Tasting trip to Long Island

WINE TALK
1

Hey guys

I’m planning a tasting trip to Long Island, North Fork for The V.I.P. Table. I’m wondering if my fellow berserkers would be able to recommend their favorites from the area.

I’ve been there before, years ago, and on a quasi vacation… and so I didn’t get a good chance to do any serious tasting. I hope to correct that with this trip.

Any recommendations?

2

Paumonok.

3

Paumanok…Among other things they have a chenin blanc that is quite good. I would also recommend Shinn Estate. If you have time peruse Lenn’s great NY Cork Report for insight to Long Island and the rest of NY … http://lennthompson.typepad.com/. …Gary

4

Macari. Ask for Alex or Joe…nice folks and delicous wine

5

Thanks for the link.

Paumanok, I remember from my last visit and i will certainly stop by there again. Shinn Estate impressed upon me as well, plus I love their newsletter. It’s probably the most frequently read newsletter in my inbox just because they come across as having so much passion for the grapes and the vineyard itself.

6

I agree that Shinn and Paumanok are a must. The Paumanok Chenin Blanc is the best wine consistently produced on Long Island. I would also recommend Roanoke Vineyards and Jamesport Vineyards.You must go to the cheese shop on Love Lane in Mattituck. Have fun.

7

I’ve heard about the Chenin Blanc at Paumonok. I also recall enjoying their dry Riesling when I was there. When I visited last time, it seemed like Cab Franc was the grape everyone was trying to push, does that remain true?

The List
Paumonok
Shinn Estate
Macari
Roanoke Vineyards
Jamesport Vineyards
Channing Daughters
One Women Wines

8

Eric - I think you will see many of the Bordeaux grape based wines with a little less CS on winery lists. The historical favorite for the region has been Merlot with some wineries claiming fame to be as good as right bank Bordeaux. In more recent years there is an expansion of vinifera types. The areas of Long Island and Southeastern New England have a maritime influenced climate to support early and mid ripening vinifera. I’m expecting to see more in the future from wineries in these areas. The wineries to look for are those that put effort and focus into their vineyards and winemaking and less into the “events” side…Gary

9

Thanks Gary, I appreciate all the insights. It’s strange to have a thriving wine region that’s only a drive away from my home and yet I have only visited once over three years ago. However, I tend to get wrapped up in Italy and then circle back to other regions whenever the schedule allows. Thanks again.

10

I’ve heard a lot of good things about Channing Daughters, but have never been. If you do go, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

11

Eric - I definitely agree with the votes for Paumanok, but I strongly suggest that you contact Charles Massoud so that he has the opportunity to host a proper visit. You will not be disappointed.

12

As others have said Shinn Estates is a must. They do an excellent tasting and walk through the vineyards. Channing Daughters is also excellent.

One small operation that I have heard great things about is One Woman Wines:

13

I’ll be happy to check them out. I’ll likely be doing a write up of my trip for my website or possibly snooth. Thanks

14

I’ll give it a shot. Thanks

15

Definitely go to Channing Daughters. Chris Tracy is a great winemaker, especially with whites. I think Medtiazone is one of the best whites made in America.

Just note that this winery is in Southhampton, not on the North Fork, so plan accordingly.