Wine Spotlight – Uncorking the Magic of the Universe

August
5
2026

During my short time away from social media (may not return) and blogging, I decided to enroll in an astrology and astro-psychology certification program from a renowned astrology school in Washington State called Kepler College. I’ve always had interest in the cosmos and in finding the meaning behind ourselves and our life. In combination with my studies and work in counseling psychology and the desire to better understanding relationships at every level, I finally came to this point in my life where I want to dive deeper.

On a side note – I will continue this blog because I enjoy writing about things that interest me and educating consumers about all things beverages, but unsure about the future of the business side. The lack of business and engagement has been extremely frustrating and has affected my mental health. Hence, I’ve removed myself from instagram.

I’m sure you’re wondering what this has to do this wine, mocktails, cocktails, and beverages, in general? I realize you didn’t sign up for a blog about the metaphysical, but this sets the stage for the discussion below. Plus, if you’re like me, you like to learn more about the author and their life perspective. Bear with me for a bit!

Hopefully some of this content interests you and maybe will lead to you exploring the topic further. I think it is fascinating stuff! Don’t worry – for the purpose of this blog, I will not go into great detail about the signs but will demonstrate their relationship to wine and why we choose a certain grape/bottle over another during specific life events.

What can astrology say to us?

Sometimes people confuse astrology with astronomy. Astrology deals with ‘meaning’ whereas astronomy deals with measurement. Traditional astrology focuses more on planets than signs. It is much more than just reading your daily horoscope.

What periods of time may be more stressful than others and when you need to be more careful? It can even give you the idea of the areas of life that will be most affected.

Where may you and another person have difficulties getting along? When is it a good time to marry, start a business, or sell your home? When you or someone you love encounters health issues?

Astrology CANNOT

Tell you the winning lottery numbers. Tell you whether or not you will land that promotion. Predict when your rich uncle will pass away and leave you his inheritance. Tell you whether or not someone is trustworthy. Let you know if you will catch a cold before your next vacation or something unexpected will happen.

BEST OF ALL –

Astrology can help you better understand yourself and how you interact in the world. It can help you navigate the ups and downs as you fulfill your potential. In Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, it is called self-actualization. Wouldn’t we all like to achieve that goal?

Now that we have explored the basic tenets of astrology, we can move on to its application in the world of wine. I recently became familiar with a cool wine company out of New York City who is doing some very unique things with wine based on astrological principles. Some of the players involved in its mission are certified astrologers.

Have you heard about “Sun Moon Rising Wine”?

Sun Moon Rising, the world’s first astrology-inspired wine brand, launched in 2024 unveiling its founding collection online. Created by certified sommelier and New Yorker, Kate Webb, the brand offers 12 distinct wines sustainably sourced, handcrafted, and purposefully curated to embody the unique characteristics of its corresponding Zodiac sign. Sun Moon Rising aims to reimagine the way consumers experience wine, expertly fusing the arts of astrology and winemaking to elevate every occasion.

What’s awesome is that Sun Moon Rising sources its wines from award-winning, sustainable vineyards across New York State and emerging wine regions is deeply committed to promoting the region’s emergence as a premier destination for wine lovers. Proudly female-owned, low-intervention, and certified sustainable, Sun Moon Rising is on a mission to redefine the way consumers engage with wine, delivering a cosmic connection in every glass. The wine is available at Sun Moon Rising Wine and select shops in NYC.

Webb’s passion for creating unique wine experiences began in New York City’s top Michelin-starred restaurants, where she honed her craft as a Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Certified Sommelier. When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, it sparked her entrepreneurial spirit. “This led me to the surprising realization that no wine brand catered specifically to the 12 Zodiac signs,” stated Webb. “We created Sun Moon Rising to offer people a new way to personally connect with wine, intentionally pairing astrology and winemaking to foster community, curate connections, and elevate celebrations.”

Sun Moon Rising upholds organic practices, labor ethics, and small-batch production. In collaboration with New York’s Heron Hill Winery, the brand ensures these values are integral to its winemaking process. This dedication not only elevates the wines but also champions New York State as a premier destination for discerning wine enthusiasts, where every sip reflects our planet-friendly approach and the region’s rich winemaking heritage.

