Attending a recent burial in Arlington cemetery elicited all my patriotic emotions, as did the launch of Purple Heart Wines at a ceremony this month aboard the Intrepid, the military and maritime history museum at Pier 86.

Purple Heart Wines are dedicated to America’s heroes and benefit the Purple Heart Foundation. The first donation of $10,000 was given at the event, with a $50,000 maximum donation per year.

Vietnam veteran winemaker Ray Coursen — under the close stewardship of the Peter Mondavi Sr. Family, whose patriarch is a World War II veteran — crafted the wine to honor the determination, bravery and commitment of America’s military heroes. This medium-bodied Napa Valley wine is a blend of Merlot (84%), Cabernet Sauvignon (7%), Cabernet Franc (6%) and  Petit Verdot (3%). The suggested retail price is $19.99.

Purple Heart Foundation supports many causes, including the treatment of post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury and military sexual trauma, as well as job training, education assistance, service dogs and burial assistance.

– bonnie
BonnieBOTB
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