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6 Long Island-Produced Wines To Try, According To A Local Sommelier

6 Long Island-Produced Wines to Try, According to a Local Sommelier

Long Island, New York, might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of world-class wine regions, but its burgeoning viticultural scene has been turning heads for decades. Nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and Long Island Sound, the region's maritime climate—characterized by cool breezes, moderate temperatures, and sandy soils—creates ideal conditions for growing a variety of grapes, particularly those that thrive in cooler climates like Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. The North Fork, with its rural charm and over 60 vineyards, and the more glamorous South Fork (home to the Hamptons) have positioned Long Island as a hidden gem in the American wine landscape. What sets these wines apart is their elegance, balance, and often surprising complexity, influenced by the unique terroir that imparts subtle minerality and bright acidity.

To navigate this exciting but sometimes overwhelming array of options, I turned to Miguel Martinez, a seasoned sommelier at The 1770 House in East Hampton. With over 15 years of experience in the local wine industry, Martinez has curated wine lists that highlight the best of Long Island's producers. "Long Island wines are all about freshness and approachability," he explains. "They're not trying to mimic Napa or Bordeaux; they're carving out their own identity with wines that pair perfectly with our seafood-heavy cuisine and laid-back vibe." Drawing from his expertise, Martinez recommends six standout bottles that showcase the diversity and quality of Long Island's offerings. These selections span whites, rosés, reds, and even a sparkling option, each with its own story and appeal. Whether you're a novice sipper or a seasoned oenophile, these wines are worth seeking out for their authenticity and the way they capture the essence of this coastal paradise.

Starting with a crisp white that's become a staple of the region, Martinez's first pick is the 2022 Paumanok Vineyards Chenin Blanc from the North Fork. Paumanok, founded in 1983 by Ursula and Charles Massoud, is one of Long Island's pioneering wineries, known for its commitment to sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking. This Chenin Blanc is a nod to the Loire Valley origins of the grape, but with a distinctly American twist. "It's vibrant and versatile," Martinez says. "The nose bursts with aromas of green apple, pear, and a hint of honeysuckle, while the palate delivers zesty acidity balanced by a touch of residual sugar." Clocking in at around 12% ABV, it's light-bodied yet full of flavor, making it an excellent aperitif or companion to fresh oysters, grilled fish, or even spicy Asian dishes. What makes this wine special, according to Martinez, is its ability to evolve in the glass—starting bright and citrusy, then revealing subtle tropical notes like pineapple and guava. Priced affordably at about $25, it's an accessible entry point into Long Island whites and a testament to how the region's cool climate preserves the grape's natural acidity without overripening.

Moving to something a bit more robust yet still refreshing, the 2023 Wolffer Estate Rosé is Martinez's go-to for summer sipping. Wolffer Estate, located in Sagaponack on the South Fork, has been a Hamptons icon since 1988, blending European elegance with New World innovation under the guidance of winemaker Roman Roth. This rosé, a blend primarily of Merlot with touches of Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, embodies the estate's "Summer in a Bottle" ethos. "It's pale salmon in color, with delicate strawberry, watermelon, and citrus zest on the nose," Martinez describes. "The mouthfeel is dry and crisp, with just enough minerality to keep it interesting." At 12.5% ABV, it's perfect for daytime drinking—think beach picnics or poolside gatherings. Martinez pairs it with light salads, charcuterie, or even lobster rolls, noting how the wine's subtle herbal undertones complement the brininess of local seafood. What elevates this rosé is its consistency year after year; Wolffer's meticulous vineyard management ensures that even in variable vintages, the wine remains balanced and food-friendly. Retailing for around $20, it's a crowd-pleaser that has helped put Long Island rosés on the map, rivaling those from Provence.

For those venturing into reds, Martinez enthusiastically recommends the 2020 Bedell Cellars Merlot from the North Fork. Bedell, established in 1980, is renowned for its artistic labels and sustainable practices, including biodynamic farming. This Merlot, often hailed as one of Long Island's flagship reds, showcases the grape's softer side compared to its bolder California counterparts. "Expect aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, and a whisper of vanilla from subtle oak aging," says Martinez. "On the palate, it's medium-bodied with silky tannins, dark fruit flavors, and a long, earthy finish." With an ABV of 13.5%, it's structured yet approachable, making it ideal for pairing with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or aged cheeses. Martinez appreciates how Bedell's Merlot reflects the region's terroir— the sandy loam soils impart a certain elegance and restraint, avoiding the jammy overripeness found elsewhere. Priced at about $35, it's a value-driven bottle that demonstrates why Merlot thrives on Long Island, where the maritime influence tempers the heat and allows for even ripening.

Shifting gears to a more unconventional choice, the 2021 Channing Daughters Winery Scuttlehole Chardonnay stands out for its experimental flair. Channing Daughters, on the South Fork, is known for pushing boundaries with Italian and Austrian varietals, but this Chardonnay is a pure expression of the grape. Fermented in a mix of stainless steel and oak, it offers "bright lemon curd, green apple, and a touch of brioche," according to Martinez. "The acidity is laser-focused, with a creamy texture that lingers." At 13% ABV, it's versatile for food pairings like roasted chicken or creamy risottos. Martinez loves it for its "intellectual appeal"—the winery's use of wild yeasts and extended lees aging adds layers of complexity without overwhelming the fruit.

No list would be complete without a sparkling wine, and Martinez selects the 2019 Sparkling Pointe Brut Seduction. This méthode champenoise bubbly from the North Fork blends Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. "Fine bubbles carry notes of brioche, apple, and almond," he says. Perfect for celebrations, it pairs with caviar or fried foods.

Finally, the 2018 Lenz Winery Old Vines Merlot rounds out the recommendations. From one of the oldest producers, it's "plush with cassis, mocha, and spice," ideal for hearty meals.

These wines encapsulate Long Island's spirit—innovative, terroir-driven, and utterly drinkable. As Martinez puts it, "They're not just wines; they're a taste of home." Whether visiting the vineyards or ordering online, these bottles invite exploration of a region on the rise. (Word count: 1,025)

Read the Full Forbes Article at:
[ https://www.forbes.com/sites/jilliandara/2025/07/30/6-long-island-produced-wines-to-try-according-to-a-local-sommelier/ ]