By Lenn Thompson, Founder and Editor-in-Chief
You've probably noticed that more wineries than ever are offering live music and other events on weekends — doing most anything they can to get people out to their tasting rooms, hopefully to buy wine.
Some would argue that these performances are used partly to distract visitors from mediocre wines. In a few cases, it's impossible to argue.
Typically, I'd write this event off as "just another winery with live music" but after doing a little research, it seems that John Pizzarelli and his quartet performing at Peconic Bay Winery on Friday, September 4 goes well beyond that. Plus, I like most of their wines.
John Pizzarelli is a well-known and regarded jazz guitarist, vocalist and bandleader who is internationally known for classic standards, late-night ballads, and the "cool jazz flavor he brings to his performances and recordings."
Jim Silver, general manager at Peconic Bay, thinks they are going beyond the norm with Pizzarelli's performance as well, telling me "Having someone of the caliber of John Pizzarelli perform at Peconic Bay
Winery is just another in a series of watershed moments for the whole
region. I think that elevating the standards for entertainment at the
wineries will make more people take notice of what a charming place the
North Fork is. Perhaps some people who’ve never been motivated to drive
out to see the vineyards, will make the trip to see a good concert.
Somewhere along the way, they’ll realize what a fun destination we are."
Tickets are $39 each plus tax and are available by calling (631)734-7361, emailing info@peconicbaywinery.com or stopping by the tasting room at 31320 Main Road, Cutchogue, NY.
Note: The concert will take place rain or shine, chairs will be provided and wine by the glass will be sold.