The company’s certified stargazers are expert astrologers dedicated to authentically represent the astrological community. Their insightful expertise guides us on our mission to provide accurate and meaningful astrology insights in all that we do.

They and I like to say “A Wine for Every Sign”. The meaning behind the company name – Sun – Your Core Self, Moon – Your Emotional Self, Rising – Your Outward Self, taken directly from astrology.

I will not discuss their entire portfolio and all the astrological signs but will highlight the astrological season we are currently in Leo, which runs till August 22 and is my mother’s sign and my sign, Gemini, which is from May 21-June 20. A little more about Leo and Gemini below. Are any of you a Leo ♌️ or Gemini ♊️

Gemini is the sign associated with communication, logical thought processes (based on duality) and the conscious mind. Gemini people tend to be airy and intellectual, glib of tongue and curious about life and other people. They can experience two sides of things at the same time, and may tend to be flighty. Gemini’s element is Air and ruled by the planet Mercury.

Geminis move through life like butterflies, engaging in many varied experiences to gain knowledge. They are witty and have a good sense of humor, and are likely to be excellent conversationalists. Geminis make good teachers. They can be nervous and high-strung, and may be mischievous. Unlike possessive Taurus, they tend toward liberty in relationship. And although Geminis can be easily bored, under the control of self-discipline they have tremendous intellectual and artistic possibilities.

Most Compatible – Libra, Aquarius, Aries, Leo

Least CompatiblePisces, Virgo, Capricorn, Scorpio

Gemini Bubbly Rosé

Bubbly, dynamic and quick-witted, Geminis are voracious learners and experts on a wide variety of subjects. Linguistically gifted, they are natural leaders and storytellers. As a mutable sign that thrives in social settings, they find ways to relate to everyone they meet with their easygoing and humorous nature.

This summer sign is matched by the Bubbly Rosé’s bright acidity and refreshing taste. With notes of strawberry and watermelon, the crisp bubbles complement this Air sign’s talkative and outgoing character. Astute, clever and curious, the depth of Gemini cannot be overstated. It is lively, smooth, crisp, playful, and refreshing with bright acidity and notes of strawberry and watermelon. Made from the Blaufränkisch aka Lemberger in the Finger Lakes, New York.

Leos are likely to express themselves in dramatic, creative and assertive ways. They are also likely to enjoy the warmth of the physical Sun. Leos have great energy, courage and honesty. They are likely to be self-confident and maybe even a bit self-indulgent as they expect to be the center of attention and often are. Leos can be quite determined and usually get their way when they really want to. They also possess great integrity and are a natural leader.

Leo people are very proud. Their challenge is to temper any tendency for arrogant or egotistical behavior and to instead develop humility and compassion; to learn detachment in the gift of their affections, so that they radiate their abundant energy freely and enhance the life experience of others around them. Leo’s element is Fire and ruled by the Sun (luminary planet).

Most Compatible Aries, Sagittarius, Gemini, Libra

Least CompatibleTaurus, Scorpio, Pisces, Capricorn

Leo Bubbly Red

Social, passionate and restless, Leos are constantly on the move. Those born under this Fire sign are experts at bringing people together and discovering new interests. As a summer sign, they thrive in the warmth of the sun and have an imaginative flair that gives them an irresistible creative edge.

This Bubbly Red wine is vibrant, fruity, aromatic and slightly off dry with notes of pomegranate, red currant and raspberry. The unique blend of red wine and effervescence reflects Leo’s boldness and pride and complements their quirky and outgoing nature. Both this wine and this sign are eclectic in taste and bring a fresh perspective. This blend is made from 60% Marquette and 40% Marechal Foch in the Finger Lakes, New York.

I hope you enjoyed this content. See you back soon! Please share with your friends and colleagues and please let me know if this was of interest to you and if you have any comments or questions. What’s your sign? Ruling planet?

Cheers,

Michael Nagy

michael@michaelpour.com

New York’s Macari Vineyards: A Winery Spotlight

Mattituck Tasting Room at Macari Vineyards
February
25
2025

When we are planning a trip to a wine region, how do we decide where to go? Are we influenced and steered by trip advisor, yelp, word of mouth, things to do, styles of wine, or winery reviews? Maybe our motivations are to visit and experience a new wine region or taste a style of wine from a unique climate, terroir, or grape-growing environment? How about the wineries themselves? Do they offer a full or an all-inclusive tasting and hospitality experience?

