Just 40 years ago, Long Island saw its first commercial winery and transformed land that once grew potatoes into productive vineyards. Located about 85 miles east of New York City, the region now hosts 56 wineries, concentrated where the island splits. Forty-seven are on the North Fork and four on the South Fork, together encompassing roughly 3,000 acres of vines. Thanks to a cool maritime climate, well-drained soils and one of the longest growing seasons on the East Coast, Long Island has proven capable of cultivating many of Europe’s finest Vitis vinifera varieties.
Among the early adopters willing to invest in this emerging region is Lieb Cellars on the North Fork. Founded in 1992 and releasing its first vintage in 1999, Lieb set itself apart from the start. While many Long Island wineries focused on Bordeaux varieties, Lieb was the first on the island to plant Pinot Blanc and make it a signature varietal. Often regarded as a relative of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc is popular in parts of Europe—especially Alsace—and Lieb’s interpretation recalls that crisp, restrained Alsatian style.
Under the top-tier Lieb Reserve label, the Pinot Blanc 2012 ($22) showcases the grape’s strengths: graceful and elegant, medium to medium-full-bodied, with bright acidity, hints of apple on the nose and a clean, lingering finish. The grape’s innate freshness also makes it an excellent foundation for sparkling wine. Lieb Reserve Blanc de Blanc 2010 ($35) is a light-golden, Champagne-method sparkler that is dry, balanced and marked by mineral notes and lively acidity.
On the red side, Lieb Reserve offers two notable wines. The Merlot 2008 ($22), finished with 6 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, shows a satiny texture with black-fruit aromas and flavors and a long, pleasing aftertaste. The Cabernet Franc 2010 ($40) is blended with small portions of Cabernet Sauvignon (7%), Merlot (3%) and Malbec (2%). It presents a rich ruby color, supple tannins, well-integrated fruit and a lasting impression on the palate.
For more approachable options, Lieb’s Bridge Lane label includes everyday wines such as Rosé, Chardonnay, a White Blend and a Red Blend, typically priced between $15 and $20. Bridge Lane wines are sold in standard bottles and in three-liter boxed formats, offering value and versatility for casual drinking or entertaining.
Long Island’s rapid evolution from agricultural backwater to respected wine region owes much to producers like Lieb Cellars, who experimented with nontraditional varieties and winemaking techniques. Their success helped prove that the island’s climate and soils can support a wide range of vinifera grapes, expanding the region’s reputation and its offerings for both local visitors and wine enthusiasts farther afield.