A Spring Evening to Remember: The Long Island Country Dinner at Jedediah Hawkins Inn
On April 23, 2026, Jedediah Hawkins Inn welcomed guests for an extraordinary evening celebrating the spirit of the North Fork wine community. The Long Island Wine Country—this year’s 2026 Legacy Dinner—honored the esteemed Lenz Family, whose contributions to Long Island wine have helped shape the region into the destination it is today. This event was a perfect example of a wine dinner.
The evening was thoughtfully organized by Kristen Curcie of Ev and Em Vineyards, alongside fellow members of the Long Island Wine Council—bringing together a passionate group of vineyard partners and industry leaders for a truly collaborative event.
Join us for our next wine dinner and experience the best of Long Island’s vineyards.
Events like this are a signature part of what makes the Inn a standout destination for both dining and gatherings on the North Fork. Learn more about our offerings on our Dining page:
https://www.jedediahhawkinsinn.com/dining/
and explore upcoming celebrations on our Events page:
https://www.jedediahhawkinsinn.com/events/
A Warm Welcome on the Lawn
The evening began just as spring settled in across Long Island wine country. Guests gathered on the Inn’s lawn, where the atmosphere was relaxed and inviting. Some lingered by the firepit, enjoying the soft glow as the sun dipped lower, while others mingled around the outdoor bar.
Vineyard partners from across the region brought their own wines, creating a unique and collaborative tasting experience. Bottles were shared generously, with winemakers and guests exchanging stories behind each pour. It was a true celebration of community—one where everyone had the chance to experience the diversity and craftsmanship of Long Island wines in one place.
A beautifully arranged Tuscan table offered an abundant spread of cheeses, prosciutto, salamis, fresh fruit, vegetables, and house made dips. The display invited guests to graze, sip, and savor at their own pace, setting the tone for the evening ahead. Adding a special touch, Chef Joey carved prosciutto by hand.
Experience the evening in motion—scan below to view highlights from the night.
qr code to see an Instagram reel of LIWC event
Honoring a Legacy
As guests transitioned from the lawn into the Barn, the evening took on a more ceremonial tone. Before dinner began, the room gathered for a meaningful tribute to the Lenz Family.
An award presentation formally recognized their lasting impact on Long Island’s wine industry, followed by a slide show that reflected on their history, vineyards, and contributions over the years. A few heartfelt speeches added a personal dimension—stories, gratitude, and shared memories that resonated with everyone in the room.
It was a moment that grounded the evening in purpose, celebrating not just great wine, but the people behind it.
From Lawn to Barn: An Elegant Dinner Begins
Following the presentation, guests settled into the rustic Barn—one of the most sought-after settings for North Fork weddings and private events. If you’re considering hosting your own celebration, visit our Events page for details and inspiration:
https://www.jedediahhawkinsinn.com/events/
Dinner began with a delicate poached pear salad, a light and elegant start that complemented the wines being poured. Guests then enjoyed a choice of thoughtfully prepared entrées. Each dish reflected the Inn’s commitment to seasonal ingredients and refined, yet approachable cuisine. You can explore more of our culinary approach and menus here:
https://www.jedediahhawkinsinn.com/dining/
A Sweet Finish
To close the evening, guests were invited to indulge in a sweets table filled with house made desserts. The display offered a variety of confections, allowing everyone to sample a little of everything—a fitting finale to a night built around sharing and discovery.
Celebrating Legacy and Community
The 2026 Legacy Dinner was more than just a wine dinner—it was a tribute to the people and partnerships that define Long Island wine country. Honoring the Lenz Family brought a sense of history and continuity to the evening, reminding guests of the roots behind the region’s success.
Events like these highlight what makes the North Fork so special: collaboration, craftsmanship, and a genuine sense of community.
If you’re planning a visit, whether for a memorable dinner or a private event, we invite you to experience it for yourself:
Dining: https://www.jedediahhawkinsinn.com/dining/
Events: https://www.jedediahhawkinsinn.com/events/
At Jedediah Hawkins Inn, it all comes together in one unforgettable setting.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Guest Experience
A Perfect Evening, Shared
The success of the evening was felt not only in the details, but in the experience as a whole—something echoed by those who helped bring it to life.
“Thank you so much for everything. The whole team was fantastic. The meal was delicious from start to finish, service was wonderful. I could not have asked for a better experience.
What a perfect night. Thank you so so so much!”
— Kirsten Curcie, Ev and Em Vineyards
At Jedediah Hawkins Inn, evenings like this are thoughtfully designed from start to finish—bringing together exceptional cuisine, attentive service, and the distinctive charm of a North Fork setting.
Planning your own celebration? Explore our
Dining: https://www.jedediahhawkinsinn.com/dining/
Events: https://www.jedediahhawkinsinn.com/events/