While many travelers flock to the Hamptons for their beautiful beaches and upscale amenities, few know that this region is also home to a thriving wine country. Located on the East End of Long Island, the Hamptons is not typically associated with wine, but the area is producing some excellent wines that are worth a visit. The region is home to over 30 wineries, including Channing Daughters, Duck Walk, and Wölffer Estate Vineyard, which offer a range of wine styles, from crisp sauvignon blancs to rich Bordeaux-style blends.
| Winery | Location | Wine Style |
|---|---|---|
| Channing Daughters Winery | Bridgehampton | Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Ribolla Gialla |
| Duck Walk Vineyards | Southampton | Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Blueberry Port |
| Wölffer Estate Vineyard | Southampton | Rosé, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc |
To experience the best of the Hamptons wine country, it’s essential to plan ahead and avoid the crowds that flock to the area during peak season. Summer weekends are the busiest time, and some wineries cater to large groups, creating a more social atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during the week or in the off-season. When visiting the Hamptons, it’s also essential to choose the right accommodations. Many inns and boutique hotels are located close to top wineries, making it easy to visit multiple locations without long drives.
Where to Stay
* Gurney’s Montauk Resort: Open year-round, Gurney’s Montauk offers a range of oceanfront dining options, from lighter, ingredient-focused dishes to locally sourced seasonal fare. * Marram Montauk: Open seasonally from late spring through early fall, Marram offers a secluded escape at the edge of Long Island, where rolling sand dunes meet the Atlantic. * The Roundtree, Amagansett: At The Roundtree, wine is more than an afterthought—it’s part of the welcome. Guests are greeted with a bottle upon arrival, setting the tone for a stay that’s both luxurious and laid-back.
How to Get There
There are multiple ways to get to the Hamptons, and the best option for you will depend on your personal preferences and budget. Driving is the most flexible option, allowing for easy access between towns, the beach, and the wineries. However, traffic can be heavy, especially on summer weekends, so planning travel outside peak hours can help avoid long delays. For those who prefer not to drive, the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) runs from Penn Station in Manhattan and Atlantic Terminal in Brooklyn to several stops in the Hamptons, including East Hampton and Bridgehampton, both near top wineries. Trains operate year-round, with more frequent service during peak season. Bus services like the Hampton Jitney and the Hampton Luxury Liner provide another option, running daily between Manhattan and the Hamptons with multiple pickup and drop-off points. They offer a more comfortable ride than the train, with onboard amenities like Wi-Fi and refreshments. For those who want to arrive in style, you can book a helicopter seat on Blade or charter an individual helicopter or seaplane altogether.
Where to Go
Some of the top wineries in the Hamptons include:
*
Channing Daughters Winery
, which produces wines from more than two dozen grape varieties, including sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, ribolla gialla, merlot, cabernet franc, and syrah. *
Duck Walk Vineyards
, which spans 140 acres and produces a range of wines, including pinot grigio, riesling, cabernet sauvignon, and blueberry port. *
Wölffer Estate Vineyard
, which is best known for its rosé, Summer in a Bottle, and its non-alcoholic Spring in a Bottle. These wineries offer a range of wine styles, from crisp sauvignon blancs to rich Bordeaux-style blends, and are worth visiting for any wine lover.
Planning Your Trip
To make the most of your trip, it’s essential to plan ahead and choose the right accommodations, transportation, and wineries to visit. Consider visiting during the week or in the off-season to avoid the crowds, and choose wineries that offer seated tastings and small bites to enhance your experience. Some wineries also offer special tasting packages, wine flights, and vineyard tours, so be sure to research and book in advance to ensure availability. With careful planning, you can create a memorable and enjoyable wine tour experience in the Hamptons. In the end, the Hamptons wine country is a hidden gem that’s worth discovering, and with a little planning, you can experience the best of what this region has to offer. Whether you’re a wine lover or just looking for a new and exciting destination, the Hamptons is a great choice. So why not start planning your trip today and discover the beauty and charm of this unique wine region?