Located in the heart of Long Island’s North Fork, Bridge Lane Wine is a trailblazer in the New York wine scene, combining bold innovation with eco-friendly practices and a modern approach to winemaking. Established in 2004, Bridge Lane has evolved into a brand synonymous with modernity, accessibility, and forward-thinking. In 2014, the label rebranded carving out a niche as the primary label of an operation focused on light, fresh, and affordable wines. Today, Bridge Lane produces over 20,000 cases annually and distributes in 10 states—a remarkable leap from its modest beginnings of just 2,000 cases.
The winery’s tasting room, a vibrant and welcoming space, mirrors its ethos of breaking down barriers in wine enjoyment. With wine on tap, buckets of cans, and a spacious patio complete with shuffleboard courts, the experience invites everyone—from seasoned oenophiles to casual drinkers—to explore the offerings without pretense.
A Spotlight on Sustainability
Bridge Lane is making waves with its alternative packaging, which includes cans, bag-in-boxes, kegs, and bottles. These formats aren’t just about convenience, they underscore the winery’s commitment to sustainability. Cans and boxes reduce the carbon footprint associated with production and transportation, while kegs cut waste at hospitality venues. This forward-thinking approach has garnered national attention, with Bridge Lane wines earning accolades such as high honors at the 2023 International Canned Wine Competition and frequent spots on “best boxed wine” lists.
Their lineup is a testament to both quality and innovation. From the crisp, approachable Rosé—its best-seller by volume—to the playful and unique White Merlot, Bridge Lane’s offerings resonate with consumers looking for something different yet dependable. Their canned Bubbles, a sparkling brut, is another standout, proving that great wine doesn’t have to come in a traditional bottle.
Leadership with Heart
Bridge Lane’s success is guided by a powerhouse team deeply rooted in the craft beverage industry.
At the helm of Bridge Lane Wine’s production is Juan Micieli-Martinez, a seasoned winemaker with over 20 years of experience in the craft beverage industry. A proud Mexican-American, Juan has honed his expertise across wine, beer, and cider production, bringing a unique perspective to the art of winemaking. Before joining Bridge Lane, Juan served as General Manager and Winemaker at the renowned Martha Clara Vineyards and currently also holds the position of Vice President of Business Development at Premium Wine Group. Beyond his role in winemaking, Juan is deeply involved in Long Island agriculture as the President of the Long Island Farm Bureau, where he advocates for the region’s farmers and agricultural sustainability. Known for his dedication to quality and innovation, Juan’s passion for Chardonnay, inspired by a transformative visit to Chablis, underscores his deep respect for tradition and craftsmanship. His leadership at Bridge Lane is instrumental in crafting wines that are as bold and dynamic as his vision for the future of Long Island winemaking.
Ami Opisso, Bridge Lane Wine’s General Manager, brings a wealth of expertise and passion to the brand. With over 20 years of experience in the wine and spirits industry, Ami has built a reputation as a skilled marketer and brand strategist. After starting her career at prominent marketing agencies in New York City and Chicago, she returned to her roots on Long Island’s North Fork to manage Sherwood House Vineyards and later Lieb Cellars, where she played a pivotal role in growing their reputation and reach. Ami’s deep connection to the North Fork, coupled with her strategic vision, has been instrumental in Bridge Lane’s success.
As a Certified Sommelier, she combines technical knowledge with a natural flair for making wine approachable to all audiences. Her leadership has not only elevated the brand’s presence in 10 states but also shaped its identity as a bold, eco-conscious label. Ami’s dedication to innovation and authenticity ensures that Bridge Lane continues to stand out in an increasingly competitive wine market, while her personal connection to the region strengthens the brand’s ties to Long Island’s vibrant wine culture.
A Modern Take on Tradition
While Bridge Lane doesn’t own its own vineyards, its status as a négociant allows it the flexibility to source high-quality grapes and focus on crafting standout wines that appeal to modern consumers. Their team takes pride in producing wines that are approachable, fun, and sustainably packaged, proving that tradition and innovation can coexist in the glass.
From their best-selling Rosé to the bubbly charm of their canned sparkling wines, Bridge Lane’s offerings tell a story of creativity, quality, and sustainability. They are proof that great wines can be unpretentious, and that Long Island remains one of New York’s most exciting wine regions.
A Vision for the Future
Bridge Lane Wine embodies the spirit of New York’s wine industry: bold, innovative, and deeply connected to its roots. Under the leadership of Ami and Juan, the winery is poised for even greater success, continuing to redefine how people experience wine while championing a sustainable future. Whether enjoying a can of Bubbles on the beach or a glass of Rosé at a local festival, Bridge Lane invites everyone to raise a toast to doing things differently—and doing them well.
