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

If you’re considering a way to step out of the city hustle and savor some of Long Island’s best wines, this Long Island Wine and Food Day Trip might just be the ticket. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, I’ve gone through the details, reviews, and highlights to give you a clear picture of what you can expect.

What really caught my eye is how this experience combines professional guidance from a certified sommelier with visits to award-winning wineries, all wrapped up with a locally sourced lunch. Plus, the fact that you can enjoy tastings at two different vineyards without having to worry about driving makes it a very appealing day trip.

One potential thing to keep in mind is the price point of $159 per person, which might seem a bit steep if you’re budget-conscious, but considering the tastings, lunch, transportation, and guide, it offers quite a bit of value. This tour is likely best suited for those who want a relaxing, educational, and scenic escape from NYC with a focus on wine.

Key Points

• Comfort and Convenience: No need to drive; transportation is included in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Expert-Led Tastings: A certified sommelier guides you through multiple wines, offering insights you might not get on your own.
• Scenic & Award-Winning Wineries: Visits to two carefully selected vineyards with different wine styles.
• Tasty Local Food: A thoughtfully prepared, locally sourced lunch complements your wine tastings.
• Flexible & Well-Organized: Around 9 hours from start to finish, with a good balance of wine, food, and scenery.
• Age Restrictions: Only for travelers 21 and older, so not suitable for families with children.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out: Meeting in Manhattan

Your day begins at 140 E 41st St, right in the heart of NYC. It’s a convenient spot, and the tour kicks off early at 9:00 am. The vehicle is air-conditioned and comfortable, which makes the 1.5-hour ride to Long Island quite pleasant, especially if you’re a fan of relaxing scenery. As one reviewer noted, “The bus was comfortable and had a restroom,” which is a nice touch for a day trip.

Why the Transportation Matters

The fact that transportation is included and taken care of is a big plus for most travelers. It takes away the worries of navigating unfamiliar roads or trying to find parking at wineries. Plus, with the group size capped at 48, there’s a good chance you’ll get to socialize without feeling crowded.

The Wineries: Pellegrini Vineyards and RGNY

The core of the tour involves visiting two vineyards, each offering about 1.5 hours for tastings and exploration.

Pellegrini Vineyards kicks off the winery visits. It’s a place where you’ll sample 4-5 wines under the guidance of your sommelier. Reviewers highlight the variety as well as the engaging stories the guide shares, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. One guest said, “Sam was a fantastic tour guide,” emphasizing the importance of a knowledgeable host.

Next, you head to RGNY, where again, you’ll taste 4-5 wines. The reviews mention that RGNY’s property is beautiful, and the style of wine varies from Pellegrini, offering good diversity for the palate. Visitors appreciated the different wine styles and the friendly, informative guide.

What You’ll Learn

Having a certified sommelier lead the tastings elevates the experience. Guests report that the guide provides “extensive” information about the wines, making the tasting both fun and educational. Several reviews praised Steve and Sam for their friendly, approachable manner and impressive wine knowledge.

Tasting the Wines

You’ll sample approximately 4 wines at each winery, with enough time to savor and discuss what you’re drinking. This isn’t just about sipping—it’s about understanding the differences in wine type, style, and production. Some guests noted that the wines ranged from different styles, giving them a broader appreciation of Long Island’s winemaking.

Food: Locally Sourced Artisan Bites

A highlight of the tour is the lunch, which features sandwiches crafted with local ingredients, complemented by potato chips and bottled water. Several visitors appreciated the thoughtfulness of the meal, although a couple mentioned it was somewhat basic. Still, it’s a nice touch after a morning of tastings, and the locally sourced aspect adds to the experience’s authenticity.

The Scenic Drive & Environment

The drive on Long Island offers lovely views of vineyards and countryside, providing a break from urban life. One review described it as a “beautiful drive,” confirming that the scenery is a highlight.

The Tour’s Pacing & Group Size

Most guests found the schedule well-organized, with enough time at each stop to enjoy the settings without feeling rushed. The maximum group size of 48 strikes a balance between social opportunity and personal attention.

The Downsides & Considerations

While the overall experience scores highly, some smaller issues popped up in reviews. For example, one visitor mentioned the bus restroom being “horrible,” which is a reminder that on a day-long trip, some amenities might be less than ideal. Also, a few guests felt that the information about the wines was limited at the first winery, suggesting that if you’re a wine novice or seeking in-depth knowledge, you might want to prepare some questions in advance.

The price of $159 can seem high for some, especially considering the basic nature of the lunch or the bus condition in some cases. However, when you include tastings, transportation, and a guided experience, many find it to be a good value overall.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits wine lovers eager to learn and taste different styles of Long Island wines without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, guided experience with engaging hosts and scenic views. It’s also a nice escape for those celebrating special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries, given the intimate vibe and memorable setting.

However, if you’re after a gourmet meal or very in-depth wine education, this may feel somewhat limited. It’s also not suitable for children or those under 21, so it’s best for adults looking for a sophisticated day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for someone who doesn’t drink much wine?
Yes, you can enjoy the scenery, learn about the wines, or simply relax. Tasting is optional, and your guide will be happy to share knowledge if you’re interested.

Are vegetarians or people with dietary restrictions accommodated?
The included lunch is a set menu of sandwiches with locally sourced ingredients. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to contact the tour provider directly to see if they can accommodate.

How long does the trip last?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

What’s the group size?
The tour caps at 48 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for personal interaction.

Is transportation comfortable and reliable?
Yes, the vehicle is air-conditioned, with some reviews mentioning the restroom. However, some guests noted that the bus restroom might not meet all expectations.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than that are not refundable.

Is this tour family-friendly?
No, only for travelers aged 21 and over. It’s a wine-focused experience meant for adults.

Final Thoughts

This Long Island Wine and Food Day Trip from NYC offers a well-organized, engaging way to enjoy some of Long Island’s top wineries without the stress of driving. With expert guidance, scenic views, and a relaxed pace, it’s an appealing choice for those wanting to deepen their wine knowledge while savoring local flavors.

You’ll appreciate the mix of educational tastings, beautiful vineyard scenery, and a thoughtfully curated lunch. While some might find the bus amenities or food options somewhat basic, the overall value and experience make it a worthwhile outing, especially for wine enthusiasts or anyone looking for a memorable day outside the city.

If you want a guided, comfortable, and scenic tasting adventure with a knowledgeable host, this tour fits the bill. Just remember to come with an open mind, a love of wine, and a readiness to relax and enjoy the views.

Ready for a day among vineyards and good company? This trip could be just the escape you need.