Assembly Resolution No. 135 BY: M. of A. Giglio JA HONORING Paumanok Vineyards upon the occasion of its designation as recipient of the Winery of the Year Award by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation on March 18, 2021 WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize the achievements of those individuals and businesses that contribute substantially to the economic vitality of their communities, thereby enhancing economic well-being of the entire Empire State; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor Paumanok Vineyards upon the occasion of its designation as recipient of the Winery of the Year Award by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation at its 35th Annual New York Wine Classic on Thursday, March 18, 2021; and WHEREAS, The 35th Annual New York Wine Classic, a nationally recognized competition highlighting the best of New York's wine, recognized Paumanok Vineyards with its Winery of the year Award; this esteemed award is presented to the winery with the best overall showing based on the level and number of awards in relation to entries; and WHEREAS, Seeing an unprecedented growth over the past few years and allowing wine enthusiasts to enjoy this unique part of the New York experience across the state, Paumanok Vineyards has truly showcased why New York State is a premier wine destination; and WHEREAS, In addition to winning Winery of the Year, Paumanok Vineyards took home Gold Medals in Best Vinitera Kea Blend for its 2015 Assemblage, Best Traditional Method Sparkling Wine for its 2016 Blanc de Blancs and Best Sauvignon Blanc for its 2019 Sauvignon Blanc; and WHEREAS, Among the oldest vineyards on the North Folk, Paumanok Vineyards was founded in 1983 by Ursula and Charles Massoud and is located on Main Road in Aquebogue, New York and WHEREAS, Furthermore, Paumanok Vineyards' 127-acre estate is currently run by their three sons, Salim, Kareem and Nabeel; Nabeel Massoud manages the vineyard, Kareem Massoud is the winemaker and Salim Massoud is the administrative manager; and WHEREAS, At Paumanok Vineyards, premium vinifera grapevines are planted, consisting of Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot; furthermore, the traditional dense planting of the vineyards at 1,100 to 1,400 vines per acre produces more concentrated fruit and therefore higher quality wines; and WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 38-year history, Paumanok Vineyards has demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which it serves; and WHEREAS, The success of Pindar Vineyards is in direct correlation to the efforts of its devoted owners and staff, whose involvement is, and always has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in all endeavors on behalf of the organization and the community it serves; and WHEREAS, It is with great pleasure that this Legislative Body acknowledges this exceptional business, its contributions to the local and state economies, and its vibrant role in improving the quality of life in its community, fully confident that it will continue to enjoy the sparkling successes it has experienced thus far; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to honor Paumanok Vineyards upon the occasion of its designation as recipient of the Winery of the Year Award by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to Paumanok Vineyards.