A Family Affair

Written by Nicole Papantoniou

Scarola Vineyards is a small, family-run boutique winery in Mattituck, Long Island, but they got their start right here in Astoria. The patriarch of the family, Cosimo Scarola, who immigrated in 1947, raised his three sons in a former farmhouse in the borough, making wine for his family's consumption until his son, Frank, got the bright idea to go big on the island. Today, the winery's labels are emblazoned with an image of the Great Hall at Ellis Island, where his father passed through on his way to a new life.

Each year Scarola Vineyards produce only 500 cases—from their family to yours—filled with traditional, old world style and passion. Scarola wines have big fruit flavor and higher acidity than most wines. They show well on their own or paired with foods, says David Perrin, general manager and cousin of owner Frank Scarola. Chardonnay is Scarola Vineyard’s best-seller among the three other wines they produce, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Mistura, a mixture of Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Petit Verdot, all of which were poured at Queens Uncorked 2011. (Their wines are also available at Manetta's restaurant in Long Island City.)

For a personal and unique wine-tasting experience on Long Island, book a stay at Scarola’s bed and breakfast. The newly restored potato barn has five modernized guestrooms—perfect for a quiet weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The concierge is available to guide you as much as possible through your stay and share their experience with you, says Perrin as he picks Merlot and apologizes for the windy background sound.

Scarola Vineyards, 4850 Sound Ave., Mattituck, 631-298-7676, scarolawines.com