If you’ve ever felt instantly relaxed when you sit down for a tasting—like wine suddenly became approachable, fun, and easy to explore—you’ve probably met Jack Flately. With a background in performance and a naturally welcoming style, Jack brings energy, humor, and a refreshingly laid-back approach to the tasting room.
Hospitality has been part of Jack’s life since his very first high school job, but his original dream was the stage. He studied Opera Performance, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Music in 2022. Performing taught him improvisation, quick thinking, and how to read a room—skills that turned out to be surprisingly perfect for hospitality.
Wine, however, was a happy accident. After moving back to Long Island post-graduation, opportunities in theater were limited. A best friend working at a local vineyard convinced him to join the tasting room team—and that’s when everything clicked. What started as a job quickly became a passion, opening his eyes to a thriving wine region right in his backyard.
Why Suhru & LiebJack’s first visit to Suhru & Lieb left a strong impression. He was struck by the winery’s focus on wine education and its commitment to making clean, expressive wines. Even varietals he didn’t usually gravitate toward surprised him.
After three and a half years at another winery—and earning his WSET Level 2—Jack still left that first tasting room feeling like he had only scratched the surface of what he could learn. He knew he wanted to grow alongside a team equally passionate about education and discovery.
For Jack, the heart of the job is the people. He loves the long-time regulars and wine club members whose support helps the local industry thrive—but the “wildcard” guests are just as exciting.
Every tasting is a new story. First-time wine drinkers eager to learn. Weekend visitors exploring the region. Curious travelers discovering Long Island wine for the first time. “The privilege to meet these people, learn their palate, and share wine together is the most rewarding part of my day,” he says.
Jack’s favorite part of working on the North Fork might surprise you: the commute.
Instead of traffic jams, his 30-minute drive winds through farmland, vineyards, and changing seasons. He passes produce stands that turn into pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms, smells fresh pies baking at Briermere Farms, and watches the vines evolve from bud break to harvest. “It’s the ultimate privilege,” he says.
While every season has its charm, Jack’s favorite time at the winery is summer. The patio is buzzing, the vines are lush and green, glasses are chilled, and the days stretch long into sunset. The perfect ending? Grabbing a bottle and heading to the beach to watch the sun set over the Long Island Sound.
When guests say they’re new to wine, Jack keeps it simple: red or white?
White wine first: Pinot Blanc — clean, crisp, refreshing, and universally loved (plus it comes with a great vineyard story you’ll have to hear in person).
Lighter red: Merlot — soft tannins and juicy fruit make it an easy introduction.
Fuller red: Cabernet Franc — the signature red grape of the North Fork, with bright red fruit and classic herbal notes.
His philosophy? Wine doesn’t have to be intimidating. “It’s complex and fascinating—but it’s also artful, experimental, and meant to be enjoyed,” he says. Guests often start by saying they’re “not wine people,” but Jack knows that just means they haven’t found the right wine yet.
Jack describes his wine style in one word: Relaxed. He loves helping guests feel comfortable, curious, and free to explore. Some of the most interesting tasting notes, he says, come from people with little wine experience—because they taste without expectations.
Non-wine drink: Diet Coke (in a can, over ice, with fresh lime)
Snack board pick: Cheese. All cheese. Every cheese.
Perfect North Fork moment: Chilled white wine, cheese and charcuterie, and a sunset beach picnic
Jack is especially excited for the upcoming season’s patio refresh, including new furniture and shading that will bring fresh energy to summer at the vineyard.
His advice for anyone visiting the North Fork? Go off the beaten path. Explore the side roads, skip the bus crowds, and discover the smaller, hidden gems—like Suhru & Lieb on Oregon Road—where the experiences feel more personal and full of local character.
Next time you visit, pull up a seat at Jack’s tasting bar. You’ll leave feeling relaxed, inspired, and maybe just a little more like a wine person than you thought you were. 🍷
