Beaches & Wine- Raphael Vineyard, Long Island

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Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

The perfect North Fork Long Island trip needs to include two things- 1) beaches and 2) vineyards. With temperatures hovering around the upper 60's this holiday season, who says you can only enjoy these two in the Summer?!

Wildwood State Park- Long Island- New York

On our drive out east, we detoured to Wildwood State Park in Wading River.  There are great rewards for discovering lesser-known locations, off the beaten path.  Not as well-known as some of the other North Fork beaches, Wildwood encloses 600 acres of woodsy trails that open up to a beautiful Long Island Sound beach.  The beach at Wildwood is never too crowded and the water is always crystal blue.

What we love about this park is the diverse terrain and scenery.  Just a few steps away from the beach, you'll find long, winding trails through the woods.  The trails are clearly marked with many intersecting routes, which are also ideal for mountain biking.  Wildwood has campsites available for fun weekend getaways with family and friends too.

Wildwood State Park- Long Island- New York- Travel The East

Wildwood State Park- Long Island- New York

Wildwood State Park- Long Island- New York

Following our outdoor adventure, we headed to one of Long Island's most picturesque vineyards, Raphael Vineyard and Winery. Located in North Fork's Peconic area, Raphael exudes excellence from the second you walk in.

Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

As a family-owned establishment in existence since 1996, the grapes are harvested by hand to create their renowned wine selection.   Unlike other vineyards in the area, Raphael's wine-making process includes a Marzola basket press which is boosted to produce higher quality pressed wine.  And we can speak to this after having sampled several from their selection. We especially loved their not-so-sweet Riesling as well as the 2014 First Label Merlot, and the Cabernet Franc.  Typically not a fan of dessert wines, I was quite surprised by how much I liked the Portica wine too.

Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

Aside from the wine, Raphael is a perfect location for weddings and other memorable events. With its Tuscany-like appearance and veranda overlooking the vineyard's acres, I could list 20 more reasons why anyone should share their special moments at Raphael Vineyard and Winery.  After such a great experience, we cannot wait to come back again for our next visit and glass of wine!

Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

Raphael Vineyard- North Fork- Long Island - New York

Some of the Awesome Crew at Raphael Vineyard
Matt & Kristy with some of the awesome people of Raphael Vineyard


Travel the East ©
Kristy Albano & Matt Pickering                                                      

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