The Essential Guide To Wine Tasting In The North Fork Of Long Island

The North Fork of Long Island offers a chill alternative to the more lavish vibes just south in the Hamptons—especially for wine enthusiasts.

The region’s maritime climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for cultivating grape varieties such as chardonnay, merlot and cabernet franc. These conditions result in wines characterized by balanced acidity and nuanced flavors.​

The North Fork spans approximately 30 miles, hosting more than 40 wineries with 3,000 acres of vineyards, contributing significantly to New York’s wine industry—the third largest in the country after California and Washington.

Traveling to the North Fork is convenient. By car, it’s accessible via the Long Island Expressway (I-495) and Route 25, with the journey from New York City taking approximately two hours, depending on traffic. Electric vehicle drivers will find numerous charging stations along the route and within the region.​

For those preferring public transportation, the Long Island Rail Road’s Ronkonkoma Branch provides service to Greenport, the eastern terminus on the North Fork. Additionally, the Hampton Jitney offers daily bus services from Manhattan to various North Fork destinations, including stops in Riverhead and Greenport.

The North Fork’s wineries showcase both longtime producers and newer names shaping the region’s reputation. This list is a starting point, not a full inventory, but it covers some of the best places to visit first. From exclusively rosé to structured merlot, these stops offer a strong introduction to what makes North Fork wine worth the trip.

Bedell Cellars has been producing wine on the North Fork since 1980, known for its moderate alcohol levels, bright acidity and saline minerality. The winery has refined its techniques over four decades to highlight the maritime influence on its vineyards. Tastings take place in an open mahogany pavilion with views of the vineyards and gardens. No reservations are required for groups under ten, and outside food is not permitted.

Croteaux Vineyards is the only winery in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to rosé. Its small-scale production means each vintage is released at the start of the season and typically sells out by fall. The tasting garden, surrounded by historic barns, offers a casual setting with white umbrella tables and a barn lounge for warmer days. Reservations are not accepted, and seating is first-come, first-serve. The winery accommodates small groups only and does not permit large vehicles such as limos or party buses. This one is also friendly to families with children and dogs.

Located on bluffs overlooking Long Island Sound, Kontokosta Winery focuses on small-batch wines made using sustainable farming practices. The vineyard is managed daily by the Kontokosta family to maintain consistent fruit quality. Guests can taste wines in the indoor tasting room or outside on the meadow or bluff. Reservations are not required, and seating is available on a first-come basis. Outside food is not allowed, and large groups in limos or buses are prohibited.

Lenz Winery has operated in Peconic since 1978 with a focus on varietal expression and low-intervention winemaking. Grapes are hand-harvested, sorted and fermented in small batches. Reds are typically aged for four to five years before release, with some vintages dating back decades. The winery accepts visitors year-round, with reservations preferred. Dogs are allowed, but outside food is not.

Macari Vineyards spans nearly 500 acres in Mattituck, combining sustainable farming with a range of guided tasting experiences. Guests can book seated tastings that pair wines with cheese, charcuterie and fresh bread, or opt for a more casual experience featuring wine alongside wood-fired pizza. Private tastings are available in a dedicated suite, where meals are served with a curated selection of wines. The winery also offers barrel cellar tastings for those interested in exploring its aging process. In addition to its main property, Macari operates a separate space focused on limited-production wines and intimate tastings. Reservations are required for most tasting room experiences.

This small, independently run winery was founded by Claudia Purita, who oversees the entire operation from vine to bottle. The tasting room, now located in a red barn, offers a quiet setting for small groups. Groups are limited to six, and large vehicles are not permitted. Dogs are allowed only on the outdoor patio. On Friday nights, the winery hosts live jazz performances with wine service.

Palmer Vineyards, founded in 1983, is one of the more established wineries on the North Fork, producing a range of estate-grown wines. Guests can book guided tastings that highlight the winery’s approach to winemaking, including curated wine-and-cheese pairings and blind tasting flights. The tasting room features both standard seating and vintage booths repurposed from a historic London hotel, offering a more intimate experience. Larger groups can book private tastings, which include a dedicated server and a selection of wines served alongside oversized cheese and charcuterie platters.

Sparkling Pointe focuses exclusively on “méthode champenoise” (traditional champagne method) sparkling wines, producing bottles made from pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay grapes. The tasting house offers seated, guided tastings that highlight the different styles of sparkling wines made on the estate. Guests can choose to sit indoors under chandeliers and vaulted ceilings or outside on the terrace with views of the vineyard. The space also reflects the owners’ appreciation for Brazilian culture, with colorful artwork and decor woven throughout. For those looking to learn more about sparkling wine production, staff provide insight into the winemaking process and aging techniques.