Long Island Winery Tour with Lunch from Manhattan (#1 Rated!)

Travelers looking to escape the city’s hustle and indulge in some of New York’s most beautiful vineyards will find this Long Island Winery Tour from Manhattan a compelling choice. Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, this tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending scenic vineyard views with tastings of carefully selected wines—all with the convenience of round-trip transportation from NYC.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its balance of value and authenticity. We love the three vineyard visits, each offering a different vibe and wine profile, along with the included gourmet picnic lunch—a thoughtful touch making the day more relaxed and enjoyable. Plus, the knowledgeable guides consistently receive praise for their friendly approach and wealth of information.

However, a word of caution: some reviews point to variability in guide experience and wine quality, and it’s worth noting that the tour is rain or shine, so come prepared. This experience is best suited for those who want a guided, hassle-free day out, cherish scenic vineyard views, and enjoy sampling local wines in an authentic setting.

Key Points

• The tour offers a round-trip transportation from Manhattan, removing the stress of driving.
• It visits three distinct vineyards in Long Island’s North Fork area.
• Includes a catered picnic lunch, with vegetarian options available.
• The tour is popular, booked on average 29 days in advance, highlighting its demand.
• It caters to adults 21 and over, with wine tasting experiences strictly limited to those with valid IDs.
• Guides often earn praise for their friendly and informative approach, though some reviews note variability in experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins at 41 Union Square W in Manhattan, a central and easily accessible location. From there, you’ll board a comfortable coach bus, which comfortably fits up to 25 travelers. The round-trip transportation is a major perk—no worries about navigating traffic or finding parking, just sit back and enjoy the views. The ride to Long Island lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving you a chance to relax or chat with fellow wine lovers.

The Vineyard Visits

Once in Long Island’s North Fork, the tour takes you to three vineyards, each carefully selected to showcase different styles and atmospheres. Popular stops include Lenz Winery, Raphael, and Osprey’s, although the exact itinerary can vary.

What you’ll love: The vineyards are praised for their stunning scenery—vineyards stretching over rolling hills, often with a charming rustic feel. The wine tasting sessions are designed to let you sample and compare, with knowledgeable guides explaining each wine’s background, flavor profile, and what makes Long Island wines unique.

A quick note: Several reviews mention that some wines are better than others, which is typical in such tastings. You’ll likely find some favorites among the selections, with enough variety to appeal to different palates.

The Guides and the Experience

Guide quality is a mixed bag, but most reviews are very positive. Expect guides to answer questions and share insights about the wines and the region. One reviewer raved about Kelly’s excellent leadership, while another pointed out that Amber’s experience could be improved. The guides aim to make the day engaging and informative, contributing significantly to the tour’s enjoyment.

The Picnic Lunch

A highlight for many is the gourmet picnic lunch, included in the tour price. The meal is catered and offers vegetarian options, providing a relaxed setting to unwind and discuss the tastings. Many travelers appreciate that the lunch is well-organized, with enough food to satisfy after a morning of wine tasting.

From reviews: “We mingled, met people, and enjoyed the food” captures the social aspect of this part of the day.

Duration and Pacing

The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, from pickup to return. That includes travel time, vineyard visits, tastings, and lunch. It’s a full-day outing, so comfortable shoes and a relaxed attitude are recommended. The group size is typically around 25 people, fostering a friendly, conversational atmosphere.

Cost and Value

At $159 per person, this tour offers good value considering the transportation, multiple vineyard visits, tastings, and lunch. Compared to the cost of visiting vineyards independently—plus transportation and meals—this package streamlines the experience and provides a guided, informative approach.

Some reviewers consider this a “well-organized” and “popular day trip”, and many say it lived up to expectations. Yet, some point out that the experience may feel more like a coach ride with tastings rather than an in-depth wine production tour, which is worth considering if you’re expecting to see the wine-making process firsthand.

The Vineyards and Why They Matter

Lenz Winery is often praised for its beautiful setting and quality wines. Raphael offers a more modern take with a welcoming atmosphere, while Osprey’s provides a cozy, intimate vibe. Each vineyard has its own personality, giving you a taste of Long Island’s diverse wine scene.

Authenticity and Scenic Views

The appeal here lies in the picturesque landscapes and diverse wine profiles. You’ll get to enjoy rolling vineyards, perhaps some historic buildings, and the lush North Fork scenery. This makes for perfect photo opportunities—especially if you’re someone who loves capturing nature’s calm.

Reviews from Fellow Travelers

Many travelers express satisfaction with the overall experience. One said, “Gorgeous day at Long Island vineyards”, and praised the terrific guides. Others appreciated the variety of wines and the chance to meet people during the tasting sessions.

However, not all reviews are glowing. A few mention booking issues—like difficulty securing a spot through third-party sites—and some felt they learned little about the wine-making process beyond tasting.

Common Praises:

• Beautiful vineyard settings and views
• Efficient, friendly guides
• Well-organized logistics
• Enjoyable, social atmosphere
• The included lunch adds value and comfort

Common Criticisms:

• Variability in guide experience
• Some wineries’ wines are hit-or-miss
• Limited insight into wine production
• Booking complexities during busy seasons

Practical Considerations

• Reservations: Book about a month in advance as it’s quite popular.
• Age Limit: Must be 21+ with valid ID.
• Weather: The tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly—bring an umbrella or sun protection.
• Food: A full breakfast before the tour is recommended to enjoy the tastings fully.
• Group Size: Limited to 25 travelers, fostering a friendly environment.
• Cancellation: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you love scenic drives, wine tasting, and relaxed guided experiences, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s especially suitable for urban dwellers wanting to escape the city for a day, but not willing to drive themselves.

It also works well for groups or couples seeking a social, fun, and educational outing. If you’re after an in-depth wine production tour, you might want to look elsewhere, but if your goal is to sample a variety of wines in gorgeous settings with good company, this is a strong choice.

Final Thoughts

The Long Island Winery Tour from Manhattan offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to experience Long Island’s wine scene without the hassle of self-driving. It provides scenic vineyard visits, quality tastings, and a delicious picnic—all packed into a manageable 10-hour day. The overall positive reviews reflect its value, friendly guides, and beautiful scenery, making it popular among first-time and seasoned wine lovers alike.

While some room for improvement exists—particularly around guide consistency and winery selection—the experience is undoubtedly a memorable one. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a taste of New York’s countryside, with the comfort of guided organization and thoughtful touches like lunch included.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic, and tasty escape from Manhattan, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Can I book this tour through Viator? Yes, the tour is available on Viator, but be aware that during peak times, availability may fluctuate. It’s advisable to book well in advance.

Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transportation from Manhattan is included, making the day hassle-free.

What is the age requirement? Participants must be 21 or older with valid ID to enjoy wine tastings.

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

What should I bring? Dress comfortably, wear sunscreen, and bring a full breakfast. Since the tour runs rain or shine, pack accordingly.

Is vegetarian lunch available? Yes, vegetarian options are available and included in the picnic lunch.

To sum it up, this guided wine trip offers a solid blend of scenic beauty, friendly guidance, and flavorful wines—all within a full-day outing that is easy to enjoy without stress. It’s a great way to experience Long Island’s vineyards in a relaxed, social setting, especially if you value convenience and want to make the most of your day outside Manhattan.