9/11 memorial wines draw fire in NY

NEW YORK - A New York vintner has produced a 9/11 memorial wine that's been approved by the Sept. 11 memorial board.

Lieb Family Cellars of Mattituck on Long Island's North Fork said it will donate up to 10 percent from the sale of its Commemorative Chardonnay and Merlot to the National September 11 Memorial and Museum.

But critics say 9/11 wine's in poor taste.

New York City Councilman Peter Vallone is blasting the wine - which costs $19.11 - saying, "What's next? A 9/11 pastrami sandwich?"

Irene Lavelle, whose husband died in the attacks, said the wine demeans the date.

Lieb's general manager Garry Madden said the vineyard lost many friends on 9/11, and the wine was a way to give something back.

The vintner is also offering the September Mission Merlot as part of its "Great Wines for Good Causes." Selling for $9.11 per bottle, 91.1 cents will be donated to the September's Mission foundation for each bottle sold.

Monica Iken, a member of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, and founder of September's Mission, said the effort will help sustain the memorial for the future.