Whatever your reasons, this story highlights one of my favorite wineries that are producing excellent, terroir-driven, and highly rated wines from an area, which is generally not thought of as a wine destination. Macari Vineyards, located on the North Fork region of Long Island in New York, is a sustainable, biodynamic family run vineyard and winery in the town of Mattituck. The Macari family is involved in every aspect of the winemaking and viticulture. The first grape vines were planted in 1995.

The Mattituck Tasting Room sits on the edge of the 500-acres (formerly a potato farm in the 1960’s) offering guided and tailored tasting experiences for small and large groups. These tasting experiences can occur on the covered deck or in the production cellar where all the magic happens. If you prefer a private experience, you can book the Private Tasting Suite.

Macari prides itself on offering seasonal tastings, food and wine pairings with gourmet cheese, charcuterie, pizza, and local fare for a cool brunch, lunch, or special event dinners. The style of wine crafted by Macari makes them very food friendly and versatile for all occasions throughout the year.

Macari Coast

Macari has an off-site location called the Meadowlark North Fork featuring a wine bar and a wedding/event venue. The Wine Bar is a modified tasting room that offers unique selections of the Macari portfolio by the glass or bottle. Here the focus is on limited wines and innovative winemaking techniques available only at the Meadowlark property.

This wine bar is where guests can explore new tastes and unwind in the gardens. It is a great option for get-togethers, unique happenings and events, and a relaxing getaway for guests who desire to commune in nature without the hustle and bustle of a busy tasting room environment. Great place to experience the beautiful sights of the North Fork and have a picnic lunch.

What about the wines?

If you like balanced, nuanced, and age-worthy wines, then Macari wines will satisfy you and your guests’ palate throughout the whole year. Please see previous blog post to learn more about what makes wine from this region special to wine enthusiasts and different from other New World wines. The climate, microclimates, soil, latitude, longitude, diurnal temperatures, and proximity to water available to Macari allows for a unique expression of cool-climate wines similar to Bordeaux, but with some slight differences, like the salinity.

A follow-up post will discuss their award-winning wines from their portfolio along with tasting notes and technical information for those who want a deeper dive. Below is a brief list of some of those outstanding wines and some of the wines I will feature next time.

2023 Sparkling Horses Cabernet Franc

2023 Sauvignon Blanc Lifeforce

2022 Cabernet Franc Lifeforce

2021 Bergen Road Red Blend

2014 Block E White Blend

Cheers,

Michael Nagy

Getting to Know the Long Island Wine Region of NY

Long Island Region of Ny AVA
February
4
2025

On the largest island in the contiguous US, you will find diverse wine styles from well-structured red wines to refreshing white, rosé, and sparkling wines. The North Fork of Long Island, which is located 75 miles east of New York City, is known for its tranquil waterfront charm, pebble beaches, lush farmland and rich vegetation, and wealth of family-run and sustainable vineyards.

The Long Island American Viticultural Area (AVA) has a similar maritime climate to the classic Bordeaux Region of France due to its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean. With being surrounded by water, the area is well protected from the cold and harsh winter seasons and the hottest summers, which is ideal for growing Bordeaux-type varieties.

Unlike other regions in New York, Long Island has always focused on Vitis vinifera grapes because it’s a warmer climate. It doesn’t have to focus just on cool climate and hybrid varieties. Even though it has a warmer climate, Long Island has the tumultuous Atlantic Ocean influence, which is why many vineyards are located in the North Fork sub-region of Long Island. The vineyards here are protected by the Peconic Bay around the island.

Terroir

Terroir is a French term literally meaning ‘sense of place’ describing the growing conditions for wine grapes. As mentioned earlier, Long Island has a very similar climate to Bordeaux but is a little warmer. With more growing days and hours of sunshine, you might expect riper styles of wine. In fact, Long Island has the same latitude as hot Barcelona, Spain. However, because of the cold Atlantic Ocean, Long Island wines tend to be ripe, but not over ripe or jammy compared to traditional warm climates, like California, Spain, and Australia.

One of the other factors affecting grape-growing in Long Island is the higher amount of precipitation, but the free draining, indigenous sandy soils and glacial moraines remaining from the last Ice Age drain away any excess water. This prevents the grapes from becoming bloated causing increased sugar levels, which can be catastrophic for dry wines.

