Stephen Scarnato, founder of Long Island Vine Care, offers a unique opportunity for individuals to own their own micro-vineyard without the need for a sprawling estate. With just one-tenth of an acre, Scarnato will plant and tend to the vines, allowing customers to enjoy the fruits of their labor in the form of their own personal vintage. The project costs around $25,000 per plot to install, with yearly maintenance costs also factoring into the budget. By the third year, customers can expect to harvest around 100 bottles of their own wine, with additional services such as winemaking and bottling included in the package.
Scarnato’s clientele consists mainly of enthusiasts looking to add a fun element to their homes rather than serious connoisseurs seeking accolades. Most customers are based in or near East Hampton, with even those with vast estates opting for the postage stamp-sized micro-vineyard option. Scarnato’s passion for wine stems back to his teenage years when he learned the art of winemaking from his Italian father. He honed his skills working at Wölffer Estate in Sagaponack before launching his own startup, inspired by a small plot of grapes he noticed at a bed-and-breakfast.
Over the years, Scarnato’s business has thrived through word of mouth, with clients appreciating his willingness to cater to their specific requests. One client sought a rare East European grape for sentimental reasons, which Scarnato successfully sourced and planted. While his go-to grapes are merlot and albariño, he often plants a mixture to test what thrives best on the limited plots of land available. However, he advises clients against planting pinot noir, as it may not meet their expectations of the popular varietal’s taste.
With an emphasis on providing a turnkey service, Scarnato’s approach to micro-vineyards appeals to those looking for a unique and personalized experience without the need for vast expanses of land. The opportunity to own a micro-vineyard provides clients with the chance to enjoy their own personal vintage after just a few years of cultivation and maintenance. Scarnato’s dedication to his craft, coupled with his willingness to cater to individual requests, has led to the success of Long Island Vine Care and the satisfaction of his clientele, who value the fun and personal touch he brings to the world of winemaking.
