There’s never a wrong time to visit Long Island’s acclaimed North Fork wine region, but the off-season, when holiday crowds have dispersed, may just be the most perfect time to go. As the chill of winter settles in, many wineries embrace the season with warm, inviting atmospheres, exclusive seasonal tastings, and an array of live entertainment and activities. With smaller crowds enhancing the tranquility and winter specials making visits more budget-friendly, it’s the ideal opportunity to savor the unique flavors of Long Island’s wineries.  

Whether you’re planning a calm winter weekend with friends or seeking the perfect cozy setting to enjoy a bold red, these delightful winter winery experiences are not to be missed.  

 Macari Vineyards, Mattituck 

Macari Vineyards in Mattituck sit on the edge of a 500-acre vineyard and farm. They offer a variety of guided wine-tasting experiences for small and large groups, each hosted by a trained Macari Wine professional. A “Seasonal Tasting” offers a flight of five of Macari’s top wines for up to six guests for 1.5 hours for $40.00 per person.  “La Dolce Vita! Wine & Pizza” is a guided tasting of three Macari wines paired with a personal pizza for $40.00 per guest. The “Barrel Cellar Experience” is where you can enjoy Macari wines in a wood-beamed working barrel cellar served with cheese, charcuterie, and a fresh baguette for $75.00 per person. Indulge in the gorgeous “Private Tasting Suite” for brunch where you will be spoiled with Macari wines and a deliciously prepared brunch all for $95.00 per person. Reservations can be made online.  www.macariwines.com 

Harmony Vineyards, St. James 

Harmony Vineyards in Saint James produces wines and experiences in harmony with nature and humanity. Their Historic Waterfront Tasting Room was established in 1690 and has a spectacular view of Stony Brook Harbor. Here is where you can taste their award-winning wines, Long Island beers, and gourmet plates year-round. There is plenty of seating near the indoor fireplace or you can rent a heated igloo to get cozy outside. Reservations are available online. www.harmonyvineyards.com 

Del Vino Vineyards, Northport 

Located on the rolling hills of Northport, Long Island’s Gold Coast, Del Vino Vineyards is a family-owned and operated winery. The Giachetti family’s winemaking tradition dates back to the early 1800s in a small Italian village named San Leucio. The recipe has been passed down for generations. More than two decades ago, the Giachettis started making their own wine to enjoy around the dinner table with guests in their Northport home. The family’s winemaking heritage has been a significant part of their history, and they have continued this tradition by establishing Del Vino Vineyards, a winery that brings a taste of Tuscany to Long Island. When you visit their tasting room, you are visiting their home. They welcome you as a member of their family. Book a date through the website. www.delvinovineyards.com 

 wineUdesign, Hicksville  

Uncork the fun and make your very own wine at wineUdesign in Hicksville. They walk you through each step of the winemaking process and provide a ton of fun over a one-year period while you learn to make wine. First, you crush the grapes. A week later, you press the grapes. Five months later, you get to taste the wine. Another five months later, your 220 bottles of wine are filled and labeled. What a fun experience! Call (516) 939-9463 or email info@wineUdesign.com for more information.   www.wineudesign.com