby phase.

Now, 35 years later, Casa Larga Vineyards is considered a major Finger Lakes winery, producing an extensive line of award-winning wines under the continued management of the Colaruotolo family in the wake of Andrew's passing in 2004. His wife, Ann, son John and daughters Mary Jo and Andrea form the management team of the Monroe County complex.

Casa Larga is part of the Canandaigua Wine Trail. Check all NY trails here.

(Have you checked the New York Wine Events Calendar today? If not, click here.)