A bottle of Bedell Cellars merlot. (Credit: Randee Daddona)
I’ve long been dubious with the idea of merlot — or any grape, really — being anointed the “signature variety” for Long Island wine country. But merlot does grow well here, meaning it ripens consistently. More consistently than varieties like cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon.
Growers know this. And they’ve known it for some time. (more…)
While the first week of May is the norm for a North Fork bud break, many local vineyards reported an early start to the season late last month.
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A daytrip to North Fork wine country can be a romantic getaway for two or an immersive wine tasting shared with friends. But for those who want to further enhance the experience, it’s now possible to visit local wineries and soak up the atmosphere not just for a day, but for an entire weekend.
In addition to soil, geography and tradition, terroir — the intricacies that influence the character of wine — relies heavily on climate. It’s what sets a lighter, cool-climate pinot noir apart from a full-bodied one grown in a warmer region. Those ideal climatic conditions — warm and temperate with refreshing Atlantic winds and a lengthy growing season — that make the North Fork an optimal location for grapevines to thrive.
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Swedish sculptor Lars Widenfalk creates a piece of artwork at Sparkling Pointe in Southold. (Credit: Erika Peters)
Master sculptors from around the world are inviting North Fork winery-goers to watch them create new works of art amidst the vines — right before their very eyes.
The Artida Cultural Center and the Long Island Wine Council have teamed up with East End International Sculpture Symposium and I Love NY to present “Sculpture in the Vines.” (more…)
Bedell Cellars in Cutchogue is among America’s most beautiful wineries according to one wine blog. (Credit: Bedell Cellars courtesy photo/W Studios NYC)
One North Fork vineyard has cracked a list of “American wineries with breathtaking views.” READ
Even on a rainy afternoon, there’s plenty of beauty to capture at Palmer Vineyards in Riverhead. (more…)