As the Greek legend goes, Jason, the mythological hero who rallied the Argonauts and rightfully deserved the rule of Thessaly, received his education from the centaur Chiron. Known for his comprehensive intelligence in medicine and observance of social propriety, Chiron educated Jason on a variety of subjects, including the intricacies of plant life and the civilized arts. And although Jason Damianos—owner of Jason’s Vineyard—lives on Long Island in the 21st century, far from the roots of Western civilization, he shares more in common with his Greek namesake than just a moniker.

Both of Mediterranean descent, the men hold a cultural connection that has always been apparent in the Damianos household. His parents have celebrated their lineage, paying homage to poets, gods and lore by using traditional names for all five of their children. In addition to Jason, the Damianos children are Pindar, Alethea, Alexander and Eurydice. And just as the Jason of ancient times had a mentor, Jason Damianos had the guiding hand of his father, Dr. Herodotus. Like Chiron, Herodotus, or Dr. Dan as he is known, has extensive knowledge in both medicine and agriculture; he is a licensed internist and has spent nearly 30 years growing grapes and making wine.

Jason’s Vineyard sits on Jamesport on the north fork of Long Island, encompassing a 20-acre space. After studying business at the University of Hartford and obtaining two degrees, Jason received a third degree in enology at the University of California at Fresno acquiring high honors and accolades for his work. Continuing his studies, he attended the University of Bordeaux—a Mecca for wine academics—and worked in renowned regions like Medoc, Premiere Cote de Bordeaux, Loupiac and Cadiallac. With an education like this, high quality vines were inevitably in Jason’s future. Very little space between the rows promises superior fruit, the Long Island vineyard flourishes with the finest French clones: chardonnay, merlot and cabernet.

Jason has perfected a Meritage blend that has received industry attention since its first vintage. A combination of merlot, cabernet franc and cabernet sauvignon ages in French oak to create a complex wine filled with ripe fruit, rich tannins and a touch of earthiness. The wine possesses the virtue of versatility; it can easily be served immediately or held to mature for future drinking. Like all of the selections on Jason’s wine list, the Meritage blend reflects the thought, care and skill that appears in every bottle.

Tasting Room Information:

1785 Main Road
Jamesport, NY 11947
631-238-5801
Contact: Deb - nofotasteroom@aol.com
Summer hours: 11AM-6PM on weekends

Wines in Release:

Golden Fleece - Bottle $12.95
A delightful blend of Cayuga, Seyval & Gewurztraminer. Clean & crisp with pleasant fruit-driven aromas of citrus, pear, & melon. Its semi-dry finish makes it an ideal accompaniment with lighter foods or enjoyed on its own.

2006 Chardonnay - Bottle $16.95
Aged 8 months in new French oak barrels, & “sur-lies” stirred weekly, is un-fined & un-filtered. This complex wine is filled with aromatic notes of fresh pear, apricot, ripe apples & toasty oak, which you will enjoy all the way to the finish. Partners well with rich dishes of poultry & seafood.

Rose - Bottle $12.95
A charming bouquet of strawberry, cherries & raspberries. Lusciously fresh in the mouth with full fruit & a long, smooth finish. This refreshingly vibrant & elegant Rose is blended from Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon varieties. The perfect picnic wine.

2000 Meritage - Bottle $18.95
A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon & Cabernet Franc, this wine is very deeply hued, with lovely aromas of blackberries, cassis & dark chocolate. The palate offers bright fruit flavors, soft tannins & balanced acidity. The finish has lingering notes of black cherries, cedar & smoke. This is a wine for drinking this year, but will continue to improve with aging. Nice with earthy beef and lamb dishes.

2000 Merlot - Bottle $14.95
This wine was aged for 24 months in new French oak, & is un-fined & un-filtered. A hearty wine filled with notes of cherry, plum & ripe tannins. Great with rich tomato-based pasta dishes.

2006 Dessert Wine - Bottle $22.95
Two years of cask aging allowed this wine to develop rich characters. Dried fruits, black cherries & raisin aromas are complemented by brandy elements. Refined, aromatic & gentle, this wine is a heart-warming pleasure. The finish has lingering fruity notes & delicate soft tannins. Super with strong cheese and chocolate.

Photo Credits

January Holmes & Matthew Gabriel