Families Flock to Wölffer Estate in Long Island for Wine Tasting & Picnics

When Wölffer Estate in Long Island, New York, first started producing rosé wine in the early 1990s, little did they know that they were at the forefront of a trend that would explode in popularity years later. Back then, rosé was far from cool, but Wölffer Estate had the foresight to embrace it, and it has paid off handsomely. Their ‘Summer in a Bottle’ rosé is now one of the top-selling premium rosés in the U.S.

Not content with just one success story, Wölffer Estate also saw the potential in the rising hard cider trend. By supporting NY apple farmers and capitalizing on the craze, they have managed to create a highly profitable cider business. Their latest venture? The release of ‘Spring in a Bottle,’ the first U.S. ultra-premium, non-alcoholic, sparkling rosé wine, priced at $20. And it’s already flying off the shelves.

So, how does a winery established in 1988 manage to stay ahead of the curve in an industry known for its slow pace of change? According to Joey Wölffer, Co-Owner and Chief Brand Officer, it all comes down to listening to their customers. The weekend visitors to their tasting room, many of whom are young people, provide valuable feedback on what they enjoy. This customer-centric approach has proven to be a winning formula.

But it’s not just the customers who have a voice at Wölffer Estate. The winery has fostered a culture of innovation and collaboration, giving them a competitive edge. Recently, they joined forces with iconic Australian fashion brand, ZIMMERMAN, to create a limited-edition rosé with bold patterns and textures. The unique bottle design quickly sold out. Being a family-run business allows them to be agile and take risks, says Marc Wölffer, Joey’s brother and Co-Owner and Chief Strategy Officer.

Winemaker and Partner, Roman Roth, a 30-year veteran at Wölffer Estate, agrees that their family-run status sets them apart. While others in the wine industry may be shackled by tradition, Roth and his colleagues at Wölffer Estate are free to experiment with new concepts. This mindset has enabled them to collaborate with a German wine producer to create their non-alcoholic sparkling rosé, made with organic grapes and produced by another family-run business.

Collaboration is not limited to international partnerships. Wölffer Estate actively works with family wineries around the world to produce their wines. They make rosé in Provence and produce various wines in Argentina and Majorca, all in collaboration with local vintners. The strategy seems to be working, with Wölffer now producing over 175,000 cases of wine, 100 cases of cider, and spirits that are distributed nationwide.

Not only is Wölffer Estate a leader in the wine industry, but they also make a significant contribution to the local economy. With 170 employees, they are one of the largest employers on Long Island. They farm 55 acres of sustainably certified vineyards, overseen by Vineyard Manager Richie Pisacano. To support the local community, Wölffer Estate hires extra staff during harvest season, providing employment opportunities when other businesses are downsizing.

While they may be best known for their rosé wines, which make up 72% of their production, Wölffer Estate also offers a range of traditional still wine varieties, including chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. With an average price point of $25 per bottle, their wines offer exceptional quality and value.

Visiting Wölffer Estate is not just about the wine; it’s an experience. Families flock to the winery for wine tastings and picnics, enjoying the beautiful surroundings and the warm hospitality of the Wölffer family. Whether it’s embracing new trends, fostering collaboration, or supporting local businesses, Wölffer Estate has shown time and time again that innovation and passion are the keys to success in the ever-evolving wine industry.

The Beauty of Diversity in Wölffer Estate’s Wine Portfolio

Wine enthusiasts, gather around! Today, we’re going to explore the enchanting world of Wölffer Estate wines – a winery that prides itself on producing a wide variety of exceptional wines that truly capture the essence of their respective regions.

Let’s start with their collection of rosé wines, each showcasing the unique characteristics of the regions they hail from. First up, we have the Wölffer Summer in a Bottle Rosé from Provence, which embodies the delicate floral, peach, and tangerine notes of Southern France. Close your eyes and let the aromas transport you to the picturesque vineyards of Provence.

Next on our rosé journey, we have the Wölffer Summer in a Bottle Rosé from Long Island. This particular wine boasts a lighter and more elegant style, with refreshing notes of fresh pear, melon, and a hint of salinity. Sip on this enchanting rosé and allow yourself to be captivated by the magic of Long Island.

Now, let’s venture all the way to Argentina, where we discover the Finca Wölffer Rosé. This fruit-forward wine is bursting with flavors of baked apple, pear, and a hint of berries and hay. It’s a delightful choice for those who prefer a more luscious and vibrant rosé.

Last but certainly not least, we have the Wölffer Spring in a Bottle from Germany. Despite being a non-alcohol sparkling rosé, it doesn’t compromise on flavor. Brimming with floral, raspberry, and peach notes, this delightful creation will leave you utterly amazed at its complex and refreshing profile.

Beyond their stunning rosé selection, Wölffer Estate has more to offer. Their wine portfolio is organized into three distinct levels – the Gold Label series, Cellar series, and White Horse series. The Gold Label series features elegant food-friendly wines at a mid $20’s price point, perfect for any occasion.

For those seeking something a little more exclusive, the Cellar series offers limited-release wines ranging from $24 to $32. These hidden gems are reserved for those who appreciate the finer things in life and are willing to embark on a truly unique wine tasting experience.

And finally, the White Horse series encompasses ultra-premium complex wines with prices ranging from $32 to $125. This collection includes the esteemed Christian’s Cuvee, a luxury offering only produced during the best vintages, with a price tag of over $100. These wines are a testament to Wölffer Estate’s dedication to creating unforgettable, unparalleled wine experiences.

But Wölffer Estate isn’t just about producing exceptional wines. They also place a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical practices. As one of the first wineries on Long Island to be certified sustainable by Long Island Sustainable Winegrowing, Wölffer Estate adheres to 200 farming best practices, ensuring environmental preservation and fair treatment of employees.

However, the climate change phenomenon has also presented challenges for grape farming on Long Island, as it has in other parts of the world. Despite this, Wölffer Estate has managed to adapt and thrive, harvesting grapes two weeks earlier than before due to the warmer weather. The unique sea breeze on Long Island not only protects the grapes from excess humidity but also imparts a delightful touch of salinity to some of their wines, adding another layer of complexity.

Looking to the future, Wölffer Estate has exciting plans in the pipeline. They are considering expanding into new markets, including parts of Asia and Australia. Furthermore, they have already delved into other ventures beyond wine, such as producing cider, gin, and brandy. However, amidst all their growth and exploration, the Wölffer family remains steadfast in their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Family is at the heart of everything they do, and they understand the importance of leaving behind a lasting legacy.

So, whether you’re a devout rosé lover, a wine connoisseur yearning for new experiences, or simply someone seeking the finest wines crafted with love and passion, Wölffer Estate has something to offer. Take a sip, immerse yourself in the journey, and allow these remarkable wines to transport you to the beautiful regions they call home. Cheers to diversity and the exquisite world of Wölffer Estate wines!