The Long Island wine industry and wine enthusiasts are mourning the loss of Christian Wolffer, founder of a vineyard in Sagaponack, who died on vacation Wednesday.

Brazilian police say Wolffer, founder of Wolffer Estate Vineyard, was swimming 100 miles west of Rio de Janiero when he was struck by a boat. He was 70 years old.

Charles Massoud, founder of Paumanok Vineyards, says Wolffer was an inspiration to others in the industry. ?He was one of the guys that we looked up to provide leadership in this industry and he is going to be sorely missed,? he says.

Massoud says Wolffer built t he estate from a small farm into one of the biggest wineries and equestrian centers on the East End. He was born in Germany and was very active in the Hamptons? social scene. Wolffer spoke half a dozen languages and was a sponsor of the Hamptons Classic Equestrian Show, Massoud says. He calls Wolff a Renaissance man.

The Wolffer family says they'll release a statement and memorial plans on Monday.