Mother Nature has been good to Long Island - and to local wineries. A growing season that lasts an average of 215 to 233 days has enabled 30 public wineries (and counting!) to plant nearly 3,000 acres of grapes in over 50 vineyards. The North Fork has the most wineries, with 28. The South Fork has three vineyards, while Riverhead and Sayville, both located in central Suffolk's east end, each have one. They specialize in classic European varieties: Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Merlot and Riesling.

You don't have to be a wine drinker to enjoy the Long Island wine country experience. Most of the wineries offer tastings and tours, and some host weddings and other catered events. According to the Long Island Wine Council, approximately 500,000 people visit the region each year.

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