Long Island Spirits Distillery logo with red swoosh.

Long Island Spirits

Region
  • USA, New York
Awards
  • Double Gold – Best Domestic Vodka 2012, Gold – San Francisco Spirits Competition 2012, Gold – NY International Spirits Competition 2011
Website
  • https://www.lispirits.com/
Phone Number
  • +16316309322
Address
  • 2182 Sound Ave, Baiting Hollow, NY 11933, United States

Rustic winery building with outdoor seating and umbrellas.

History of Long Island Spirits

Establishment and Founder

Long Island Spirits, founded on January 5, 2007, by Master Distiller Rich Stabile, is recognized as the first craft distillery on Long Island since the 1800s. The distillery, located in Baiting Hollow, New York, marked a significant development in the local craft spirits movement.

Historical Site and Location

The distillery is housed in a beautifully restored barn originally constructed by the Columbus brothers in the early 1900s. This barn, surrounded by potato, corn, and rye farms, is situated in the heart of Long Island’s acclaimed wine region, known for its Bordeaux-like microclimate.

Distillery Evolution and Growth

Over the past decade, Long Island Spirits has expanded its operations significantly. Initially focused on LiV Potato Vodka, the distillery has since introduced a range of spirits, including Rough Rider Small Batch Bourbon and Pine Barrens Single Malt Whisky. These products reflect the distinct geography and history of Long Island.

Prohibition Era Legacy

During the Prohibition era (1920-1933), the North Fork of Long Island, where the distillery is located, became a notable hub for bootlegging activities. The barn that now houses Long Island Spirits played a role during this time, serving as a strategic location for rum runners.

Farm-to-Bottle Philosophy

Emphasizing a farm-to-bottle approach, Long Island Spirits uses locally sourced ingredients such as Marcy russet potatoes and other grains. The distillery prides itself on sustainable practices and innovative distilling techniques, contributing to the unique flavors of its spirits.

Product Range and Innovation

The distillery’s range of products includes LiV Vodka, Sorbetta Liqueurs, Pine Barrens Whisky, and Rough Rider Bourbon. Each spirit undergoes a meticulous production process, including triple distillation and aging in charred American Oak casks.

Awards Won by Long Island Spirits

Double Gold – Best Domestic Vodka 2012: Awarded by The Fifty Best, recognizing Long Island Spirits for producing the best domestic vodka.

Gold – San Francisco Spirits Competition 2012: This prestigious competition awarded Long Island Spirits a Gold medal, highlighting their excellence in spirit-making.

Gold – NY International Spirits Competition 2011: Another significant achievement, this award showcases the distillery’s standing in a competitive international arena.

Riverhead Chamber of Commerce Agricultural Green Key Award: This award signifies the distillery’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

Long Island Spirits Tour Information and Experience

The Tasting Room at Long Island Spirits offers a delightful experience for visitors. The indoor tasting room and the newly established patio bar serve Specialty Craft Cocktails and Tasting Flights from their award-winning spirits.

Additionally, the entire Craft Spirits and LIV Canned Cocktails collection is available for purchase, along with other merchandise.

Tasting Room Experience

Reservations: Reservations are not required as walk-ins are welcomed.

Family and Pet Friendliness: The Tasting Room is kid- and pet-friendly, welcoming families and animal lovers.

Food Availability: Snacks are available, and Food Trucks are present on most weekends. Updates and schedules for the food trucks can be checked on their Instagram page (@lispirits).

Live Entertainment: Live music is a regular feature every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Visitors can follow Long Island Spirits on Instagram (@lispirits) for further information and the music schedule.

Buses and Limos: Buses and limos are allowed; however, it is recommended to call ahead to inform the staff of your arrival.

Flask & Barrel Review of Long Island Spirits

I recently visited Long Island Spirits, and I must say, it’s a solid 4.7 out of 5 experience for me. I’ve toured numerous distilleries as a whiskey collector, but this place stood out.

Their “Art of Distilling” tour was insightful, delving into the nuances of spirit-making. The guide was knowledgeable, making the whole process come alive. The tasting room experience was a highlight, with craft cocktails that were innovative and delicious.

The live music added a cozy ambiance. If I had to nitpick, maybe a bit more variety in their whiskey range would’ve been great. But overall, it’s a must-visit for any spirit enthusiast. The blend of education, tasting, and ambiance at Long Island Spirits is top-notch.

What To Do Nearby Long Island Spirits

Explore State Parks and Trails: Visit Hempstead Lake State Park or Trail View State Park for scenic walks and nature exploration. You could also hike along the Nassau-Suffolk Greenbelt Trail, stretching from Merrick Road, Massapequa to Woodbury.

Horseback Riding: There are several horseback riding trails across Long Island, such as Babylon Riding Center, Bethpage Equestrian Center, and Big River Barn Rescue Inc.

Visit Arboretums: Enjoy the natural beauty at various arboretums like Avalon Park, Bailey Arboretum, and Bayard Cutting Arboretum.

Aquatic Adventures at the Long Island Aquarium: This aquarium offers a variety of activities including boat tours, touch tanks, and a 20,000-gallon coral reef tank.

Relax at Fire Island: Accessible only by ferry, this car-free destination offers beaches, natural beauty spots, and historic landmarks.

Montauk Point Lighthouse: An iconic landmark commissioned by George Washington, offering gardens, ocean views, and a museum.

Vineyard Visits: Spend some time at Macari Vineyards or Wölffer Estate, known for their excellent wines and beautiful settings.

Long Beach Boardwalk: Enjoy activities like walking, biking, eating, and attending free concerts in the summer.

Cultural Attractions: Visit the Parrish Art Museum for art collections, the Nassau County Museum of Art for its sculpture park and gardens, and Oheka Castle for its grandeur and history.

Enjoy Local Food and Drinks: Sample fresh seafood at the Surf Lodge in Montauk, taste wines at Bedell Cellars, or have oysters at the Oyster Festival in Oyster Bay.

Outdoor Activities: Take a hike around Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge or visit the beaches in Fire Island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Long Island Spirits?

Cooperage Inn: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +16317278994. Their address is 2218 Sound Ave.

Applebee’s Grill + Bar: This restaurant has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +16313693500. The address is 1832 Old Country Rd.

Ruggero’s Family Style Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. You can make reservations by contacting them at +16318861625. Their location is at 5768 NY-25A Suite Y.

What hotels are near Long Island Spirits?

Hilton Garden Inn Riverhead: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +16317272733. Their address is 2038 Old Country Rd, Riverhead, NY 11901, United States.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Long Island-East End, an IHG Hotel: This hotel has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +16315481000. The address is 1707 Old Country Rd, Riverhead, NY 11901, United States.

The Inn And Spa At East Wind: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. You can make reservations by contacting them at +16319293500. Their location is 5720 NY-25A, BAITING HOLLO, NY 11933, United States.