Pellegrini Vineyards Review

Address: 23005 Main Rd. Cutchogue,New York 11935.
Phone Number: 631-734-4111
Tasting Hours: 11:00-5:00

Region: Long Island AVA, North Fork of Long Island AVA, New York
Reviewer: Joanne Dunne
Review Date: 5/1/2012
Reviewer: Joanne Dunne
Rating: 4

The Review

The Place: &nbspPellegrini Vineyards is an all-around excellent winery and a very pleasant visit is to be had when touring the North Fork Wine Trail. Started in 1982 by Bob and Joyce Pellegrini, who worked with winemaker Russell Hearn, Pellegrini offers a wide assortment of award winning wines, with a casual atmosphere found on its premises. Thirty acres call Pellegrini home, while the owners have also expanded, owning smaller vineyards just a few miles from the original vineyard.

Pellegrini takes pride in its progressive vineyard and winery practices. Pellegrini does not filter their wines. and the vineyard utilizes compact vine spacing methods for nourishing soil to its greatest potential. Watering is heavily monitored using the latest technologies to achieve an optimum grape cluster size without wasting water. The entrance into the two-floor tasting room is impressive. The upper floor provides a view while you taste and take in the Long Island scenery. There is plenty of seating available in this open space, though only a few tables were out for use on the day of our visit.

The Experience: &nbspGreeted warmly by Paul, who became our pourer, we knew there would be no pretense, even in such a well-designed and elegant building. He warmly welcomed us and the atmosphere was light hearted and uplifting. While it was not busy, it was obvious that any patron who enters will be treated with personal care. A couple sitting nearby was sitting and listening intently as their pourer shared her wealth of knowledge. While the restrooms were just a bit of a walk, by going to utilize one can pass the courtyard where weddings are held and also get a glimpse in the next building of all the barrels down in the cellar. Overall, the visit was pleasant, and with a quick look in the gift shop, our visit was complete.

The Wines: &nbspWe were offered a choice of two flights for tasting, one for $4 and one for $8. Choosing the lighter flight, I was very happy with the Rose (at $12.99 specially priced, a STEAL!). Paul recommended the Medley White as a great choice for any occasion, and I think he was right. This is the first winery where I tried Gewurztraminer. I had never heard of it. It is a wine grape that grows well in cooler areas, so Pellegrini would not be the last winery during our travels that makes this type of wine. It was delicious, and a bottle only costs $19.99. Prices ranged from $12.99 – $14.99, all the way to $39.99 for the 2007 Vintners Pride Encore, a blend of their very best grapes to produce an exceptional red wine.

The Extras: &nbspWeddings and private events are available. For its outdoor courtyard, Pellegrini has a custom made tent on its premises to accommodate inclement weather. Private tours and tastings are offered. A full wine club membership is also offered. Becoming a member allows you to get access to rarer vintages from the Estate that are sold out elsewhere – a benefit not seen in many other clubs. On occasion, a special event, such as a wine dinner, is held for the public.