Long Island Wine Country

Long Island Wine Country.

Long Island wine demonstrates the deep, seasonal connection held between land and table. Local products and a dedication to boosting agriculture highlight a decades-long relationship between what we grow and what we eat and drink.

Food, wine, culture, and craft:

It’s all here in our backyard.

WHERE WE ARE

Long island extends east from New York City, ending in the towns of Greenport, to the north, and Montauk, to the south — the easternmost point in the state of New York. At the island’s tip, the land splits into the North and South Forks, abutting the Long Island Sound and Atlantic Ocean. Long Island boasts three distinct American Viticultural Areas (or A.V.A.s), two of which were established in the 1980s.

The Long Island A.V.A., which was established in 2001, encompasses both Nassau and Suffolk counties, as well as their off-shore islands. This large A.V.A. has within it two smaller A.V.A.s. A minimum of 85 percent of the fruit used in Long Island A.V.A. wine must be grown within the borders of the region.

The Hamptons Long Island A.V.A is located on the southern fork of Long Island, in Suffolk County. The AVA includes all of the beaches, shorelines, islands, and mainland areas in the townships of Southampton and East Hampton. This A.V.A. consists of 209 square miles.

The North Fork Long Island A.V.A. lies entirely within Suffolk County. To the west, the boundary is the 6-mile-long line separating Riverhead from the neighboring Brookhaven townships. The North Fork Long Island A.V.A. also includes Shelter Island and Robins Island. This 158-square mile A.V.A. is comprised of 65,000 acres.

WHO WE ARE

Long Island boasts 57 distinct wine producers, who are divided between the North Fork, South Fork, and western Suffolk County.

OUR STORY

Alex and Louisa Hargrave planted the first Long Island vineyard in 1973, in Cutchogue. Soon after, pioneering investors, grape-growers, and winemakers followed suit. Their shared vision, unique experience, and expertise created a rich, diverse culture dedicated to the pursuit of making exceptional wine. Over 50 years later, the Long Island wine region is one of the most exciting rising stars of the winemaking world.

website: www.LIwines.com

(photo credit: Long Island Wine Country)