Despite this year’s warmer-than- usual weather (and much less snow than in recent ones), February is traditionally a slow month for the Island’s 30ish wineries.

The Long Island Wine Council is out to change all that this year with their Winter Wine Month Passport promotion.

For $25 (or $40 per couple) you’ll receive a passport that entitles you to special discounts and promotions at Long Island’s finest wineries, restaurants, B&Bs and attractions.

Most of the wineries involved are waiving their tasting fees, offering at least 10% off of all wine purchases (with savings up to 20% depending on the number of bottles you buy) and offering food/chocolate pairings. A few wineries are even offering special tastings of library or limited-release wines. The Bedell Cellars 1998 Merlot is one such wine worth making the trip for.

Visit the LIWC’s annoucement for a complete list of participating merchants and  order your passport today.

I know that Nena and I will be out there taking advantage of the great deals. Let me know if you’re heading out there…it would be great to meet some readers.