Sips Visit

Day-trip: North Fork, Long Island Wineries

Raphael Vineyard and Winery Address: 39390 NY-25, Peconic, NY 11958. Phone: 631) 765.1100 x105. When you visit Raphael, the tasting room servers note that they share a winemaker with, Wölffer Estate Vineyard, another very well known vineyard in the Hamptons. (another good day-trip if staying in that area). Raphael is one of the few wine estates in the United States that harvest entirely by hand. Their wines are Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Riesling Port, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Currently, the tasting room is open by reservation only. You can e-mail [email protected] for reservation requests.

Bridgelane Wine Address: 35 Cox Neck Road, Mattituck, NY 11952
Phone: (631) 298-1942. This is a fun stop on the way home. I like to end the day here as it’s nearest to the highway for the drive back to NYC. They have a great little tasting room/bar. The tasting room had been remade from a more formal tasting room for Lieb Cellars, into a spunky and colorful brand for Bridgelane. What’s fun here is that they all of their wines in 6-packs and boxes. How chic for a picnic! Their wines are Chardonnay, Rose, Red Blend and Sauvignon Blanc. Currently they are open for pick-up and outdoor seating on a first come basis. You can also bring your own lunch and enjoy it on the lawn.

Pindar Vineyards Address: 37645 Main Road (Route 25), Peconic, NY 11958 Phone: (631) 734-6200, It’s hard to believe that Pindar has been around for 40 years. Pindar has a more laid back tasting room and vibe, even farm like. Their wines are Chardonnay, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Rose and Riesling.

Shinn Estate Vineyards Address: 2000 Oregon Road, Mattituck, NY 11952 Phone: (631) 804-0367. One of the first vineyards on the North Fork, the estate has a ton of history and one of the prettiest areas to enjoy a glass of wine outdoors. This fall, reservations are strongly recommended for table on the patio and can be made through their website or via phone. Walk-ins are on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Local Favorite:

My final recommendation is a true local favorite, Briermere Farms. No trip to the North Fork would be complete without a stop here. But beware they are not cheap and close early. You need to get there before 5pm!

They are famous for their fresh pies and there are at least 10 varieties every day.

If you are a shopper, there is also a large Tanger Outlet Center in Riverhead — it’s one of the better outlet centers outside of NYC.

Want to read more about wine. Learn about mulled wine, Prosecco and Sancerre. You can also read about other great Getaways and places to visit.