Senate Resolution No. 1448 BY: Senator PALUMBO HONORING Paumanok Vineyards upon the occasion of its designation as recipient of the Governor's Cup Award by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation 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 Governor's Cup Award by the New York Wine and Grape Foundation at its 37th Annual New York Wine Classic on Thursday, July 13, 2023; and WHEREAS, The 37th Annual New York Wine Classic, a nationally recognized competition highlighting the best of New York's wine, recognized Paumanok Vineyards with its Governor's Cup, the most esteemed award given at the Classic, for their 2019 Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc which scored 97 points and a platinum rating; and WHEREAS, The Governor's Cup, a large silver chalice, recognizes the "Best of Show" or top prize of all entries in the New York Wine Classic; and WHEREAS, Seeing unprecedented growth over the past few years and allowing wine enthusiasts to enjoy this unique part of the New York experience, Paumanok Vineyards has truly showcased why this great State is a premier wine destination; and WHEREAS, In addition to winning the Governor's Cup, Paumanok Vineyards, based in Aquebogue, New York, also received recognition for the Best Dessert Wine in the competition; and WHEREAS, Judging for the New York State Wine Classic took place from April 15 through June 15, 2023, and included 749 entries from 108 wineries across the state, with Paumanok Vineyards finishing at the top; and WHEREAS, Founded in the spring of 1983, Paumanok Vineyards is a 127 acre estate which is entirely owned and managed by Ursula and Charles Massoud and their three sons; the premium vinifera grapevines they plant consist of Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot; and WHEREAS, Under the able leadership of Ursula and Charles Massoud and their sons, the success of Paumanok Vineyards is a true testament to its unwavering dedication to over three decades of extraordinary winemaking on Long Island; and WHEREAS, Over its distinguished 30-year history, Paumanok Vineyards has demonstrated continuous service to the residents and communities which it serves; and WHEREAS, The success of Paumanok Vineyards is in direct correlation to the efforts of its devoted 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 Governor's Cup 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, Aquebogue, New York.