Croteaux Vineyards, located in the charming town of Southold on Long Island, is currently owned by a partnership between Randy Frankel and Kristen and Daniel Pennessi. Randy Frankel, a successful financier from New Jersey, purchased Shinn Estate Vineyards in Mattituck two years prior to his involvement with Croteaux. It seems that his passion for wine and the vineyard business led him to expand his portfolio and venture into the ownership of Croteaux.
In his pursuit of enhancing the wine industry in the region, Frankel joined forces with Kristen and Daniel Pennessi, the owners of The Menhaden hotel in Greenport. Together, they saw the potential and unique qualities of Croteaux Vineyards and decided to acquire it earlier this year.
The collaboration between Randy Frankel and the Pennessis brings together their respective experiences and expertise. Frankel, being a financier, likely brings his business acumen and financial skills to the partnership. On the other hand, Kristen and Daniel Pennessi, as owners of The Menhaden hotel, may contribute their knowledge of the hospitality industry and customer experience to the vineyard's operations.
It's worth noting that Croteaux Vineyards is renowned for being the only vineyard in the United States solely dedicated to producing rosé wines. This specialization sets it apart from other wineries in the region and adds to its uniqueness and appeal.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to visit Croteaux Vineyards and experience its offerings firsthand. The vineyard's dedication to the production of rosé wines is truly impressive. The attention to detail in crafting these wines is evident in their exceptional quality and distinct flavor profiles.
During my visit, I was able to explore the vineyard's picturesque grounds, which are adorned with beautiful gardens and vine-covered trellises. The ambiance and tranquility of the surroundings make for a delightful wine tasting experience.
The ownership of Croteaux Vineyards by Randy Frankel and the Pennessis brings a fresh perspective and potential for further growth to this already esteemed winery. It will be interesting to see how their combined expertise and vision shape the future of Croteaux and the overall wine industry on Long Island.