Contrary to popular belief, I believe the best time for sipping on wines and vineyard hopping is in the early Fall season as opposed to Summer. The crisp air mixed with the warmth from the sun pairs exquisitely with a velvety merlot. Not to mention, fall fashion calls for fantastic photos, and what better background than a lovely vineyard on Eastern Long Island?
Although I haven’t had the chance to complete my tour to all of these lovely vineyards, I have indulged in some of their specialties sold at the local shops. Here are a few of my recommended wine stops on the North and South Fork of Long Island, as well as, ones that are frequented often by travelers.
North Fork
You’re probably wondering why this region of Long Island is known as “wine country,” or why it is home to many vineyards within such a small geographic range. Not to get too technical, but the North Fork is a prime spot for wine production because of its proximity to water, specifically the Long Island Sound. We all know that climate affects crop growth, and it’s no different with grapes used to produce high quality wine. To read more about how vineyards benefit from the terroir of the NF, check out the Northforker’s article here. In the meantime, here are a few vineyards worth checking out if you find yourself in this fantastic wine region.
Bedell Cellars - Open daily for walk-in guests, Bedell offers guests tasting flights, as well as wine by the glass and bottle. While refraining visitors from gathering inside due to covid regulations, rest assured that you will have nothing less than a beautiful view of the vineyard at your outdoor tasting.
Macari Vineyards - With its 500 acre winery and expansive list of reds and whites to choose from, Macari is sure to make your day out East a memorable one. Calling all red lovers! Upon your visit here, you must try Macari’s Cabernet Franc. Featured in articles, magazines, and simply known for being exquisite, the taste of the medium bodied Cabernet Franc will linger on your palate and in your mind.
Shinn Estate - Shinn is home to a charming vineyard and B&B, allowing your day trip to become an overnighter. Sitting on the tasting patio overlooking the property and sipping on one of the most smooth and velvety merlots I’ve had to date was the perfect afternoon activity for my weekend. And although temporarily closed for seating due to health protocols, the wine library at the estate is an aesthetic I'm aching to dive into. Check out its cozy and rustic room at the website here!
Kontokosta Winery - Kontokosta has a lot of great elements going for itself, but did you know it’s the only waterfront vineyard facing the Long Island Sound? Talk about a prime location. Kontokosta is located in Greenport and is the farthest eastern winery on the island. Don’t let the distance deter you from visiting, because the atmosphere, service, and wines are 110% worthwhile.
Pindar Vineyards - Pindar is a business I connect with not only because it crafts crisp Chardonnays, but also due to its green initiatives. This winery engages in sustainable agriculture, recycling corks, and creating compost in order to continue in its efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. This is a mission all audiences can support and is definitely a huge factor that drives my attention to Pindar. Read more about Pindar's green practices and renewable energy sources here.
South Fork
If you’re from New York or Long Island, you’ve probably spent some summer days strolling through the Hamptons or tanning at the beach in Montauk. And if you’re just a visitor to our pretty state, you’ve most likely heard of these popular travel destinations located on our South Fork! Although not considered as special of a wine region as it’s northern friends on the Sound, the vineyards facing the Atlantic are definitely hot topics. Here are a few worth visiting and cheersing a chilled glass at:
Channing Daughters - Another one that prides itself on sustainability, recycling, and social responsibility, Channing Daughters goes beyond what it means to craft wine. They build a community. A specific example of this is the winery's recent action to craft a wine that gave consumers a little love and heart during this trying year of hardships. Channing Daughters’ 2019 Heart is it’s newly added white blend whose message in a bottle is to send love and hugs to all in the world. A special feature to this collection is that the vineyard worked with local artists who designed their own labels for the bottles. Order a bottle of Heart here and bring some of this winery’s love and support into your life!
Wölffer Estate - I haven’t met a single local to the island who doesn’t know of this winery, let alone repurpose its bottles into home decor. Above all, Wölffer Estate is modern, elegant, and fun. With a variety of wine collections (that have received a multitude of prestigious awards) and refreshing ciders, Wölffer is certain to wow your taste buds. The grounds of the estate are also worth bragging about because they incorporate more than just elegant wine and dine. At the vineyard, you can lift your pinkies as you sip on Antonov Sauvignon Blanc in its beautifully designed Tasting Room and Terrace. And if you’re searching for a more casual tasting experience, check out the Wine Stand overlooking the estate. Here you can find guests lounging in their own lawn chairs and picnic blankets, clinking glasses from the Summer Collection while watching a fiery LI sunset. Are you booking your reservation yet or do I need to convince you more? Fine, last note. Check out the design of Wölffer’s bottles here and you’ll see why customers hang on to the products long after they’ve been enjoyed.
Duck Walk Vineyard - Located in Water Mill, Duck Walk is also a gem of a South Fork vineyard. For just $12, guests can sample four wines during their tasting. Although different this year due to health regulations, this winery normally provides seasonal live music on the weekends, creating a fun and relaxed ambiance.
Middle Long Island
If driving out East doesn’t fit in the time frame of your schedule but you still want to experience a day at a winery, look no further than Northport! A waterfront town in Suffolk County, Northport is home to many, but especially to recent addition Del Vino Vineyards. As a family owned and operated business, Del Vino values community and experience, and that is portrayed excellently through the team’s service and the vineyard’s warm ambiance. Reserve a table and enjoy a glass or bottle on the patio and lawn seating while cherishing the company around you. Here are a few of my favorites that I frequent at Del Vino, along with tapas that complement them:
Ultimo 2018 Cabernet Blend
Grande 2017 Super Tuscan (absolute favorite!)
Alto 2018 Chardonnay
Artisan meat & Cheese Platter
Cauliflower Pizza
Hummus & Crostini
*Important Note! While vineyards are open to the public right now, it is important to note that they are operating under different circumstances due to the health regulations implemented by the state. Please be sure to read each winery's protocol before you head out east and know that some are reservation only and must be booked in advance. They are all working overtime to ensure social distancing is perfected and cleanliness is superb while ensuring your visit goes smoothly, so help them out by following their guidelines!
I’m lucky to live in such a haven for quality wines and appreciate the time, care, and work that goes into each finely crafted bottle. Wine making is truly an art and I’m always happy to support our local vineyards. I hope you all are able to visit some of these wineries one day, but until then, join me in raising a glass because it’s the weekend! Cheers, y’all.
Grande 2017 Super Tuscan at Del Vino Vineyards in Northport.