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Thinking about a day escape from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan? The Long Island Winery Tour with Lunch offers a smooth, enjoyable way to explore some of New York’s best vineyards without the hassle of driving. With a reputation as the top-rated wine tour, it’s a popular choice for those craving a relaxed, scenic day out with friends or a partner.
What we love about this experience is how it combines expert-guided tastings at three carefully chosen wineries with the convenience of round-trip transportation from the city. Plus, the included gourmet picnic lunch makes it feel like a true getaway. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the experience can be a bit rushed or that wine quality varies, so it’s worth keeping expectations in check.
This tour suits those who appreciate good wine, beautiful scenery, and a well-organized group outing — especially if you’re visiting New York City and want a reliable, no-fuss way to enjoy Long Island’s vineyards.
Key Points
- All-inclusive experience with transportation, tastings, and lunch.
- Visits to three distinctive vineyards, each with unique ambiance and wines.
- Comfortable round-trip transport from Manhattan, saving you the stress of driving.
- Expert guides who are knowledgeable and attentive, enhancing your experience.
- Flexible options for vegetarian lunch choices.
- Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 25 and age restrictions of 21+.
An In-Depth Look at the Long Island Winery Tour
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour kicks off early in the morning at 41 Union Square West, a convenient and lively spot in downtown Manhattan. Booking is typically made about a month in advance—on average, 31 days ahead—so planning ahead is wise. You’re advised to arrive 15 minutes early to settle in before departure at 9:00 AM.
The round-trip transportation is a major plus. Instead of navigating traffic or worrying about parking, you’ll comfortably sit on a coach bus with other wine enthusiasts. The drive to North Fork takes about 1.75 hours, so it’s worth bringing some snacks or reading material for the trip. The journey itself offers a chance to soak in the scenery and get excited for the day ahead.
The Three Vineyard Stops: What to Expect
First Vineyard:
Your day begins with a visit to the first winery, where tastings are served shortly after arrival. Some reviews note that the first vineyard can be a little underwhelming regarding wine quality or grounds, but it’s a nice warm-up. You’ll get a brief overview of the wines, and the staff are generally friendly and welcoming. The included lunch—salad, chips, or a sandwich with water—is served here, setting you up for the day. Some guests mention that the lunch is hearty and substantial, making it a good break.
Second Vineyard:
This stop is often highlighted as a favorite. Many travelers mention the gorgeous grounds and engaging staff. One review raves about Raphael, describing it as “pretty amazing,” with welcoming staff and a beautiful setting. Here, the guide offers detailed explanations of the wines, which many appreciate as it elevates the tasting experience. You’ll have about an hour and a half to wander, take photos, and enjoy the ambience.
Third Vineyard:
The final stop tends to be lively, often with live music or a more relaxed atmosphere. The smaller cups of wine and opportunities to sit and socialize make it a fun conclusion to the day. Reviewers mention the friendly staff and the chance to roam freely and take pictures. Some note that the wines at this stage vary in quality, but the overall experience remains positive.
The Lunch Experience
The included gourmet picnic lunch stands out as a highlight for many. It’s served during the second vineyard visit, providing a welcome break from tastings. Options include vegetarian choices, which many reviewers appreciate, and the lunch is described as satisfying—a good balance for a day of wine tasting.
Transportation and Group Size
The tour is designed for a maximum of 25 travelers, making it intimate enough to socialize but still manageable. The coach bus is described as clean and comfortable, with friendly drivers like Andrew who helps keep the atmosphere relaxed. Most reviews agree that the transportation adds tremendous value, especially given the long drive from NYC.
The Experience and Guides
Guides are a consistently praised aspect of this tour. Multiple reviews mention guides like Raven, Colin, Kelly, and others as knowledgeable, personable, and attentive. Their insights about the wineries and wines make tasting more meaningful. One reviewer states, “Our guide Raven was the BEST,” highlighting how a good guide can turn a simple day into a memorable adventure.
Price and Value
At $149 per person, the tour offers a lot—transportation, three winery visits, tastings, and a substantial lunch. Given this includes 13 wine tastings, many consider it good value for money, especially compared to attempting to organize a private trip. On top of that, the convenience of not having to plan logistics adds a significant layer of comfort.
However, some travelers feel the experience could be more informative about wine production, and the quality of wines varies across vineyards. Still, the overall consensus is that the trip is a great way to experience Long Island’s vineyards without the hassle.
What the Reviews Tell Us
Authentic reviews paint a picture of a generally enjoyable experience. Many praise the friendly guides and the stunning scenery. Fans of wine tasting appreciate the variety and the opportunity to relax in beautiful vineyard settings. A few hiccups—like booking issues or uneven wine quality—are noted but tend to be overshadowed by the overall positive vibe.
One reviewer calls it “a nice trip away from the city,” emphasizing the scenic drive and the chance to see a different side of New York. Others highlight the social aspect, with many making new friends along the way.
Possible Drawbacks
While most reviews are positive, a few mention that wet weather can impact the experience, especially since some wineries have limited undercover space. Plus, some felt the first vineyard’s wines weren’t their favorite, or that the tour could benefit from more in-depth wine education.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?
If you’re someone who enjoys wine, scenic drives, and a relaxed day with a group, this tour hits many marks. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a taste of Long Island wines or seasoned enthusiasts looking for a hassle-free outing. The combination of expert guides, convenient transport, and a solid lunch makes it a worthwhile outing.
However, if you’re a wine connoisseur seeking in-depth knowledge or the very highest quality wines, you might find the experience slightly limited. Also, if weather turns sour, be prepared for some inconvenience, especially at the third vineyard.
This tour is a great value for a fun, scenic day out — especially suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with wine tasting without the stress of planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Manhattan is included, making the day very convenient.
What is the minimum age for participation?
Participants must be 21 years or older with valid ID to enjoy the tastings.
Can I request vegetarian lunch options?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and you should specify this when booking.
What if the weather is bad?
The trip runs rain or shine. If the weather causes a cancellation, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.
How long do the vineyard visits last?
Each vineyard allows about 1.5 hours for tastings and exploring, giving you enough time to enjoy each site.
Are there any restrictions on wine purchases?
Most wineries allow you to buy bottles, but some reviews note that you are given small tasting cups, and the availability to purchase is at their discretion.
In The Sum Up
The Long Island Winery Tour from Manhattan offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to sample some of the best vineyards on Long Island without the stress of organizing transportation or logistics. With friendly guides, scenic drives, and a good variety of wines, it appeals especially to those new to wine tasting or visitors wanting a casual, fun day out.
While it may not satisfy the most discerning wine connoisseurs, it delivers excellent value and an authentic experience in one of New York’s most charming rural areas. Whether celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a relaxing escape, this tour can provide a memorable slice of vineyard life — all with the convenience of leaving the driving to someone else.