The Hidden Vineyard, Calverton, LI, NY

I'm at the Hidden Vineyard enjoying a glass of the best chardonnay I've ever had and the best thing about it is that it has no preservatives, no additives and no sulfites at all.  There is no stainless steel involved here, as other vineyards have used; everything made of wood which gives the better and truer taste.

This is all thanks to Peter, the owner, who still uses his family recipe which has been handed down from generation to generation.

The Hidden Vineyard was founded in 2002 by the DiBernardi family, who are originally from a small island off the coast of Sardinia, Italy.  Peter's father taught him to make wine as did his grandfather taught his father. He is new to growing grapes though, but seems to be doing a fine job with his fairly large vineyard right across from the wine tasting booth.

 There are six wines to sample, each served in a cold, frosty glass. The three white wines include a Chardonnay, a Riesling and a Pino Grigio.  The three red wines include a Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and a Cabernet Sauvignon.  They are all served from the two casks behind me.   Buying a bottle is simple and easy.   The bottles are filled right in front of you and you can get a custom made label.

The Hidden Vineyard does wine tasting from Friday to Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm.  Entertainment is provided by Andy Lepak a multi-talented singer who plays drums, electric piano and guitar.  

 

Peter and any of the other servers are friendly and helpful and will answer any and all of your questions.  They make you feel at home.  Bring your own cheese and crackers and enjoy a bottle of wine as you listen to great music under the tent.  This is truly a hidden gem and one vineyard not to be missed.

The Hidden Vineyard official site:

http://thehiddenvineyard.com/index.php

Andy Lepak's official site.  There are links to his Facebook page. 

http://andylepak.com/home