Long Island Wine and Food Day Trip with Sommelier host from NYC

Our review covers a popular full-day tour that takes you from Manhattan into the scenic wine regions of Long Island’s North Fork. Designed for wine enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, this experience promises a relaxing, educational, and delicious escape from city life. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a taste of New York’s hidden gem wineries, this tour aims to deliver a well-rounded day of tasting, learning, and enjoying local flavors.

What we find especially appealing about this trip is the expert guidance provided by a certified sommelier, which elevates what could be a simple winery visit into a genuinely informative experience. Plus, the chance to relax in comfortable transportation and indulge in a locally sourced lunch makes the day feel thoughtfully curated. On the flip side, the cost of $159 per person might seem steep for some, particularly considering the limited number of wineries and the short duration at each stop. But for those seeking an easy, guided introduction to Long Island wine country, this tour offers solid value.

This experience is best suited for wine lovers eager to learn about regional wines without the hassle of driving, and for anyone interested in tasting a variety of locally produced wines paired with good food. It’s also great for travelers who enjoy social outings, as reviews highlight the friendly guide and the quality of the group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Expert-led with a certified sommelier guide providing insights on wines and winemaking
• Visits to two award-winning wineries with ample tasting time
• Locally sourced, artisan lunch included in the price
• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a restroom
• Suitable for those aged 21+; no children allowed
• Well-organized for a full 9-hour experience, including travel and tasting

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Start in Manhattan and Head to Long Island’s North Fork

Departing from Manhattan at around 8:30 or 9 a.m., the trip is a smooth 1.5-hour journey. The bus, described as comfortable and equipped with a restroom, carries a maximum of 48 travelers. This is a key point because it suggests a lively yet manageable group size, conducive to conversation and a relaxed atmosphere.

First Stop: Pellegrini Vineyards

Once arrived, you’ll spend about an hour and a half at Pellegrini Vineyards, a site in the rotation of wineries visited. Here, your guide will conduct a tasting of 4-5 wines, giving you a chance to sample a variety of styles. Reviewers note that Pellegrini’s tasting room can feel a bit sterile and limited, especially with only one female restroom, but the wines themselves are often praised. One guest mentioned that the “regular tasting room was much nicer,” hinting at some variability in the experience.

Second Stop: RGNY

Next, you’ll visit RGNY, where another 4-5 wines are sampled in a setting described as more inviting. You’ll spend about 90 minutes here, enough time to appreciate the different styles of wine and enjoy the property’s ambiance. Reviewers have expressed that RGNY’s winery is stunning, and many appreciated the variety of wines and the picturesque setting.

Lunch in the Middle of the Day

Between the two tastings, a highlight is the artisan lunch featuring sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients, accompanied by local potato chips and bottled water. Several reviews praise the lunch as simple but satisfying, perfect for pairing with the wines. One guest remarked, “The food was basic,” but most seem to appreciate the locally sourced aspect and the chance to sit down and relax.

What You’ll Learn and Experience

Guided Insights from a Certified Sommelier

The major highlight of this tour is the presence of a knowledgeable guide who is a certified sommelier. Guests consistently mention how much they appreciated the expert commentary, which enhances the tasting experience. One reviewer shared that the host was “super informative, friendly, and made the experience 10x better.” You’ll gain a better understanding of wine styles, regional characteristics, and winemaking processes—elements that elevate a casual tasting into a learning opportunity.

Authentic and Varied Wineries

The two wineries in the itinerary are selected from a rotation, ensuring you get a glimpse of different styles and atmospheres. Pellegrini offers a more traditional experience, while RGNY is praised for its stunning setting and diverse wine selection. This variety keeps the day engaging, especially if you’re someone who enjoys exploring different winemaking philosophies.

The Group and Atmosphere

Reviews indicate that the group size is manageable, and the guide’s friendly demeanor makes the experience more personable. Several guests mention making new friends during the day, emphasizing the social aspect of the tour.

Transportation and Comfort

The air-conditioned bus is a comfort, especially after a warm day in the city. The mention of a restroom on board is a nice touch, although some guests have noted that it could be cleaner. The pickup point at 140 E 41st St is central, making it easy to access from various parts of Manhattan.

Timing and Pacing

Spending 90 minutes at each winery allows for a thorough tasting and some casual exploration of the vineyards’ surroundings. The entire day lasts about 9 hours, including travel and lunch. Reviewers have noted that the day ends back in Manhattan around 5:30 p.m., making it a full but not overly exhausting experience.

Price and Value Analysis

At $159 per person, the tour includes transportation, two winery tastings with 4-5 wines each, and a locally sourced lunch. Based on reviews, many find this a fair deal, especially considering the guided aspect and the quality of the wineries visited. For travelers who prefer to avoid planning and driving, the convenience factor is significant. The expert insights add educational value that many feel is worth the cost.

However, some might find the tasting time at each winery somewhat limited if they’re really into wine tasting or want deeper explorations. The cost might seem high if you’re on a tight budget, but for a curated, guided experience that combines education, scenery, and good food, it’s a balanced proposition.

Who Would Love This Tour?

• Wine enthusiasts looking for expert guidance without the hassle of driving
• Travelers interested in discovering regional wines with a taste of local culture
• Those seeking a relaxing day trip that combines food, drink, and scenic views
• Social travelers who enjoy meeting new people in a friendly group

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options?

• Visitors wanting a more comprehensive wine tour with more wineries or longer tastings
• Travelers on a very tight budget
• Those looking for a more intimate or boutique winery experience (this tour visits larger, award-winning wineries)

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price, this trip offers a solid introduction to Long Island’s wine scene, especially with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. The balance of scenic winery visits, expert commentary, and locally sourced lunch makes it a well-rounded day. The group setting and comfortable transportation eliminate the stress of planning your own trip, which many travelers find worthwhile.

It’s especially ideal for those who value education and social interaction—reviewers repeatedly mention how the guide’s insights and the friendly atmosphere made their day memorable. If you’re after a taste of New York’s wine region but don’t want to worry about driving or logistics, this tour hits the right notes.

In short, this experience is best suited for curious wine lovers, casual tasters, and anyone wanting an easy, guided escape from Manhattan to the lush vineyards of Long Island’s North Fork.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes. The guide provides educational insights suitable for all levels, and tastings are designed to be accessible for those new to wine.

How long is the bus ride from Manhattan?
The trip takes about 1.5 hours each way, making it a manageable journey that allows you to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are the wineries diverse in style?
Yes. The two wineries are different, offering a variety of wine styles and atmospheres, which keeps the experience interesting.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, tastings at two wineries (4-5 wines each), and a locally sourced lunch. Gratuities are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, receiving a full refund.

Is the tour family-friendly?
No. The minimum age is 21, and children are not permitted.

What if I want more wine?
You’re limited to the tastings included—about 4-5 wines per winery—but you can purchase additional wine at the wineries if available.

How big are the groups?
The tour accommodates up to 48 travelers, providing a lively but intimate group atmosphere.

Is there a restroom on the bus?
Yes, the bus is equipped with a restroom, although some reviews mention it could be cleaner.

To sum it up, this Long Island Wine and Food Day Trip offers a well-organized, educational, and enjoyable way to explore the region’s award-winning wineries. With expert guidance, scenic views, and locally sourced food, it’s a smart choice for those seeking a hassle-free, memorable wine adventure close to New York City.