Seasonal Guide
Long Island Wineries Open in Winter
Winter is the East End's secret season — fewer crowds, longer pours, and the producers that stay open run library tastings and fireside flights you can't get in summer.
Roughly two-thirds of North Fork wineries stay open year-round, though most shift to a Friday–Sunday-only schedule from January through March. Tasting rooms thin out, reservations open up, and the staff have time to actually pour and explain library bottles you'd never see on a busy August Saturday.
Reliable winter picks include Bedell Cellars (heated indoor tasting room, library Merlots), Paumanok (wood-burning fireplace, seated flights only), Sparkling Pointe (the bubbles drink even better in cold weather), Macari (sunny south-facing windows, biodynamic estate tour available off-season) and Lenz (their reserve program is at its best during library tastings).
Winter tasting fees are typically the same as summer ($20–$35), but you'll often get an extra pour or longer conversation. Pair the day with lunch at Noah's in Greenport, or push out to The North Fork Table & Inn for a serious off-season meal.
FAQ
Are Long Island wineries open in January and February?
Most stay open Friday through Sunday. Hours are shorter (typically noon–5pm) and reservations are easier to come by than in summer.
Is winter a good time to visit Long Island wine country?
Yes — for serious tasters. Library bottles come out, staff have time to talk, and seated flights replace the busy summer bar pour.
What about the Hamptons in winter?
The Hamptons largely shutters between January and March — Wölffer reduces hours and many tasting rooms close entirely. Stick to the North Fork for off-season visits.