Now, Macari Vineyards in Mattituck on Long Island is a tremendous tasting experience.

We went as a 10-year anniversary, and they gave us everything we were hoping for and more, with a server who made our evening so very memorable and lasting. We will be back!

Macari Vineyards sits on a 500-acre parcel that extends all the way to the Long Island Sound, with a hardworking family behind the winery that has propelled it to the place it’s at now. I’m a really big fan of their closed-circuit system for farming, something I’ve known about since reading Michael Pollan’s Omnivore’s Dilemma, and they use chicken scraps and manure, etc., to rotate through their properties for the best grapes possible.

We had their seasonal tasting and a plate of cheese and charcuterie, trying their Sparkling Viognier 2023, Syrah 2021, Cabernet Franc 2021, Bergen Road 2021, and “Golden Yarrow” Tocai Friulano & Pinot Gris 2023.

The Bergen Road 2021 and Syrah 2021 ended up being the two favorites, along with the beautiful yellow, Sunkissed Sparkling Viognier 2023.

As a side note, if you drive a little past Macari Vineyards, you will get to the Old House in Cutchogue, New York, one of the oldest surviving examples of domestic architecture in America—a cute little wooden cabin with history galore.

A Short History of Long Island Vineyards and Mattituck

The North Fork of Long Island has blossomed into one of the East Coast’s premier wine regions, thanks to its unique maritime climate and fertile soil.

Mattituck, with its scenic landscapes and rich agricultural traditions, serves as a cornerstone of this wine revolution.

  • 1973: The first vineyards were planted, introducing European grape varietals to the North Fork.
  • 1980s: Wineries gained recognition for Bordeaux-style blends and exceptional whites.
  • 1995: Macari Vineyards was founded, emphasizing sustainable farming.
  • Today: Over 60 vineyards make Long Island a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

Q&A on Long Island Wineries

Q: Why is the North Fork ideal for vineyards?
A: The combination of a maritime climate, sandy soil, and extended growing seasons mimics Bordeaux.

Q: What sets Macari Vineyards apart?
A: Their closed-circuit farming practices and focus on sustainability make them unique.