Wine Enthusiast Magazine
BY ANNA LEE C. IIJIMA
Wine Travel Destination 2013: North & South Forks of Long Island, New York
Just a two-hour drive from Manhattan, the East End is a unique amalgam of metropolitan influences against a core of hearty, agricultural tradition. Fringed by sandy beaches and bustling fishing villages, rolling farmland and forest sanctuaries, Long Island wine country is unlike any region in America. The North and South Forks of the island, collectively known as the East End, extend into the Atlantic Ocean like a two-tined fork, with picturesque Shelter Island wedged between the spears. Just a two-hour drive from Manhattan, it’s a unique amalgam of metropolitan influences against a core of hearty, agricultural tradition. Family-owned farms, artisanal food producers and small-production winemakers mingle amongst tony Hamptonites, sharing the wealth of the region’s land, sea and vines.
Where to Dine
Conceived by four veterans from some of Manhattan’s most lauded restaurants (Aureole and Gramercy Tavern, among others), The North Fork Table & Inn in Southold combines a farm-to-table philosophy with a menu that’s innovative and impeccably executed. Noah’s in Greenport is casual yet elegant, offering a variety of small plates and squeaky-fresh clams, oysters and scallops delivered daily from local waters. While in Greenport, stop at Aldo’s for freshly baked biscotti and espresso from artisan roaster Aldo Maiorana.
Where to Stay
Shinn Estate Farmhouse in Mattituck offers an unparalleled winery experience, complete with vineyard views, captivating wines and gourmet breakfasts prepared by multitalented owner/chef/winemaker David Page. The Jedediah Hawkins Inn in Jamesport offers the ultimate in Victorian luxury and on-site access to the renowned Luce & Hawkins restaurant. For a downtown vibe and harbor views, the Harborfront Inn at Greenport will place you within steps of restaurants, nightlife and the North Ferry, which connects to Shelter Island.
Where to Taste
With the bulk of the region’s 50-plus wineries situated in the North Fork along Route 25 (Main Street) and Route 48, winery hopping is a breeze. Top producers like Paumanok Vineyards, Macari Vineyards, Shinn Estate Vineyards and Farmhouse, Lenz, Bedell and Sparkling Pointe are all located on the North Fork, each with unique tasting rooms open to the public. In Peconic, The Winemaker Studio by Anthony Nappa Wines is a cooperative tasting room offering an unusual collection of private-label selections from local winemakers like its owner, Anthony Nappa. It also features limited-production and library choices from area wineries. The South Fork is home to only three wineries, but with outstanding producers like Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Channing Daughters, it’s well worth a day trip.Year-2012/Wine-Travel-DestinaWine Travel Destination 2013: North & South Forks of Long Island, New York.
Just a two-hour drive from Manhattan, the East End is a unique amalgam of metropolitan influences against a core of hearty, agricultural tradition.