Sip the Best of the Best Long Island Chardonnay
Chardonnay, the white wine coming from the green grape of the same name, is a timeless summer choice. It’s easily paired with cheeses and seafood. Readers of Dan’s Papers have voted on the top producers of Chardonnay on the island for Dan’s Best of the Best.
The sprawling Sagaponack vineyard at Wölffer Estate (139 Sagg Road, 631-537-5106) consistently produces top-rated local wines. Three summers ago, an early spring and warm summer provided the perfect conditions for luscious, mature grapes, all which were picked by the time Hurricane Sandy devastated portions of the island. These grapes produced voter-favorite Chardonnay 2012 from Wölffer. This chardonnay is fresh, citrusy with an elegant, lasting finish. It’s made from seven different chardonnay lots that were all hand-picked.
The bright gold Perle Chardonnay 2012 is another option from Wölffer. This favorite is known for its roundness and richness along with a complex taste and lingering finish.
Sparkling Pointe (39750 Middle Road, Southold, 631-765-0200), founded by Long Island natives Tom and Cynthia Rosicki also made the Best of the Best list. Their 2008 Blancs de Blanc sparkles just like the rest of their bottles. It’s aged for four years and boasts floral aromas of blossoms and notes of green apple and biscuit for a crisp, refreshing taste. The 2010 Blanc de Blancs, aged for three and a half years, is similar to its older vintage.
Cuvée Carnaval, also from Sparkling Pointe, is a fruitier option with notes of cherry, peach and tropical fruits.
Fermented in both stainless steel tanks and French oak barrels, the 2012 Reserve Chardonnay from Lieb Cellars (13050 Oregon Road, Mattituck, 631-734-1100) also received a large portion of votes. The white wine opens with fruity aromas but grows into more nutty characters. A nutty flavor also emerges in the 2010 Reserve Chardonnay.
Vetted Hamptons Resources
