This week from Sipping With Stollie

 

Sippin spent a beautiful Saturday on the North Fork of Long Island and made a pit stop at Pugliese Vineyards in Cutchogue.  Enjoyed several nice wines.  Anyone who has never been to the east end wineries is truly missing out.  While it may not have the scenery or as many outstanding producers as Napa or Sonoma it truly is beautiful and is perfect for spending a nice Fall afternoon “sippin” and noshing on some cheese. 

 

We indulged in a few wines as part of the tasting: 

 

2011 Pinot Grigio:  Not a Santa Marguerita but not bad.  The colder the better.  Hints of honey and apricot on the palate.  

2011 Riesling:  stick to the Pinot as Riesling is not their forte.  Try Duckwalk’s Aphrodite Dessert wine instead. 

 

2006 Merlot Reserve:  smooth and tasty.  Hints of plum and cherry. 

 

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve:  hearty yet not overwhelming.  Was surprised for Long Island.  Worth $16.99/bottle.  

 

 

2007 Merlot Reserve:  actually enjoyed the ’06 better.  Too bitter for my liking. 

 

Pugliese also has beautiful grounds so come thirsty and pull up a chair as there is always live music on the weekends.  Be sure to ask for Tom outside under the tent.  By the way, tipping helps keep the wine flowing well after the glasses are empty.  Never hurts J.  

 

 

For dinner we enjoyed a wonderful dinner in Greenport at Portobello . 

 The Fried Calamari was so tender you barely had to chew it.  Marinara Sauce was superb.  

 I had Rigatoni in a white wine sauce with Sausage and broccoli rabe.    Spectacular.  Terrific service and beautiful views of the boats as it is near the docks just outside of town.