Funeral for Long Island wine pioneer

Ralph Pugliese Sr.

CUTCHOGUE, Long Island, NY -- Funeral services were held this morning for Ralph Pugliese Sr., a pioneer in the Long Island wine industry who died Monday at the age of 73.

The Brooklyn-born Pugliese released his first wines in 1986. His early products were made in the basement of his home after he initially planted just two acres of vines. Over the years, acreage and plantings vastly increased and Pugliese Vineyards became one of the iconic Long Island operations.

Three of Pugliese's offspring are involved in the family-owned operation. Peter is the winemaker, Lawrence oversees the vineyards and daughter Domenica Penny runs the tasting room. Ralph Jr., a professional photographer, has his works hanging in the tasting room.

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