The combination of adequate sunshine, moderately warm weather, gravelly and sandy soils, and proximity to the ocean leads to juicy red wines that are not overly tannic, heavy, or high in alcohol. The resulting red wines have savory aromas and characteristics, and white wines are high in acid with a unique saline profile not found too often in other wine regions around the world.

Long Island AVA

Long Island Wines

There are Bordeaux varieties, such as Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, but also traditional-method Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, some edgy styles of Pet Nat, and orange wines. Many of the wines, thanks to the cooling influence of the Atlantic, are lower in alcohol, around 11-12.5%, with lighter styles from Bordeaux and fresh fruit flavors.

Sub-Regions of Long Island

The main AVA is Long Island but, in reality, the main spot where most vineyards are planted is in North Fork, thanks to the protection of Peconic Bay. However, people can source grapes from the entire Island where you will see Long Island AVA on the label.

North Fork of Long Island

The North Fork of Long Island is warmer than the rest of Long Island (including the Hamptons) and receives more sunshine leading to wines with riper fruit flavors and fuller bodies, and often higher alcohol compared to other NY regions in New York. The North Fork of Long Island AVA was established in 1986, sixteen years before Long Island AVA.

Over the last 10 years or so, the North Fork has enjoyed a major evolution with critical acclaim from wine experts and the international wine community. I have become fascinated with the quality and versatility of their wines that I started to use North Fork wines for my company events and wine tastings with clients as well as enjoying them myself and in my travels. Look for their wines to be featured and reviewed here and on social media.

Horses Pet Nat Macari Vineyards

One winery in particular whom I’ve recently become an unofficial brand ambassador for is Macari Vineyards. Macari Vineyards, whose 500 acres features a beautiful and spacious tasting room and covered deck where top-end red flights, a bottle of the cult-favorite ‘Horses’ Pet-Nat, and award-winning Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Bergen Road Red Blend are paired with charcuterie, cheese, and other delicacies.

Macari’s wine estate, which is biodynamic and sustainable, is located in Mattituck overlooking scenic Long Island Sound. The property has been in the family for over 40 years spanning three generations using traditional farming methods. The family themselves nurture the soil and vines. Nearby, Meadowlark, Macari’s sister property, pours small-batch wines and hosts events. Visit their site at the hyperlink above. I look forward to a visit there soon.

The Hamptons of Long Island

Established in 1985, this southern part of the island is better known for celebrity beach houses and where affluent New Yorkers go to get away from it all. However, it’s also a great place for refreshing wines from Long Island, particularly rosé and sparkling wines. Cooler than the North Fork due to massive exposure to the Atlantic Ocean, you can expect higher acid content in the wine along with lighter styles and zesty white wines.

Quick Facts:

  • There are 90 Wineries in Long Island as of 2022.
  • Largest island in the contiguous United States.
  • Established May 15, 2001.
  • New vineyards planted in 1973 in North Fork sub-region.
  • 1815 acres of vineyards planted.
  • First vineyards were planted in the 1820s, but all succumbed to disease pressure.
  • Over half the planted acres in Long Island are in the dedicated sustainability program (LISW).
  • Merlot is the most planted grape variety in Long Island.

As the parent of the super popular Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc is often overshadowed by its own progeny. It also the parent of Merlot. However, this underrated grape produces some very good, complex, and food-friendly wines that are the best in the world mirroring those from Loire Valley and Bordeaux, France. Cab Franc is truly the signature red grape of Long Island and all of NY.

Wines made from Cab Franc range from light and quaffable to rich and tannic depending on both region and winemaking styles. Cool-climate examples from the Loire Valley, Finger Lakes, or Long Island can be lively and fresh with tart red fruit, green pepper notes, and better than average acidity.

They can be aged in stainless steel for a punchier red fruit expression and lighter style or in oak barrels to add hints of cedar, tobacco, and spice with fuller body. Cabernet Francs from warmer sites like Napa Valley and Paso Robles can result in bigger wines with juicy, ripe fruit, and typically a heavier oak influence with use of American or new oak barrels.

Cheers,

Michael Nagy, michael@michaelpour.com

Wine Glass

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