Beach Blanket Bordeaux, North of the Hamptons
Long Island’s North Fork is an exciting microclimate of winemaking, its moderate beachy climate now a proving ground for classic European grapes such as Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot.
These winemakers wear a dedication and frankness that is a world away from the gladiator sandals of the South Fork. Every label is a labour of love, and most feature tastings and tours.
Follow your pioneering spirit and make an afternoon or an entire weekend of it – the beach can wait!
Goes great with: A desire to explore, a restless palate and an open mind, old friends and new acquaintances.
Find a list of wineries and website links at www.liwines.com.
A place setting with two forks indicates two courses. Strange, I think, that the Hermès-draped armies migrating from Manhattan to the South Fork Hamptons seem to ignore their North Fork, where some fascinating takes on great European grapes accompany the scenery.
These grapes have passed their brute counterpart the potato as the region’s top crop, and with their moderate climate being compared to Bordeaux, they are poaching winemakers as well.
This Fork is rife with ambition – Palmer Vineyards makes a redoubtable Cabernet Franc; Shinn Estate Vineyards plant and harvest organic, biodynamic, and via lunar calendar(!). Sparkling Pointe have the gaul to make a delightful bubbly in the Champagne style, and The Old Field’s mother/daughter winemakers work new incarnations of Chardonnay, Merlot and Cab Franc.
Change your plans for the weekend and travel The North Fork. With more than 30 vineyards, you will leave the crowds behind, and embrace the new style.