NEWS

Stony Brook Boutique Partners with Legendary Importer for Special Wine Travel Experiences

STONY BROOK, NY – January 20, 2026 – Stony Brook Village is raising a glass to a new on-going experience that brings world-class wine travel to Long Island’s North Shore. Local shop Lake Side Emotions Wine Boutique has announced a special collaboration with legendary importer Neal Rosenthal of Rosenthal Wine Merchants, opening the door to intimate, once-in-a-lifetime wine journeys through some of the most revered estates in France and Italy.

Designed for true wine lovers, these tailored trips offer access to small, Italian and French family-owned vineyards rarely open to the public. Each experience is fully customized around wine tastings, regional culture, activities, and budget, and is strictly limited to 10 guests or fewer to preserve an intimate, immersive atmosphere. Trips may be tailored for couples, families, or groups of friends seeking a deeper connection to the land, the people, and the wines themselves. Guests can also plan their travels around seasonal moments and regional traditions, including fall truffle season, winter ski season, and La Feria of Arles during Easter weekend.

Lake Side Emotions will work closely with guests to understand their interests and travel goals, then connect them with the established Rosenthal Wine Merchants who will design a fully personalized wine journey. Airfare arranged independently by guests.

Neal Rosenthal, founder of Rosenthal Wine Merchants, has spent more than four decades supporting family-run estates across Italy, France, and Switzerland. His relationships with growers and intimate knowledge of these regions provide travelers with access to hidden cellars, historic vineyards, and the stories behind some of the world’s most sought-after wines.

As part of this unique partnership, Lake Side Emotions is the only business authorized to offer select wines directly from participating vineyards. Guests who discover a wine they enjoy during their travels may order it through Lake Side Emotions, with shipments arriving directly at the boutique approximately two months after purchase. This process brings the vineyard experience full circle, from Europe back to Stony Brook Village.

At the heart of this collaboration is Lake Side Emotions Wine Boutique owner Christophe Lhopitault, whose passion for wine goes far beyond labels and price points. With decades of experience, Christophe believes that discovering wine is a deeply personal journey—one shaped by curiosity, education, and emotional connection.

“Wine is a journey that never ends. It’s a lifelong pursuit,” Christophe says. “These trips allow guests to experience that firsthand.”

Located in Stony Brook Village at 113B Main St. Stony Brook, NY, Lake Side Emotions Wine Boutique continues to redefine what a neighborhood wine shop can be–connecting local history, global craftsmanship, and unforgettable experiences.

For more information, visit lakesideemotions.com or call Lake Side Emotions (631) 675-2750.