Rated by Wine Enthusiast as one of the ‘Top 10 Wine Regions’ in the world, Long Island Wine Country is home to over 60 vineyards and world-class tasting rooms. From rich Cab Francs to versatile rosés and legendary bubbly, Long Island has grown award-winning, high-quality wines in unmatched settings with winding farmlands and waterfront vineyards that are just two hours away from Midtown by train.
The North Fork, or as the locals call it “NOFO,” is one of the largest and most preserved agricultural regions in New York State. Known for farm stands offering seasonal produce, local honey, baked goods and flowers, it should come as no surprise that this rich soil is also used to grow spectacular vines that set the foundation for incredible wines.
Below are a few of our favorite vineyards that are accessible via the Long Island Rail Road and car-share services like Uber and Lyft.
Rose Hill Vineyard & Farmhouse Inn (Mattituck)
From sunrise to sunset relax and enjoy the time you have put aside for yourself on a historic 1880’s homestead estate, Rose Hill Vineyards & Farmhouse Inn. Set in a 125-year-old barn, the winery is filled with natural light and constructed from reclaimed, first-growth, ancient heartwood pine. The vineyard utilizes solar panels as well as a wind turbine to produce all the energy used for the winery, its cellar, and farmhouse inn.
Sparkling Pointe (Southold)
Sparkling Pointe encompasses 40 acres of vineyards producing exclusively sparkling wines. The Sparkling Pointe tasting experience is a showcase of prestige, artistry, and finesse combined with Brazil’s Carnival festiveness and just the right amount of savoir-fare. Earning coveted 90+ point scores from Wine Enthusiast and Wine Spectator, Sparkling Pointe wines are consistently acknowledged as some of the best in the region. The vineyard is also a member of the Long Island Sustainable Winegrowing Inc.
The Lenz Winery (Peconic)
As one of the original North Fork vineyards, Lenz Winery has established a reputation for producing rich, complex wines that only get better with age. Guests can visit the vineyard, schedule tours of the vines, and enjoy custom flights in the tasting room. The vineyard is also dog-friendly for those with fur babies.
Kontokosta (Greenport)
On a 62-acre waterfront farm, Kontokosta Winery is a sustainable, wind-powered operation producing wine that is as honest as it is inviting. Perched atop sweeping bluffs overlooking the region’s coastline, guests are invited to sit and enjoy wines in the maritime climate from which they were created.
Sannino Vineyard (Cutchogue)
Sannino Vineyard and B&B offers a comparative tasting style with its knowledgeable team. Guests can enjoy a glass of wine while learning about the fermenting process and touring the wine making facilities. For a complete experience, stay overnight at the property’s Bed & Breakfast.
RGNY (Riverhead)
Modern tradition and certified sustainable, RGNY is giving you more than just flavorful wine. Brought to you by a family of winemakers with a focus on quality and authenticity that honors their Mexican roots and heritage, RGNY is creating waves on the East End. RGNY has the perfect outdoor games for you and your best bud. From cornhole to Jenga and Uno, there’s fun for the whole family!
Suhru Wines (Cutchogue)
For crisp, bright white wines and fruit forward red wines with soft tannins and medium body, check out Suhru Wines. This vineyard strives to create easy drinking, approachable, food-friendly wines that complement Long Island’s environment and the local foods and produce grown in on the North Fork.