Long Island wineries: Great tasting rooms to try
Ashley James of Brooklyn at an afternoon of wine tasting at RGNY in Riverhead. Credit: Newsday/Alejandra Villa Loarca
With nearly 50 tasting rooms scattered across the East End, figuring out where to go can be a bit overwhelming. Whether you’re partial to reds, whites, rosés or bubbles, looking for food to accompany a tasting or just tagging along for the beautiful scenery, you’ll find a spot that speaks to you.
Bedell Cellars
This pioneering winery is known for its classic single varietals such as malbec, cabernet sauvignon, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc, as well as an emphasis on sustainability. Salumi and cheese pairings available. Walk-ins only.
Chronicle Wines
This laid-back, stand-alone tasting room encompasses Saltbird Cellars, Brooklyn Oenology—known for its orange wines—and more. Wine flights, cocktails of the month, and chocolate and cheese pairings are on the menu. Reservations available but not required.
Corey Creek Tap Room
For rosés and funky whites on tap, this small-batch sister to Bedell Cellars features a stylish yet comfortable tasting room with expansive views overlooking the sustainable vines. Walk-ins only.
Croteaux Vineyards
Single varietals of East End pink abound here, at the only winery in the country to exclusively produce and serve rosé. Light fare, from bread and cheese plates to dessert, available. No reservations.
Kontokosta Winery
Situated on a bluff overlooking Long Island Sound, the family-run Kontokosta is using wind power to produce its wines. With a focus on reds, this is a must-visit for full appreciation of the region’s beauty. Walk-ins welcome; reservations encouraged.
Macari Vineyards
Macari, a leader in biodynamic wine production and natural farming, offers an array of experiences, as well as year-round tastings at Meadowlark, their Cutchogue wine bar. The expansive portfolio includes cabernet franc, malbec, syrah, sauvignon blanc and rosé. Reservations required.
McCall Wines
With an emphasis on pinot noir, McCall focuses on classic grapes from Bordeaux and Burgundy such as sauvignon blanc, cabernet franc, merlot, petit verdot and cabernet sauvignon. Pair with charcuterie and cheese. McCall’s is also known for their in- season burger nights. Walk-ins welcome; reservations preferred.
Pellegrini Vineyards
Bottles from $21.99-$49.99; glasses start at $10, tasting flights at $18.
This airy, bi-level tasting room with exposed oak beams and mix-and-match tables is one of the architectural stunners of the region. Take in the winemaking process from a second-floor perch that overlooks the production facility. This is a winery that will satisfy everyone with wines (of all types) and picturesque views. Walk-ins welcome.
RGNY
The tasting rooms and vineyard in Riverhead are a great first (or last) stop on the wine trail, and RGNY is best known for their white merlot. Winemaker dinners and more casual tastings are available for booking.
Sparkling Pointe
If bubbles are your jam, this winery is a must. The sleek, expansive, all-white tasting room is outfitted with dramatic chandeliers and colorful Brazilian artwork to admire as you linger over effervescent pours, ranked as some of the best in the region. Reservations essential; maximum of 6 guests.
A global freelancer who has checked her suitcase to raise her young daughter on her native Long Island, Marie Elena will always make time for good mezcal, even better tacos and killer conversation. Preferably, in a corner bar seat. She can be found on Instagram at @mariesworldeats.
